Meeting Notice:
The regular monthly meeting of NCHGS will be held at 10:00 a.m. on Saturday, February 9, 2008, at the Newton County Human Resources Building on Highway 15 South in Decatur.  Allen Davis will present a History of Decatur. 

June 2007 Minutes

Newton County Historical and Genealogical Society held its regular meeting on Saturday, June 9, 2007, at the Newton County Human Resources building in Decatur with 24 members and guests present.

 
President Dr. Harold Graham reported that the World War II Veteran's book is in the final stages of editing and should be available to the public shortly. Individuals who have made orders to be picked up will be contacted when the book is in print. Copies of the book will be mailed to individuals who have requested that service will be mailed at that time.
 
Mae Helen Clark provided an interesting genealogy of the Hoye family and the business and professional careers of a number of family members who lived in Union, Decatur, Newton, and Meridian.
 
The Society will not meet in July, but requests that members attend the political rally in Decatur on Saturday, July 16, 2007.
 
The next meeting of the Society will be on Saturday, August 4, 2007, beginning at 10:00 a. m. in the Newton County Human Resources Building in Decatur. Joyce Salter Boggess will provide a history of the Salter and Johnson families from the Good Hope area south of Hickory. Members and guests are invited.

May 2007 Minutes:

The Newton County Historical and Genealogical Society held its regular meeting near the site of Juzon's Trading Post near Hickory on May 12, 2007, with approximately 50 members and guests in attendance.

Frank Kirkley, dressed in the garb of a French soldier, described the trade relations that existed between the Choctaw Indians and French traders in east central Mississippi prior to 1830. Melvin Tingle talked about the ancient Choctaw village of Chunky Chitto which was located next to Juzon's Trading Post and described other historical locations in the area. Gregg Boggan talked about the influence of the Juzon family in trade relations and gave a genealogy of the Juzon family along with an account of some of the legends surrounding Juzon's Lake.. Dr. Harold Graham described the efforts of Andrew Jackson, following the Battle of New Orleans, to see that a military road was built from New Orleans to Nashville. This road ran through Hickory and across the property where the meeting was being held.

Our special appreciation goes to the Johnny Burk's family who hosted the event and who provided refreshments at a picnic lunch that followed the meeting.

Our next meeting will be held on Saturday, June 9, 2007 in the Newton County Human Resources Building in Decatur beginning at 10:00 a. m. Mae Helen Clark will talk about the Hoye family. Members and guests are invited.

January 2007 Minutes:

The Newton County Historical and Genealogical Society held its regular meeting on January 13, 2007, at the Newton County Human Resources Building in Decatur with 58 members and guests present.

Mingo Tingle, Preservation Specialist, Mississippi Department of Archives and History, provided a history of the courthouse from the time of its original construction as a log  cabin with a dirt floor to the current building that was constructed during the 1970's. Mr. Tingle mentioned the various fires that consumed the courthouse and the attempt by county officials to protect the records with each fire. Records had been taken from the courthouse during the advance of Sherman into the county in 1864; however, most were later burned in a fire in 1875. Another fire engulfed the courthouse ca. 1911; however, most of the records were removed to safety, with the exception of the current marriage book (Book D) which was left behind on the counter.

Terry Lange and Harold Graham provided a progress report on the World War II book. Financing was being arranged and the book was to go to press by mid-January. The completed books should be back by June of this year. The Society initiated a pre-sale of the books at the meeting, this sale to continue through April 15, 2007. At the pre-sale price books will cost $50 plus $5 S & H. After the pre-sale, books will sale for $60 plus S & H. Order forms are available at the Archives building in Decatur or may be clipped from the advertisement that appears elsewhere in this newspaper.

The next meeting of the Society will be on Saturday, February 10, 2007, at the Newton Human Resources Building in Decatur, beginning at 10:00 A. M. Melissa Carleton, Deputy Counsel, Mississippi Band of Choctaw Indians, will discuss Choctaw Sovereignty.

July 2006 Minutes:

The regular meeting of the NCHGS was Saturday, July 8, 2006, with 37 members and guests present.

The meeting was called to order by the president, Harold Graham, with an invocation by Bob Caldwell. Following this the president welcomed the members and guests and gave recognition to Bess Hollingsworth for driving from Pearl to Decatur each week to volunteer at the Archives.

The secretary's and treasurer's reports were read and accepted. The Hospitality Committee led a discussion concerning refreshments for each meeting. The members voted to limit refreshments to cookies and drinks - coffee/coke or something simple.

Melvin Tingle announced that he still has some pictures for sale. The progress report on the World War II book was encouraging.

Bill Bailey, a Decatur native and co-owner of the Decatur Telephone Company, gave an interesting program on his growing-up years and his experiences in World War II.  Because his grandchildren liked to hear of his experiences, he wrote a book, Won't You Come Home, Bill Bailey?, which is for sale at the office of the telephone company. Following the program the members gave Bess Hollingsworth a surprise "welcome home to Decatur" shower.

The next meeting will be August 12 at 10:00 at the Memorabilia Room of the Library at ECCC. Prior to the meeting, members and guests are invited to Bess Hollingsworth's house  at 57 East Broad Street, Decatur, for cookies and coffee/coke.

May 2006 Minutes:

The NCHGS meeting for May 20, 2006, was a field trip along the route Sherman's troops took from Decatur to the Lauderdale County line during the Civil War. Ricky Harrison was in charge and arranged for a bus from ECCC to  take us.  Ricky has thoroughly researched the history of this period and has traced the roads, homes, churches, creeks and other landmarks mentioned about this area. Among the places we  noted were the old home sites of Jim Jones, Rev. N. L. Clarke, and the Reynolds/Johnson home. Old schools,  churches and cemetery sites included   Chapel Hill School, Enon Church, Johnson Cemetery, Oakland Baptist Church, Center Ridge School, and Beulah Church where we had delicious food and most appreciated  cold drinks provided by some of our members who are members of that church.

Ricky used his knowledge of surveying to locate the roads, creeks, and other landmarks found in his research. Most of the routes he has personally walked, and so he could  give us expert conclusions as to where the troops were camped and where the locations of the roads  the troops traveled.  It was a very enjoyable  trip and certainly educated most of us.

 
Bess Hollingsworth

April 2006 Minutes:

The regular meeting of the Newton County Historical and Genealogical Society was Saturday, April 8, 2006, at the Human Resources Center, Decatur, MS, with 32 members present. The president, Harold Graham, called the meeting to order and Bob Caldwell gave the invocation. After a welcome to the members, the minutes were read and approved and the treasurer report was given by Margaret Smith for Iva Dean Smith. She reported a balance of $5,543.96.

Ann Burkes reported that work was being done to get the automated library system in order, but it was a slow process.

Melvin Tingle announced that he had lots of reprints of pictures - some framed, and some not framed - and he would sell the framed 8x10s for $10 with $5 to the Society and $5 for himself. The unframed would sell for $5 with all of it going to the Society. He will bring the pictures to the next meeting.

The president made another request for volunteers for the Archives. If  anyone can give one day a week, please contact Harold Graham, Ann Burkes or Bess Hollingsworth. 

The president announced that the copy machine, scanner, and one of the computers were in need of repair or replacement and asked the group for authorization to have them repaired or replaced. The group granted him permission to use his discretion to repair or replace the equipment.

Ricky Harrison gave  some information for the field trip on May 20, 2006. This field trip will re-trace  Sherman's route Ricky and his students surveyed earlier. The trip will cost  an estimated $5 - $10 per person to rent the "Blue Bird" bus from ECCC. There will be a rest stop at Beulah Church for refreshments. If you plan to go, you need to sign up at the Archives. There  is a limit as to the number of people the bus will hold, and this is on a first come basis. Wear comfortable shoes, for we may be able to do some walking at these sights. Those who are going will need to be at the Human Resources enter by 9:45 on May 20.Note that this is the third Saturday of May, since there was a conflict with ECCC. The Archives will open on the second Saturday instead of the third Saturday for May.

Mr. Ovid Vickers gave us an informative and interesting program on East Central Community College. East Central Junior College, established in 1928, grew from the 1914 Agricultural High School in Decatur and was combined with Leake County Community College which ceased   operation after ECJC was organized.

Mr. Vickers told us  many stories of those early teachers who many of us remember fondly - Mrs. Newsome, Mrs. Sullivan, Mr. Cross, Miss Burton, Mr. Vincent, and, of course, Dr. Todd who was instrumental in bringing this institution to an accredited junior college in 1939.

Mr. Vickers mentioned the presidents of the college, with anecdotes about their time at ECCC and their contributions in moving the college forward.

The next meeting will be the field trip on May 20.
 
Bess

March 2006 Minutes:

 The regular meeting of the Newton County Historical and Genealogical Society was Saturday, March 11, 2006, at the Human Resources Center, Decatur, MS, with 40 members and guests present. The president, Harold Graham, called the meeting to order, and Bob Caldwell gave the invocation. After a welcome to the members and guests, the minutes were read and approved and the treasurer's report presented.

Terry Lange gave us a "well done" program on the Terrell family of Newton County. This program was well researched, well organized, and well presented. She used a CD and monitor as well as pictures to let us know what these people looked like as she told personal stories, descriptions of living conditions, and travel. As she traced movements from Virginia, the Carolinas, to Georgia, and on to Mississippi, these people became very real to us. She also brought in other surnames - McMullan, Addy, Hunter, and others - as she established their homesteads in the Mt. Zion community. She demonstrated her knowledge of her ancestors and her unique ability to pull it all together for an interesting program.

The next meeting will be April 8, 2006, at this same place.

 
Bess Hollingsworth, Secretary

February 2006 Minutes:
The regular meeting of the Newton County Historical and Genealogical Society met Saturday, February 11, 2006, at the Human Resources Center, Decatur, MS,  with 40 people present. Due to the illness of the president, the meeting was called to order by the vice president, Melvin Tingle. Bob Caldwell gave the invocation, and Melvin Tingle welcomed the members and guests. The group voted to accept the resignation of Joyce Nicholson as treasurer and elected Iva Dean Smith to replace her.

 
Bess Hollingsworth read the minutes and Iva Dean Smith gave the treasurer's report.
 
Those who wanted to volunteeer for refreshments were asked to sign the sheet that was at the front table.
 
The World War II Committee met with limited members present. J. P. Hurst reported that no action was taken.
 
Dot Turnage gave a report on plans for the Hoye House in Newton.
 
Ann Burkes gave information on where to purchase the Newton County Map book.
 
"Our History as Reflected Through Our Quilting Traditiions," by Carol Vickers was a very interesting and educational program. Carol is a quilter who has done research on quilts and quilting, and she is also an author. She confined her remarks to research on quilts made before 1946 when polyester became popular. She explained that quilting has been such a viable part of our heritage for a number of reasons: it is a tactile art which most people can do; it was a means of recording some aspects of community life; and it served as a social outing since women could justify the time spent quilting. Some of the techniques used that were unique to our area included: (1) a special way the binding around the quilt was done, (2) wool was used as batting, (3) the socio-economic level could be determined by fabrics, colors, and batting used, (4) family histories and quilting fads could be traced. She told some interesting stories connected with special quilt patterns and history.
 
The next program will be on the Terrell family by Terry Lange on Saturday, March 11, 2006.
 
Bess Hollingsworth, Secretary

January 2006 Minutes:

The regular meeting of the Newton County Historical and Genealogical Society was Saturday, January 14, 2006, at the Human Resources Center in Decatur with 46 members and guests present. The president, Harold Graham, called the meeting to order and asked Bob Caldwell to do the devotional. Harold Graham then welcomed the members and guests and proceeded with the reading of the minutes.
 
The first announcement was for a called meeting of the World War II Committee to meet on Thursday, January 26, 2006, at 9:30 a.m. at the Archives. The purpose of this meeting is to decide on some things still to be done and who will do them; types of materials needed,  and decide on some deadlines.
 
The next announcement asked for any who would like to volunteer for refreshments for our “coffee hour” which  precedes each  meeting.
 
Dues of $20.00 ($25.00 family) are now due.
 
Ann Burkes reported on Archives volunteer hours and usage of the collection. She reported that volunteers have provided 1500 plus hours of free time this last year and we had 37 non-members from Mississippi and 64 visitors from 21 other states to use our collection.
 
Ann Burkes announced the publication of a book of maps for which she took orders.
 
Ralph Gordon mentioned a book of essays which he is currently working on.
 
Harold announced the Archives would be closed on Monday since it is a holiday. H3e also mentioned various donations he had received and announced that the next meeting will be by Carol Vickers on the role of quilts and quilting in our history. The March meeting will be on the Terrell family by Terry Lange.
 
You are probably familiar with the lines from The Elephant’s Child by Kipling which says:
 I keep six honest serving men
 (They taught me all I knew);
 Their names are What and Why and When
 And How and Where and Who.
Certainly Melvin Tingle used these six when he gave the program on the town of Hickory.
He explained  that the  terrain with its unique  topography, available water, level land for farming, and natural hardwood forest made it an ideal place for a town in Newton County. There was also an Indian trail through that part of the county which early settlers used.  Melvin gave a history of the town from Indian times of the early 1700's with names of some of the people who were instrumental  in making Hickory a thriving community through the 1800's He informed us that the name Hickory was for  Andrew Jackson or “Old Hickory” as he was commonly called.
This was a very interesting and informative  program which  reflected Melvin Tingle’s interest and research for the town of Hickory.
 
Dues can be paid to Harold Graham; 17222 Hwy 503; Decatur, MS 39327.
 
Bess Hollingsworth, Secretary

December 2005 Minutes:

The regular meeting of the Newton County Historical and Genealogical Society met Saturday, December 10, 2005, at the Human Resources Center, Decatur, MS, with 63 members and guests present.
 
The meeting was called to order by the president with the invocation by Bob Caldwell. The president welcomed everyone and called for the reading of the minutes and the treasurer’s report. Both were approved. The proposed budget for 2006 was accepted.
 
The president reported that he had heard from the television program HGTV asking for information on old homes in Newton County which might be useful for their television show “If Walls Could Talk”. Chester Estes has contacted them and received a questionairre to fill out. The president asked that if anyone wanted to submit a home to be considered to see him afterward for a copy of the form to submit.
 
The entire slate of officers was re-elected for 2006. These are: President - Harold Graham; Vice-President - Melvin Tingle; Secretary - Bess Hollingsworth; Treasurer - Joyce Nicholson. Bobby Caldwell will continue with the devotional and Ann Burkes will continue as archivist.
 
The program consisted of a report from Ricky Harrison and his team of students assisted by Jo Blackburn which remapped General Sherman’s route in the Civil War from Decatur to the Lauderdale County line. Their goal was to find the old road which Sherman’s troops took, establish the dates he was in Newton County and locate any encounters along the way. The class did some intense research using the official records of the Civil War from the state archives and from the internet, deeds, land patents from the 1830’s onward, and the map(s) from the book Civil War Atlas which contains a map that Sherman used showing the names of homes along the route. These troops traveled with few supplies and lived off the land for this trip through the state. The class researched land records and deeds to locate the houses and visited as many places as they could to verify the information and find the old roads which the troops traveled. The group used USGS maps and everything was done with a GPS point. He gave us the present day names of some of the locations - for instance, Wells Road and Culpepper Road. The class attempted to pinpoint the Wagon Corral used by the Union troops, and they believe they found the location.
 
Ricky Harrison also brought artifacts, a time line chart and maps. The students were very knowledgeable about their part in this research. It was a well-researched and well-organized and well-presented program which the crowd really appreciated.
 
Many people expressed an interest in seeing this program material in the Journal and the president agreed that it would be - probably the April issue. Since it is dues-paying time, make sure you have your dues paid so you will not miss this issue.
 
Our next program will be a history of the town of Hickory by Melvin Tingle.

Bess Hollingsworth, Secretary

November 2005 Minutes:

The regular meeting of the Newton County Historical and Genealogical Society was Saturday, November 12, 2005, at the Human Resources Center, Decatur, MS., with 30 members and guests present. the meeting was caled to order by the president followed by the invocation by Bobby Caldwell. After the welcome to the members and guests, the minutes from the August and October meetings were read and approved.

Ken Turner was given a few minutes to speak concerning a museum at his home and some books he has written.

The president announced that the Budge Committee would meet Thursday.

There is a long list of donations, but there were a few items not included. These include a book by Tim Gordon, census information from Charlie Chapman, a speaker system from Clarke Venable Church, and a microphone from Ina Margaret Smith.

Harold showed the members the Memory Board which lists the names of our deceased members and which will hang in the Archives.

Ann Burkes presented a request for money to buy a computerized library management system which will allow researchers to locate resources on hand.  It can also be added to the web site to help researchers know what is available in our Archives. Ann mentioned that we have nearly 1,00 pieces of information, and keeping track of everything is difficult. Cost would be about $250 plus the addition of another phone line for about $38 installation fee and an increase in our monthly phone bill of $1.00 per month. This motion was seconded and carried.

The president mentioned that we need additional volunteers, and asked that anyone who could volunteer one day a week, please see him 

The need for typists for the World War II book was brought up, and the president asked for help to get this material typed.

The announcement was made that next month’s program is sure to be an interesting one. Ricky Harrison and his class of surveyors from ECCC have been working on Sherman’s march form Decatur during the Civil War. Ricky says he has uncovered some unique and interesting facts. In addition to this information, he and some of his students will entertain us with some music.

Tim Gordon from Carthage presented a slide program   “A Journey Through Scotland” . He began the program by playing the bagpipe and then did the program which he had created with musical background. The slides showed beautiful landscape with rugged mountains, fogs and clouds, bright sun, and beautiful flowers. The slides depicted the history and proud heritage of Scotland. He closed the program by playing some requests
on the bagpipe.

 Bess Hollingnsworth

ADDITIONAL NOTE:  The need for additional volunteers is serious. We like to have two people each day, because sometimes we have several people at the same time trying to do research. It is hard for one person to serve everybody. Duties are light most of the time - greeting visitors, showing them where the resources are located, making copies, answering the telephone - when we have visitors there. Some days there will be no visitors. At that time the volunteer can work on an ongoing project or one of his/her own choosing.  Two volunteers means that if one cannot be there, the other can cover without calling Harold to cover for us.

Scheduled volunteers now are:
Monday - Patsy Gary and Bob Caldwell
Tuesday - Bess Hollingsworth
Wednesday - Ina Margaret Smith
Thursday - Walterine Hayes and Ann McWhorter
Friday - Ann Burkes
First Saturday - Bess Hollingsworth
Third Saturday - Harold Graham

October 2005 Minutes:

The October 8, 2005 meeting of NCHGS was a tour of the “Between Fences” at ECCC's Nursing Technology Building with 27 members present. Mr. Ovid Vickers gave an informative introduction to fences. He talked not only about the barbed wire fences which we all know about, but also the invisible ones we build around our persons. This gave us new dimension to fences and made us think of different kinds of fences.

This exhibit was on loan from the Smithsonian Institute. No business was conducted at this meeting.

Bess Hollingsworth

August 2005 Minutes:

The regular meeting of the Newton County Historical and Genealogical Society met Saturday, August 13, 2005, at the Human Resources building in Decatur with 30 members present. The president, Harold Graham, called the meeting to order and welcomed the members. Bob Caldwell gave the devotion followed by the minutes and the treasurer’s report. Both were accepted. Bess Hollingsworth reported that the membership has now reached 200, with members from 22 states other than Mississippi and from  27 Mississippi towns outside Newton County.

The Bereavement Committee, chaired by Margaret Smith, had been charged with the duty to find a way to honor deceased members of NCHGS. The committee suggested a plaque with the names and dates of deceased members to be engraved. Cost of the plaque was about 130.00. The group voted to accept their suggestion, and Margaret Smith was ordered to go forward with the plans.

The president, Harold Graham, brought a dozen jars of fig preserves made by his wife, Nancy, which were used as door prizes.  This brought a lot of “thank yous” from those who won a jar of preserves.

An open house for September was discussed.  It was decided that the open house would be Sunday afternoon, September 11, 2005, from 2 - 4 at the Archives. Iva Dean Smith is chairman of the refreshment committee. Everyone who can is asked to help. If you can contribute in any way to this, will you notify Iva Dean.

Ralph Gordon presented an interesting program by reciting his own poetry. He gave us family history, legends. and interesting stories handed down through the ages all with his own poetry. This was a  most unique and interesting program which showed Ralph’s love of family and his great creativity.

Bess Hollingsworth

July 2005 Minutes:

The regular meeting of the Newton County Historical and Genealogical Society was held Saturday, July 9, 2005, at the Human Resources Center, Decatur, MS, with 42 members and guests present.  The meeting opened with a presentation of a plaque honoring deceased member Myrtis Simmons Craft by the Holladay family. The plaque will hang in the Newton County Archives.
.
Following this the president welcomed members and guests and called for minutes and the treasurer’s report. Both of these reports were accepted. Harold Graham made a short report from the  Budget Committee asking for a few changes for various projects. This is necessary due to the increased membership (which now is approximately 185 members).The group accepted the changes.

Bobby Caldwell read “The Empty Chair” with Myrtis Craft in mind. Ina Margaret Smith read “My Journey to Find My Simmons Roots” written by Myrtis  which she had intended to do for a program before her unexpected death. This was a narrative of her search into genealogy and the surprising things she found about her family.

Mae Helen Clark, correspondent with The Newton Record, spoke about her friendship with Myrtis, and Melvin Tingle paid a tribute for her help on books they had written.

Special music was the playing of a bagpipe  by Tim Gordon. Mr. Gordon was dressed in Scottish attire and surprised us with a talented presentation.

This was a very impressive program and a fitting tribute to Myrtis Craft who was a charter member of NCHGS.

Bess Hollingsworth,
Secretary

June 2005 Minutes:

The regular meeting of the Newton County Historical and Genealogical Society was held Saturday, June 11, 2005, at the Human Resources Center, Decatur, MS, with 26 members and guests present.  The meeting was called to order by President Harold Graham followed by the invocation by Bob Caldwell. The president welcomed the members and guests after which Ann Burkes read the minutes for the secretary. The minutes were approved with corrections.

The Budget Committee reported that donations and revenue were more than anticipated.

There was a discussion on policies regarding flowers or other means of honoring deceased members or family of members and a committee was appointed. Ina Margaret Smith was named chairman with Homer Gross, Ann Burkes, and Lil Ray to make some suggestions for policies to present to the group.

Budget Committee made some suggestions of some needed expenditures including census records, grounds improvement and plants, a lap-top computer, and a microfilm reader. No action was taken at this time.

The president reported that we have approximately 180 members.

The World War II Committee reported that forms are coming in slowly and the deadline is July 4.

The president reported a request from the Newton County Historical Cultural Commission for a donation of $100.00 to go toward the relocation of the Hoye House in Newton. After a discussion, it was agreed that  we would “pass the hat” at the next meeting to give the members a chance to make a donation.

Harold Graham and Floy Hurst presented an interesting program on the Maxwell and allied families of Newton County. South Carolina and Georgia maps, pictures and other visual aids were used to enhance the program. One of the interesting stories that Harold Graham told was that Rev. Thomas Maxwell, Jr. was jailed in Culpepper County,
Virginia, for preaching the Baptist gospel, but Patrick Henry got him out of jail. The Maxwells came to Lawrence County, Mississippi in 1810, and later some of them came to Newton County. Floy Hurst gave some interesting memories of her family and her connection to the Maxwells. She had a handout of the descendants of Joshua Maxwell..

The next meeting will be Saturday, July 9, 2005, when a memorial program will honor deceased charter member Myrtis Craft.

Submitted by Bess Hollingsworth, Secretary, from notes by Ann Burkes and Harold Graham.

Donations and Acquisitions:

Donations to Building Fund: M/M A. B. Amis and Holladay family in remembrance of Myrtis Simmons Craft, Dr. Jan Gallaspy Walker, Bobashela Chapter DAR, Nora Russell Saums, Joe and Clara Loper Malak
Souvenir program from Black Jack School, Chunky, Newton Co., Miss. Nov. 14, ’98 –Mar. 17, 1899 donated by Bess Twaddle.
Photo, made in the 1970’s, of Harry Wiggs donated by W. Danny Lee.
File on the Craft Family donated by Harold Graham
File on the Ponder Family donated by Harold Graham
File on the Gardner Family donated by Harold Graham
File on the Pennington Family.
File on the McCraney Family.
Copy of Camp Tallahalla News, Company 479, Camp Miss. F-18, Civilian Conservation Corps, Newton, Miss. Donated by Lindsey Keen.
File on the Miller Family donated by Harold Graham.
File on the Brown Family donated by Martha Nations.
Descendants of Cicero Anderson Carr and Martha Ann Duke donated by Frank Cork.
File on the Chaney Family by Becky Chaney
File on the Benson Family donated by Harold Graham
File on the Leach Family donated by
Descendants of Valentine Hollingsworth, Sr. Atlanta: Peachtree Printing, Inc., 1976. 211 pgs. illus., index. Donated by Bess Hollingsworth.
The Journal of Mississippi History, Volume LXVII, No. 1, Spring 2005.
File on the Hollingsworth Family. Donated by Wren Harris.
Letter from George French of Ireland to his son Benjamin French in Newton Co., Mississippi donated by Martha Brown Nations.
Ireland: a Terrible Beauty by Jill and Leon Uris. London: Corgi Books, 1976. 288 pgs, photos (Outside MS History-White) donated by Martha Brown Nation.
File on the Reynolds Family donated by Harold Graham.
File on the Trussell Family donated by Harold Graham.
File on the Walton Family donated by Beth Hamilton and Terry Lange.
File on the McElhenney Family donated by Beth Hamilton and Terry Lange.
File on the Terrell Family donated by Beth Hamilton and Terry Lange
File on the Roebuck Family donated by Beth Hamilton and Terry Lange
File on the Taylor Family donated by Beth Hamilton and Terry Lange
File on the Taylor Family donated by Beth Hamilton and Terry Lange
File on the Ballinger Family donated by Beth Hamilton and Terry Lange
File on the Cleveland Family donated by Beth Hamilton and Terry Lange
Hilley Cousins; the Descendants of Thomas Hilley, Revolutionary Soldier, and His Wife edited by Ann Clark Holloman and Many Other Hilley Cousins; compiled in 2002. Vol. 1-745 pgs. Illus, index; Vol. II-642 pgs, index. Donated by Beth Hamilton and Terry Lange.
Rowland, Dunbar. The Official and Statistical Register of the State of Mississippi, 1908. Nashville: Brandon Printing Co., 1317 pgs., illus. Donated by Danny Lee.
Photos of the Newton County Courthouse built in 1911 made by Homer and Ola Hunter and donated by Ann Burkes.
Composite photo of the students and teachers at Decatur High School, 1960-61. Donated by Ann Burkes.
File on the Parks Family donated by members of the Parks and Gale families.
File on the Pierce Family donated by Harold Graham
File on the Wall Family donated by Harold Graham.
File on Jordan Family donated by Harold Graham.
File on the Laird Family donated by Harold Graham.
File on the Weir Family donated by Harold Graham.
File on the Dickerson Family.
2005 Edition of Wo-He-Lo donated by Ovid and Carol Vickers.
File on the Williams Family donated by Catherine Williams Cooper.
File on the Williamson Family donated by Harold Graham
400 Years with a New England Family: Lewes/Lewis Family
by Barbara Lewis Williams. C1990. Baltimore: Gateway
Press, Inc.., 411 pgs, photos, index. Donated by Annette Lewis Burns
Educable Children of Newton County, Mississippi, 1885
Transcribed by Harold Graham. Donated by Melvin and Betty Tingle.
File on the Dollar Family donated by M. B. “Blue” Watson.
Newton County Census Roll, Beat 3, 1930 (Partial) donated by Roy Gill.
Erin Cumberland Presbyterian Church Cemetery List donated by Roy Gill.
Maxwell Family files, as donated by Harold Graham
American flag for Archives, as donated by Roger and Ann Burkes
Elsie Chapman Edmonds, John Chapman, Thomas Powe, and Related Families,
1971, as donated by Margaret Chapman (Lil) Lay
Jane Wofford Wait, et al, History of the Wofford Family, Spartanburg, South
Carolina, 1928, as donated by Harold and Nancy Graham
Helen Maxwell Longino, et al, Thomas Maxwell of Virginia and Georgia and His
Descendants, J. W. Burke Company, Macon, Georgia, 1956, as donated by Harold
and Nancy Graham
Mary Sparks Matthews, Fourteen Frontier Families, 1996, 377 North
Catherine Park Drive, Glendora, CA 91741-3020, as donated by Harold and
Nancy Graham

May 2005 Minutes:

The regular meeting of the Newton County Historical and Genealogical Society was held Saturday, May 14, at Stamper’s Pond. This was a delightful setting under huge old trees beside the lake. After delicious refreshments by Joyce and Bob Nicholson, Melvin and Betty Tingle the meeting was called to order by the president, Harold Graham. Hayes McMahan offered a prayer and the president welcomed the 50 members and guest present. A vote was taken to dispense with all business and proceed to the program.

Melvin Tingle began the program with some  interesting and geographical information on the time of Indian and early white settlements. Melvin’s knowledge of early Mississippi history brings to life many otherwise unknown facts.

Harold Graham followed this with extensive information on the early families of the area.  He recognized descendants of these early families who helped to settle this particular area of Newton County. He mentioned some politicians and said that Gov. Theodore Bilbo had spoken from that very area. In his remarks he called upon Bus Chambliss to further enlighten us with events and early history of the area. Mr. Chambliss grew up there and has now returned to live in his childhood home. Although born a “Yankee” he is a true Southern gentleman and extended us invitations to visit again whenever we chose. We express our appreciation to Mr. Bus Chambliss.

Ann Burkes concluded the program by more history of the Stamper Pond area and some information on the Stamper family ancestry.

Bess Hollingsworth, Secretary

April 2005 Minutes

A regular meeting of the Newton County Historical and Genealogical Society was held on Saturday, April 9, 2005, at the Human Resources Center. The meeting was called to order by the president, Harold Graham, followed by an invocation and pledge to the flag led by
Bob Caldwell. The president then welcomed the  29 members and guests.

The secretary’s report and the treasurer’s report were both given and accepted.

The president asked for additional volunteers to keep the archives open and to help with the typing of the WWII material.

Committe reports consisted of a report from the WWII Committee concerning the school contest for information on veterans and a report from the Building Committee concerning the purchase of a new computer, monitor, and printer.

Bradley Pierce gave an interesting  report on the Chapmans, Powes, Allens, Watts, Edwards, and other allied families from Virgina in the 1730’s to Mississippi. This was a well-researched history which included some of their contributions to Wayne County, MS, as well as to Newton County. One of the legacies of the Chapman family is the
Bethel Church in Newton County which is 165 years old.

The president announced that the next meeting will be at Pinckney/Stamper Mill Pond on May 14 at 10:00 a.m. Directions: From Decatur, take Hwy 15 north to Stratton Road.
Travel west on Stratton Road to Hwy 489. Trn right. At a distance of about 1 mile turn right on Stamper Pond-Stratton Road. Travel 1/2 mile to Pond. Bring portable seating.

Donations and Acquisitions;

The Ledlow-Jones Family; Ancestors and Descendants of John Henry Ledlow and Josephene Arminda Jones, by Robert D. Pearcy, 1990, 394 p., Illus, Photos. Donated by Bess Hollingsworth.

County Superintendent's Records, Newton County, Mississippi, Book I (1911-1917), transcribed by Bess Hollingsworth.

County Superintendent's Records, Newton County, Mississippi, Book 2 (1917-1921), transcribed by Bess Hollingsworth.

Nation Family Records. Donated by Martha Brown Nation.

"A Journey Through the Century; Nine Interviews with Bertie Mae McDonald Brown,"  as conducted by Sammy Wright and donated by Martha Brown Nation.

DAR Paapers; Worksheets with Information on Each Member of Bobashela Chapter, Daughters of the American Revolution and Each Ancestor Represented by Members Worksheets, prepared and donated by Carol Vickers.

National Genealogical Society Quarterly, various issues, donated by Dr. and Mrs. A. P. Boggan.

"Newton, Miss. The Place That Wants you: The Place That You Want"; an illustrated souvenir of Newton, Miss., published in 1913 by The Newton Progressive League. Donated by Dr. and Mrs. A. P. boggan.

The Genealogical and Historical Magazine of the South, various issues (see especially issue noted below) as donated by Dr. and Mrs. A. P. Boggan.

Edgefield District, S. C.; various issues of "Old Edgefield District Archives" and "Annals of Edgefield District" as donated by Dr. and Mrs. A. P. Boggan.

Commencement Invitation, Graduating Class of Newton High School, 1928 - - as donated by Betty and Melvin Tingle.

Program Honoring Dr. Austin P. Boggan Upon His Retirement - as donated by Betty and Melvin Tingle.

East Central Community College Campus Botanical Guide, compiled by East Central Community College, Decatur, NS. n.p., illus, maps. donated by Betty and Melvin Tingle.

Hansford, Roebuck, and Terrell Family Records. Donated by Terry Terrell Lange.

"The Metz Mission on 9 November 1944" by Willard F. Nester and donated by Betty and Melvin Tingle.

James Ellis Account Book, 1838-1839.  (A loose-bound copy prepared for later publication) - as donated by Betty and Melvin Tingle.

Williams Family Including Aquilla and Harriet Docie Williams, J. B. and M. P. Williams by Ruth Coward Cunningham -- as donated by Betty and Melvin Tingle.

An Atlas of Southern Trails to the Mississippi by Carrie Eldridge. CDM Printing, Huntington, WV, 1999, 38 p. lillus. donated by Betty and Melvin Tingle.

General Land Office Records; Patents Issued in Newton County, Mississippi, 1820-1908. A print-out of individuals granted land patents produced from Internet records and compiled by Myrtis Craft - and donated by Melvin and Betty Tingle.

"Jackson Flood of 1972" as donated by Martha Brown Nation.

The Purple Crystal, 1947, Conehatta High School Annual as donated by Martha Brown Nation.

Supplement to the Daily Clarion-Ledger, Dec. 31, 1937 as donated by Martha Brown Nation.

The White House Cook Book, Salflield Publishing Co., Akron, Ohio, 1935. 605 p. as donated by Martha Brown Nation.

The Day Lincoln Was Shot by Jim bishop. Harper, NY, 1954, 308 p. Donated by Martha Brown Nation.

General Stephen D. Lee by Herman Hattaway. Univ. Press of MS, Jackson, MS, 1976, Illus, 283 p. Donated by Martha Brown Nation.

Natchez on the Mississippi by Harnett T. Kane. W. Morrow, NY, 1947, 373 p. Illus. donated by Martha Brown Nation.

R. E. Lee: A Biography, by Douglas S. Freeman. Scribner, NY, 1948, 4 vol., Illus. doanted by Martha Brown Nation.

My Mississippi by Wilie Morris. Univ. Press of MS, Jackson, MS, 2000. donated by Martha Brown Nation.

The Majesty of Natchez by Reid Smith and John Owens. Paddle Wheel Pub., Montgomery, NC, 1969, photos. Donated by Martha Brown Nation.

The Governor's Mansion; A Pictorial History. MS Executive Mansion Commission, 1975, 64 p. Donated by Martha Brown Nation.

"Cinematic Landscape of Mississippi" by MS Development Authority Division of Tourism/MS Film Office. a map indicating the location of various movies filmed in MS. Donated by Martha Brown Nation.

Library of American History; From the Discovery of America to the Present Time, by Edward S. Ellis. Charles P. Barrett Co., 1900, nine vols. Donated by Martha Brown Nation.

From Mississippi: Comprising Sketches of Counties, Towns,  Events, Institutions, and Persons; Arranged in Cyclopedic, ed. by Dunbar Rowland. Atlanta, Southern Historical Publishing Assoc., 1907, three vols. Donated by Martha Brown Nation.

General Land Office Records. Patents Issued to Indians in Newton County, MS. A print-out of Native American individuals granted land patents. Produced from Internet records and compiled by Myrtis Craft. Donated by Melvin and Betty Tingle.

Bess

February 2005 Minutes

The regular meeting of NCHGS was Saturday, February 12, 2005, at the Human Resources Center, Decatur, MS, with 41 members and guests present. The meeting was called to order by the president, Harold Graham, followed by the invocation by Bob Caldwell. The president welcomed the members and guest; the secretary’s report was read and accepted; and the treasurer’s report was made and accepted.

The president presented an invitation for NCHGS to join the Mississippi Historical Society, and the membership voted to pay the $25.00 membership.

Harold Graham announced that 40% of the WPA records have been copied and are in our Archives ready for use.

The announcement was made that NCHGS would participate in Loose Caboose celebration in Newton on March 5, 2005, from 8:00 until 2:00 p. m.. with a booth promoting our W W II book. A list was passed around for anyone who would volunteer to help with the booth. This day will replace our regular March meeting. The Archives will not be open on this day, but will be open the following Saturday, March 12.

The April meeting will be on the Chapman family by Bradley Pierce.  The May meeting will be at Stamper’s Pond/Pinckney with a discussion of the Maxwell and Stamper families.

Melvin Tingle reported from the Fund Raising Committee that due to the importance of our W W II book, his committee will stand back on their book and promote the WWII book. However, he did ask for any old photos of interest prior to 1950 to be brought to the committee.

The W W II book Committee, Harold Graham, Jo Blackburn, Patsy Gary, Homer Gross, J. P. Hurst, Floy Hurst, Jean Easom, Wilburt Easom, Melvin Tingle, and Pat Gordon met and made a few decisions: (1) The cemetery books would be searched for names and information, and the Newton Records are being searched for soldiers; (2) what the book would look like, typist, etc., (3) a contest among school children for the most forms filled out and returned. This would include prizes of $75.00 to the elementary class with the most forms; $50.00  to the high school student with the most, and a $50.00 prize to the Academy. It is hoped that this can be done through the history teachers, Beta Clubs, or school counselors. Lois Cooper will do some publicity for this contest. Also it was agreed that the participating schools would get a free copy of the book. The motion to accept these recommendations passed.

Ricky Harrison gave an unusual and very interesting program on “Resurveying Newton County Based on Original Survey Records”. He took us back to the early 1830’s when Mississippi was settled and paid tribute to the early surveyors who came to this beautiful country of timber, wild animals, and Indians to establish the rectangular survey system for Mississippi, which set the stage for the rest of America to be surveyed.

Mr. Harrison explained how the surveyors used Indian boundaries and state boundary lines to work from the beginning or initial point in Copiah County to begin the rectangular system of survey. This was set out with post in 6 mile intervals decided by  Thomas Jefferson. According to Mr. Harrison and his survey class from ECCC, those early surveys are not off very much from today’s surveys. He explained the different measures and the equivalent in today’s terminology, and how those early surveyors went about the task of surveying an unsettled land, and why some quarter sections are not exactly  the same.

Donations and Acquisitions:

 

  1. Cash donations from Jan Gallaspy Walker in memory of Garland Miller Gallaspy and John G. Gallaspy; James Wallace Bryant

  2. HP scanner donated by Chester and Shirley Gomillion Estes, Jr. on behalf of the Estes, Vance and Gomillion families

  3. Roebuck, Hansford, and Terrell records, as donated by Terry Lange

  4. Picture of A. A. James store at Baccus, 1903, as donated by Marijo Denson

  5. Alice H. Boone, Descendants of Israel Boone, McCain Publishing Company, Springfield, MO, 1969, as donated by Milton and Marian Thornton in memory of Charlotte Thornton Schlaifer

  6. Photocopy of WPA Records (partial), Mississippi Department of Archives and History—as provided by De’Niechsi Comans Layton

  7. Newton Records 1901-1966)—as donated by Robbie Robertson on behalf of the Newton Record, Inc.

  8. Myrtis S. Craft, The Lyles Family of Newton County, Mississippi—as donated by Okla Museum and Betty and Melvin Tingle

  9. Raymond E. Shannon, Descendants of Levi Chaney-- as donated by Okla Museum and Betty and Melvin Tingle

  10. Records of Montgomery Carleton Family-- as donated by Okla Museum and Betty and Melvin Tingle

  11. Myrtis S. Craft, The Price Family of Newton County-- as donated by Okla Museum and Betty and Melvin Tingle

  12. A. J. Brown Family records-- as donated by Okla Museum and Betty and Melvin Tingle

  13. Peter Corbin and Matilda Wall Family-- as donated by Okla Museum and Betty and Melvin Tingle

  14. The Nathaniel Wells Family-- as donated by Okla Museum and Betty and Melvin Tingle

  15. Myrtis S. Craft, The Horton Family of Newton County, Mississippi-- as donated by Okla Museum and Betty and Melvin Tingle

  16. Robert G. Garvin, The Garvins of Newton County, Mississippi-- as donated by Okla Museum and Betty and Melvin Tingle

  17. Gayle Boggess and Carol Sue Gibbs, Descendants of Laban Gibbs-- as donated by Okla Museum and Betty and Melvin Tingle

  18. Myrtis S. Craft, The Simmons Family of Newton County-- as donated by Okla Museum and Betty and Melvin Tingle

  19. A. J. Freeman and Descendants-- as donated by Okla Museum and Betty and Melvin Tingle

  20. The Family of Lodwick and Elizabeth Thompson-- as donated by Okla Museum and Betty and Melvin Tingle

  21. Ruth Coward Cunningham, Aquilla Williams, His Father Hiram Williams, and Some of Their Descendants-- as donated by Okla Museum and Betty and Melvin Tingle

  22. Patsy Gary, Descendants of Joe and Julie Gibbon, Berry Community, Hickory, Mississippi-- as donated by Okla Museum and Betty and Melvin Tingle

  23. Gayle Duett, The Beeman Family-- as donated by Okla Museum and Betty and Melvin Tingle

  24. Bess Hoskins, Growing Up in Mississippi-- as donated by Okla Museum and Betty and Melvin Tingle

  25. Jeanie Hand Henry, My Cross and Hand Families-- as donated by Okla Museum and Betty and Melvin Tingle

  26. Midway Baptist Church, 1878-1998

  27. Abney Descendants-- as donated by Okla Museum and Betty and Melvin Tingle

  28. Frank Harrison, Brooks, Harrison, Dean and Kindred Families of Newton County, Mississippi-- as donated by Okla Museum and Betty and Melvin Tingle

  29. Autobiography of Wilbur Ancel Cleveland-- as donated by Okla Museum and Betty and Melvin Tingle

  30. The Newton Presbyterian Church, Celebrating One Hundred Twenty-Five Years in Christ, December 5, 1974-- as donated by Okla Museum and Betty and Melvin Tingle

  31. Poplar Springs Baptist Church, 1849-1999-- as donated by Okla Museum and Betty and Melvin Tingle

  32. Records of Bethel Baptist Church, Newton County, Mississippi, January 1839-August 1879-- as donated by Okla Museum and Betty and Melvin Tingle

  33. Proceedings of the Grand Lodge of Mississippi, Ancient, Free, and Accepted Masons (various dates from 1866 to 1880)-- as donated by Okla Museum and Betty and Melvin Tingle

  34. Receipt books for Masons—four books, various dates, Newton County lodges-- as donated by Okla Museum and Betty and Melvin Tingle

  35. Mississippi Genealogical Exchange—various dates-- as donated by Okla Museum and Betty and Melvin Tingle

  36. Life of Pearl Turner Rawls and Her Family-- as donated by Okla Museum and Betty and Melvin Tingle

  37. Programs for Union Theatre—various dates-- as donated by Okla Museum and Betty and Melvin Tingle

  38. Neshoba County, Mississippi, Tract Book Records, 1833-1900-- as donated by Okla Museum and Betty and Melvin Tingle

  39. Estes Family Records-- as donated by Okla Museum and Betty and Melvin Tingle

  40. History of Dormantown, Mississippi-- as donated by Okla Museum and Betty and Melvin Tingle

  41. History of Dorman Family-- as donated by Okla Museum and Betty and Melvin Tingle

  42. Profiles from Lake in the Silver Age-- as donated by Okla Museum and Betty and Melvin Tingle

  43. A. B. Amis, Sr., Amis Family Records-- as donated by Okla Museum and Betty and Melvin Tingle

  44. Account Ledger, unknown store-- as donated by Okla Museum and Betty and Melvin Tingle

  45. Glimpses of Fellowship’s Past: The First Hundred and Twenty-Five Years of the Fellowship Community in Jasper County, Mississippi-- as donated by Okla Museum and Betty and Melvin Tingle

  46. Map of Decatur, Mississippi-- as donated by Okla Museum and Betty and Melvin Tingle

  47. Chapel Hill Closing Exercises, February 18, 1898-- as donated by Okla Museum and Betty and Melvin Tingle

  48. Newton County Agricultural High School Second Annual Catalogue-- as donated by Okla Museum and Betty and Melvin Tingle

  49. Cook Book compiled by Junior Class, Newton High School, 1953-1954-- as donated by Okla Museum and Betty and Melvin Tingle

  50. Account Ledger from A. L. Harrison Grocery, Little Rock, Mississippi-- as donated by Okla Museum and Betty and Melvin Tingle

  51. Historic Newton calendars, various dates-- as donated by Okla Museum and Betty and Melvin Tingle

  52. Memories in Rhyme by Mrs. Mattie McMullan-- as donated by Okla Museum and Betty and Melvin Tingle

  53. Lake Chronicles—True Tales of a Mississippi Boyhood by Milton McMullan-- as donated by Okla Museum and Betty and Melvin Tingle

  54. James Harold Munn, The Passing Scene: A Nostalgic View of Newton, Newton County, and Mississippi-- as donated by Okla Museum and Betty and Melvin Tingle

  55. Desegregation Plan—Newton County Unit Schools, Decatur, Mississippi-- as donated by Okla Museum and Betty and Melvin Tingle

  56. Minutes of the Town of Newton Democratic Executive Committee, 1933-1940-- as donated by Okla Museum and Betty and Melvin Tingle

  57. Composition Book with Information Compiled by Vida Alexander-- as donated by Okla Museum and Betty and Melvin Tingle

  58. T. C. Pinson, Poems of Remembrance and Other Poems-- as donated by Okla Museum and Betty and Melvin Tingle

  59. Class pictures from Conehatta High School (early dates)—as donated by Harold Graham

  60. The Slender Volume: Poems by Thelma McMullan

  61. Newton County 1831-1840—a List of the White Settlers of Newton County Present Between 1831 and 1840—compiled and donated by Melvin Tingle

  62. Terry Lange, The Terrells of Newton County, Mississippi, 2005

January 2005 Minutes

Newton County Historical and Genealogical Society held its regular meeting on Saturday, January 8, 2005, with 39 members and guests present.

Harold Graham, President, reviewed the progress of 2004 projects and the membership agreed to continue these projects into 2005. These projects include the World War II history project. In 2005 the Society will attempt to complete the process of collecting information for a book commemorating the service of the men and women who served in World War II from Newton County. For additional information about this project, contact Mr. Ralph Gordon at 774-8841 or Dr. Harold Graham at 635-4553.

Terry Majure provided an informative program about the early Native Americans who lived in this area and displayed a variety of artifacts that represented different facets of their culture.

The next meeting of the Society will be held in the Newton County Human Resources Building in Decatur on Saturday, February 12, 2005 beginning at 10:00 a. m. Ricky Harrison will present a program on A Survey of Newton County based on Original (1830) Survey Notes. Members and guests are invited.

Donations and Acquisitions:

1 Contributions of Building Fund: Gayle Duett, Wilburt and Jean Easom, Patsy Gary, Margaret Lay, Chris Perry, Helen Chambers (in memory of Jesse Graham), Hugh Eatmon, Freddie and Betty Ezelle (in memory of James Garvin), Harold Carleton (in memory of James Garvin), Bess Hollingsworth and Clarene Coleman.

2. Hubert Howe Bancroft, History of Arizona and New Mexico, The History Company, San Francisco, 1889--donated by Elsie Hagan

3. Brenda Ralph Lewis, Tartans, Chartwell Books, Inc., Edison, New Jersey, 2004--donated by Harold and Nancy Graham

4. Mississippi State College for Women annuals (1968, 1970) and Mississippi State University annual (1969)--donated by De’Niechi Comans Layton

5. Pair of antique bookcases--donated by Mary Hanson

6. Jack E. Wroten, The Wrotens of Mississippi, photocopy donated by Donna Rae Munday Johnson

7. Gordon family records--donated by Ralph and Pat Gordon

8. Foreman family records--donated by Terry Foreman

9. Crawford family records--onated by Donna Rae Munday Johnson

10. Shealy Family records--as donated by Elsie Hagan

11. Oklahoma City Council of Choctaws, English to Choctaw Dictionary, Seventh Edition, Oklahoma City, Oklahoma, 1981--donated by Bess Hollingsworth

12. Picture of A. A. James store, Baccus, Newton County, 1903--photocoy donated by Marijo Denson

13. Scanner, as donated by Chester and Shirley Estes on behalf of the Gomillion and Vance families

14. Civil War Illustrated (various issues)--donated by Elsie Hagan

15. American History Illustrated (various issues)--donated by Elsie Hagan

16. NCHGS Scrapbook--organized and donated by Elsie Hagan

17. Alice H. Boone, Descendants of Israel Boone, McCann Publishing Company, Springfield, MO, 1969--donated by Milton and Marian Thornton in memory of Charlotte Thornton Schlaifer.

December 2004 Minutes

The regular meeting of NCHGS met Saturday, December 11, 2004, at the Human Resources Center with 32 members and guest present.  Harold Graham, President, called the meeting to order and Bob Caldwell gave a devotion and led the group in the pledge to the flag. The president welcomed the members and guest.

The minutes were read and approved and the treasurer’s report was accepted. The Budget Committee reported that we had held to the budgeted expenditures with one exception. This occurred from increased membership which increased the cost of publications and mail-outs.  The president reported that membership now exceeds 180 members. The treasurer reported that we have about $1000 left in the building fund. A motion was made that we use this money for the sign for the building, more shelving for the oversized books and a new computer in that order. This motion carried.

A motion was made that we accept Plan B for an increase in dues. This means that personal membership will be $20.00 and household membership will be $25.00. This motion passed. There was a discussion about a money-raising project. Melvin Tingle had some ideas and so did Ralph Gordon. The president appointed a committee of Ralph Gordon, Melvin Tingle, Joyce Nicholson, Glenn Harrison, and Homer Goss to consider this and make a recommendation.

A sign-up sheet was circulated for members who would volunteer for refreshments for 2005.

Current officers were re-elected for another year: President - Harold Graham; Vice President - Melvin Tingle; Secretary - Bess Hollingsworth; Treasurer - Joyce Nicholson.

George Mason presented an in-depth and thoroughly researched program on the Dent and Mason families from the 1500’s in England to the U. S. They came through Georgia and to Alabama, especially Tuscaloosa and Mobile, and then to Jasper and Newton Counties in Mississippi. This was an interesting  genealogy of people listed in the Charles County, MD Gentry with a coat-of -arms from England to Maryland. These families were involved in working for the King and later helped govern the colonies and the early states. This was an extensively researched  genealogy of thirteen generations.

The program for January 8, 2005, will feature Terry Majure discussing Archaeological Finds in the Chapel Hill Area of Newton County.

The report of donations and acquisitions was deferred to January.

MEMBERSHIP DUES OF $20.00 DUE JANUARY 1, 2005.

Bess Hollingsworth, Treasurer

November 2004 Minutes

The Newton County Historical and Genealogical Society held its regular meeting on Saturday, November 13, 2004, at the Human Resources Center in Decatur, MS, with 33 members and guests present. The meeting was called to order by the president, Harold Graham, who welcomed the members and guests. Bob Caldwell gave the invocation. The minutes were read and accepted. Joyce Nicholson gave the treasurer’s report of a balance of $2213.50.

Ann Burkes  reported from the Building Committee that we have acquired so much material that we will soon be in need of more shelving.  The World War II Committee, chaired by Ralph Gordon, reported that things are moving slowly and encouraged all of us
to collect as many as we could.

Harold Graham presented a proposal for discussion  concerning an increase in dues. He suggested we think about two plans. Plan A would increase dues to $15.00 for an individual and $20.00 for a household. This plan will barely cover our monthly expenses with nothing left for growth or emergencies. Plan B would increase dues to $20.00 and
$25.00 which would give us a small operating cushion. This will be taken up for a vote at the December meeting.

An announcement was made that the budget committee would meet on Wednesday, November 17, 2004, at the Archives.

It was announced that Grady Howell of the MDAH will speak at the regular meeting of the Sons of Confederate Veterans at 6:30 p.m. at the Newton Depot Station. All were invited.

Wilburt Easom presented an interesting and unique program on the Easom and Davidson families by means of slides. He located these families  in Georgia through property acquired in land lotteries. He traveled to Georgia and Alabama to locate the property where these ancestors lived and traced them in chronological order from Georgia to
Alabama to Neshoba County, Mississippi, and then to Sebastopol in Newton County.

The next meeting of NCHGS will be December 11 when George Mason will present a program on the Dent family. This will also be a time to pay dues and elect  officers.

2005 promises to be an exciting year for NCHGS. We have some outstanding programs lined up. Here are a few of the programs we can expect for next year.

The January, 2005, meeting will be Terry Majure with archeological finds in the Chapel Hill area of Newton County.

February, 2005, will feature Ricky Harrison talking about resurveying Newton County based on original survey notes.

In April, 2005, we can look forward to a field trip to Stamper Pond/ Pinckney Mills.


Acquisitions and Donations:

Women’s Progressive Club of Decatur, History of Old Houses in Decatur, Revised Edition, 1994, as donated by Ovid and Carol Vickers
Adair S. James, “The Doctor’s House” (poem with reference to Dr. B. F. Hunter of Decatur), as donated by Ovid and Carol Vickers
Greater Decatur Chamber of Commerce, City of Decatur Community Facts, August 1982, as donated by Ovid and Carol Vickers
Decatur United Methodist Church—directories for various years—1970’s—2004, as donated by Ovid and Carol Vickers
History of Decatur United Methodist Church—as donated by Ovid and Carol Vickers
History of Morning Star Missionary Baptist Church, as donated by Thelma Nichols
Etha Myerl Langford, Conehatta United Methodist Church—128th Anniversary Homecoming, April 19, 1998, as donated by Wharton (Smitty) Smith
Inventory of Erin Cumberland Presbyterian Church Cemetery, 1983, by Sallie Green and Eva Blount
Willa Deane Pike Gates, transcriber, Bible Records of Mary Rebecca Thrash Allen Dansby, as donated by Harold Graham in Willa Dean Pike Gate’s memory.
Jeremiah Hamm Family Bible records
Richard S. Lackey, 1838 Personal Tax Roll for Newton County, Mississippi, as donated by Harold Graham in memory of Richard Lackey
Various Newton County School Records, ca. 1910-1928, courtesy of the Newton County School District and Okla Museum
Steen Family Bulletin (various issues), as donated by Harold Graham
Usry Family Records, as donated by Harold Graham
Photocopy of letter from Rev. N. L. Clarke to his daughter Eva Clarke Parks in Texas, as donated by Harold Graham
Collection of Milling Family Records, as donated by Nancy and Harold Graham
History of Bethel Baptist Church, 1839-2004, as donated by Ina Margaret Smith
Collection of Decatur photographs and memorabilia, 1930’s and 1940’s, as donated by Walterine Hayes
Afghans honoring Newton County and Clarke Memorial College, as donated by Clarke Memorial College Foundation and Marian Thornton
Andrew Carroll, War Letters, as donated by Walterine Hayes
Collection of newspapers from Jean F. Jackson estate
Donation to Building Fund—Wilburt and Jean Easom
Myrtle Mitchell McNair, Our Wyatt-Mitchell and Allied Families, May 1974, as donated by Martha Waltman
Thomas Bascom Walden and Orna Lee Walden Foster, Walden Family Tree, Hederman Brothers, n/d, as donated by Martha Waltman
Billy Gray Russell, et al, May Family History

October 2004 Minutes:

The Newton County Historical and Genealogical Society held its regular meeting on October 9, 2004 with 22 members and guests attending. A number of members were absent due to Homecoming activities at East Central Community College in which Society members Ann Burkes and Dr. John Hollingsworth were recognized as Alumna and Alumnus, respectively, of the year. Our congratulations go to both of them.

A report on the World War II project indicated that approximately 260 questionnaires for at least 1, 000 veterans who served from Newton County have been returned. The Society extended the deadline for return of the questionnaires into 2005 and discussed ways of communicating with remaining veterans or family members in an attempt to get 100 % participation of our veterans for the book the Society will publish. If you need a questionnaire, please contact Dr. Harold Graham at 635-4553 or Mr. Ralph Gordon at 479-7661.

Mr. Jim Woodruff, Civil War Historian, Mississippi Department of Archives and History, gave an interesting talk on “Rivers, Roads, and Railroads in Civil War Mississippi”. This was followed by a spirited discussion period as members asked about specific events that happened in Newton County during the Civil War.

The next meeting of the Society will be at 10:00 a. m. on Saturday, November 13, 2004 at the Newton County Human Resources Building at Decatur. Wilburt Easom will provide a history of the Easom-Davidson Families. Members and guests are invited.

Donations and acquisitions:

Donors to the Building Fund (July 2004 and later): Citizens’ Bank of Philadelphia, Decatur Branch, Coca Cola Company—Meridian District, Ann Burkes, Gayle Boggess, Lanie T. Edmonds, Ralph and Joyce James, Glenda Weaver, Jesse Max Harris, Patsy Gary, Harold Carleton, Carolyn Lane, Bradley Pierce, Ann McWhorter, Melvin and Betty Tingle, Bess Hollingsworth, Kenneth and Rosemary Jones, J. P. and Floy Hurst, Nancy and Harold Graham, Robert L. Thames, Hugh Eatmon, Thelma Nichols, Callie Tims Hubbard, Wilburt Easom, Robert Garvin (in memory of James E. Garvin), Ina Margaret Smith, Bobby Caldwell, Erlyne Bingham, Hilda Cotter, Margaret Lay, Kate Gray, and Myrtis Craft.
Photograph, 1927 Graduating Class, Newton County Agricultural High School
James M. McGee Family Bible Records (photocopy)
Collection of biographies and histories (30 titles)—Mary Hanson
Decorate plate of Huff Auditorium, East Central Community College—Ovid and Carol Vickers
1968-1969 Catalog, ECJC, Ovid and Carol Vickers
WO-HE-LO annuals from ECJC/ECCC for 1940, 1952, 1954, 1958, 1959, 1965 & 1971—Ovid and Carol Vickers
“General Marshall’s Victory Report on the Winning of World War II” with list of WW II soldiers honored from Newton County—donated by Tammy Webb Di Lorenzo and Pam Jackson
Histories of African-American Churches in Newton County (Bethlehem, Decatur, Greenwood, Jerusalem, Little Rock, Midway, Pleasant Grove, Saint John, Saint Mary, Sunny Hill)—donated by Thelma Nichols
Cemetery Inscriptions of Southwest Arkansas, Volumes. I & II, complied and donated by John P. Frazier, Jr.
Pictures and Memorabilia from Albert L.  McMullan estate—donated by Jeff Winstead
Descendants of Colonel John Crawford—donated by Melvin and Betty Tingle
Col. John Crawford’s Descendants—6 generations—donated by Melvin and Betty Tingle
The History of Old Mars Hill Cemetery and Church by Jimmy Wyatt—donated by Ann McWhorter
Newton County, A Pictorial History—donated by Nancy and Harold Graham
The Gibbs Family History by Vernon Lee Gibbs—Donated by Martha Waltman
First Settlers of the Mississippi Territory by Frances Terry Ingmire and Carolyn Reeves Ericson—donated by Martha Waltman
The History of Newton by Nancy K. Williams—donated by Nancy and Harold Graham
Who Married Whom: Jasper County, Mississippi, Volumes I and II, by Jean Strickland, Patricia N. Edwards, and Marjorie Baxter—donated by Nancy and Harold Graham
The Dollar Family of Neshoba County, Mississippi, complied and donated by M. B. Watson
Early Records of Newton County, Mississippi—1846 Land Roll compiled by Janell B. Yates—donated by Martha Waltman
Marriage Records of Some Mississippi Counties—complied and donated by Martha Waltman
Dr. B. F. Hunter Diploma from Atlanta Dental College, 1909—donated by Ann Burkes
Interviews taken with Charles (Bully) McMullan in 2000 by grandson Stephen McMullan (cds)--donated by Stephen McMullan
The Official Military Atlas of the Civil War—donated by Ann McWhorter
Autobiography of Wilber Ancle Cleveland—donated by Walterine Hayes
“Redistricting Plan for Newton County, Mississippi—donated by Harold Webb family
History of Cedar Grove Community and Families of Lexington County, South Carolina by J. Ansel Caughman
From Thence Am I (Eargle Family Records) by H. A. (Buddy) Eargle
Mississippi Blue Books (1935-1937, 1937-1939,1941-1943, 1945-1949)—donated by Carol and Ovid Vickers
Works of Leo Horan—The Knelling Stranger and Other Poems, In Tranquil Mood and Other Poems, and Beauty in A Breeze and Other Poems—donated by Carol and Ovid Vickers
Mississippi Official and Statistical Registers (1949-1952, 156-1960, 1964-1968, 1976-1980, 1996-2000)—donated by Carol and Ovid Vickers
History of Old Houses in Decatur, compiled by Women’s Progressive Club, 1990—donated by Carol and Ovid Vickers
“The Doctor’s House” by Adair S. James, poem and photograph relating to Dr. B. F. Hunter home in Decatur—donated by Carol and Ovid Vickers
“City of Decatur Community Facts” complied by Greater Decatur Chamber of Commerce, August 1982—donated by Carol and Ovid Vickers
“Decatur United Methodist Church Directories”, various dates—donated by Carol and Ovid Vickers
“Decatur United Methodist Church History”—donated by Carol and Ovid Vickers
The Story of the Irish, Poplar History of Ireland by Seumas MacManus—donated by Harold Germany
Passports of Southeastern Pioneers, 1770-1823, by Coulter and Save—donated by Harold Germany
Scots in Georgia and the Deep South, 1735-1845, by David Dobson—donated by Harold Germany
A New Genealogical Atlas of Ireland—donated by Harold Germany
Early Georgia Wills and Settlements of Estates, Wilkes County, by Sarah Quinn Smith—donated by Harold Germany
Only A Few Bones, True Account of the Rolling Fork Tragedy and Its Aftermath, by John Philip Colletta—donated by Harold Germany

July 2004 Minutes:

The regular meeting of the Newton County Historical and Genealogical Society was held on July 10, at the Human Resources Center in Decatur, MS. After delicious refreshments by Bob Caldwell and Patsy Gary, the meting was called to order by the president, Harold Graham, who welcomed the 36 members and guests. A devotion by Bob Caldwell was followed by the reading of the minutes and the treasurer's report, both of which were approved. The business consisted of reports by Ralph Gordon who gave an update on our plans for Union Country Day on August 28.  Cathy Wyatt is organizing a schedule of volunteers for the booth and also some volunteers to bring cookies for the day. Ralph and Cathy also reported plans for WWII exhibits in the booth.  This day will replace our regular meeting time for August.  Ann Burkes gave an update on what is being done with our building. We have had volunteers working already to get the building in first-rate condition, and more work is  needed.  Harold reported a need for a finance and building committee meeting the following Wednesday.  The president reported on plans for an  open house at our Archives in September instead of our regular program.  Melvin Tingle gave a very interesting program on the Choctaw Indians of Newton County. He described their life style and by the use of maps located villages no longer in existence. He gave many interesting events and including some genealogy of Pushmahata’s descendants.  The president reminded us that the next regular meeting would not be until October since we will participate in Union Country Day in August and hold an open house at our Archives in September.
Bess Hollingsworth, Secretary

Donations and Acquisitions:
1. Records of Decatur Exchange Club—Reginald Thames
2. Drawing of Old Newton County Court House by (Unknown) Beaver—as donated by Carol and Ovid Vickers
3. Donated labor and repairs to Archives Building—Wilburt Easom
4. Shelving—As donated by Walterine Hayes
5. Historical Collection of Conehatta area maps—as donated by Danny McDonald
6. Donations to Building Fund from Bess Hollingsworth, Ann McWhorter, Harold Graham, Bradley Pierce, Carolyn Lane, Reginald and Mamie Thames, James F. Cook, J. P. and Floy Hurst, and Patsy Gary
7. Gressett—Graham—James Family Records—as donated by Carolyn Lane
8. Sesquicentennial Edition of Newton Record, 1986—as donated by Carolyn Lane
9. Computer, monitor, and printer—as donated by Ann Burkes
10. Windows to Our Past—Collinsville, Martin, and Schamberville Communities, Lauderdale County Department of Archives and History, 2002—as donated by Harold Graham
11. Mary Ellen New White, The First Hundred Years of the Pine Springs Community of Lauderdale County, Mississippi, Lauderdale County Department of Archives and History, 1992—as donated by Harold Graham
12. Framed map of Sherman’s March through east Mississippi, map courtesy of Patsy Gary and frame courtesy of Karen Williams, Picture This, Newton, Mississippi
13. Temporary sign for Archives, courtesy of Jimmy Culpepper, District Manager, Coca-Cola Bottling Company

June 2004 Minutes:

The Newton County Historical and Genealogical Society held its regular meeting of June 12, 2004 with 35 members and guests present.

 

The group first toured the Thomas Irish Doolittle (Bentley) House and grounds at Newton with Robert Garvin and Edna Williams providing information about the Doolittle family and estate.  The house, built in 1891, has been partially restored and maintained by its current owner, Robert Garvin. The group then moved to the Doolittle Family Cemetery where Louis Foley, Stephanie Foley, and other members of Jefferson Davis Camp 1862 of the Sons of the Confederate Veterans described their efforts to maintain the cemetery and to identify many of the unknown soldiers buried there.

 

Ann Burkes reported that renovation of the Old Jail is almost complete and that the NCHGS Archives should be able to move there within a matter of days. Donations are being received toward a Building Fund that would be used toward the purchase of shelving and furniture for the facility. If you would like to make a donation, contact Ann Burkes at 635-3253 or mail donations to NCHGS, 17333 HW 503, Decatur, MS 39327. All donations are tax-deductible.

 

Ralph Gordon reported that responses to the World War II questionnaire have not been received for many of our veterans. For this reason, the deadline of July 4, 2004 will be extended. For a copy of the questionnaire, contact Mr. Gordon at 774-8841 or Dr. Harold Graham at 635-4553.

 

The next meeting of the Society will be held at the Newton County Human Resources Building, Decatur, Mississippi, at 10:00 a. m. on Saturday, July 10, 2004 with Melvin Tingle discussing Early Choctaw Indian Villages in Newton County.

 

Donations and Acquisitions:

 

  1. Decatur School Class photograph, ca. 1927-1928—as donated by Walterine Hayes
  2. Cash Donations for Building Fund: Gloria Penton, Bess Hollingsworth, Reginald and Mamie Thames, and Harold Graham
  3. Pension Applications of Confederate Soldiers, Widows, and Servants Living in Newton County, Mississippi, Volumes J-O, P-Q, R, and S, as published and donated by Lauderdale County Department of Archives and History.
  4. Spring Hill Episcopal Methodist Church, Minute Book 1 (photocopy)—as donated by Allan Jones and Carolyn Goldman
  5. Patsy Griffin Rogers, The Henry Gill Family, 2004—as donated by the author.
  6. Collection of Wo-He-Lo annuals, East Central Junior College (from estate of  Miss Irma Barber)—as donated by Carol and Ovid Vickers.
  7. Union Appeal Sesquicentennial Edition, 1986, as donated by Carolyn Lane
  8. 1867 Voter’s Registration List, 1867-1869, Matagorda County, Texas—as donated by Carol Sue Gibbs
  9. Oak Leaves, Matagorda County (Texas) Genealogical Society (various issues)—as donated by Carol Sue Gibbs
  10. Mississippi Institute and College (later Mississippi College for Women) Commencement  Program, 1911—as donated by George Mason
  11. Kitchen range for archives—as donated by Glenda Weaver

May 2004 Minutes:

The regular meeting of the Newton County Historical and Genealogical Society was Saturday, May 8, at the Human Resources Center with 35 people present. After refreshments by Bess Hollingsworth and Lucy Vance, the meeting was called to order by the president, Harold Graham. Bobby Caldwell brought the devotional after which the president welcomed the members and visitors.

The minutes and the treasurer’s report  of a balance of $1712.22 were read and accepted.  Business matters included the approval of a request to spend $166 for two years  of service for the website rather than the $125 for  a one-year  service contract.  In other matters Ann Burkes reported that work was being done on our facilities, but it is not completed. Harold Graham mentioned that we need a ‘building fund’ set up to buy new shelving and other furniture when we move in. He mentioned $100.00 which has been contributed and asked that any who would like  to make a contribution please make it specifically for that purpose. Melvin Tingle mentioned an idea for an awards banquet to be held some time after the first of the year to honor anyone in or outside the Society who has made outstanding contributions to the preservation of history or genealogy. This he made as a suggestion to be brought up and discussed at the next meeting. No action was taken on this. Ralph Gordon, who has recently been named Executive Director of the Union Chamber of Commerce, discussed plans for a booth at the Union Country Day to foster the interest of the book on Newton County World War II veterans. He mentioned that Country Day is August 4, so the group voted to use that date as our meeting date for August and support the booth and Country Day.

Joyce Nicholson gave an interesting program on the John Willis Family of New Ireland with  an exhibit of photos. Her cousin, Jerry Willis, also contributed some interesting tidbits concerning their ancestors. This family and  descendants settled in the New Ireland community and in and around Union, MS, with many ancestors still in this area. This family and  descendants made an important contribution to the development of Newton County and nearby Neshoba County. 

Our next meeting will be Saturday, June 12. This will be a field trip to the Thomas Irish Doolittle (Bentley) House followed by a visit to the Doolittle Family Cemetery.  Directions: approximately one mile north of I-20 on Highway 15, turn west on Coliseum Drive. Turn left on Doolittle Road to the first house on the right. Bring a snack or sandwich and we will have a picnic lunch at the cemetery. The hostess for that month will provide drinks.

OTHER INFORMATION:

We have two new members:
Mrs. Lanie Thornton  Edmonds
Heidelberg, MS

Mrs. Annie L Gaines Ledlow
Pearl, MS
Researching: Ledlow, Gressett, Collum, McElhenney, Gaines

Donations and Acquisitions:

1. Cash donation - Roy and Ardel Gill
2. Photograph of 1928 graduating class of Newton County Agricultural High School - donated by Pat Harris
3. McDaniel Family Records by Byron McDaniel - donated by Bradley Pierce
4. Boughton Family Records - donated by Bradley Pierce
5. Daniel Boykin Family Bible, Nashville, TN, 1885 (photo images on CD) - donated by Homer Gross
6. NEW PROSPECT BAPTIST CHURCH BOOK, 1855 ff (photocopies) - donated by Homer Gross
7. Descendants of Isaac Green - donated by Homer Gross
8. PRESIDENT WILSON’S ADDRESS TO HIS FELLOW-COUNTRYMEN, April 15, 1917 (manuscript) - donated by Ina Margaret Smith
9. Cedar Grove School and Students, 1927 - donated by Ina Margaret Smith
10. THE NEWTON COUNTY SESQUICENTENNIAL, 1836-1986, THE NEWTON RECORD, December 10, 1986 - donated by Ina Margaret Smith.

April 2004 Minutes:

The regular meeting of the Newton County Historical and Genealogical Society was held Saturday, April 10, 2004, at the Human Resources Center with 28 members present. Ann Burkes provided tasty Easter refreshments after which the president, Harold Graham, called the meeting to order. Bob Caldwell led the pledge to the flag and brought a devotional. The minutes were read and approved and the treasurer’s report of a balance of $1,954.03 was accepted.

Harold Graham made the announcement that Carol Shrader is our new webmaster for the nchgs.org website. Ken Hollingsworth was thanked for his diligent efforts to get the website started.

Ann Burkes reported on the progress toward a new and permanent home in the old
Forestry Building (old jail, to some). She told us that the building is about 1200 sq. ft. Much needs to be done to renovate it, so we are unsure when ‘moving day’ will be, but we will need more bookcases when we do move.

Ralph Gordon is still encouraging people to get their World War II veterans in the book by getting the forms filled out and returned. Ralph suggested, and the Society voted, that we have a booth at the Union Country Day with these forms.

Greg Boggan presented an excellent program on Jack Amos. Jack Amos, Choctaw Indian, was instrumental in helping pull soldiers from the Chunky Train Wreck during the Civil War. He was in the 18th Battalion which started as the First Choctaw Battalion. Greg has done extensive research on Jack Amos, including his ancestry. He discovered that Jack Amos’s great-grandmother was a sister to Pushmahata. From Civil War records, lawsuits, Treaty of Dancing Rabbit Creek, and other official documents, Greg presented an interesting and not always pleasant picture of the treatment of whites toward Indians at that time. Greg has placed a marker in the Blue Springs Cemetery, the cemetery whereJack Amos is buried.

The following announcements were made:
A 1913 map of Newton County is for sale for $5.00, thanks to Wilburt Easom.
Danny McDonald is preparing a Conehatta area map which will be for sale.
The samll copy machine that we used prior to our purchase of a larger one is for sale for $50.00.
FRIENDS AND NEIGHBORS by Keith Justice is for sale for $10.00.
The next meeting of NCHGS will be Saturday, May 8, 2004. Joyce Nicholson will
present a program of the John Willis family of New Ireland, Newton Co., MS

Donations and Acquisitions:
1. James F. Brieger, Hometown, Mississippi, Town Square Books, Inc., Jackson,
Mississippi, 1997—donated by Hugh Eatmon
2. Early Conehatta area maps—Created and donated by Danny McDonald
3. Cedarville Cemetery, Bay City, Texas, donated by Carol Sue Gibbs in honor of Miss Audrey Gibbs
4. Historic Matagorda County, Texas, three volumes, donated by Carol Sue Gibbs in
memory of Zachariah T. Gibbs, Margaret Caroline Ellis Gibbs, and Carroll Thomas Gibbs
5. Matagorda County, Texas, Marriage Records, 1837-1899, as donated by Carol Gibbs in memory of Beulah B. Strickland Gibbs.
6. The Matagorda County Gazette, 1858-1860, as donated by Carol Sue Gibbs in memor of Opal Inez Gibbs Campbell.
7. Oak Leaves Genealogical Magazine Subject Index, Volumes 1-20, 1981-2001, as
donated by Carol Sue Gibbs in memory of Nancy Delaware Wyatt Gibbs Doolittle.
8. 1850 Federal Census of Matagorda County, Texas, as donated by Carol Sue Gibbs, in memory of Joseph Gibbs.
9. 1860 Federal Census of Matagorda County, Texas, as donated by Carol Sue Gibbs, in memory of Izilla Love Ellis Gibbs.
10. 1870 Federal Census of Matagorda County, Texas, as donated by Carol Sue Gibbs, in memory of Puttnam Darden (Nine) Gibbs.
11. Gifford White, First Settlers of Matagorda County, Texas, as donated by Carol Sue Gibbs, in memory of Maxine T. Gibbs
12. “Yarrellton and North Elm News”, The Cameron Herald, 1895-1945, Milam County, Texas, as donated by Carol Sue Gibbs, in memory of Joseph Frank Gibbs
13. The Carolina Genealogist, various issues, as donated by Martha Waltman
14. East Texas Family Records, various issues, as donated by Martha Waltman
15. The Genie, various issues, as donated by Martha Waltman
16. Footprints, various issues, as donated by Martha Waltman
17. Georgia Pioneers Genealogical Magazine, various issues, as donated by Martha
Waltman
18. The Highlander, The Magazine of Scottish Heritage, various issues, as donated by Martha Waltman
19. The North Carolina Genealogical Society Journal, various issues, as donated by
Martha Waltman
20. Clara Adams Stowers, The Coldwater Community in Elbert County, Georgia,
1770’s-1970, as donated by Martha Waltman
21. John N. McIntosh, The History of Elbert County, Georgia, 1790-1935, as donated by Martha Waltman.
22. Soil Survey of Newton County, Mississippi, 1916, as donated by Ralph Gordon
23. Sandra J. Lee, Newberry County, South Carolina Equity Records, 1818-1844, Dallas, Georgia, 1985, as donated by Harold Graham
24. Glenda Wood Bundrick and David Edmond Sease, Newberry County, South Carolina, Deed Index, 1785-1840, Newberry, South Carolina, 1982, as donated by Harold Graham
25. M. M. Quattlebaum, Quattlebaum Family History, Savannah, Georgia, 1950, as
donated by Elsie Hagan
26. Painting of Decatur Railroad Depot by Warrene M. Mosley, as donated by Ovid and Carol Vickers.
27. Peter Jennings and Todd Brewster, In Search of America, Hyprion Press, New York, New York, 2002, as donated by Alan Mapp
28. Picture collection of Kermit and Jean Jackson, as donated by Jean Jackson
29. 1969 and 1970 Wo-He-Lo annuals, East Central Junior College, as donated by Jean Jackson
30 Haralson Family Records, as donated by Martha Waltman

OTHER INFORMATION;

Progress is being made on the renovation of our new 'home', but it is slow. What they have done thus far looks good. I am going to Decatur Monday and if there has been much done, I will send you a progress report. We are eager to get in the building. Ann Burkes and I are going to do some measuring on Monday so we will know where to place things when we can move.

If you haven't checked the web site lately, please do so. I think you will be pleasantly surprised at how much Carol Shrader has done. It really looks good and has lots of information on it.
Bess

March 2004 Minutes:

On March 13, 2004, at the Newton county Human Resources Building, the NCHGS held its regular meeting with 33 members and guests attending. The meeting was called to order by the president with Bob Caldwell leading the pledge to the flag. The president welcomed the members and visitors after which the minutes were read and approved and the treasurer’s report approved.

An audio visual presentation on the new state archives, named William F. Winter Archives and History Building, was made by De’Nieceshi Comans Layton, historian with the department. The audience was impressed with the new building and the resources which can now be more accessible to the public. The building is located at North and Amite Streets very near the old building with adequate parking.

Committee reports included the budget report. A report on the search for gravesites of the vicitms of the Chunky Train Wreck in 1863 by Emory Morgan noted that 97 gravesites were located. Another committee report was from the World War II group who are encouraging everyone to circulate questionnaires. These forms are available at the Archives office or from Ralph Gordon, Harold Graham or other volunteers. This committee is trying to document the 3,000 or more soldiers who served during WWII to be published in a book.

Rachel Justice, granddaughter of Keith and Virginia Justice, had donated a copy of Keith Justice’s book FRIENDS AND NEIGHBORS. The group observed a moment of silence in honor of this couple who had been friends to the NCHGS.

For our next meeting, April 10, Greg Boggan will provide a program on “The Story of
Jack Amos.” This will be an interesting program since Greg has done extensive research on Jack Amos and the Chunky Train Wreck.

Donations and acquisitions:

1. George Benet Shealy and Nancy Elaine Shealy, Shealy Family Genealogy, 1752-1992, Dutch Fork Chapter of the South Carolina Genealogical Society, Chapin, South Carolina, Vols. I-IV, 1996, as donated by Elsie Hagan.

2. Cash donation—J. Wren Harris, Jr. and Beverly Harris

3. Keith L. Justice, Friends & Neighbors, Eseff Press, Union, Mississippi, 1998, as donated in the memory of Keith and Virginia Justice by their granddaughter, Rachael Justice, and other members of the Justice family

4. Newton County, Mississippi, General Index to Colored Marriages, 1972-1940, (Selected Names), as compiled and donated by Charlie Chapman

5. Levin E. Culpepper, The Descendants of Joseph Culpepper, Lauderdale County Department of Archives and History Publication # 307, n/d, as donated by Harold Graham

6. Jim Dawson, History of Liberty Baptist Church, Sumter County, Alabama, Lauderdale County Department of Archives and History Publication #9, 1992, as donated by Harold Graham

7. 112 Years of National Geographic Magazine (32 cd set), as donated by Hugh Eatmon

8. Familytreemaker Military Records (collection of 12 cds), as donated by Hugh Eatmon

9. Hickory Log (school annual), Hickory High School, 1948, as donated by Bobby Caldwell

10. Wo-He-Lo (college annual), East Central Junior College, 1951, as donated by Bobby Caldwell

11. Harris, Sumner, McLain & Hollingsworth Picture Album, December 25, 2002, prepared and donated by J. Wren Harris, Jr.

12. Computer and monitor donated by Beth Leggett

Bess Hollingsworth
Secretary

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