The Monroe Journal's News Flashback for Feb. 26, 2024

USS Smalley

21 YEARS AGO
FEB. 27, 2003

Cancer center ground-breaking Friday: The Monroe Health Foundation Cancer Treatment Center received a financial boost Monday when Temple Inland donated another $25,000 for construction of the new center.
A ground-breaking ceremony for the cancer center will be tomorrow (Friday) at 12:30 p.m. at the site on South Alabama Avenue between Regions Bank and Johnson Funeral Home, across the street from the Winn-Dixie Shopping Center.
The $25,000 donation increased the campaign’s cash and pledges to $1,088,000.

Excel opens season with 11-1 rout of Red Level: Excel School opened its baseball season Saturday in Excel with an 11-1 win over Red Level High School at Murphy Park.
Senior right-hander Neal Jordan went the distance on the mound, tossing a one-hitter while striking out six. At the plate, the Panthers got a pair of doubles and two RBIs from Seth Mack.
(Other top Excel players in that game included Derek Wiggins, Brandon Crutchfield and Justin Whatley.)

MA’s Paula Stacey named to AISA Teacher Hall of Fame: Monroe Academy teacher Paula Stacey of Monroeville will be honored at the Alabama Independent School Association’s fourth annual Hall of Fame Banquet and Induction Ceremonies March 10 at the Montgomery Civic Center.
Stacey, who has taught English and speech at MA since 1975, is one of nine inductees to be honored. A reception honoring the Class of 2003 will begin at 6:15 p.m. with the banquet and induction ceremonies starting at 7 p.m.

46 YEARS AGO
FEB. 23, 1978

Measles epidemic threatens Monroe: An alert has been declared in Monroe County by the state Health Department concerning an epidemic of red measles in Escambia County, head nurse with the Monroe County Health Department.
Mrs. Kilpatrick said a vaccination program for all types of immunizations, planned earlier by the county department and schools, was being stepped up because of the epidemic. The vaccinations will be administered in all schools in the county next week, she said.
Anyone who had a measles shot prior to 1967 or when he was less than one year old needs another shot, she said.

Vols capture District 3 title: In the district championship game Saturday night, the Monroe Academy Vols blasted Wilcox Academy, 44-30.
Tommy Bowden led the scoring in the game with 11 points. Kevin Norris hit for 10, O’Neal Jordan eight, and Frank Carter and Mitch Jones six apiece.
Tommy Bowden of Monroe was named the tournament’s Most Valuable Player, and Kevin Norris was named to the all-tournament team.

11 arrested: Game wardens Bill Boone and Donald Turberville confiscated these 16 traps and arrested 11 persons in three days for illegal trapping. Charges ranged from trapping without a license to failure to mark traps. The maximum penalty for such offenses is a $500 fine, the officers said. They urged persons who discover illegal traps to notify them immediately.

71 YEARS AGO
FEB. 26, 1953

MCHS Tigers Top Evergreen 70-64: The Monroe County High Tiger cagers finished off their regular season in cage play Tuesday night by shaving the Evergreen Aggies 70-64 in Evergreen.
The MCHS hardwoodmen outscored their Evergreen hosts in the first, third and fourth quarters, netting by periods 19, 12, 21 and 18 points as opposed to 14, 14, 20 and 16 points for the Conecuh County group. High point man for the Tigers was forward Vincent Tomlinson with 37 points while Frazier, center, paced the Aggies with 22.

Joseph Marshall Jr. Serving In Korea: With the 1^st Cavalry Division in Japan – Pvt. Joseph Marshall Jr., whose wife, Sylvia, lives in Beatrice, Ala., is now serving with the 1^st Cavalry Division in Japan.
A veteran of 11 months of service in Korea with the 74^th Combat Engineers, Marshall entered the Army in August 1943. His mother, Delia Marshall, lives in Chestnut.

Charles I. Sims Takes Part In Caribbean Operation Springboard: While serving aboard the destroyer USS Smalley, Charles I. Sims, sonarman third class, U.S. Navy, son of Mr. and Mrs. Charles T. Sims of Monroeville, participated in Operation Springboard in the Caribbean. The ship conducted intensive anti-submarine warfare, anti-aircraft and shore bombardment gunnery and seamanship exercises. After the exercises, the Smalley returned to Newport, R.I., her homeport.

The Excel High School Panther cage five finished off its season by racking up another high score victory of 96-72 over Lyeffion on Friday night. High scorer for Excel was forward Jack Sawyer with 26 points while Booker, center, and Chavers, guard, with 20 points each, paced Lyeffion.

96 YEARS AGO
FEB. 23, 1928

The Mobile Chapter of the Daughters of the American Revolution will unveil a memorial tablet on the grave of the late Mrs. Katherine Salter Kitchen in the cemetery at the Baptist church on Fri., Feb. 24, under the direction of Mrs. Ervin Vass of Mobile, chairman of historical spots.

Mr. J. Mack Stallworth, the veteran and efficient postmaster at Beatrice, was among Monroeville friends the first of the week.

Mrs. J.P. Farish went to Birmingham the first of the week to hear the celebrated singer, John McCormich.

On Friday afternoon, Feb. 10, 1928, Mr. R.L. Stallworth, one of the oldest and most prominent citizens of Monroe County, passed away after an illness of long duration. When he was about 17 years of age, the Civil War was in full swing, and he was sent to the University of Alabama, where he was given some of the principles of military training. He at this time enlisted in the Confederate army and became one of the bravest and most enthusiastic soldiers. He was honored at one time during the Civil War by being chosen a Bradford Scout, a responsibility that entailed much courage and physical strength. The Confederate reunions have been a source of much joy to him in recent years and he attended many of them, coming home thrilled after having seen his comrades.

Hon. J. Miller Bonner of Camden was a visitor to Monroeville Saturday. Mr. Bonner is a prominent candidate for Associate Justice of the Supreme Court, and has already made a pretty thorough canvas of the state and feels confident of his nomination.

121 YEARS AGO
FEB. 26, 1903

Sheriff M.M. Fountain went to Texas last week where he contemplated investing in a carload or so of stock.

The Commissioners court will hold an adjourned term on Monday next to complete arrangements preliminary to letting contract for the new courthouse.

Alabama Lodge No. 3, Ancient Free & Accepted Masons, Perdue Hill, Alabama, has been reorganized with the following officers, viz: N.A. Agee, Worshipful Master; E.R. Morrissette, Senior Warden; W.E. Broughton, Junior Warden; W.B. Marshall, Junior Deacon; J.F. Gaillard, Senior Deacon; J.M. Coxwell, Secretary; J.D. Frye, Treasurer; G.W. Carter, Tyler.

Capt. J.J. Lufkin has recently returned from Chicago where he went to purchase a locomotive for the Manistee & Repton Railroad.

Mr. J.B. McMillan will soon be in a position to conduct the express business of Drewry and vicinity for the L&N Railroad. This departure will make the station of more importance and is a step toward the erection of a waiting room and warehouse at his point.

Chapter Meeting: The regular convocation of Monroe Chapter No. 122 will be held on Tuesday evening, March 3, 1903. A full attendance is desired. Work in Royal Arch degree. Visiting companions cordially welcomed. – F.M. Jones, Secretary.

The Evergreen Courant's News Flashback for Feb. 27, 2024

USS Iwo Jima

20 YEARS AGO

FEB. 26, 2004

Weather observer Harry Ellis reported .02 inches of rain on Feb. 16. He reported a high of 71 degrees on Feb. 20 and a low of 30 degrees on Feb. 17, Feb. 18 and Feb. 19.

The Conecuh County Chapter of the Alabama Treasure Forest Association planted a tree in front of Evergreen Elementary School on Tues., Feb. 24, in celebration of Arbor Day. Evergreen Mayor Lomax Cassady, as well as members of Mrs. Kit Moss’ second grade class, were on hand for the tree planting ceremony. Don Stinson and Victor Howell represented the Conecuh chapter of the ATFA. Also on Tuesday the ATFA gave away approximately 5,000 nursery grown tree seedlings in the Piggly Wiggly parking lot. The promotion of tree planting is one of the many projects sponsored by the Conecuh Chapter of the ATFA.

Frankie Gibson, daughter of Robert and Lisa Gibson, won the AISA State Spelling Bee at Huntingdon College in Montgomery on Tues., Feb. 10, 2004. She is in the seventh grade at Sparta Academy and a student of Mrs. Kathy Jernigan, who coordinated the Sparta Spelling Bee as well as the District Spelling Bee. Frankie competed in the seventh-grade local, district and finally state spelling bee.

Dr. James Lamar Jackson, a minister who worked with the Alabama Baptist State Convention, passed away Sun., Feb. 22, 2004 at his home in Evergreen. He was 86.

45 YEARS AGO

FEB. 22, 1979

Weather observer Earl Windham reported .08 inches of rain on Feb. 17 and .21 inches on Feb. 18. He reported a high of 77 degrees on Feb. 16 and a low of 28 on Feb. 12.

Marine Cpl. James D. Morrow, son of Lois H. Browder of Rt. 2, Box 260, McKenzie, Ala., recently departed for deployment in the Mediterranean Sea.

He is assigned to the 3^rd Battalion, Eighth Marines, based at Marine Corps Base, Camp Lejeune, N.C.

His unit is embarked aboard the amphibious assault ship USS Iwo Jima, operating as a unit of the U.S. Sixth Fleet.

Palmer Smith is now serving as hospital pharmacist and purchasing agent for Evergreen Hospital, Inc. Smith graduated from Evergreen High School in 1958 where he was a popular student and athlete. A registered pharmacist, he graduated from Samford University, Birmingham, in 1963. He worked at the Conecuh Drug Co. here and then owned pharmacies in Montgomery for several years. Prior to accepting his recent position, he worked as a pharmacist with a Monroeville drug store. Smith and his wife, Jane, and their son, Eben, 10, live in the Fairview community and are members of the Evergreen Baptist Church. He is the son of Mrs. V.P. Smith and the late Mr. Smith of Route E, Evergreen.

Cynthia Rudolph won first place in the Birmingham Post-Herald Spelling Bee at Marshall Middle School and will compete in the County Spelling Bee in March.

70 YEARS AGO

FEB. 25, 1954

Unusual Exhibit Scheduled Here Next Monday and Tuesday: Marie O’Day’s Palace Car is coming Monday and Tuesday, March 1-2, to Evergreen.

On exhibit in the car will be some unusual attractions, including the mummified body of Marie O’Day.

The night club dancer and entertainer, according to the sponsors of the exhibit, was fatally stabbed by her husband and thrown into the Great Salt Lake inn Utah, where the body remained for 12 years.

After the body was recovered, the exhibitors say it was discovered that the hair was still growing in an apparently normal manner. The dancer’s husband is said to be still serving a life sentence in Utah for her murder.

O.E.S. Will Observe Master Mason Night: The local chapter of the Order of Eastern Star will observe Master Mason night Monday night, March 1, beginning at 7:30 at the Masonic Hall. All Master Masons and their wives are invited to attend and members of the O.E.S. may bring their husbands whether they are Masons or not.

A full night of entertainment has been provided including an old time fried chicken supper. All Masons and Eastern Stars are urged to participate.

Frank Chavers, a senior of Lyeffion High School, was recently selected Future Farmer of the Year. He cultivated 25 acres of land last year, entered an 800-pound Hereford Calf in the 1953 Fat Calf Show and he had a Gilt in the FFA Pig Chain.

95 YEARS AGO

FEB. 28, 1929

Confederate Veteran Dies At Age of 89: John J. Booker, well known and highly respected citizen of this county, died at the home of his daughter, Mrs. Joe Andrews, near Belleville, Feb. 16. Deceased was a native of Conecuh County, having been reared in what is known as the Lone Star community near Skinnerton. He was a veteran of the War Between the States and at the time of his death was 89 years old. Interment was made in Lone Star cemetery Sun., Feb. 17.

Four Guardsmen Prepare For Trip To Washington: Four picked men from Troop C, 55^th Machine Gun Squadron, Alabama National Guard, were making final preparations this week for their trip to Washington, D.C. to take part in the inaugural ceremonies for President-Elect Herbert Hoover.

The four who will make the trip are Frank Brantley, D.C. Brooks, Willie I. Cook and W. McLean Dreaden. They will leave Evergreen Saturday and return about Wednesday.

Confederate Soldiers Will Get Gravestones: Washington, Feb. 23 – The Confederate dead of the Civil War, after sleeping for six decades as rebels, were given official recognition today as American soldiers when the senate passed a house bill conferring governmental honors upon them.

The bill authorized the secretary of war to erect headstones over the “graves of soldiers who served in the Confederate army and who have been buried in national, city, town or village cemeteries or in any other places,” the war department also was instructed to preserve in its record “the name, rank, company, regiment and date of death of the soldiers and his state.” The bill now goes to the White House for the president’s signature.

120 YEARS AGO

FEB. 24, 1904

Belleville: The new Methodist minister, Mr. Breedlove, at his regular appointment, delivered an earnest and impressive sermon. Although the weather was threatening, there was a good crowd out.

J.A. Amerson of Gregville was here Monday circulating among the people in the interest of his candidacy for commissioner. Mr. Amerson tips the beam at 307 pounds and if he is elected will no doubt be one of the biggest commissioners in the state.

The recent improvements of the streets and sidewalks are appreciated by everybody. One can now cross the streets in rainy weather without wading through mud and water.

SUDDEN DEATH: Prominent Citizen Drops Dead While at Work: A.T. Thomas, a well known citizen of this county, dropped dead while at work in the saw mill of John Murphy near Herbert on Thursday last. Mr. Thomas, up to the time of his death, was apparently in good health, and was at his post in the saw mill performing his duties when suddenly he was seen to fall and expire in a short while. Apoplexy was supposed to have been the cause. He was a good citizen and was respected and esteemed by his neighbors and all who knew him.

'Folk Lore Contest' held in Wilcox County, Alabama in 1948

Morton Rubin

“Folk Lore Contest Announced Here” was the big, bold headline on the front page of the Jan. 22, 1948 edition of The Wilcox Progressive Era.

The story that followed let readers know that Morton Rubin with the University of North Carolina’s Institute for Research in Social Sciences had launched a folklore contest in Wilcox County as part of a study of “Plantation Area Culture.” The contest was open to all students in the Wilcox County school system and aimed to secure samples of “existing folklore, sayings, superstitions, formulas, rhymes and jingles, ballads, etc. and also to discover the present role of folklore and magic in current living, science and religion.”

Students were asked not to use material that was already in print. “Local folklore is what is desired, so please don’t submit a lot of common materials, such as ‘walking under a ladder brings bad luck,’” Rubin said.

All entries had to be submitted before Leap Year Day, Feb. 29, to school principals or Rubin, who was living in Camden at the time. First prize was $5 with second place to receive $3. The two third-place finishers were to receive $1 each.

The March 11, 1948 edition of the newspaper announced the results of the contest. Over 100 students sent in “their lists of superstitions, rhymes and legends,” amounting to about 500 different pieces of folklore. Leading the fields were home remedies, parts of the body, death, animals and weather. “The principals and teachers of the schools cooperated with the project throughout, and people of the county lent a mighty hand in answering the questions of the children seeking folklore materials,” Rubin said.

Russell Dale Ervin of Alberta won first prize, and Carolyn Vick of Camden won second place. Third-place winners were Evelyn Moore of Darlington and Elizabeth Lee Findley of Gastonburg. Honorable mention winners were Sara Virginia Hudson, Anita Moss, Billy Parsons, Marguerite Lambert, Sara Jane Chambers, Roy Knight, Wanda Wilson, Aubrey Cameron and Louise Jones.

Rubin mentioned in both newspaper articles that he hoped to collect the best items of Wilcox County folklore into a mimeographed booklet that was to be given to all of the entrants, that is, about 100 students.

Rubin, who was born in Massachusetts in 1923, was an interesting man. He served in the Army as a clerk and French translator in Europe during World War II and later earned a degree in sociology from Boston University. He went on to earn a master’s degree and doctorate degree from the University of North Carolina.

According to his 2011 obituary, his doctoral studies at North Carolina involved him “immersing himself in a black community in Wilcox County, producing a study of segregation.” It was during this time that he held his folklore contest in Wilcox County. He earned his PhD in the spring of 1950 and a year later he published his dissertation as a book called, “Plantation County.”

In the end, I would really like to see a copy of the 1948 folklore booklet that Rubin put together with the help of Wilcox County students and educators. If anyone in the reading audience has a copy of this booklet that I could briefly examine, I would appreciate you getting in touch with me. Someone out there may have the only remaining copy of this booklet and it would be a shame for such an item to become lost to history.

George Singleton writes of 'splendid autumn colors from area hills'

Scenic view from a high hill in north Monroe County.

(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 “View splendid autumn colors from area hills” was originally published in the Nov. 3, 1977 edition of The Monroe Journal in Monroeville, Ala.)

If you have trouble finding somewhere to go these beautiful, lazy autumn afternoons, now is the time to load up and head through the hills in the north part of Monroe County.

During the next couple of weeks, you will witness the full colors at their bests. The high hills and deep valleys will unveil a splendid array of colors that will dazzle your sense of sight, and you will remember that afternoon for a long time.

Begin your journey by leaving the paved road and heading north to Old Scotland Church; pause there awhile, and enjoy the quiet beauty of the historic old building and cemetery. Listen to the falling leaves as they float down from the branches to settle lightly on the earth.

Wild beauty

Turn right beyond the church, about two miles, and slowly wind your way down across Flat Creek and the flat bottoms that lie near it. Every now and then, stop and inhale the fresh, pure air and absorb the wild beauty around you.

As you begin to ascend again into the hills, take a backward look at the beautiful valley that you just passed through.

Pause and rest at the Red Hills Cemetery; walk through the markers and read the names of the ones buried there.

As you do this, you will form in your mind the community that once was there. You will know the names of the people born there. And you will know the one who tilled the soil and worked the land, and were laid to rest beneath the whispering pines. And you will hear again the falling leaves as they flutter gently to the ground to form a soft blanket across row upon row of headstones.

Most colorful

Beyond the cemetery, turn sharply to the right and begin the most colorful part of the journey.

As you follow the high ridge, look down across the valleys and behold the beauty of one of God’s creations. And as you follow the winding road, stop along the high points for a view usually seen only through the eyes of the winged creatures.

Climb the steep hill where the fire tower stands, and pause for a minute and listen to the winds sighing through the pines. Feel the cool autumn air against your face as it rises and climbs from the valleys below.

Look to the east and see the sleepy community of Vredenburgh in the distance. Then slowly make your way back down the hill, turning right to the paved highway farther on.

In His hands

As you reach the highway, you have the choice of returning by way of Beatrice or following Highway 41 through Franklin.

Whichever the way you choose, you will know that this day will be long in your memory, and you will know that the God who holds all things in the palms of His hands, holds them still.

(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, was bitten at least twice by venomous snakes, 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.)

 

‘Steamboat Charlie’ among Monroe County, Alabama’s colorful characters

Grave of 'Steamboat Charlie'

I was looking through some old newspapers the other day when I ran across an old story that detailed the unusual death of one of Monroe County’s most prominent citizens.

On the top of the front page of the Feb. 23, 1933 edition of The Journal, editor A.C. Lee (Harper Lee’s father) reported that the “accidental discharge of a gun in his own hands” on Feb. 18 resulted in the death of Lawrence Wheeler Locklin of Monroeville. According to that story, the 65-year-old Locklin had gone out early that morning with one of his young grandsons to shoot a rabbit.

“It was necessary to cross a wire fence to reach their objective point,” the story said. “The boy had gone over the fence ahead and when Mr. Locklin attempted to cross the fence, the old time gun he carried became entangled in the fence in some unknown manner, was accidentally discharged and the load passed through the back of the head of the elder Locklin, resulting in instant death.”

At the time of his death, Locklin was one of the county’s most prominent men. A.C. Lee wrote that Locklin was “for many years an outstanding citizen of Monroe County, always taking an active interest in the political, social and civic welfare of the county and state. He was reared and resided at Perdue Hill until some 15 years ago, when he moved to Monroeville. He represented Monroe County in the Convention which formulated our State Constitution in 1901, under which we now function.” Notably, in September 1901, Locklin became one of the state officials who officially signed this new constitution.

Interestingly, Lawrence Locklin was the son of one of the county’s most colorful antebellum characters, Capt. Charles William Locklin Sr., aka, “Steamboat Charlie.” Born at Claiborne in 1827, Charles Locklin became known as Steamboat Charlie because of the steamboats that he owned and operated. His line of steamboats carried cargo and passengers for many years up and down the Alabama River from Mobile to Montgomery.

Charles Locklin made a handsome living during the War Between the States when the Confederate government chartered his steamboats to transport troops and munitions from the state capital to the port in Mobile. Sources said that he owned a number of steamboats, but the only one specifically named in family papers was the St. Nicholas. Union forces burned this ship during the war.

“Capt. Locklin was one of the few survivors of Alabama river steamboat officers of what was known as the ‘flush times’ before the war, serving as clerk and captain on several steamboats between 1843 and 1868,” his 1905 obituary said. “Possessing great natural wit, culture and geniality, he was among the most popular men then on the river.”

In the end, it would be interesting to know if anyone in the reading audience has any additional information about these two colorful characters in Monroe County history. Both of these men had children, so I would not be surprised to know that they have a number of descendants in the area today.

George Singleton wrote that 'hog-killing time' was a community event

George Buster Singleton

(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 “Hog-killing time was a community event” was originally published in the March 2, 1989 edition of The Monroe Journal in Monroeville, Ala.)

I know that there are a few of you out there among my readers who are old enough and lived far back enough in the country to remember hog-killing time.

Those of you who are unfortunate to have not taken part in the annual winter’s hog killing, or the preparation of the family’s yearly supply of meat, have missed a great event.

The dog of the hog killing started out bright and early. The coldest days were always the best. Fires were started at daybreak around two extra-large iron pots that were full of water. Hot water was the most essential part of the meal preparation. Plenty of hot water was a must.

A job for everyone

The slaughter of the fattened hogs were done out of sight of everyone except the menfolks. Then the slain hogs were brought up and dipped in the scalding hot water so as to remove the hair from the skins. This was a job for everyone present, even the smallest could participate.

My father and one or two older men possessed the knowledge of the ways that the meat was to be cut up and processed. They also knew how it should be stored so as not to spoil in the months ahead. We are talking about a time when one didn’t run to the deep freezer and place the meat there for safekeeping.

The meat had to be placed in several large barrels, after being rubbed with salt. As each layer of meat was placed in the barrel, a light covering of salt was sprinkled over that layer so that another layer of meat could be put on top of that.

The large, juicy hams and the front shoulders of the slaughtered hogs were prepared for smoking. This meant that the selected pieces were tied with long blade of bear grass and hung up in the smokehouse. Once all the meat had to be hung up and was ready for smoking, a small fire, made of selected pieces of hickory smoke, was started right in the middle of the smokehouse. This fire was kept burning for several days until the meat, subject to my father’s inspections, was cured enough so as not to spoil.

Stories around the fires

During this special day, many stories were told around the fires under the huge iron posts. A small boy of 10 could only stand around, open-mouthed and absorb the tall tales that abounded there around the fires.

The highlight of the day was the cooking of select pieces of meat and everyone eating and enjoying the goodies that had been brought over for the event. Anyone who left hungry did so of his own choosing. There was always plenty of food.

Before each family left for home, those who had not had a hog processed that day were given enough meat to last them for several meals.

The day ended when the yarns and tall tales began to wind down. The date was passed around to everyone when the next hog killing would take place and the whereabouts. And a small boy – whose head was full of tales that covered a time span beginning long before the Civil War took place and including the then-great World War (World War I) – was sent to bed weary and tired.

Beauty and love

Many of these tall tales have survived the years and are forever fresh in this writer’s memory. And the beauty and the love that abounded around the old home place will always be cherished, for now and always.

And too, the memory of a tall, dark-haired woman, most beautiful even in a simple gingham dress, and a slender, gentle man, who valued their family’s love above life itself, will never fade.

Truly, those of you who have never witnessed a gathering such as a community hog killing, have missed one of the great highlights of childhood and are poorer for it.

I had a father who told me
Sagas of rogues who scoured the seas
Cutlasses clenched in their yellow teeth,
“Blackbeards” hid in the ships’ holds beneath.

You may have tangible wealth untold,
Caskets of jewels and coffers of gold.
Richer than I you can never be –
Family and friends who worshiped 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, was bitten at least twice by venomous snakes, 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.)

 

This week marks 82 years since the death of Wilcox County Probate Judge F.R. Albritton

Alabama Gov. Frank M. Dixon

This coming Saturday will mark 82 years since the unexpected death of Wilcox County Probate Judge Felix Reginald Albritton.

Judge Albritton, who was only 50 years old at the time, was fatally injured in an automobile accident around 7 p.m. on Feb. 24, 1942. The accident occurred after Albritton became blinded by the bright lights of an approaching vehicle and collided with an oncoming truck. Albritton’s car was “demolished and he was terribly bruised and cut,” newspaper accounts said.

Albritton, a native of Camden, was one of Wilcox County’s most prominent men and public servants. Prior to taking office as probate judge, he also served as Wilcox County Sheriff and as a deputy sheriff. Albritton was widely known throughout the county and was “respected and honored as few young men have been.”

Married to the former Dolly Young of Greensboro, Albritton was also a World War I veteran and “experienced all the battles over there.” His funeral was held at the Camden Baptist Church and was “one of the largest ever witnessed in Camden.” He was buried in the Camden Cemetery.

Governor Frank M. Dixon appointed Ervin Earl Dunn to serve as probate judge to fill the vacancy left by Albritton’s death. Dunn had been working as a distributor for the Gulf Refining Co., and he was also a well-known farmer and cattleman. He was 43 years old at the time of his appointment to the probate judge’s seat.

Like Albritton, Dunn had served overseas during World War I and was a past commander of the Irby Savage Post of the American Legion in Camden. During Dixon’s campaign for governor, Dunn had served as his Wilcox County campaign manager, which probably played a factor in Dunn’s appointment to probate judge.

Dunn ran for re-election in 1946 and faced three challengers: Clifford Homer Albritton, Joe M. Bonner and Jesse McIntosh McLeod. In the May 1946 Democratic primary election, Albritton carried the day with 907 votes, and McLeod got 701 votes. Notably, Clifford Albritton was the younger brother of former probate judge Felix Albritton, who was killed in the 1942 car accident.

When Clifford Albritton and McLeod faced off in the June 4 run-off election, McLeod upset the front-runner by just 16 votes. McLeod won with 1,063 votes to Albritton’s 1,047 votes. Box by box, McLeod won Camden and Pine Apple, which appears to have been the difference in the hotly contested election.

Another thing that probably put McLeod over the top was the fact that he had previously served as probate judge prior to Felix Albritton taking office. In all, McLeod served in that office for more than 20 years. With a last name like “McLeod,” it should come as no surprise that McLeod’s grandfather came to Wilcox County from Scotland in the early 1800s.

In the end, I was left wondering if anyone has ever compiled a complete list of the county’s former probate judges. It would be interesting to see which judge served when, for how long and the longest. If anyone knows of such a list, please let me know.

The Monroe Journal's News Flashback for Feb. 19, 2024

USS Franklin D. Roosevelt

18 YEARS AGO
FEB. 16, 2006

Rhonda Chandler of BankTrust bank in Monroeville presents at $100 U.S. Savings Bond to Frisco City High School sixth-grader Martha Andrews, winner of the 2006 Monroe County Spelling Bee. Other winners were Monroeville Junior High School seventh-grader Falon White, runner-up; Excel School eighth-grader Nicholas Wiggins, third place; and Frisco City eighth-grader Britney Lett, fourth place.

Champs – Excel wins area: In one of the biggest games in recent memory for Excel’s basketball program, Excel’s varsity boys whipped area rival, Red Level, 63-57, Monday night in Excel to win the 2A Area 2 championship.
High-flying senior Terrell Coker, a 6-foot-2 center, led the Panthers over Red Level with a team-best 18 points. Adrian Stallworth, just a freshman, followed closely with 14 points. Senior guard Chris Crosby also finished the night in double figures, collecting 10 points that included a field goal and two clutch free throws in the final 52 seconds of play that sealed the win.
(Other players on Excel’s team that season included DeArco Anderson, Marcus Anderson, Steven Brown, Jonathan Kirkland, Travis Millender, Justin Ridgeway, Josh Ward and Larry Wiggins.)

Miss Monroe County: The Miss Monroe County Beauty Pageant was held Saturday at Nettles Auditorium on the campus of Alabama Southern Community College. Miss Jacquelyn Whidbee, 18, took home the crown. Whidbee is the daughter of Jack Whidbee and Cynthia Whidbee of Frisco City. Over 90 contestants ranging in age from birth to 18 turned out in the competition.

43 YEARS AGO
FEB. 19, 1981

Bed stolen: A four-poster tester bed of solid mahogany (Empire style, built around 1820) was stolen early last week from the Vanity Fair Hunting Club, “La Rouge,” at Perdue Hill, according to the Monroe County Sheriff’s Department. Monroe County Sheriff Lenwood Sager said Agee Broughton, owner of the home leased by Vanity Fair, is offering a $500 reward to anyone who contacts the sheriff’s department with information leading to the arrest and conviction of the person who stole the bed.

Monroe Academy Volunteers win first-round state action: Senior guard Keith Jones poured in 27 points Tuesday night as the Monroe Academy Volunteers shot past the stubborn Catherine Academy Colts, 70-50, in a first-round Alabama Private School Association state tournament game in Monroeville.
Kim Stacey, a junior forward, hit repeatedly from the corner and followed Jones in scoring with 22 points for the 25-2 Volunteers.
(Other players on MA’s team that season included Craig Cave, Jeff Gandy, Joey Langham, Blake Masingill, Tracey McPherson, Mark Nettles and Rickey Sanchez. Brad Moore was MA’s head coach.)

New C of C officers are installed in banquet: Members of the Monroeville Area Chamber of Commerce were challenged to meet the problems of the 1980s with hard work and strong leadership during their annual banquet Monday. The banquet at Vanity Fair Community House included the installation of the Chamber’s first woman president, real-estate broker Anne Farish, and other officers for 1981, plus new directors.

68 YEARS AGO
FEB. 16, 1956

Miss Lottie Powell was named queen of the annual “Beauty Revue” at Excel High School last Saturday night. Miss Powell, a senior at the Excel school, is the daughter of Mrs. Louise Powell. Second-place winner of the revue was Miss Gail Brown, daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Bernard Brown of Excel, and third place winner was Miss Carlie Ann Stacey, daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Roy Stacey of Excel. The revue was sponsored by the school’s Beta Club. Judges were Arthur Nichols, Ed Lee and Mrs. Ralph Lazenby, all of Monroeville.

The Excel High School Panther five received top seeding from among 17 First District Class A basketball teams Saturday in preparation for the annual tournament to be held in the T.R. Miller gymnasium in Brewton on Feb. 22-25. They are Carol Stacey, forward; Jack Matchett, forward; Johnny Tomlinson, guard; Max Green, guard; Cecil Stacey, center; and Coach William Brandon.

W.T. Smith, Airman Apprentice, U.S. Navy, husband of Mrs. Nina Vee Smith of Bigger St., and son of Mr. and Mrs. Tommy Smith of Rt. 2, Frisco City, has been home on leave after successfully competing his “Boot Training” at the Naval Training Center in San Diego, Calif. He will report to the Fleet Air Training Center, Naval Air Station, San Diego, Calif., for a six-week course of instruction prior to reporting to his ultimate duty station, the USS Franklin D. Roosevelt, an attack carrier of the Midway Class.

93 YEARS AGO
FEB. 19, 1931

The Installation Of Sewer Is Completed: The installation of the sewer system for the town of Monroeville by the Hornbuckle Contracting Co. of Atlanta, has been completed and many are now availing themselves of the opportunity of “hooking on.” The contract was let to that company last fall for a bid of considerably less than the council had thought the work could be done. Work on the system was promptly begun and carried on rapidly despite adverse weather conditions.

Thompson Bakery Has Installed New Machinery: The Thompson Bakery has recently installed a motor driven kneading machine or dough break. This machine is not only a great labor saver but makes bread whiter and gives a finer texture than the old method. The installation of this new machine puts the bakery in the class with those in large cities.

Mass Meeting at Coley-Blacksher On March 4: There will be a mass meeting and barbecue at the Coley-Blacksher School for boys at Vocation on March 4. Senator James J. Davis of Pennsylvania, founder of the Loyal Order of Moose, is expected to be present. The meeting will be held for the purpose of acquainting the people with the work of the Moose Order and their offer to take over the Coley-Blacksher School.

Monroe High Band Plays For Mardi Gras in Mobile: The Monroe County High School Band, resplendent in the new uniforms of blue and white, left early Monday morning for Mobile to play during the last two days of Mardi Gras. The boys took part in the parades along with the bands from Auburn, the University of Alabama and Murphy High School.

118 YEARS AGO
FEB. 15, 1906

The foreclosure sale of the Conoly property on Tuesday attracted quite a crowd to town of persons whose lands were involved in one way or another. The entire property was bid in for the Union Naval Store Co. for $15,000.

PINEVILLE: The cows coming in from the pasture two miles distant in the middle of the afternoon last Monday, an unfailing sign of approaching bad weather, caused busy housekeepers to have a supply of wood and kindling stored away and to make other preparations for snow, sleet and rain. Tuesday was bitterly cold and, sure enough, late in the afternoon the rain and sleet commenced, continued all night and the next morning with icicles pendant from the eaves, the rain was freezing as it fell.

DEATH BY CREMATION – An Old Man Burned to Death at Tunnel Springs Monday Night – Mr. Colin Falkenberry, an aged citizen of Tunnel Springs, came to his death in a tragic manner on Monday night. Mr. Falkenberry, who was upward of 90 years old, occupied a room apart from the dwelling but within the yard of his son, and it was his custom to arise from his bed at various hours of the night, kindle a fire and sit by it until he became drowsy. On Monday night, the family was awakened at a late hour to discover the little house occupied by the old gentleman in flames and the roof falling in. The building was so far consumed that it was impossible to enter the building or rescue the body of the unfortunate man, and it was only by the most heroic efforts of neighbors who were attracted to the scene that the son’s dwelling was saved from destruction.

Stone Mountain Memorial Half Dollars were sold at Camden National Bank in early 1926

Stone Mountain Memorial Half Dollar

I was looking back through some old newspapers the other day and ran across an interesting item on the front page of the Feb. 18, 1926 edition of The Wilcox Progressive Era.

Under the headline, “CONFEDERATE MEMORIAL COINS,” Camden National Bank President Edwin Walker Berry Sr. announced that the bank had received a supply of Stone Mountain Confederate Memorial Half Dollars, the “issue of which was authorized by the Congress of the United States as a recognition of the valor and heroism and fortitude of the Confederate soldier, to assist in the construction of the great monument being engraved on the face of Stone Mountain near Atlanta, Ga.”

Edwin was the son of Samuel Ward Berry Sr., who served in the 10^th Alabama Infantry Regiment during the War Between the States. Samuel fought in a host of major battles, including Seven Pines, Cold Harbor, Second Manassas, Harper’s Ferry, Spotsylvania Court House and Petersburg before surrendering at Appomattox in April 1865. Records reflect that Samuel was also severely injured during the Battle of Antietam, which was the bloodiest day in American military history.

In his 1926 newspaper announcement, Edwin noted that the issuance of the memorial coins was remarkable. “Such recognition on the part of the federal government is unparallelled his history. Never in history probably has a great government authorized a memorial before to enemy soldiery, and it is felt that the South should show a large degree of appreciation of this by purchasing every coin issued.”

Readers could purchase the coins at the Camden bank for $1 each. Fifty cents of that money went to the Stone Mountain Confederate Memorial Association to assist in building the now-famous monument at Stone Mountain. Only 500,000 of these 50-cent pieces were issued. “One day they will be in great demand and not one can be had when this supply is exhausted,” Edwin said.

Edwin went on to say that the bank’s board of directors had authorized the presentation of one of these coins to every Confederate veteran in Wilcox County, and the coin would be given to any veteran who came to the bank. If they couldn’t come in person, the bank would make arrangements to mail them a coin.

“Let every citizen, man, woman, boy or girl who loves the Grey, and every man who honors valor and manhood wherever found, call at the bank and procure one of these coins,” Edwin wrote.

Research reflects that the Stone Mountain Memorial Half Dollar was minted in 1925 at the Philadelphia Mint. One side of the coin features a depiction of Confederate generals Robert E. Lee and Stonewall Jackson. The other side of the coin bears the caption: “Memorial to the Valor of the Soldier of the South.”

In the end, it would be interesting to know if anyone in the reading audience still has one of these old memorial coins. One price guide online reflected that the estimated value of a 1925 Stone Mountain Half Dollar in mint condition is between $77 to $15,000.

The Evergreen Courant's News Flashback for Feb. 13, 2024

40 YEARS AGO

FEB. 9, 1984

Weather observer Earl Windham reported .45 inches of rain on Feb. 3. He also reported a high of 67 degrees on Jan. 30 and a low of 24 degrees on Feb. 1.

Theron L. Sims, manager of the Piggly Wiggly Super Market here for 20 years, retired Saturday, ending a 40-year career in the grocery business. He is succeeded by Robby Stanford of Atmore.

Alvin Howard Dees, 75, of Evergreen died Wed., Feb. 1, in a local hospital. A native of Escambia County, the son of the late Stephen and Lucy Robinson Dees, he was manager of JayVilla Plantation for 41 years. He was born Aug. 14, 1908.

Over 100 attended the Evergreen Chamber of Commerce’s annual promotion banquet Friday night at the Holiday Inn. Representatives from 35 businesses and industries, 10 professionals and nearly all county and city elected officials were among those present.

Mrs. Ouida Salter introduced the speaker, Dr. Joe M. Elrod of Montgomery, who is associated with New York Like Insurance Co. He entertained with a chain of “Cajun” jokes drawn from his experiences while serving as an educator in Southern Louisiana before finishing up with a few serious remarks and challenges.

Mrs. Willene Whatley assumed the presidency and made concluding remarks, calling on members for continued support of Chamber activities.

55 YEARS AGO

FEB. 13, 1969

Pfc. Joseph S. Ward, USMC, is in Okinawa enroute to Vietnam. He entered the Marine Corps on July 2, 1968 and left for California for January. Private Ward is the son of Richard Ward of Evergreen and Mrs. James V. Hawsey of McKenzie. He attended Lyeffion High School.

A woman faces charges of assault with intent to murder following a scrape here Monday night.

Sarah Matthews was arrested by Evergreen Policemen Tal Smith and Henry C. Jackson who investigated. They turned her over to Sheriff James (Shorty) Brock.

She is charged with shooting Matthew Stallworth, 35, city sanitation department worker, with a .22 caliber pistol. Three shots were fired and one hit the man in the back of the head, but the wound was not serious. In fact, he worked Tuesday.

The Spring Term of Circuit Court will open here Monday morning with Circuit Judge Robert E.L. Key presiding. After the Grand Jury is empaneled, the trial of civil cases on an extremely light docket will begin.

The grand jurors will have a number of cases presented to them by District Attorney Ralph L. Jones of Monroeville and County Solicitor Henry J. Kinzer. Since all cases from the Fall Term were continued, there should be a fairly heavy docket of criminal cases to be tried the week beginning Mon., March 10. There are only 10 cases slated for the jury trial on the civil docket.

70 YEARS AGO

FEB. 11, 1954

Evergreen High Seeks Historical Items For School’s Museum: The Journalism Club of Evergreen High School today made a plea to the public for donations of items of historical interest in the field of education in Evergreen. These items will be kept in the newly formed Evergreen High School Museum for many years to come and will help to show to posterity a way of life in Conecuh County.

M.B. Campbell, Farmers Bonded Warehouse, has given glass cases in which the articles donated will be kept at the school.

The initial contribution, consisting of three pictures, was made by Mrs. Katie McCreary. It is fitting that one of the pictures is of Miss Willie Cunningham, the beloved lady who contributed so much to education in Conecuh County. Another picture shows the baseball team of 1894, featuring such players as Edmund Finch, Henderson Cook, Ted Gantt and Donnie Bruner.

The school is indebted to Miss Mary Cunningham for a picture of a “Thom Thum” commencement wedding in which she was a winsome bridesmaid and Mary Dent Salter (Mrs. Fred Mills) was a flower girl.

Several personnel changes are announced today by D.T. (Tal) Stuart, Stuart Motor Co. Zell Murphy, popular Evergreen resident who is well-known and liked throughout the county, is now associated with the firm in charge of their parts department.

Warren Bolton has been named general manager and service manager.

85 YEARS AGO

FEB. 9, 1939

Conecuh County Pioneer Is Claimed By Death: Alexander A. Autrey, one of the pioneer citizens of Conecuh County, died at the home of his nephew, George M. Jones on Bellview Avenue, Sunday afternoon, at the advanced age of 83 years.

Mr. Autrey was the son of the late Enoch George Autrey and Elizabeth Amanda (Johnston) Autrey, and was born at Old Sparta on May 19, 1855. When quite young, he moved to the Johnstonville community, where he resided until his death. He was a lifelong member of the Brooklyn Baptist Church, from which funeral services were held Monday afternoon, conducted by Dr. J.G. Dickinson and Rev. Raines, his pastor.

Robert Fields, 60-year-old McKenzie man, is being held in Conecuh County Jail on a charge of murder in connection with the fatal stabbing two weeks ago of his 20-year-old wife, Eva Bell.

The latter was found on the shoulder of Highway 31, one mile south of the Conecuh-Butler county line, on the night of Jan. 27, stabbed to death near the heart with an ice pick, or similar instrument.

Fields, who sometimes goes by the name of Mayweather, disappeared from his home on the night the body was found and authorities immediately instituted a search.

Using bloodhounds obtained from the sheriff of Butler County and with the aid of two highway patrolmen, Sheriff J.G. Moore and his deputies found Fields Tuesday near Nymph, after receiving reports he had been seen in that vicinity.

The Monroe Journal's News Flashback for Feb. 12, 2024

17 YEARS AGO
FEB. 8, 2007

Raybon wins Bee: Sydney Raybon of Excel correctly spelled “rotunda” to win the annual Monroe County Spelling Bee last Friday.
Raybon is a fourth-grade student at Excel School. She was presented the first-place prize, a $100 U.S. Savings Bond, by Rhonda Chandler of BankTrust of Monroeville.
Richard Mason Jr., a seventh-grade student at J.F. Shields High School, was second in the competition. Hannah Chaney, a fifth-grade student at J.U. Blacksher School, placed third, and Pashaffa Crook, and eighth-grader at J.F. Shields High School, placed fourth.

Williams picks GWU Bulldogs: Jeffrey Williams, who has been a defensive standout at Frisco City High School since the eighth grade, signed with Gardner-Webb University in Boiling Springs, North Carolina yesterday.
Williams finished his senior year with 155 solo tackles and 41 assists. He averaged 19.6 tackles per game. He also had 87 carries at fullback for 880 yards.

Peddlin’ for a Cure kickoff to be held Thurs., Feb. 15: The 2007 Peddlin’ for a Cure kickoff has been set and organizers hope this year’s event will be bigger than ever before.
(Peddlin’ organizer Debbie Lee) and Peddlin’ Founder Fred Kelley made a trip to Mobile last week and met with Mobile Mayor Sam Jones, Jones’ Chief of Staff Al Stokes and Police Chief Phillip Garrett to discuss plans for the bike ride through the city’s streets.
Last year, nearly 100 cyclists rode 118 miles to Orange Beach and raised over $100,000.

42 YEARS AGO
FEB. 11, 1982

Frisco City councilman dies last week at 79: Frisco City Councilman William Pinkston Albritton, who was chosen the town’s Citizen of the Year in 1976, died last Thursday.
A native of Camden, he graduated from Erskine College in Due West, S.C. in 1925 with an A.B. degree in English and Chemistry. In 1934, Mr. Albritton came to Frisco City, where he operated Frisco City Pharmacy until 1953, when he went into business in Camden. In 1954, he returned to the town and operated Frisco City Drug Co. until his retirement in 1965.

Lady Panthers head to semifinals: The J.F. Shields High School girls basketball team is headed for the 2A state semifinals tomorrow (Friday) after beating Houston County High School of Columbia, 66-41, in Columbia Tuesday night.
The team was crowned 2A Area 2 and Region 1 champs Saturday night in Beatrice after a 67-37 thrashing of Alba High School of Mobile in the regional championship. Jackie Stallworth paced the Panther offense with 24 points.
(Other players on Shields’ girls team that season included Shirley Finklea, Vernetta Burns, Jennifer Jones, Valerie Richardson, Alma Rogers, Latricia Hunt, Margaret Williams, Donna Barker and Shirley Murphy. Lana Wilson was head coach.)

New chamber officers elected: Officers were elected and plans for the 1982 banquet were finalized in Tuesday night’s meeting of the Monroeville Area Chamber of Commerce. Realtor Anne Farish was re-elected president. Mike Montgomery of Harrigan Lumber Co. was chosen first vice president. Brent Metts of Hainje’s was named second vice president, and Bob Burns of Tri-Motor Co. was re-elected for a second term as treasurer.

67 YEARS AGO
FEB. 14, 1957

Church Burns Mortgages: Part of the dedication services of the new Mexia Baptist Church building Sunday was the discarding of mortgages and any indebtedness for the church. The Rev. Q.T. Curtis of Monroeville, former pastor, preached the dedication sermon to over 300 persons. Dinner on the church grounds followed the service.

Frisco City Holds Football Banquet: The annual banquet of the Frisco City School football team was held Friday night at the Community House in Monroeville.
B.E. Lee, as master of ceremonies, made a short talk in which he expressed appreciation for the efforts of all who made the past season a success.
Coach C.D. Anderson in his talk to the group commended the team for the excellent spirit shown by every member, stating that the past season’s success was achieved by a fine team effort. He presented letters to 23 members of the team, including nine seniors.

Kermit Branum Buys Pure Service Station: Kermit Branum of Monroeville has bought Pure Service Station from Aubrey Kilpatrick this week. He will operate it and will continue his sawmill business. The station is located on Alabama Avenue.

Mrs. Charles McKinley of Atmore is the guest this week of Miss Alice Lee and her father, A.C. Lee, in Monroeville. During the weekend, they were guests of Mr. and Mrs. H.H. Conner in Eufaula.

Airman Third Class Aubrey Gilbert Jernigan is home on furlough and is visiting his parents, Mr. and Mrs. Aubrey Jernigan of Frisco City Route. Gilbert is leaving in two weeks for Korea, where he will be on duty for one year.

92 YEARS AGO
FEB. 11, 1932

Miss Jennie Faulk left Sunday for Atlanta where she will do her spring buying.

JAMES K. KYSER DIED TUESDAY AT NOON: On Tuesday of this week, Hon. James. K. Kyser, for many years a leading citizen of Monroe County, passed away. He had been ill for only a few days, and to many in the community, his passing way a surprise. The entire community was shocked.
Mr. Kyser lived at Burnt Corn the greatest portion of his life time, where he was a very successful merchant and farmer. He moved to Monroeville something like 12 years ago and has made his home here since that time.
He was buried with Masonic honors near his old home at Burnt Corn Wednesday morning.

Monroeville Band Plays For Mobile Carnival: The members of the Monroe County High School Band left early Monday morning for Mobile, where they played for the Mardi Gras festivities on Monday and Tuesday. Upon leaving Mobile the boys went over to Dothan where they had been engaged to furnish music for the Woodmen of the World Log Rolling.

Mr. Mose Sullivan, new service manager for Monroe Motor Co., has moved his family to Monroeville. Mr. Sullivan recently returned from a six-day Chevrolet School at Birmingham, where he learned all the new points about the new Chevrolet. This is the sixth Chevrolet school Mr. Sullivan has attended, he having been in the employ of Chevrolet dealers since 1924.

117 YEARS AGO
FEB. 14, 1907

Application for Pardon: Notice is hereby given that an application will be made to the Pardoning Board for convicts for a pardon or parole for Isaac and Jessie Shirley, convicted at the adjourned term 1905 of the Circuit Court, Monroe County, for assault with intent to murder.

Tax Assessor J.D. Rawls was laid up with la grippe a few days this week.

Mr. J.E. Fountain, proprietor of the Fountain House, was over from Peterman Tuesday.

Mr. J.L. Bowden of the Moore-Bowden Mercantile Co. of Jones Mill, was in to see us Monday.

Capt. J.L. Smith, former Tax Collector, was in to see us Wednesday. Capt. Smith is regaining his normal health, we are glad to note.

Mr. J.N. Gilmore of York, Ala., Deputy Sovereign Commander, Woodmen of the World, paid an official visit to the local camp of that order this week and expresses gratification at the growth of its membership and enthusiasm manifested during the few months the camp has been in existence. Mr. Gilmore is a candidate for Junior Past Head Consul for Head Camp and has flattering prospects of success.

The Commissioners Court is in session this week, all members of the board being in attendance. No business outside of the ordinary routine has developed so far.

Was real life J.C. Finch the basis for 'Simon Finch' in Harper Lee's novel 'To Kill a Mockingbird'?

Someone asked me the other day if I thought any of the names for the fictional characters in Harper Lee’s “To Kill a Mockingbird” have any connection with real life people from Monroe County’s past.

Fans of the book will remember that the book’s main character Jean Louse “Scout” Finch is the daughter of fictional lawyer, Atticus Finch. Scout is also the brother of Jeremy Atticus “Jem” Finch. The book also notes that they are the direct descendants of Simon Finch, an Englishman who founded Finch’s Landing on the Alabama River.

Often the simplest explanation is the correct one. With that in mind, it should be noted that Harper Lee’s mother, Frances, was a Finch before she married Amasa Coleman Lee. Frances was the daughter of James Cunningham “J.C.” Finch and Ellen Williams Finch, who are both buried in Evergreen.

J.C. Finch was the founder of what we now call Finchburg, a small community northwest of Monroeville, not far from the Alabama River. J.C. Finch was born in Clarksville, Virginia in 1855 and moved to Conecuh County with his parents when he was a child. He later moved from Evergreen to Monroe County, where he lived until his wife, Ellen, died in 1937.

His obituary notes that J.C. and Ellen “resided for many years in Finchburg, where Mr. Finch served as postmaster for more than 50 years.” Sources say that Finchburg was named for Postmaster J.C. Finch when the post office was established there in 1886. J.C. would have been 31 years old at that time, and records reflect that he was the Finchburg postmaster for 53 years, making him 84 at the time he left the job.

When Ellen died, J.C. moved from Finchburg to Atmore, where he lived with his daughter, Mrs. Alice McKinley. J.C. passed away on Feb. 2, 1949 at the age of 93 and he is buried in the Oak Hill Cemetery in Atmore.

Harper Lee’s “To Kill a Mockingbird” never specifically mentions Finchburg, but it doesn’t mention Finch’s Landing. For years, I defended the idea that Finch’s Landing was a thinly-veiled reference to Claiborne. I’ve since changed my mind about that.

A close reading of Harper Lee’s second novel, “Go Set a Watchman,” will reveal clear references to Claiborne, where that town is specifically mentioned by name. Logically, Finch’s Landing and Claiborne can’t be the same place if they are referred to in “Go Set a Watchman” as separate locations within the “Maycombverse.”

Closer examination indicates that the fictional Finch’s Landing may have been a reference to a real-life location known as Finchburg Landing. Found on old maps as far back as 1916, Finchburg Landing was located a short distance from Finchburg on the east bank of the Alabama River.

Finchburg Landing was just north of Maiben Landing, which was also known as Marshalls Upper Landing. To bracket it in further, Finchburg Landing was located south of the old McCoy Woodyard Landing.

In the end, if anyone in the reading audience can shed more light on these connections, please let me hear from you. A number of local folks have made a fun hobby out comparing Lee’s fictional novels to real life people, places and events. Those more knowledgeable about the novels and the county will no doubt see more connections than I’ve been able to glean.

Singleton saw the 'strange mystery light' of Franklin at least six times

George Buster Singleton

(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 “Mystery light of Franklin seen after many decades” was originally published in the Feb. 3, 1994 edition of The Monroe Journal in Monroeville, Ala.)

During my 30 years of being a part of Monroe County, I have seen and have been a part of many strange happenings.

I have visited many places time and time again in hopes of seeing something that is supposed to take place on a given date or time, such as ghosts or spirits or something pertaining to the supernatural. On many of these excursions, I have seen what I had gone there to see. There have been times, however, when I returned from an all-night vigil without seeing the slightest sign of any weird happenings.

Perhaps the strangest phenomenon of any of the unusual happenings within the area, one that has been witnessed by the most people, is the mystery light of the Franklin area.

During my treks across the county, I have talked to not less than 50 people who have witnessed this strange event. And, though odd as it may seem, it is not always seen in the same place. An area of several miles of this rural country seems to be the playground of these mysterious sightings.

Interesting happenings

Shortly after my arrival in the county, when word got out that I was interested in the happenings of the supernatural, I was told about the mystery light of Franklin. As I became familiar with the roads and the locations of various landmarks, I couldn’t wait to venture forth and try my luck in locating and seeing this strange light of mystery.

Several trips were made into the areas of Finchburg and Franklin, seeking to lay eyes on this mysterious phenomenon. Then, as I became more and more familiar with the county, I ventured forth into the Red Hills area, hoping that perhaps around the next turn of that crooked country road there it would be.

Each time the mystery light was mentioned, I would take a mental note as to where it had been seen. I could hardly wait for the time to arrive when I could go forth, hoping to see for myself this strange mystery. Several trips were made without success.

As the evening shadows began to creep across the countryside, I would mount my trail bike and head up Highway 41. Reaching the crossroads above the Franklin store, I would turn east or perhaps west, in hopes that I might be lucky enough to get just one glimpse of this weird event.

Blood ran cold

One night in late October, I ventured into the Claiborne Lock & Dam area. Turning around near the Williams store, I was about to mark up another trip to total failure. As I made my way back toward home and a warm bed, there beside the road, down in a small stream, I saw something that made my blood run cold.

There within the shallow ravine was the mystery light that I had searched for many times. Braking my trail bike, I watched in amazement as the strange light slowly moved back and forth across the small, shallow stream beside the road. This movement went on for about two or three minutes. Then, the strange light slowly gained elevation and after reaching the height of about 15 feet above ground, it slowly disappeared from sight, as it seemed to follow the small stream into the deep woods.

As I kicked the engine of my motorcycle to life, I was overjoyed that I had been successful this night to see that which I had been seeking. As I made my way homeward, I vowed to try at every available opportunity to witness again this strange phenomenon. Little did I know that I was to see this mystery light several times more in the coming years.

As I stated earlier, these sightings have never been in the same place twice. During the cool nights of the early autumns, I enjoy riding the back roads of the Franklin and Finchburg areas.

Once, the mystery light was spotted along the road as I returned from the area of Nancy Mountain, near an old abandoned house. Then, it was seen one night close to Highway 41, not too far from the Deere Cemetery. One night, venturing down through the Scratch Ankle community, I descended the hill where the road connects with the road to the Lock & Dam, and there it was, just up the road from the overflowing well. Since my first encounter, I have witnessed this strange mystery light six times.

A few days before Christmas, I stopped at the old store in Franklin for a cold soda pop. As I drank the refreshing soda, I overheard a conversation between two local men about the mystery light. “I saw that darn light again last night. It played along the top of a fence right near my house for several minutes. I even went out in my yard to look at it. Then, it slowly disappeared across the field.”

The other man replied, “I have seen it so many times in the area where I live that I don’t pay it much attention any more. But even after you get used to it, it still makes you feel funny when you see it.” Then each replayed the names of several local people who had seen it in the past few months. Each time, the sightings were never in any of the same places.

What could be the circumstances pertaining to this strange mystery light? I have hard several opinions as to the reason. Those who witness this mystery most always relate their theory. Could this be the spirit of someone of long past searching for something or someone in the area. Perhaps it searches for a lover of long ago who came this way and was never heard of again. Or, could it be a wandering spirit, seeking out an old home place that has been destroyed. Maybe it has become confused and continues to search.

Somewhere in time, the answer might be forthcoming, but then again, it might never. As of now, we can only speculate and wonder.

(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, was bitten at least twice by venomous snakes, 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.)

The Evergreen Courant's News Flashback for Feb. 6, 2024

23 YEARS AGO
FEB. 1, 2001

Evergreen weather observer Harry Ellis reported .05 inches of rain on Jan. 26. He reported a high of 72 degrees on Jan. 28 and a low of 24 on Jan. 22.

Chamber installs new officers at banquet: The Evergreen-Conecuh Chamber of Commerce recognized 600 citizens for their contribution towards making Evergreen and Conecuh County a better place to live and honored Zebbie Nix for Outstanding Leadership for her role as “the leader and driving force in building EverFUN playground at the Municipal Park.”
Chamber President Alesia Stuart presented Nix with an award “on behalf of the community and Chamber for outstanding contribution” for her role as chairman of the EverFUN Project. Stuart presented a framed document listing all the names of individuals, businesses and organizations that contributed either funds or labor to build the state-of-the-art children’s playground in April 2000.
The document will be displayed in the Chamber office at the Old Historic Depot.
The awards were part of the program at the Chamber’s Annual Meeting and Banquet held at the Hillcrest High School Cafetorium last Thursday night. The Chamber installed new officers and directors for the year 2001. The program was completed with entertainment provided by Dr. David Himelrick, magician and humorist.
The new officers, elected in December by the Board of Directors, took office following President Stuart’s State of the Chamber address. John Raines became the new President; Brent Salter, Vice President; and Terry Jackson, Treasurer.

48 YEARS AGO
FEB. 5, 1975

Evergreen weather observer Earl Windham reported .86 inches of rain on Jan. 31. He reported a high of 70 degrees on Jan. 30 and lows of 28 on Jan. 28 and Jan. 30.

MRS. CALLIE MELTON WHITE: Mrs. Callie Melton White, 103, of 517 Magnolia Ave., Evergreen, died on Tuesday, Jan. 27, in a local hospital. She was one of Evergreen’s senior citizens. Funeral services were held Saturday morning at 11 o’clock from the First Baptist Church with the Rev. H.J. Hawkins officiating. Burial was in Westside Cemetery.

These newly appointed members of the Conecuh County Board of Equalization were recently administered the oath of office by Circuit Judge Robert E.L. Key in the chambers: Aubrey Padgett, E.L. McInnis and J.E. Babb. Babb, nominated by the County Commission, was reappointed while Padgett, nominated by the Board of Education, and McInnis, nominated by the incorporated towns of the county, are new members.

Dallas County medical group elects Hagood: Dr. Joseph H. Hagood Jr. has been elected president of the Dallas County Medical Society for 1976. He is a radiologist and practices in Selma at Vaughn Memorial Hospital.
Dr. Hagood and his wife, Judy, reside in Selma with their two children, Joseph H. Hagood III and Elizabeth. He is the son of Dr. and Mrs. Joe Hagood of Evergreen.

Mr. and Mrs. Willie Lee Coleman were honored on the occasion of their 50^th (Golden) wedding anniversary at an open house at their residence in the Flat Rock community hosted by their children on Sun., Feb. 1.

73 YEARS AGO
FEB. 1, 1951

Man Jailed Following Shotgun Slaying Of Woman: A man is lodged in the county jail following the shotgun slaying of a woman near here Saturday afternoon. The woman, Alice Roberts, about 60, died in Escambia Hospital, Brewton, Sunday morning at eight o’clock.
Her slayer, Mizell Shepard, age 34, is in the county jail following his arrest by Deputy Sheriff James Brock. Shepard has confessed to the killing and is charged with murder in the first degree according to Sheriff John Brock.
The woman, critically wounded by two shotgun blasts, was found shortly after the shooting by Joe Higdon, who had stopped to get water for his car. Mr. Higdon notified Sheriff Brock, who with Deputy Brock, Capt. O.T. McDuff of the Alabama Highway Patrol, County Solicitor Edwin C. Page Jr. and former sheriff W.D. Lewis went immediately to the scene, at Roberts Grocery some seven miles south of Evergreen on Highway 31.
Shepard was among those who had gathered at the scene when the sheriff’s party had arrived. All there were questioned and claimed no knowledge of the shooting, but Deputy Brock suspicioned that Shepard and another man, Bert Lee, were not telling the truth. Immediately after getting back to town the deputy returned to Lee’s house.
After being questioned, Lee confessed that Shepard had come to his house and told him the woman was hurt shortly after the shots were fired and at that time had a gun with him. They left the gun at Lee’s house and went to the store. Deputy Brock went after Shepard and caught him between Lee’s house and his. Shepard had the gun, a double-barrel 12 gauge, with him.

98 YEARS AGO
FEB. 3, 1926

PUBLISHER’S NOTICE: On March 1, 1926, the subscription of The Evergreen Courant will be advanced from $1 to $1.50 per year. The price of the paper will remain at $1 per year during our subscription campaign and all who subscribe or advance their subscription during the campaign will be permitted to take advantage of the present rate. The Courant is the only live-wide-awake county seat newspaper now published in South Alabama at $1 per year. The high cost of labor, paper and ink, and everything else used in connection with the production of a newspaper makes this raise in price absolutely necessary. – Dr. W.G. Hairston, Sec’y-Treas., Evergreen Courant Publishing Co.

Mr. W.L. Howell of Tuskegee arrived in Evergreen Tuesday afternoon to take charge of the mechanical department of The Courant. He replaces Mr. J.L. Daniels, who leaves us to attend a linotype school at New Orleans.

Mr. Lamar Matkin spent Saturday night and Sunday in Montgomery to attend the marriage of his daughter, Bessie, to Mr. Robert G. Jones.

Mr. Jeff D. Johnston of Johnstonville brought to this office last Friday two as fine turnips as we have seen in some time. He said he had a large plot of them, and they were of very fine flavor. The two balanced the scales at seven pounds. The turnips were of the purple top variety.

The Monroe Journal's News Flashback for Feb. 5, 2024

Judge Leon C. McCord

15 YEARS AGO
FEB. 5, 2009

Beatrice hires new police chief: The Town of Beatrice has a new police chief in the form of Tom Boatwright, who works full time as administrator at the Monroe County Detention Facility and lives near Beatrice at the Pine Orchard community.
The town’s council agreed Monday night to hire Boatwright, who said he will continue to work at the MCDF, and appointed him as chief. Boatwright worked part time as a patrol officer in Beatrice under former chief Ray Norris, who was the town’s first police chief and left the town after a year.
Monroe County Sheriff Tom Tate said Boatwright has been with his office for 19 years and the town made a good choice.

Lady Panthers purr-fect! – Perfect seasons are almost unheard of in high school basketball because each team plays so many games, but J.F. Shields’ Lady Panthers have beat the odds and recorded an unblemished 24-0 record this season.
Along with being undefeated in regular-season play, the No. 5-ranked Panthers are 6-0 in the Class 1A, Area 2 standings this year. They have won eight of the last nine regular-season area championships under coach Herbert Blackmon.
(Players on Shields’ team that season included Carneshia Huff, Mariah Jones, Latresha Lymon, April Montgomery, Kelsey Murphy, JaPlesha Primm and Tyika Robinson.)

Doctors’ Clinic opens new office: A ribbon-cutting ceremony was held Tuesday morning at Doctors’ Clinic on Highway 136 across the street from Wright’s Auto Sales. The Clinic moved from its former location on Whetstone Street where a new Walgreen’s store is to be constructed.

39 YEARS AGO
FEB. 2, 1984

Board accepts bid on library building: Renovation of the old LaSalle Hotel & Restaurant to make it the new Monroe County Library is expected to begin within the next two weeks.
Library Board members Friday accepted a bid of $166,344 for the job from Abernathy Structures & Improvements of Monroeville.
The bid, plus two alternate add-on proposals from the same bidder, was received during a board meeting Friday afternoon on the front doorsteps of the old hotel.

The Frisco City Whippets defeated Excel’s Panthers 93-57 Friday in Frisco to win their only battle of the week.
Senior wingmen Charlie Bryant and Perry Williams scored 27 points each to lead the Whippets. Excel had three players in double figures. Ernest Millender led the way with 17 points, Michael McMillian added 15 and Vincent Lambert scored 14. McMillian led the Panther rebounders with 13.

Glenn’s daughter visits: Lyn Glenn Freedman, the daughter of Democratic presidential hopeful John Glenn, stopped briefly in Monroeville yesterday, greeting the lunchtime crowd at a local restaurant like a longtime friend of the family.
Mrs. Freedman said her father, an Ohio senator, considers Alabama an important part of the presidential campaign and wants the South as a whole to help him obtain the Democratic nomination.
According to Mrs. Freedman, sweeping the South in the primaries is one of the Glenn campaign goals. They hope to “hold their own” in several early primaries in the North.

65 YEARS AGO
FEB. 5, 1959

LOST CHILD FOUND: Some excitement was caused in (Mexia) on Sunday afternoon when the three-year-old son of Mr. and Mrs. Willard Taylor, together with the family dog, wandered away from home and became lost. An intensive search participated in by practically the entire community failed to locate the child, who was accidentally found several hours later by some children playing a short distance to the rear of the Carroll Nettles place, about two and a half miles away. It is not known how the child made his way through the dense woods or crossed a swift-flowing branch, which it was necessary to do in order to reach the spot where he was found wet, cold and crying.

Monroe County Cagers Lead All-Conference Tournament Selections: Monroe County basketball teams, walking away with all top honors at the recent Pine Belt Conference tournament in Grove Hill, placed nine players on the 12-man All-Conference team picked by coaches.
The Conference champs, the J.U. Blacksher High School Bulldogs of Uriah, had three men in the group: Curtis Harris, Jackie Weatherford and Jerry Thomas.
(Other Monroe County players on the All-Conference team were Jim Lazenby and Charles Pridgeon of Monroe County High School, Rennie Byrd and Billy Pugh of Frisco City High School and James S. Hines and Donald Brown of Beatrice High School.)

Hospital On County Commission Agenda: Consideration of a proposed Hill-Burton Act hospital for Monroe County is likely at the regular meeting next Tuesday of the Monroe County Board of Commissioners. Probate Judge E.T. Millsap indicated here Wednesday some decision from the Commission will probably be announced following that time.

90 YEARS AGO
FEB. 1, 1934

MILLSAP WILL MANAGE LEON McCORD CAMPAIGN: Judge Leon McCord, candidate for Governor of Alabama, announced Monday that Senator E.T. Millsap of Monroeville would act as chairman of his committee on organization. Millsap represents Baldwin, Escambia and Monroe Counties in the state senate.

Free Picture Show Will Be Shown In County: A free talking picture, “50 Years of Progress,” was shown at the high school auditorium on Wednesday afternoon, Jan. 31, at 2:30 o’clock and at Tunnel Springs that evening at seven o’clock. The picture depicts the progress made in the electrical field during the past one-half century. The same picture will be shown at the following places and times on Thursday and Friday of this week: at Peterman, Thurs., Feb. 1, seven o’clock at Baptist church; at Beatrice on Friday, Feb. 2, at 7 p.m. at the high school auditorium.

BOWDEN FOR SHERIFF: In today’s Journal will be found the announcement of Mr. John L. Bowden for the office of Sheriff of Monroe County. Mr. Bowden is not a new and untried aspirant for office, having held the office for one term heretofore and in which position he made a record of which both he and his friends have just reason to be proud. It is upon this record he bases his claim for consideration at this time.

Simmons-Betts: Mr. and Mrs. Alvin Simmons announce the marriage of their daughter, Berniece, to Mr. John Lee Betts.

115 YEARS AGO
FEB. 4, 1909

L.D. Hestle, the genial postmaster and lumber manufacturer, was down from Chestnut Tuesday on business.

Charlie Broughton, who has been with The Journal for several months past, left us Monday to enter the Monroe Institute.

J.U. Blacksher of Maros was a visitor to the city Friday, accompanied by Mrs. Blacksher and their little son. Mr. Blacksher’s company owns the finest and largest body of timbered lands in the county.

There was quite a sudden change in the weather last Friday evening, and for three days thereafter we felt the first real breath of winter experienced this season. High winds prevailed for about 24 hours and the temperature fell to about 20 degrees. Ice and bursted water pipes were plentiful.

Dirt Broken for Bank Building: Dirt was broken Monday morning for the Monroe County Bank’s new building and excavations are now being made for the walls both for the bank and for the store building for Capt. W.S. Wiggins Sr., which will adjoin. The work is under the superintendence of Mr. Jesse Carter of Pine Apple.
The bank building will be 25x50 feet, two stories high, pressed brick and plate glass front. The second story will be finished into a hall and probably occupied by the local Masonic Lodge. The store building will be 25x70 feet, two stories also. The ground floor will be occupied by Hixon Brothers. The second floor will be converted into offices.
The old wooden building formerly occupied by the bank site is being removed to the vacant corner lot on the south side of the street.