Singleton observes roaring river, flowers, beaver and eagle during trip to Nancy Mountain in 1990

Large American Beaver.

(For decades, local historian and paranormal investigator George “Buster” Singleton published a weekly newspaper column called “Somewhere in Time.” The column below, which was titled “Beauty is found by observing: A roaring river, a delicate flower and a soaring eagle – all close together” was originally published in the March 29, 1990 edition of The Monroe Journal in Monroeville, Ala.)

There was a time in my life when I didn’t pay a lot of attention to the beauty of my surroundings. My best excuse is that I didn’t have the time to observe the beauty that our Creator put here for us to see. But over the years, things have taken on new meanings.

Probably, we could get away with placing the blame on growing old. Anyway, I will leave it there, because I just can’t think of a better reason at this moment.

Strange how Mother Nature goes from one extreme to another.

On Tues., March 20, I traveled to the great river to observe the high water. For some reason or another, high and rising waters have always fascinated me.

Danger and destruction

As I reached the river, I was reminded of the danger and destruction that lurked in the dark and rising waters. The deep whirlpools gave the impression of a giant monster, waiting for the opportunity to reach out and grab anyone or anything and then pull it into the deep, dark caverns beneath the surface, into a death with no end.

As I stood and watched the mighty currents, I wondered how a force could be so destructive while, perhaps a few feet from the swirling waters, a small violet had grown to be so delicate and fragile.

As I walked back into the woods, staying close to the rising waters, I thought of the many small animals the rushing waters had taken upon demand from Mother Nature.

As I stood there looking into the unknown depths, I realized that I was not alone. I slowly looked over my left shoulder, there I saw a large beaver testing the rising waters. The beaver would slowly place his foot in the dark water, then he would pull this foot out and place the other one in the rushing current. He would wait for a few moments, then repeat his actions.

I wondered for a minute, trying to grasp what thoughts might be going through the mind of the beaver. Was he worried about his family being out there in the water? Or was he worried about a hutch that he and his family had started, only to be made to leave suddenly by the waters?

As the beaver gradually moved down the edge of the waters, I began to make my way slowly back up to where I had left my transportation. As I stepped into the clearing, I looked once more out over the rushing currents. There floated the carcass of a cow. The deadly current was playing no favorites.

As I made my way back up the tall hill to the top of Nancy Mountain, I pulled over and got out of my vehicle. I never pass this spot without stopping, if only for a moment, and looking across the vast valley below and marveling at the scene.

I thought for a moment how peaceful it was here on the top of Nancy Mountain. I remembered, too, the deadly waters of the swollen river just a few hundred yards down the hill from where I stood. As I examined the budding mountain laurels, growing there on the edge of the high bluff, I marveled too at the determination to survive while perched dangerously on the side of the high cliff. I envisioned the beauty that in a few short days would cover the high bluff when the lovely mountain laurels burst into full bloom.

Death and destruction

I could see in the distance the mighty, rushing river. I could almost hear the angry, swirling waters as the currents fought to and fro, as though trying to see which one could be the most destructive and then reach the mighty ocean first. I thought of the death and destruction that lay in its wake.

Then I remembered how safe and secure I was, there on the mountain. I wondered if there was any way that I could grasp the strength of the solid hill that I now sat on, and feel the security of its foundations, deep in the earth below me.

Looking over the valley, I spotted something familiar. I hurried to my vehicle and grabbed my binoculars. I trained the powerful glasses on the high-flying bird that could hardly be seen with the naked eye. There was my friend, the huge golden eagle, that I had watched here many times, wing its way high over the valley, riding the air currents, as though performing for me alone.

As the beautiful and graceful eagle slowly seem to grow tired of its aerial performance, it moved gradually northward, even beyond the reaches of the powerful binoculars. But the sighting of the graceful bird had served its purpose. I felt refreshed. Within me was the strength that I had left down by the rushing river. The world seemed to reach out, all around me, telling me that there was nothing to fear, all was well.

Love note intercepted

As I made my way homeward, I thought of the eagle. Slowly, from the depths of my mind, I remembered how much eagles had impressed me throughout my lifetime. I remembered when, as an early teenager, I thought I was deeply in love with a young lady in my class. I wrote her the following love note. I remember, too, how embarrassed I was when my teacher intercepted this love note before it reached its destination and read it aloud to our whole class:

“If by some miracle we were transferred into the images of two great eagles, we would spread our graceful wings and ascend to the lofty peaks. There, we would listen to the sighing winds and watch the golden rays of the setting sun streak across the horizon. We would walk among the rolling clouds and rest in the eternal evening forever.”

Ah, memories, sweet memories. May they forever be with me.

(Singleton, the author of the 1991 book “Of Foxfire and Phantom Soldiers,” passed away at the age of 79 on July 19, 2007. A longtime resident of Monroeville, he was born to Vincent William Singleton and Frances Cornelia Faile Singleton, during a late-night thunderstorm, on Dec. 14, 1927 in Marengo County, graduated from Sweet Water High School in 1946, served as a U.S. Marine paratrooper in the Korean War, worked as a riverboat deckhand, lived for a time among Apache Indians, moved to Monroe County on June 28, 1964 and served as the administrator of the Monroeville National Guard unit from June 28, 1964 to Dec. 14, 1987. He was promoted from the enlisted ranks to warrant officer in May 1972. For years, Singleton’s columns, titled “Monroe County history – Did you know?” and “Somewhere in Time” appeared in The Monroe Journal, and he wrote a lengthy series of articles about Monroe County that appeared in Alabama Life magazine. It’s believed that his first column appeared in the March 25, 1971 edition of The Monroe Journal. He also helped organize the Monroe County Museum and Historical Society and was also a past president of that organization. He is buried in Pineville Cemetery in Monroeville. The column above and all of Singleton’s other columns are available to the public through the microfilm records at the Monroe County Public Library in Monroeville. Singleton’s columns are presented here each week for research and scholarship purposes and as part of an effort to keep his work and memory alive.)

Davison-McMillan Cemetery at Old Scotland, Alabama contains graves of early pioneer settlers

Old graves at Davison-McMillan Cemetery.

I was talking with my friend Al Nettles the other day, and he told me that his grandson, Andrew, in Florida recently led an effort to clean up the old Davison-McMillan Cemetery at Old Scotland. Andrew is active in Scouting and took on the cemetery clean-up work as a service project to earn his Eagle Scout rank. Andrew was assisted by members of his troop in Gulf Breeze and scouts from the Monroeville troop.

After talking with Al, it occurred to me that I had not been to the Davison-McMillian Cemetery in about 20 years. Many readers will remember how pretty the weather was on Friday, and I took advantage of it by taking a quick field trip to this this historic cemetery. For those who have never been there before, this cemetery is located on the north side of Old Scotland Road, about a mile and a half from the Old Scotland Presbyterian Church, which is about 12 road miles from Monroeville.

If memory serves, the last time I went to this cemetery, I was with local history expert Steve Stacey, who was giving me a tour of lesser-known history sites. At that time, the cemetery was overgrown and snakey with many of its grave markers covered by vegetation, dirt and other debris. If memory serves, it was hard to see very much in the cemetery back then due to its overall poor condition.

When I stepped out of my truck on Friday afternoon, I was very impressed by how much work had been done to this cemetery. The lane leading up the cemetery was as clean as a whistle, complete with new barrier posts and ropes on each side. The wooden sign at the cemetery’s entrance also looked new (and on the reverse of the sign you’ll find the names of the scouts who helped with the clean-up project).

The cemetery, which is located in a shady spot beneath a patch of tall trees, had also been cleared of all brush and vegetation. I could tell that a lot of effort had been put into the clean-up project. Visitors in the near future will have no trouble getting around inside this historic cemetery.

I wouldn’t call this cemetery large because, just eyeballing it, I’d say it contains less than 20 marked graves. The oldest that I saw dated back to 1837. Those graves include that of the Rev. Neil McMillan, a North Carolina native, who passed away in September 1837.

I must admit that I have always had a special interest in McMillan family history. My great-great grandmother was Mattie A. McMillan, who is descended from South Carolina pioneer, Bennet McMillan, who settled in Burnt Corn in the 1800s. Whether or not my family is related to any of the McMillans at Old Scotland, I do not know.

Andrew and the other scouts are to be commended for the fine work they have done at the Davison-McMillan Cemetery. It looks like there was a lot of hard work involved, and I’m sure that future visitors to the cemetery will appreciate their efforts. No doubt Andrew will receive high marks for his service project.

In the end, let me hear from you if you know any more information about the McMillan family in Monroe County or the Davison-McMillan Cemetery at Old Scotland. I’m especially interest in any old ghost stories, local legends or Indian lore from the Old Scotland area. If you know of anything along those lines, please let me know.

Unarmed Wilcox County hunter chased turkey gobbler on horseback, then ran the turkey down on foot

Biblical hunter Nimrod.

Spring turkey season is in full swing in Wilcox County, and I’m sure that many local hunters have had a good time trying to bring home one of these elusive sporting birds. Turkey hunters are a lot like most other hunters and fishermen in that they always have their fair share of entertaining hunting stories. I ran across one such story the other day while perusing an old edition of The Wilcox Progressive Era.

It was 88 years ago, in the April 19, 1934 edition of the newspaper, that readers saw an unusual turkey-hunting tale under the headline, “A THRILLING EXPERIENCE.” According to that story, S.J. Ervin of Rock West “proved himself a veritable Nimrod” on April 10, which was the last day of turkey season in 1934. (This year’s turkey season in Wilcox County doesn’t end until May 8.)

On that fateful day in 1934, Ervin had “gone on business into the swamp land of his plantation, riding horseback, and carried no gun. As he was jogging along at a slow gait, a fine turkey gobbler appeared some distance ahead of him. He immediately started in pursuit, running him through brush and briars until his horse gave out.”

At that point, Ervin quickly dismounted and began to chase the turkey on foot, running with all his might before finally capturing the bird. Once he had the turkey in hand, Ervin discovered that the turkey was missing some of the feathers on one of its wings, which prevented the bird from flying very high. Ervin and his horse were almost exhausted when they arrived home, but Ervin was “proud of his catch and enjoyed the thrilling race and the unusual and novel sport.”

After reading the story above, I did a little research, and I believe that S.J. Ervin was actually Samuel James Ervin Jr., who was born on New Year’s Eve in 1902. He would have been 33 years old in April 1934. From the sound of things, he was a remarkable man.

According to newspaper accounts, Ervin was a prominent Wilcox County cattleman and sportsman. In May 1959, he drowned in the Alabama River at Holley’s Ferry when he fell from a houseboat and into the river at night. His body wasn’t recovered until the next day.

His obituary said he was “widely known as an enthusiastic hunter and woodsman… an alumnus of Auburn and a strong supporter of the school’s football team, his interest in the sport taking him to many other games as well as those of his alma mater. He was an active planter and cattleman.”

I thought it was interesting that in 1934 the newspaper described Ervin as a “Nimrod,” a term that has largely fallen out of use. Nimrod was a character in the Bible, a great-grandson of Noah. In Genesis, Nimrod is described as a “mighty hunter before the Lord.”

In the end, I know that many hunters in the reading audience have their own hunting stories to tell. If you’ve got a good one that you’d like to share, please let me know. I’m especially interested in any old tall tales, ghost stories or local legends associated with hunting, so if you know of anything along these lines, please let me hear from you.

Wilcox County, Alabama News Flashback for April 27, 2022

Franklin K. Beck of Wilcox County

77 YEARS AGO
APRIL 26, 1945

WITH THE 81^ST “WILDCAT” DIVISION IN THE PACIFIC: Pvt. Conrad H. Brantley, son of Mrs. Amanda W. Brantley, Pine Apple, Ala., has been awarded the Bronze Star by Maj. General Paul J. Mueller, Commanding General, 81^st “Wildcat” Infantry Division, for meritorious achievement in connection with military operations against the Japanese in the Palau Islands.
The ”Wildcat” Division invaded the Southern Islands of the Japanese held Palau Group, 500 miles east of the Philippines, on Sept. 17, 1944.
Pvt. Brantley was employed at the Maritime Shipyards, Mobile, Ala., prior to his entry into the service in June 1942.

Josiah Robins Bonner has returned from Washington, D.C. and will begin the practice of law in Camden. We wish for this fine young man a successful career. We are glad to have “Jo” with us again, and wish to welcome his pretty bride to our town.

KIMBROUGH: We continue to have heavy spring rains which is getting the farmers behind with their work, as most of the upland has been plowed and planted.

Mr. and Mrs. Corlis Coursey announce the arrival of a baby girl – weight, 8-1/2 pounds, whom they have named Leola Paulette.

BRITTON-HOOPER: The marriage of Margaret Strother Britton to W.A. Hooper of Danville, Kentucky was solemnized in Camden, April 20. Mr. and Mrs. Hooper left immediately for their home in Kentucky.

89 YEARS AGO
APRIL 27, 1933

Arlington: The funeral of Miss Marietta Bolen who died Saturday afternoon at a local hospital in Selma was held Monday morning at 11 o’clock at the County Line Baptist Church and the interment was made in County Line cemetery, Rev. White of the Baptist church conducted the services. Arlington joins with friends of the bereaved family in offering sympathy and condolence.

Confederate Memorial Exercises were most fittingly observed late Sunday afternoon. Prof. Fred Simmons of Bay Minette delivered a very beautiful and interesting address to a very appreciative audience. Bill Cook gave a splendid reading, the “Veterans Parade,” in fine style.

At a recent art exhibit at the Fine Arts Museum in Montgomery our own Miss Katherine Young Neville had a beautiful painting “Roses” on exposition and had honorable mention.

CHILDHOOD MEMORIES OF PROMINENT CITIZENS OF HALF A CENTURY AND MORE AGO – F.P.M. Gilbert: Mr. Gilbert was an editor of a country newspaper of the olden times. He was rather a tall man of good size and slightly stooped in his shoulders. He had his printing shop on the lot that is now the front yard of Mr. Spencer Springer and had several rooms back of the shop in which he and his wife lived. His wife used to be his able assistant in setting type but I hardly reckon that she could be called the “Printer’s Devel” as she was a kindly disposed and useful woman. We think that Mr. Gilbert’s paper was called “The News and Pacificator.” We rather think that the old man left here in his old age and died elsewhere. – “SIXTY”

100 YEARS AGO
APRIL 27, 1922

The county board of education met in Camden last Wednesday and postponed the election of High School Principal.

The livery stable of Mr. B.M. Miller Jr., the barn of Dr. Hustis Jones and the shop of Mr. R.T. Dunn were destroyed by fire Saturday night. The 25 mules of Mr. S.F. Stuckey were saved, but mules were lost by Mr. Miller. All shop tools were destroyed, also two automobiles. The loss is estimated at about six to eight thousand dollars. It was only by heroic efforts that saved the home of Mr. Joe Dunn and the house owned by Dr. Hustis Jones. There is no clue as to the origin of the fire.

Camden High School boys played the Fulton High School boys two games of ball in Camden last week. The game was won by Camden, the score being 21 to 9. The game Saturday was in favor of Fulton, the score being 11 to 8.

It is with regret that we give up our efficient town marshal, Mr. Ed McWilliams, who has resigned to accept a position in Mobile with the railroad.

The fire alarm was given again Tuesday about noon when the plainer mill of Mr. Mobley caught on fire. They were not long in getting the fire under control and the damage was very small.

Mr. Tom Jenkins, one of our favorite ball players, and a Camden boy is at home this week.

\114 YEARS AGO
APRIL 30, 1908

Shawnee: Mr. and Mrs. Thomas Tait and baby, while returning from Ackerville Sunday, had quite a serious runaway. Mrs. Tait and baby were thrown from the buggy. The child was unhurt, but Mrs. Tait was considerably, though not seriously bruised. Mr. Tait escaped unharmed by finally jumping out. His buggy was considerably torn up, and the horse very much injured.

For Sale: One lady’s bicycle. High grade Waverly, and good as new. Cost $75. Will sell for $15 as owner has no use for it. Address “Bicycle,” care ERA office.

The Rain and Storm: One of the most severe rain storms that has ever fallen in this county occurred last Friday afternoon and night. About 4 p.m., the rain fell in torrents and again from 7 p.m. until about 10 at night it fell, fast and furious. While no one about here gauged the down pour, it is estimated that at least six inches of rain fell in that time. Pursley Creek rose to a tremendous height and people who have lived near the creek for more than 40 years say that it was from six to eight feet higher than ever known. Its bed could be seen from Broad Street in Camden and its rushing waters as it swept through the forest-lined banks were heard for several miles. The rain seemed to be general and from every portion of the county comes the news of destruction of crops and the washing of lands.

127 YEARS AGO
APRIL 24, 1895

During my absence from Camden, Mr. N. McArthur is my authorized agent and will be in my office every Wednesday and Saturday and will attend to all business affairs pertaining to myself or to the Wilcox Progress. – S.D. Bloch

The meeting of the United Confederate Veterans of Franklin K. Beck Camp No. 224 will be held in the courthouse at half past 2 p.m. on Fri., 26^th inst. The election of officers and of delegates to the Reunion to be held in Houston, Texas on May 23 to May 25 with other important matters are to be attended to, at said meeting.

NOTICE TROOP B: There will be a Mounted drill of Troop B every Wednesday evening at four o’clock and every Tuesday and Friday nights at Masonic Park. Each member will be expected to be present in uniform. By order of J.T. Beck, Capt.

PRAIRIE BLUFF: A terrific cyclone between three and four hundred yards wide visited this place on the night of 16^th inst., at about eight o’clock, coming from the direction of Southwest and traveling in a northeastern direction. Houses, trees and fences were completely demolished. On the Mathews plantation there were nine houses with their contents completely wrecked and blown away. The following day there was shattered furniture, bedding and shreds of clothing picked up a half mile away. A greater portion of the furniture and clothing has never been found. There were fifty or a hundred chickens killed. Some of them picked as clean of feathers as if they had been scalded in hot water. Some turkeys were stripped clear of feathers. Some people were badly bruised, but none were killed which was a miraculous escape.

The Evergreen Courant's News Flashback for April 26, 2022

F-86 Sabre fighter plane.

10 YEARS AGO
APRIL 26, 2012

Evergreen Mayor Pete Wolff III signed a proclamation Monday afternoon that officially declared the week of May 6-12 as Nurses Week in the City of Evergreen. A number of local nurses and hospital officials were on hand for the proclamation signing ceremony, which was held at Evergreen City Hall.

Hillcrest students headed to D.C. – Southern Pine Electric Cooperative announced this week that two Hillcrest High School students have been selected for an all-expenses-paid trip to Washington, D.C. in June.
Hillcrest High School’s Jassmine Riley and William Nettles Jr. were two of four students picked from a field of 25 high school juniors from Baldwin, Conecuh, Covington, Escambia and Monroe counties to attend the upcoming trip to the nation’s capitol.
Riley and Nettles were selected for the trip to Washington as part of the Southern Pine Electric Cooperative’s recent 2012 Washington, D.C. and Montgomery Youth Tour competition. Riley, Nettles and 23 other high school juniors were selected for the competition by the faculties at each of the high schools in the cooperative’s service area.

The Leadership Community Bankers division of the Community Bankers Association of Alabama held its annual Legislative Day in Montgomery on April 18. Representing Sparta Academy were Gabriella Hamrac and Amanda Thompson and representing Hillcrest High School were Brittany Jenkins and Tanae Rankin along with Kenny Bledsoe from the Bank of Evergreen.

35 YEARS AGO
APRIL 23, 1987

Evergreen weather observer Earl Windham reported no rain between April 14 and April 20. He reported a high temperature of 86 degrees on April 20 and a low of 47 on April 16.

Little business council meeting: Mayor Pat Poole read a letter he received from the Navy. The Navy is giving the city an F-86 fighter plane to put on static display at Middleton Field Municipal Airport. The Navy will also repaint the airplane at the airport and put an insignia on it to give it its original appearance.

The first Strawberry Festival will be held Sat., May 2, in Castleberry. In the early 1920s, Castleberry was known as the Strawberry Center of Alabama. With the flood of 1924, three years of late freezes and the depression, the strawberry business was wiped out. So with all of this in mind, it was thought it would be appropriate to have a Strawberry Festival in Castleberry.
The proceeds from the Strawberry Festival will be used by the Town of Castleberry for improvements and repairs on the sidewalks downtown.

Construction is moving along on a new substation in Evergreen Industrial Park. The substation will serve firms in the Industrial Park and also serve Polyfelt, Inc. and Florida Favorite Fertilizer on Miller Sellers Drive.

The Thirty-Second Anniversary and Retirement Service for the Rev. H.J. Hawkins, Pastor of the First Baptist Church, 129 South Main St., Evergreen, will be observed Sun., April 26, at 3 p.m.

60 YEARS AGO
APRIL 26, 1962

‘Open gates’ set Friday at Lagoon: The City of Evergreen will have “open gate” Friday from 8 a.m. until 4 p.m. at the new sewage disposal plant on lower Bruner Avenue near Sandy Creek, Mayor Zell Murphy, announced today.
On a fenced-in 40-acre site, the new plant probably would be little suspected as a sewage disposal if no sign identified it and no one was there to explain the set-up. What is seen is 27.7 acres of water and a neatly constructed masonry building that houses one of three pumping stations for the systems. The sloped banks of the lakes are well grassed, frogs are thriving there and one duck with several little ones has been seen on the water.
The total system, modern and adequate for a population of 8,000, cost a total of $321,856.55. It’s the biggest project ever undertaken by this city. Contract on the lagoon disposal, consisting of the site development and lake construction was awarded to Hooper McDonald of Andalusia at a cost of $62,215.
L.F. Wilder Construction Co. of Birmingham constructed the pumping stations and outfall lines on a low bid of $234,125.23. Engineering for the system was done by J.B. Converse & Co., Inc. of Mobile. A third of the cost, $96,556.97, was paid by the federal government and the city issued bonds on the electrical and sewer revenues to finance the remainder.
Someone will be on hand all day Friday to answer questions and explain the system. Everyone interested is cordially invited to go by.

85 YEARS AGO
APRIL 22, 1937

AGED CONFEDERATE VETERAN PASSES: Robert Thompson, known to all as “Uncle Bob,” aged 93 years, and a Confederate veteran, died at his home in the Loree community on Thursday evening at 6:30, death apparently due to heart failure or stroke of apoplexy. He fell dead as he attempted to rise from his bed. The deceased was born and spent his entire life at his home where he died, was never married and since his mother’s death, some 20 years ago, had lived alone. Nearest surviving relatives are nephews and nieces.
Funeral services and interment were held at the Arkadelphia cemetery, seven miles west of Evergreen, conducted by Rev. S.P. Lindsey of Belleville with Rutland Funeral Home in charge of arrangements.

Body of Accident Victim Identified: Identification was made Monday of the body of a young white man which was found mangled and dismembered on the L&N right of way two miles north of Castleberry last Saturday, when J.B. Bell of near Brewton, declared that description of the body confirmed the belief that the victim was Rex Matheney of Clarksburg, West Virginia.
The body was buried in Potter’s field here Monday with Rutland Funeral Home in charge.
The young man had been employed by Mr. Bell, according to reports, and the names and addresses found among the effects of the pockets were those of friends with whom the victim had intended corresponding following his arrival at his West Virginia home.
Tattoo marks on the arms, including initials “R.B.,” were instrumental in determining the dead man’s identity.

The Evergreen Courant's Sports Flashback for April 25, 2022

Chris Hines of Evergreen, Ala.

10 YEARS AGO
APRIL 26, 2012

Warriors record baseball victory: Sparta Academy finished the 2012 season with a win Monday of last week by beating Atmore Christian, 11-4, in Evergreen.
Eli Tyree led Sparta on offense, going 2-for-4 at the plate with a three-run home run. Ethan Roberts followed closely with a 3-for-4 showing at the plate.
Drew Hardin finished the game with two hits. Hunter Hanks, Jacob Hendrix, Taylor Chavers and Jacob Lee chipped in one hit each.

Hines to host hoops tourney: Conecuh County basketball legend Chris Hines announced on Monday that the Hines Basketball Academy’s inaugural Spring Fever Classic Basketball Tournament will be held on May 11-13 at Hillcrest High School in Evergreen. All proceeds from the tournament will go to the Hines Basketball Academy to help pay for upcoming basketball camps in Conecuh County and different summer sports activities for Conecuh County youth, organizers said.

SA girls tie for state title: Sparta Academy’s girls track and field team tied for the AISA’s AA state title during the recent state track and field meet in Selma, and one member of the team (Grace Matlock) was named the state’s top triple jumper.
During the state qualifying round and state finals on April 18-19 at Jordan Memorial Stadium in Selma, the team tied Escambia Academy for first place in the Alabama Independent School Association’s AA Division.
(Members of the team were Alex Etheridge, Ashley Riley, Rachel Riley, Emily Rodgers, Stephanie Martin, Matlock, April Palmer, Brandy Moorer, Kaitlyn Beverly, Charlie Conway and Coach Russ Brown.)

35 YEARS AGO
APRIL 23, 1987

Warriors win 3 games, lose 1: The Sparta Academy Warriors won three baseball games and lost one in recent action.
Sparta defeated Fort Dale-SBA, 10-7, in Greenville on April 7. Jeff Walker was the winning pitcher, giving up six hits and seven runs. Sparta had 12 hits and 10 runs. Walker, Tim Wilson, Johnny Brock and Brad Watts had two hits each.
Sparta defeated Crenshaw Christian Academy, 12-2, in a game played in Evergreen April 10. Lee Wild was the winning pitcher, giving up four hits and two runs. Watts had two hits, including a triple. Jeff Carrier, Walker and Brock also had two hits each.
Wilcox Academy defeated Sparta, 10-4, in Evergreen April 14. Walker was the losing pitcher. Wilcox had 10 hits and 10 runs while Sparta had six hits and four runs. Mike Osban had two hits and Carrier and Wild one hit each.
Wild hurled a three-hitter in Evergreen April 16 as Sparta blanked Escambia Academy, 10-0. Sparta had 13 hits and 10 runs. Jeff Walker had a single, a double and a triple. Kenny Bledsoe, Robbie Bolton and Brock had two hits each.

From “The Colyum” by Bob Bozeman: I have just finished reading “Bowl, Bama, Bowl” by Al Browning and thoroughly enjoyed it. If you are a football fan, I heartily recommend it. If you are a Crimson Tide fan, it is a must for your library.
Al Browning is a native of Brewton and some of you may know him. He is a 1973 graduate of the University of Alabama and served nine years as sports editor and columnist with The Tuscaloosa News.

60 YEARS AGO
APRIL 26, 1962

Already hitting the 1962 baseball season with a smashing success, the Evergreen Aggies, along with their coach, Lewis Ramsey, are mighty proud of their efforts. They are Arlie Phillips, Tommy Hartley, Marvin Padgett, Leon Stinson, Robert Rigsby, Donnie Jones, Grady Ralls, Eddie Lambert, Jimmy Pate, Duncan Roberts, Sid Lambert, Don Holcomb, Bonner Ridgeway, Legran Lynch, Frank Pugh, Ronnie Jones, Willie Mack Pate, Jimmy Weaver, Conner Warren and Coach Ramsey. As of Tuesday morning, the Aggies had four wins out of five games.

Jimmy Ryan of Greenville won his fifth Evergreen Invitational Golf Tournament championship on April 12 while defending champion Bill McGehee finished second and Bayne Petrey third to bolster home club pride. McGehee has won the local tourney twice and current Club President Bonnie King is the only other local golfer to keep the title at home.

Quarterback To Post Election Returns, Sell Snacks May 1: The Evergreen Quarterback Club will sponsor a concession stand and vote return tally Tuesday night, May 1, next to the Courthouse, Tom Tidwell, president, said today. Up to the minute reports on all local and state election returns will be prominently posted on a large blackboard. All proceeds from the drinks and snacks will go to support and athletic program of Evergreen High School.

85 YEARS AGO
APRIL 22, 1937

Evergreen High School: Tuesday morning we were very glad to have “Shorty” Propst, a former Alabama football star, visit us. Coach Propst was in search of future football material for Memphis college.

Bulldogs Lose to Georgiana, 14 to 4: Georgiana High defeated the Evergreen Hi Bulldogs last Friday afternoon by a score of 14 to 4 on the Georgiana diamond.
Jim Lane, starting Bulldog hurler, was wild and inefficient, and his mates’ bobbles added to the rout of the locals.

Robert Kendall Jr. of Evergreen resigned as president of the new Interstate Baseball League at a meeting held in Brewton last night, being succeeded by James McCurdy Jr. of Flomaton.
C.R. James of Evergreen was elected league statistician, and William N. McGehee treasurer at Wednesday night’s meeting.
Practice sessions by the local club are to be held beginning late this week at Gantt Field and all residents of Conecuh County who desire to participate in baseball this summer are urged to contact Mack Binion Jr. or Cumbie Snowden, so that the roster may be prepared in time for submission to the league office.

Old newspaper excerpts from The Monroe Journal newspaper of Monroe County, Alabama

Riverview Plaza Hotel in Mobile.

36 YEARS AGO
APRIL 24, 1986

Six Monroe County citizens plan to attend the first statewide convention of the Alabama New South Coalition in Mobile May 9-10.
“A local chapter of New South has been formed, and we are sending six voting delegates to the convention,” said Kenneth Lamar of Monroeville, the president of the Monroe County chapter and one of the delegates.
The other five delegates from here to the two-day convention at Stouffer’s Riverview Plaza Hotel are Johnny Jones, Herbert Knight, Robert Ollison, Eloise Watts and Antoinette Kinchelow.

Winningest coach: The University of South Alabama’s head women’s basketball coach Charles Branum, a former resident of Monroeville, recently became the Lady Jaguars all-time winningest coach, averaging 20 wins per season for the last four years. He noted in an interview with The Mobile Press Register recently that he was looking forward to the 1986-87 season. Branum is the son of Mr. and Mrs. Kermit Branum of Monroeville.

Water Board buys land on Rose Drive: Monroeville’s municipal water system has made a down payment on 22 acres that may be used eventually for a new well and warehouse, and wants to sell land that it now owns next to outlet property.
(Water system manager) Johnny Snyder explained that when the board was looking for a well several years ago, hydrologists studied the Monroeville area and determined that the best sites were on Ivey Street, the Camden Highway and Rose Drive. The Rose Drive acreage has now become available, and the board wanted to buy it so that “when we need a well, we’ll have a potential site,” Snyder said.

60 YEARS AGO
APRIL 26, 1962

Vredenburgh Mill Destroyed By Fire As Area Firemen Fight Holocaust: One of the largest sawmill operations in the South was destroyed Saturday night when fire leveled the E.L. Bruce Co., Inc. sawmill at Vredenburgh.
Seven fire trucks, all pumpers, from Camden, Beatrice, Excel, Monroeville, Frisco City and Vredenburgh fought the fast burning blaze, but were unable to curb the fire’s destruction.
The cause of the blaze was not known immediately.
Founded by the late Peter Vredenburgh, a multi-millionaire lumberman, the mill reportedly produced more than a half-million feet of lumber each week.
Andy McAlpine, a company official, said no estimate has been made of the damage caused by the fire or the number of persons who would be out of work as a result.
One eyewitness said two firemen were on duty in the boiler room at the time the blaze started in the sawmill.

HOMECOMING QUEEN – Miss Melba Booker reigned as queen over the homecoming festivities at Beatrice High School Friday. She was crowned during the parade of floats at 7 p.m. Her attendants were Misses Jimmie Alice Booker and Margaret Scofide.

IT’S NO TALE – Clarence Young of Frisco City has proof to back up his fisherman’s tale as he shows the 10-1/2 pound green trout he caught in a branch near Dr. W.R. Carter’s pond Monday afternoon. His “rig” was a hand pole, minnow hook and worm bait.

85 YEARS AGO
APRIL 22, 1937

Elementary Schools Close This Week: The elementary schools of Monroe County will close on Fri., April 23, after a term of seven and one-half months, which is the longest in the history of education in this county.
A term of seven months is provided for the elementary schools of the state in the minimum program and for the first time in some years the state has been able to meet appropriations for this field of education. The extra two weeks were obtained in this county by the collection of the fee at the beginning of the school year which is authorized by the state. During the past years, it has been necessary to use these fees for incidental expenses of the schools when the state failed to meet its appropriations.

R.W. Baggett Is Made First Lieutenant: Robert W. Baggett, son of Mr. and Mrs. Leroy Baggett of Monroeville, was recently appointed a First Lieutenant Infantry in the service of the Militia, State of Alabama. This was a promotion from the rank of Second Lieutenant, and was made on the basis of the patriotism, valor, fidelity and abilities of Mr. Baggett.

Local Orchestra Is Re-Organized: The Coxswains, local dance orchestra, has recently been reorganized.
The personnel of the band includes: Elizabeth Feagin and Sam Yarbrough, violins; Ed Clapp, Moses Katz and Charles Skinner, trumpets; Alvin Coxwell, Roy Hendrix, Mack Feagin and David Katz, saxophones; Mrs. A.V. Culpepper, piano; Dayton Russell, bass; and Charles Robert Dennis, drums. The band is now open for any public engagements.

111 YEARS AGO
APRIL 27, 1911

A total eclipse of the sun will occur Friday next, April 28, and if the evening is clear can be observed about 6:30 o’clock as a partial eclipse. The eclipse will be generally visible throughout the southern states between the hours of six and seven o’clock, weather permitting. The line of totality passes through the south Pacific Ocean only. The duration of the eclipse will be longest at Vauva Island in the South Pacific archipelago and several expeditions will make observations from that point.

The law and equity court will hold its first regular term during the coming week. Business on the equity side will be dispatched.

Criminal Cases Disposed Of: The following cases were disposed of during the second week of the spring term of circuit court: The State v. Cora Hutchison, murder, nol. pros.; W.M. Booker, assault to murder, continued; Geo. Phillips, assault to murder, sentenced to penitentiary for five years; Aaron Watts, murder second degree, continued; Ed Rabb, assault to murder, continued; Jim Owens, assault to murder, plea of guilty a.w.w., fined $50; Arthur Stallworth, murder second degree, nol. pros.; Clyde Watson, assault to murder, plea of guilty a.w.w., fined $100; Alex Murphy, murder second degree, sentenced four years in penitentiary; Bailey Sims, assault to murder, continued; Andrew McMillan, murder, continued; W.C. Neville, murder, continued; Todd Culbreth, murder, continued; Henry Sanders, murder, continued; Will Smith, murder, sentenced to penitentiary five years; Stephen Lawyer, assault to murder, continued; Leslie Coleman, assault to murder, guilty a.w.w., fined $50.

135 YEARS AGO
APRIL 28, 1887

Circuit Court was called Monday at 12 o’clock precisely. Mr. Wm. Cater of Turnbull was made foreman of the Grand Jury. Judge Clarke then delivered his charge to the jury respecting their obligations and powers in his usual able, clear and explicit manner after which that august body immediately retired to their room to enter upon the discharge of their responsible duties as the great moral teachers of the commonwealth.
Solicitor Taylor – the friend to the oppressed and the terror of evil doers – is at his post to look after the interest and dignity of the State. The docket is light in comparison with previous terms, there being only 66 criminal and 20 civil cases.

Mr. H.B. Rikard, the energetic and progressive young merchant of Pineville, was in to see us Monday.

The Monroe County Medical Society met in the office of Dr. J.T. Packer at this place yesterday with a good attendance of members.

Dr. Packer has had his buggy newly painted, and it now looks as neat as a new pin.

The dry spell of the past six or seven weeks was broken last Friday night by a most refreshing rain.

Cotton planting will occupy the time of the average farmer for the next few days.

Miss Flora Parker of Tuscaloosa, one of the most beautiful and accomplished young ladies for which the City of Oaks is famous, is visiting the family of her aunt, Mrs. J.H. Frye, at this place.

Alabama's ancient Indian mounds come in all shapes and sizes

Fuller Indian Site in Spanish Fort.

A couple of Saturdays ago, my wife and I rode down to Malbis to eat at one of her favorite restaurants. Our route took us down State Highway 225, between Stockton and Spanish Fort. As we passed General Canby Boulevard, I could not help but remember that it was about a year ago that my son James and I took a few minutes to visit an ancient Indian site that can be found within the large subdivision on the east side of the Blakeley River.

This prehistoric site is known as the Fuller Indian Site and sits on a bluff that overlooks Mobile Bay and the Mobile-Tensaw Delta. This site, which is listed on the Alabama Indigenous Mound Trail, consists of a shell midden left behind by Indians who gathered there to eat as far back as 5,000 years ago. (“Midden” is just a fancy word for a trash pile.)

Much of this midden mound consists of Rangia clam shells. I later learned that these clams are native to the Gulf of Mexico and were consumed in great numbers by Indians in that area. Many of you have no doubt seen these small clam shells along the beaches at Gulf Shores.

You’ll find this site nestled in a residential neighborhood, surrounded by upscale homes with luxury vehicles parked in the driveways. One of the first things you see when you arrive is a historical marker that tells you more about the site. That marker reads as follows – “This ancient shell midden and the surrounding area were occupied by prehistoric Native Americans dating back 5,000 years. Numerous stone tools and pottery sherds were recovered during a cultural resources study conducted by Archaeological Services, Inc. This archaeological site was donated to the Archaeological Conservancy by the Fuller family in 2006 to be preserved for future generations.”

Most of the midden mound is enclosed within a wooden fence. Up close, you can see that the mound is made up of thousands and thousands of clam shells, many of which are as hard as a rock from age.

Those of you who have been to the Fuller Site before will know how much this site resembles the elaborate shell mounds at Dauphin Island. James and I visited those mounds in August 2017 during a trip to Fort Gaines. Those mounds are contained within a large park that features a network of walking trails that takes visitors in and around the large mounds.

Over the years, I’ve tried to locate and identify any old Indian mounds that can be found in Monroe County, and while I know where a few are located, I haven’t had much luck.  I’ve heard that there are a few scattered about on private property, but the owners prefer to keep their locations private. With that said, if you know of an Indian mound in our area and wouldn’t mind showing it to me, please let me know because I am always up for a good field trip.

Wilcox County, Alabama's Cedarcrest was added to the state's regisiter of landmarks and heritage in April 1981

An example of Native American tree carvings.

Yesterday – April 21 – marked 41 years since Cedarcrest in Oak Hill was added to the Alabama Register of Landmarks and Heritage in 1981.

Cedarcrest, an antebellum plantation house, is located off State Highway 10 in Oak Hill. According to Alabama Historical Commission records, this private residence was built between 1840 and 1846 as a Creek Rival cottage with four rooms. The land that Cedarcrest was built on was purchased in 1840 by Isaac Newberry, a prominent planter, businessman and civic leader.

The house began as a central hallway with two large rooms on each side of the hall. A large central gable was added to the southern slope of the house’s gabled roof in 1885. A rear wing containing a kitchen and dining room was also added in 1885, and three bathrooms were added to the house in 1930. The rear wing gave the house an L-shape, dramatically changing the original appearance of the house.

When I think of Cedarcrest, I cannot help but think about the tales of an old oak tree on the property that was said to bare the “carved figure of an Indian encircled by the coils of a large snake.” For many, many years, visitors to Oak Hill were taken to see this locally famous tree and were told the tragic story behind this unusual carving. The best available source about this old story is a local history book called “Oak Hill, Alabama: Its Houses and People, 1856-1978” by William and Joyce Jones.

According to this remarkable book, which was published in 1978, Isaac and Sophia Taylor Newberry built Cedarcrest in a grove of “beautiful oak trees.” On one of these trees was the carving of an Indian and a snake, which “gave rise to the following story: Two Indian tribes camped nearby. They were hostile to each other. A young brave of one tribe and a girl from the other met somehow and fell in love. Their meeting place was under the big tree.”

The story goes on to say that “one day when going to meet her lover, the girl discovered his dead body in the clutches of the snake. She either killed herself or died of grief there. They were both buried under the tree. This is a story long told.”

The book goes on to say that the tree that bore the carving no longer stands. The tree died decades ago and was cut down during Pressly Dale’s occupancy of the property. Some sources say that the Indians in the story were Choctaw, but that is unconfirmed.

In the end, it would be interesting to know if anyone in the reading audience knows any additional details about the story of the Indian carved oak. I’d also like to hear from anyone in the reading audience who knows any other ghost stories, local legends or Indian lore from the Oak Hill area. Know doubt there are many other tales from this area that deserve not to be forgotten.

Wilcox County, Alabama News Flashback for April 20, 2022

76 YEARS AGO
APRIL 18, 1946

Camden friends are giving a cordial welcome to Oxford Stroud who has recently been discharged from the service.

MOORE ACADEMY SENIORS PRESENT ANNUAL PLAY: The Senior Class of Moore Academy high school will present its annual senior play “Million Dollar Cook” at the school auditorium, Friday night April 19. The play is being directed by Miss Marie Benson.
The cast is as follows: Mary Matherson Williamson, Steve Griffin, Ross Giddens, Sara Davis, Eva Herring, Vera Herring, Ernestine Rogers, Rene Stanford, Marguerite Turner, Ann Winters, Marjorie Wright, Frances Grant.

Mr. “Rowdy” McGee has returned from Fort McClellan, where he reported for his physical examination for the Army.

Pvt. Hays Andrews of Camp Upton, N.Y. is spending his furlough with his parents, Mr. and Mrs. L.P. Andrews.

Arlington: Rev. Fred Davis filled his regular appointment here Sunday morning and evening.

McWilliams: Seaman First Class Theo Youngblood from Pensacola visited his parents, Mr. and Mrs. J.A. Youngblood this weekend.

Kimbrough: Mr. Herbert Greene left Sunday for Charlotte, North Carolina to visit his brother, Mr. and Mrs. John Greene and family.

88 YEARS AGO
APRIL 19, 1934

A THRILLING EXPERIENCE: Mr. S.J. Ervin of Rock West proved himself a veritable Nimrod on April 10, the last day of turkey hunting season.
He had gone on business into the swamp land of his plantation, riding horseback, and carried no gun. As he was jogging along at a slow gait, a fine turkey gobbler appeared some distance ahead of him. He immediately started in pursuit, running him through brush and briars until his horse gave out. He quickly dismounted, took to his heels, ran with all his might and finally succeeded in capturing the bird. Some of the feathers he discovered had been plucked from a wing, thus preventing very high flying.
He and the horse were both fagged out on arriving at home but he was proud of his catch and enjoyed the thrilling race and the unusual and novel sport.

The program meeting for Memorial Day will be unique in its entirety. It will be rendered by Wilcox men and boys. The Glee Club, under the skillful management of Miss Dorothy Fail, will put on one number. The reading will be given by a grandson of a Confederate veteran, in grey uniform. The soloist will be grandson of and son of a Rock West resident.

Judge John Miller is holding special court in Choctaw County.

Mrs. Richard E. Dubose and baby were removed from King Memorial hospital yesterday to their apartment at Mrs. Beck’s.

99 YEARS AGO
APRIL 19, 1923

Wilcox County farmers are now about three weeks late in their planting and the rain Tuesday was so heavy that they cannot work for a few days.

Camden was visited last Friday by a young cyclone, several shade trees around town being blown down, at Canton Bend considerable damage was done to the property of Mr. Purnell Strother.

Judge Pat M. Dannelly and Commissioner J.M. McLeod visited Montgomery last week.

The final exercises of the Oak Hill public school will be held on the 27^th of April at 8 o’clock p.m. The public is cordially invited to attend.

Col. S.D. Moore and Maj. R.H. Bussey have returned from the Confederate reunion at New Orleans and report a grand time.

The friends of Carl Pruitt will be glad to know that he is a member of the freshman baseball team at Auburn. Carl was a member of the Camden team last summer and should develop into a crack pitcher before he leaves Auburn.

Miss Mackie Bodiford of Mt. Hope has opened a private school in Camden and has 18 pupils. The school will be taught at the residence of Mrs. C.V. Beck. Miss Bodiford has just closed a very successful school at Mt. Hope and was assisted by Miss Heustis Young.

Mr. S.M. Cobb, our Circuit Clerk, made a business trip to Montgomery this week.

113 YEARS AGO
APRIL 15, 1909

TROOP B ELECTS NEW OFFICERS: At a called meeting held in Camden last Saturday, Troop B, Wilcox Mounted Rifles, reorganized and elected new officers. The following are the newly elected officers: J.D. Bryant, captain; T.J. Jones, first lieutenant; A.C. Bryant, second lieutenant; W.J. Sessions, first sergeant; Albert Tait, second sergeant; P.C. Jenkins, color sergeant.

Lower Peach Tree: A crowd of young ladies and gentlemen enjoyed a trip on the steamer, “American,” April 1.

McWilliams: The public school under the management of Miss Mary Beard and Mrs. T.E. Pettie will close Friday. Miss Beard will be missed by her many friends here.

Prof. Claude Hardy of the Camden Institute attended the State Educational Convention in Birmingham last week.

The baseball season opened here last Saturday by Camden defeating Canton Bend by the score of 20 to 8.

Hon. J.N. Miller is in Monroeville this week.

Last week three mad dogs were killed in Camden.

Mr. Abe Miller has just arrived from Russia and will visit his brothers, Messrs. Henry and Charlie Miller of this place, for a while.

There have been several cases of attempts of petty thefts in Camden for the past few days, but no identity of the miscreants has been made.

126 YEARS AGO
APRIL 15, 1896

Hon. John Purifoy, State Auditor, was in Camden yesterday. He is looking exceedingly well.

ONE BY ONE THINGS PASS AWAY: Mr. Edward Ely Griffith died at his home near Buena Vista, Monroe County, Ala., on March 22, at 6 o’clock p.m., 1896, formerly a citizen of this county. A soldier in the Confederate War for four years, he was a good citizen.
Leaving a large family and a host of friends and relatives to mourn his death, he was 65 years of age. He was a member of the Talatchia Methodist Church and bright star for the same.
His remains were laid to rest in the cemetery of the Concord Baptist Church near Buena Vista, Monroe County, Ala.

The actors and circus men all left town last Monday. They broke up a show here because they could get no wages for their work. The owners of the show claimed they were not making expenses and so would not pay the laborers. Mr. Armstrong and family, consisting of wife and two little children, were without food for a day before it was known to our people they were in want. As soon as this was learned they were supplied with necessaries. They are making their way towards their home through the country and will give entertainments along their route in order to secure the necessaries of life.

Mr. Braxton Bragg left Sunday evening for Claiborne to bring Miss Sallie Belle Cooper to the bedside of her grandmother, Mrs. Sarah Bussey.

The Evergreen Courant's News Flashback for April 19, 2022

21 YEARS AGO
APRIL 19, 2001

Evergreen weather observer Harry Ellis reported 0.04 inches of rain on April 13, 0.16 inches on April 14 and 0.28 inches on April 15. He reported a high of 88 degrees on April 10 and a low of 58 on April 15.

C’berry Strawberry Festival slated for April 21: Strawberries, strawberries and more strawberries. The final preparations for the 15^th annual Castleberry Strawberry Festival are now being made. Along with fresh strawberries for sale, residents can enjoy crafts, food, pony rides, a dunking booth and continuous entertainment in Castleberry on April 21.
This year the line-up for entertainment will include New Revelation, a gospel group from Pensacola, Fla. New Revelation has been at the festival for the past four years. Also performing will be Perfect Image from Mobile who perform songs from the 50s, 60s and top 40 country.

Anniversary celebration honors Dr. S.C. Tucker: The 38^th Anniversary celebration in honor of Dr. Sidney C. Tucker as pastor of Belleville Missionary Baptist Church will begin Fri., April 29, at 7 p.m. with Rev. J.O. Malone of Monroeville as guest speaker. The program will climax Sun., April 22, at 2:30 p.m. with Rev. W. Oliver, pastor of Antioch Baptist Church in Tunnel Springs and Lilly Baptist Church of Monroeville.

46 YEARS AGO
APRIL 15, 1976

Weather Report: Earl Windham reports that rainfall for the first three months of 1976 was considerably less than for the same period in 1975. Last year, the three-month total was 24.2 inches compared to 14.09 inches this year.
Rainfall by months in 1975 was January, 7.1 inches; February, 8.6 inches; and March, 8.5 inches compared to this year’s January, 4.84 inches; February, 2.85 inches; and March, 6.4 inches.
(Windham also reported highs of 82 on April 5 and April 11 and a low of 40 on April 10.)

Fat Calf Show is set here Monday: The 31^st Annual Conecuh County 4-H and FFA Fat Calf Show will be held Monday at the Conecuh County Cooperative Stockyard Show Arena, starting at nine o’clock.
The show, considered the best county show in the state, is sponsored by the Conecuh County Fat Calf Show Committee, an affiliate of the United Fund, and the State Department of Agriculture & Industries in cooperation with the Extension Service of Auburn University and the State Department of Vocational Agriculture.
Twenty-eight exhibitors will show calves.

Genie Webb will represent Conecuh County in the State Spelling Bee finals in Birmingham on May 1. To achieve this honor, she had to win both her school and county spelling bees. Genie is the daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Clyde Webb of Evergreen and a sixth-grade student at Marshall Middle School.

71 YEARS AGO
APRIL 19, 1951

Dennis Bailey Jr. Shows Champion At Conecuh County Fat Calf Show: A 725-pound Black Angus-Hereford crossbreed owned and shown by Dennis Bailey Jr. was judged the Grand Champion of the Sixth Annual Conecuh County 4H-FFA Fat Calf Show held Monday at the Conecuh Cooperative Stockyard. The Reserve Champion was owned and shown by Dudley Ellis.
Something like 1,000 people took in the show in which 33 fine beef calves were entered. Entertainment before the show was provided by the Evergreen High School Band under the direction of Frank Wilkerson. Charlie Roberts and his String Band played during the show.
Vernon Millsap, President of the Evergreen Junior Chamber of Commerce, which sponsors the show each year, was master of ceremonies during the show.

Boy Scout News: The weekly meeting was opened at five o’clock Monday by the troop repeating the pledge to the flag. Mr. Mac said we were going to furnish our own tents. We met behind the City School this Wednesday and practiced our camporee events. Then we held our patrol meetings. We closed the meeting by singing “Taps.” After the meeting, Mr. Engle showed us a film entitled “Wheels Across Africa.” – Troop Scribe, David McKenzie.

Mrs. Warren E. Bolton and daughter, Sherry Lynn, are leaving today for Norfolk, Va. where she will join her husband, S. H-1c Warren E. Bolton of the U.S. Navy.

96 YEARS AGO
APRIL 21, 1926

Quick and efficient work on the part of John Oliver Monday night prevented a conflagration when he discovered the residence of Lamar Matkin on fire, climbed to the roof and extinguished the blaze before serious damage could be done.

MT. UNION: Mesdames R.C. Smith and G.L. McIntyre attended the Andalusia District Campaign of the Women’s College of Montgomery, held in the Methodist Church at Andalusia last Wednesday.

MAY DAY FESTIVAL AT EVERGREEN: Plans for the May Day Festival, to be held in Evergreen Friday, April 30, under the auspices of the Parent-Teachers Association, Orpheus and civic clubs, are rapidly maturing.
Under the direction of Mr. W.B. Sexton as general chairman, with Mrs. L.D. King Jr., as assistant, the public is assured a day of wonderful entertainment. Dr. W.G. Hairston has charge of the grounds and will have the City School campus in readiness.
Music for the day will be furnished by the Evergreen Orchestra. Mrs. S.P. Shoemaker is chairman of the committee on music.
One of the main features of the day will be an automobile parade. Mrs. Gilma Dunn, the chairman, expects at least one hundred and fifty cars to enter.
Three handsome prizes will be offered for the best decorated cars.
The May Queen and her attendants will lead the parade. Much interest is being manifested in the choice of a queen. The voting for the May-day Queen has started.

The Evergreen Courant's Sports Flashback for April 18, 2022

General Daniel "Chappie" James Jr.

21 YEARS AGO

APRIL 19, 2001

Pictured above is the Championship Women’s Softball Team from Lady Arrow. It is obvious that this photo is several years old, and we are certainly not going to say how old. Our thanks to Lois English for bringing by a copy of this photo for our use. Members of the team are (some of the ladies’ last names have changed since this photo was taken) Jean Booker, Charlotte Brackett, Betty Raines, Ruby Brown, Wyenette Manning, Kathy Powell, Ann Miller, Joy Powell, Pat Brown, Laura Adams, Lois House, Debra Williams, Elaine Grace and Becky Williams.

EverFun Golf Tourney set for May 9: The Second Annual EverFun Golf Tournament will be held Wed., May 9, 2001 at Cambrian Ridge at the Robert Trent Jones Golf Trail in Greenville.
The tournament will begin at 2 p.m. with a shotgun start and will be a scramble and four-ball mix. Lunch will be provided at noon in the clubhouse for the participants.
Entry fee is $400 per team and hole sponsorship is $100 per hole. Checks should be made payable to Project EverFun and mailed to David Gorum, Golf Tournament Chairman, Evergreen Chamber of Commerce. Deadline for entry is April 25.

The Evergreen Rotary Club, administrators of the Wendell Hart Scholarship Fund, announces that applications for the $2,500 scholarship are now available. This scholarship is dedicated to the memory of the late Coach Wendell Hart, who deeply cared for his students and desired that all deserving young men and women be able to advance their education.

46 YEARS AGO
APRIL 15, 1976

Jim Ryan Jr. successfully defended his championship in the Evergreen Golf Club’s annual Spring Invitation Tournament Saturday. Ryan of Greenville’s golfing Ryans is congratulated by Tournament Chairman David T. Hyde Jr.

David Gorum and Paul Deason laid joint claim on this fine gobbler which they bagged Wednesday morning of last week in “Murder Creek Swamp.” The Tom weighed 19 pounds, three ounces and had a nine-inch beard.

The Boy Scouts of Troop 225, Castleberry, attended the Gulf Coast Council bicentennial encampment held April 2-4 at Ellyson Field, Pensacola.
The encampment was attended by over 2,500 scouts and adult leaders. Sam Geck, scoutmaster, accompanied the 14 boys from Troop 225 on the encampment.
Addresses were given by General “Chappie” James, U.S. Air Force, Commanding General of the North American Air Defense Command at Colorado Springs, Colo., Congressman Bob Sikes, and Vice Admiral James B. Wilson, Chief of Naval Education and Training.
Rickey Downing, dressed as “Uncle Sam,” was winner of the bicentennial costume contest in the Alabama-Florida District.

71 YEARS AGO
APRIL 19, 1951

Centerville Nips Rockets In Conecuh Loop Opener: The Centerville Rookies bunched their hits for five runs in the fifth inning to come from behind and edge the Flat Rock Rockets, 11-8, in a free-hitting game Sunday. It was the season-opener for both teams. It was played at Flat Rock.
The Rockets got away to a three-run lead in the first inning. The Rookies knotted the count in their half of the fourth and went out front to stay in the fifth.
George Gaston worked on the mound for Centerville with Clint Ward behind the plate. James Barlow hurled for Flat Rock with Huston Bailey catching.

Paul Aces Whip Shreve In Conecuh Loop Tilt: The Paul Aces opened their Conecuh Amateur League schedule Sunday with a 16-3 win over the Shreve Eagles. The game was played at Paul and puts the Aces into a first-place tie with the Centerville Rookies who downed Flat Rock in the league’s other opening game.
Harold Godwin and J.W. Windham were the Paul pitchers who kept the Shreve bats silent through most of the game. Godwin hurled the first seven innings and Windham finished it up. McIntyre started for Shreve but turned it over to Sanford in the third inning. Sanford left the mound in the seventh and Yancy finished it up. Joe McClain was behind the plate for the winners and Smith for the losers.
J.W. Windham sparked Paul’s hitting attack with four hits in as many trips to the plate. He smacked a homer in the second inning. Ray Yancy with two hits in four trips topped the Shreve sluggers.

96 YEARS AGO
APRIL 21, 1926

PROFESSIONAL BASEBALL AT MONTGOMERY – Festivities to Open With the Columbus, Ga. Club on Sat., April 24 – Montgomery, Ala., April 20 – The Montgomery Lions, Alabama’s entry into the new Southeastern League, will open festivities with the Columbus, Ga. club here on April 24.
After many years, Alabama’s Capitol City is again to have professional baseball. Knowing that the people of Montgomery and this section of Alabama wish to see real fast baseball, a promising bunch of swatters and hurlers have been induced to sign on the dotted line. Some idea of the class of sports this aggregation is going to hand out under the management of Joe Brennan, was given the large gathering which attended the exhibition game on April 11 when the Birmingham Southern Leagues went down in defeat at the hands of the local outfit by the decisive score of 5 to 3.
The opening battle will begin promptly at three o’clock on the date mentioned above, and thousands from all over this section are expected to attend and help Montgomery keep at home the handsome loving cup to be awarded by the trustees of Cramton Bowl to the town in the league that has the largest crowd on opening day.
Other towns represented in the new league are Jacksonville and St. Augustine, Fla.; Albany, Columbus and Savannah, Ga.
Citizens of Alabama will be interested in knowing that Roy “Goat” Walker, the noted young pitcher of Troy, who made such a reputation as a twirler during his high and prep school days; “Red” Stewart of Greenville, veteran hurler of the South Atlantic League, and Eddie Pratt, the latest scion of that noted West Alabama baseball family to join the ranks of professionals, will all do mound duty for the Montgomery Lions during the race for the first Southeastern pennant.

Old newspaper excerpts from The Monroe Journal newspaper of Monroe County, Alabama

Truman Capote

34 YEARS AGO
APRIL 21, 1988

Biggs lobbies at Capitol: Monroe County Probate Judge Otha Lee Biggs was in a delegation of about 25 persons who went to Washington recently to lobby for federal money to maintain and develop the Coosa-Alabama Waterway.
Biggs made a weekend trip to the capital and was there Mon., April 11, for hearings by the House and Senate appropriations subcommittees on energy and water development.
Biggs, a member of the board of directors of the Coosa-Alabama River Improvement Association, has made such trips for 18 consecutive years.

Excel player is top athlete of the month: Brian Thomas of Excel High School has been named Outstanding Athlete of the Month by The Monroe Journal, McDonald’s of Monroeville and WIZARD-104 FM in Mobile.
Thomas, a 6-foot-4 senior first baseman and pitcher, has helped the Panthers post a 10-2 record this season. He is leading the team in hitting with a .400 average, six home runs and 25 RBI and has posted a 3-1 pitching record.
Thomas is a big reason why the Panthers have won the 1A Area 2 baseball championship the last two years and why the team started this week with a 3-0 area mark.

Miss Sawyer finishes third in statewide spelling bee: Monroe County spelling bee winner Ellen Sawyer won third place in the state Birmingham Post-Herald spelling bee competition Saturday in Birmingham. The word she went out on was “microcircuitry,” which she spelled with ease Tuesday. Miss Sawyer is the daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Landon Sawyer of Monroeville and a sixth-grader at Monroeville Junior High School.

59 YEARS AGO
APRIL 18, 1963

Truman Capote Is Greeted By Friends In Aunt’s Home: Greeting old and new friends at the home of his aunt, Mrs. W. Jennings Carter, Saturday was Truman Capote of New York. Mr. Capote, recently returned from Switzerland, was welcomed to his former home by many who knew him as a child. This was his first visit to Monroeville since 1955.
Another honored guest was Miss Nelle Harper Lee, a childhood friend.

The new Excel High School coach will be Ed Comer Jr., who also will serve as a social studies teacher. He is a graduate of Albert G. Parrish High School in Selma and Troy State Teachers College, and formerly was an assistant coach in Coffee County. He also taught at Cullman Junior High School.

Church Property Is Sold: The sale of property on the north side of Courthouse Square by the First Baptist Church to National Butane Co. was completed this week. Milton Thames is shown above presenting a check to Rev. L. Reed Polk covering the transaction which included the Lindsey Building and two vacant lots adjacent to the building.

Uriah Seniors Will Present Play Friday: The senior class at J.U. Blacksher High School will present a comedy-drama of the sunny South Friday evening, April 19, at 8 p.m.
Members of the cast are Lester Peavy, Rodger Lambert, Jerry Gross, Randal Morris, Roger Johnson, Gaylyn Hood, Elaine Thornton, Mary Frances Solomon, Mary Laura Weatherford, Frances Turberville, Linda Powell and Linda Marshall.

84 YEARS AGO
APRIL 21, 1938

ALABAMA RIVER ON RAMPAGE: Not since the flood of 1886 have residents of this section seen so much water as has passed down the Alabama River during the last 10 days. The highest point reached the first of the week was less than two feet from the 1886 high mark.
For more than a week, the highway between Monroeville and Camden on the Camden end has been under water. Flat Creek has been backed up well above the bridge on the Monroeville-Camden highway, and Little River has backed up well above the bridge on the highway between Uriah and Stockton.
The river was reported falling in the vicinity of Miller’s Ferry.

GOLF TOURNAMENT BEGAN TUESDAY: Play in the local golf tournament began Tuesday with two flights of players. The final matches will be played on May 12. The following players had turned in scores for the opening of the tournament:
First flight: J.T. Morgan, Lucian Jones, C.A. Gentry, George Thomas Jones, Moses Katz, R.L. Jones, W.H. Simmons and Wills Moore.
Second Flight: E.S. Gardner, David Katz, R.M. Lazenby, H.G. Greer, Charles Locklin, F.G. Hastings, A.C. Lee and E.M. Salter.

Goode Speaks To Monroe Voters: Hon. R.J. Goode, candidate for Governor, addressed a large and enthusiastic crowd at the courthouse here on Wednesday of last week. The auditorium of the courthouse was fairly well filled.
His address was well received and at the close he shook hands with dozens of our citizens who promised him their support.

110 YEARS AGO
APRIL 18, 1912

Dr. A.B. Coxwell met with an unpleasant experience Wednesday morning in the effort to cross Double Branches on his return from a professional call. The stream was much swollen from the previous night’s rain and the current very swift. His horse and vehicle were plunged into a deep hole washed out by the swirling waters and were washed several yards down the stream, laming the horse and damaging the buggy. The doctor was compelled to jump out and wade through water several feet in depth. A valuable case of instruments was lost. A substantial bridge should be erected across this stream without delay and thus prevent similar and possibly more serious accidents in future.

The County High School baseball team crossed bats with the McGill team at the latter place last Saturday, playing two games in which the visitors were ingloriously licked. They are game, however, and have challenged the McGill boys to another contest on the High School diamond when they hope to return the compliment.

NOTICE: The freight and ticket offices of the Manistee & Repton Railroad at Manistee, Alabama has been moved from the post office building to the general office building. Parties desiring freight or information can obtain the same at the new location. – J.A. Kauffman, General Manager.

A rabid dog was killed on the streets one day last week and considerable apprehension is felt, as it is feared that other animals may have been infected. The town council met promptly and enacted an ordinance requiring that all dogs found within the corporate limits without muzzles be impounded and killed.

134 YEARS AGO
APRIL 18, 1888

The Beat meetings in each of the 13 precincts of the county will be held Saturday for the purpose of electing delegates to the county convention.

A MINISTER SUICIDES: A Tuscaloosa special of the 5^th inst. says: Rev. T.F. Hardin, the Methodist minister on the Romulus circuit, shot and killed himself yesterday at the residence of Mr. Holmes of Greene County, with whom he was boarding, and the body was brought here this evening for shipment to his friends at or near Auburn, Ala., where he formerly resided. No cause is assigned for the suicide. Mr. Hardin appeared in good health and spirits and was in a pleasant and talkative mood just before the fatal deed.
Rev. Mr. Hardin spent two years on the Repton Mission, embracing a part of this county, and was well known to many of our readers, who will learn with deep sorrow of his tragic and untimely death.

Mr. W.B. Jones, the obliging proprietor of the Jones House, has the finest garden in town, and his many guests during court may expect a rare treat in the way of vegetables. We have reason to know whereof we speak.

Several events of interest are likely to transpire in our midst during next week. Circuit court will convene on Monday, a very entertaining concert will be given by the young people Tuesday night, and the county convention will meet on Wednesday. Almost anything to break the monotony would be gladly welcomed by a suffering people.

Bank of Peterman building is one of the most historic commercial buildings in all of Monroe County

Old Bank of Peterman building. 

Members of the Peterman Historical Society were kind enough to invite me up to Peterman last Thursday afternoon to give me a guided tour of the old Bank of Peterman building. This old building is located near the corner of Main Street and Railroad Street in “downtown” Peterman, directly across from the railroad tracks that have so much to do with the town’s early history. Gone now are the two buildings that once sat on each side of the old bank, which now stands alone as the sole reminder of the town’s once bustling commercial center.

Some local history buffs will remember that the town’s first post office was established near here in 1900, the same year that the Louisville & Nashville Railroad was laid down through the town. Before the railroad, most of the town’s stores were located “up the hill” from the new tracks, but on an agreed upon moving day, teams of oxen were used to move three or four store buildings closer to the tracks. In the heyday of heavy rail traffic, Peterman thrived as a busy railroad stop between Repton and Beatrice.

According to historical society officers Meagan McDonald and Alice Chandler, the bank was built around 1915 and was established with around $14,000 in start-up money. Like many small banks across the country, the original bank was forced to close during the Great Depression. The bank was later reorganized and reopened under the new name of Peterman State Bank in 1934.

The Peterman State Bank moved into a more modern building in the 1960s, and the late William White began using the building for his personal business, Commercial Printing. Years later, relatives of White donated the old bank building to the Peterman Historical Society. Today, the society operates a “This & That” thrift store out of the building as a means to fund society projects.

Last Thursday, Meagan and Alice (who is a distant cousin of mine) took the time to show me the bank’s old vault and a number of old photos taken by local photographer, Max McAliley. The building also features an antique metal drop ceiling that looks to be made of tin or aluminum. A close look at the building’s interior brick walls also shows that the building has undergone many changes over the years.

Meagan and Alice went on to explain that over the years the building’s roof had fallen into terrible disrepair and that the building suffered from bad leaks. The society recently replaced the roof, removing rotten wood and sealing the sides and tops of the building’s walls. Total cost for the work was around $16,000.

As you would imagine, this large expense has hit the society’s funds pretty hard, especially in light of the pandemic. The society’s biggest fundraiser traditionally is its annual arts and crafts festival, but that event hasn’t been held for a couple of years due to COVID-19. The society does make a little money from its sales at “This & That” but not nearly enough to cover the $16,000 bill.

In the end, the society is seeking help to pay for the roof repairs, and all donations are welcome. Donations can be mailed to the Peterman Historical Society, c/o Meagan McDonald, 424 Walkers Creek Road, Peterman, AL 36471. For more information, e-mail petermanhistoricalsociety@yahoo.com.

Search for the exact location of the old Lebanon Associate Reformed Presbyterian Church continues

Several weeks ago in this space, I wrote about how family history researcher Sandra McCollum of Jackson, Miss. was trying to locate the site of the old Lebanon Church in Wilcox County. Sandra is descended from a number of early Wilcox County pioneers, including many who attended the Lebanon Church. Oddly, no one alive seems to know exactly where this old church was located.

Old newspapers say that the Bethel Associate Reformed Presbyterian Church at Oak Hill can trace its origins to the Lebanon Church. In 1856, Lebanon Church divided into two churches to serve its widely scattered members, which led to the formation of Bethel ARP Church. Lebanon Church was apparently founded around 1822, and old newspapers indicate that it was located somewhere near Camden.

Not long after the column about McCollum’s search ran in the paper, I received a nice e-mail from Barney McIntosh of Camden. He said that it’s possible that an old abandoned church on County Road 51 is all that remains of the former Lebanon Church. This church is about 10 miles south of Camden, beyond where the pavement ends, on the north side of County Road 51, not far from the old Neenah community.

McIntosh said that this church is hard to see from the road because parts of it have fallen in. He noted that there is a cemetery behind the church and that he has relatives buried there, including his fifth and sixth great-grandparents. Around a portion of the cemetery, you can also see remnants of a mote that was dug around some of the graves, he said.

Reading all of this from McIntosh, it reminded me of an old cemetery that I visited a couple of years ago on County Road 51. According to a sign out by the road, that cemetery is now called the Jordan Cemetery, but it may have been called something else years ago. I can say for certain that this cemetery is, at least partially, surrounded by a trench or ditch, which I presume was dug long ago to drain water away from the graveyard.

This old cemetery contains about 25 graves. The first known burial there was Catherine McLeod, who died in her twenties in 1825. The last known burial there was George S. Bolton, who died in 1888. Other names that you’ll find on headstones there include members of the Baldwin, Marshall, Martin and McIntosh families.

After receiving the message from McIntosh, I pulled the Jordan Cemetery up on Google Maps, and it appears that we are both talking about the same place. You can also see what appears to be the remnants of an old church a short distance west of the cemetery. On the day that I visited the cemetery, I didn’t see the church, so it must be hard to see from the road.

In the end, the mystery remains over the exact location of the old Lebanon Church. If anyone in the reading audience has any additional information they’d like to share on the subject, please let me know. It would be nice to finally settle this question once and for all for local history buffs.