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Journey To Mount Athos
Written by Fr. Michael Shanbour
“The Balance Beam of Righteousness”
Reflections of a Journey to the Holy Mountain of Athos
The Journey Begins
It was the opportunity of a lifetime for one born in the heartland of America, never having traversed across an ocean or set foot on another continent. Yet upon the invitation of an Orthodox friend originally from Thessaloniki, with the blessing of our Metropolitan PHILIP, and by God’s inscrutable grace and providence, the journey began from the heartland of the new world to the “spiritual heart” of the whole world and the heart-beat of Orthodox Christianity -- the Holy Mountain of Athos.
This most beautiful of three peninsulas jutting out from the region of Chalkidiki in southeastern Greece is renown for both the breathtaking beauty of its flowering desert landscape and endless blue sea, and as a heavenly “garden” which has produced some of the most fragrant flowers of Orthodox spirituality throughout the centuries. Saints Athanasios and Peter of Athos, St. Gregory Palamas, and innumerable others, known and unknown, have been glorified by the Most Holy Trinity upon this isolated mountain.
According to the oral tradition associated with the life of the Theotokos, and the living tradition of Athos, the mountain was consecrated for future generations by her physical presence and prayers in the years after the Resurrection of Christ (around 52 AD). As our Lady and the Apostle John sailed from Jerusalem to Cypress with the intention of visiting St. Lazarus (the friend of Christ and then Bishop of Cypress), their craft was forced off course by a violent storm from the Mediterranean to the Aegean Sea, and washed ashore at that future site of Orthodox monasticism. The Theotokos, overwhelmed by its beauty, asked her Son and Lord to consecrate it and place it under her protection. For this reason the monks of Athos consider their agion oros (Holy Mountain) “the garden of the Theotokos.”
Ancient geographers mention six towns on the peninsula in the centuries before Christ, and it is explicitly named for the first time in relation to the Persian expedition against the Greeks in 493 BC. (It is worth noting that the Persian fleet met with terrible disaster from bad weather and were forced to call off the invasion). It is said that by the 4th century the area was completely Christianized. Despite the good intentions of scholars who have insisted that the monastic life on Athos could have began only as early as the 9th century, recent archeological digs near existing monasteries have revealed the buried foundations of large churches or monastic structures dating from at least the 5th century.
Our personal pilgrimage began in Thessaloniki with the visiting of some of the many glorious churches of that city, both ancient and modern. Among the oldest and most awe-inspiring is the Church of St. Demetrios, the resting place of the Great Martyr himself. The current structure erected in the 5th century was built upon an older church dedicated to the martyr which itself was built partially upon the ruins of ancient Roman baths. The remnants of both are clearly seen in the underground portion of the Temple. Within these catacombs, hiding places of the early Christians, is built a small shrine on the very spot that St. Demetrius gave the ultimate sacrifice and witness to the Resurrection of the Savior. In a small chapel within the larger Temple lies his tomb, where we knelt in joy and prayed for his holy intercessions, and in another place his head is encased for veneration.
Another 5th century Church Temple in the heart of Thessoloniki is the Acheiropoietos or Great Church of the Theotokos, also built on the ruins of a Roman baths complex. This church holds the unfortunate distinction of being the first in Thessaloniki to be converted into a mosque when the city fell to the Ottoman Turks in 1430. It is adorned by beautiful ancient mosaics and intricately designed colonnades. A fresco of the Forty Martyrs dates from the 13th century.
In contrast, the current “Rotunda of St. George” was built by Galerius Caesar in 306 AD as a pagan temple. It was converted into a Christian Church in the 5th century dedicated to the archangels. Only very small remnants of icons and mosaics exist today in the massive open space of the Rotunda which is crowned by a brick dome 30 meters in height, due to its conversion into a mosque in 1590 as well as the earthquake which struck the city in 1978. This beautiful, cosmically spacious Temple is currently under reconstruction.
The city of Thessaloniki was liberated from the Ottomans in 1912, and since that time a great deal of restorative work has taken place, with many churches being re-opened for Orthodox worship and the construction of new church temples and monasteries as well. While centuries of Turkish occupation as well as modern secularism has taken its toll, the streets of Thessoloniki are sprinkled with tangible reminders of the Apostolic Faith which act as a “leaven” raising the heart to God and to eternal life. As one walks along the busy streets of the city lined with cafe’s and dress shops, it is not uncommon to find a small church tucked away inconspicuously as a prayerful refuge from the noise and bustling of modern life. Along the sidewalks outside of every Orthodox Church stands one or more “parakleses,” a small, covered icon shrine, where passers-by may duck in at any time during the day or night to light a candle and pray on their way to work or school. How incredibly refreshing to leave the confusion of “this world” behind and enter into the realm of the Kingdom of God, even if for a few minutes, to “sanctify the time” and remember that all of life is to become a continual “sacrifice of praise” to God. How would our American culture be changed by such simple incarnations of the love of God for mankind and the sacramental nature of life?
Despite the secularization which has effected all of Europe, we found evidence of a relentlessly unshakable foundation of Orthodox Faith with deep roots planted long ago. It was our blessing to attend Vespers at the Church of St. Charalambos, a parish church owned by the Athonite monastery of Simonopetra. Speaking casually with the priest’s 18 year old son after the service, we were struck by this authentic continuity of living faith deeply-woven in the fabric of his family. The young man’s grandfather, late in life, had retired to a monastery on Mount Athos, with his grandmother living in prayer at a monastery in Thessaloniki; an Uncle also lives the life of prayer on Athos; one of his sisters entered the monastic life at age 14; he himself desired to follow his father into the Holy Priesthood; and his family line also contained martyrs for the Orthodox Faith.
Traveling just outside Thessaloniki we visited a new holy site, established by a saint of our times, the Elder Paisios from Cappadocia and of Mount Athos (+1994). This wonderworking man of God, who’s life was forseen by St. Arsenios of Cappadocia who baptized him, founded the women’s monastery of St. John the Theologian here. Speaking with one of the original nuns, we found out that Elder Paisios took great pains to establish the monastery at the request of a small group of young women who came to him for help and guidance in the 1960’s. Revered as a Saint in his lifetime, he has come to be known and venerated by thousands all over the world.
The Holy Mountain of Athos
Soon it was time to prepare for our journey on the Holy Mountain. A few necessary items frugally chosen were placed into our backpacks, and we departed for Ouranopolis on the northeast side of the peninsula of Athos. From there we journeyed southward along the coast by boat on the Aegean Sea, catching our first distant glimpses of the breathtaking beauty which two of us had only read about. The pages of a book, however, cannot contain the spiritual light and anticipation, and the majestic, almost surreal sight of large, ancient monasteries cloistered awkwardly and yet somehow naturally within the rocky landscape, each with its own history, its own story, its own treasure of holy relics, and its own venerable list of holy ones.
Complimenting the large, jutting monastic structures were many smaller enclosures and dwellings inconveniently tucked into rocky crevices high up and swallowed up immediately by the surrounding green brush and above by unending blue sky. In such a place where one should feel uncomfortable, a visitor, a foreigner, the atmosphere was congenial and “earthy,” simple and unpretentious. The mountain seemed to welcome and humbly embrace all those who were coming to her, whether in prayerful reflection or with the curiosity, skepticism, or pride of a novice. All of us on the boat seemed to share in a quiet kinship and comrodery. We who perhaps did not “belong” there were received without a hint of condescension or spirit of judgment by the sea, or the terrain, or more especially by the inhabitants of this place.
Upon docking at our point of departure, we strapped on our backpacks and began a thirty-minute climb up a steep, twisting rocky path toward our first destination -- the Kalyve of Danielioi in the desert region of Katounakia. This little “brotherhood,” resting 300 meters above sea level, had been founded and built by the blessed Elder Daniel from Smyrna, with its church completed in 1903. The elder had founded the brotherhood after many years of toil and prayer in the larger monasteries, and having his love for God tried by the fire of many trials, for which God poured upon him many gifts of grace. It is reported that he knew the entire Philokalia by heart. (See Contemporary Ascetics of Mount Athos, Vol. One, St. Herman of Alaska Brotherhood). He was supported and encouraged by his contemporary and friend, St. Nectarios, Bishop of Pentopolis, whom he had met on Athos and with whom he maintained a close bond. Since St. Nectarios visited the brotherhood several times, and contributed both financially and spiritually to the brotherhood from its initial stages, he is considered the “first abbot” and patron Saint.
We were awe-struck to discover that we were walking on the same ground that the highly revered and God-bearing Nectarios had walked, and we were moved greatly upon venerating a precious and fragrant relic and skufia (cap) of the same. The chapel of Danielioi is dedicated to All Saints of the Holy Mountain, and so it possesses the largest collection of officially glorified Saints of Mount Athos. Among other relics we venerated were those of St. Peter of Athos, St. Gregory Palamas, and St. Nicodemus of the Holy Mountain. The current abbot (also the cook and iconographer) and the priests of the brotherhood tended to us with great warmth and hospitality. We were treated as ones with an equal share in the Faith. We ate together, prayed together each day, and spoke at some length (to the extent that the schedule of the monks allowed) on practical and theological topics.
Each day began at 4am with Orthros and Divine Liturgy, and lasting 4-5 hours. Despite struggling with an occasional flood of fatigue, we emerged from services refreshed and strengthened, with the sweet Byzantine melodies resonating in our spirits.
The monks spoke of the importance of unity and charity within the Church, above all else, while always desirous to maintain the Tradition which leads us to communion with the living God. “Everyone can fight, but not everyone can love,” said one hieromonk with a profound simplicity that seemed to pierce into the heart. Here there was no dichotomy or superficial separation between the “external” and “internal” life of Orthodoxy. There was not the incessant questioning about “rules” and “exceptions,” but rather a commonsensical and personalized understanding of the way that leads to Life. On the Holy Mountain fasting was not something talked about, but done, whereas with many of us it is too often the other way around. “Fasting is not the goal,” said one monk, “nor is asceticism the goal; nor is even our prayer rule the goal, but the goal is communion with God.”
Yet looking into his eyes, and hearing his words, it was clear that the love and grace of God which characterized his gestures, his countenance, and his being had been forged in humility and obedience through fasting, asceticism, and prayer. He who lived out the Orthodox Tradition most strictly himself, was the first to meet others with understanding and flexibility wherever possible. Whereas we often approach Orthodox life by imposing a “formula” upon an “imaginary person” without regard to his or her understanding, ability, or experience, in contrast we observed a primary concern for the individual without disregard or compromise for the means of spiritual ascent. This approach is consonant with the quintessential question of the Gospel that each of us must ask: “What must I do to be saved?” This is the way of balance and spiritual progress, the way of the Cross -- “the balance beam of righteousness.”
After a bitter-sweet farewell, more gracious hospitality, and being showered with gifts of icons and books (more weight for our backpacks!) we continued our pilgrimage. Making brief stops at St. Anne’s Skete, where we were blessed to venerate a relic of the mother of the Theotokos, and at Dionysiou Monastery where we viewed incredible 14th century frescos of scenes from the Book of Revelation, we continued on to Agios Pavlos. The Monastery of St. Paul is mentioned in documents as early as 972 AD. Here we met novices and monks from many backgrounds. A former traveling lay preacher of the Greek Church showed us to our room and spoke enthusiastically of his upcoming tonsure to the monastic life. After Vespers we were unexpectedly greeted with a smile and welcomed with words in both English and Arabic by a novice from Homs, Syria. The man, who was clearly happy to have made his way to the Holy Mountain, was named after the early martyr from his own town, Elian (Julian) of Homs. The same day we met a Russian Priest who had resided at St. Katherine’s Monastery on Mount Sinai for many years, and who spoke five languages, including Greek, Arabic, and English. Earlier in our pilgrimage we had been fortunate to meet a Russian Priest who serves at the Diveyevo Monastery, founded by St. Seraphom of Sarov.
At St. Paul’s we were given a tour of the monastery library by the groundskeeper (the librarian was on official business outside the monastery) which held several very ancient and interesting books and artifacts. We were joined by a group of German site-seers as well as two Orthodox Christians from Poland (representing, as they said, only 4% of their countrymen). Again we received blessing upon blessing by venerating the Gifts of the Magi, the relics of the Apostles Andrew and Bartholomew, the hand of St. Damian the Unmercenary Healer, and the foot of St. Gregory the Theologian. The monastery also had in its possession the icon which was venerated secretly by the Empress Saint Theodora during the time of the reign of her iconoclastic husband, Theophilus. One of the largest existing pieces of the Precious Cross of the Lord is brought out for veneration only once each year on the Feast of the Exaltation of the Cross.
After services the next morning we continued on to our final destination, Gregoriou Monastery. Following the hike of all hikes, we arrived and settled into the monastery established in the middle of the 14th century. Gregoriou is known as one of the best organized of those on Athos. Services and chanting were prayerful and orderly within the walls of a (relatively) small katholikon (main church) beautifully adorned almost completely with frescos dating from the latter part of the 18th century (the originally 14th century icons were tragically destroyed by fire). These icons were written around the time the Brittish colonies were becoming the United States of America!
We were attended to primarily by a monk of ten years from England, a second generation Greek, who had at one time sought to distance himself from the Church of his parents. It was to my great surprise when, on the feast day of Ss. Constantine and Helen (old calendar) I was escorted into the holy altar to concelebrate Divine Liturgy at that holy place! Still in the Paschal season, I was asked several times to sing Christ is Risen in English, and later was asked by one hieromonk to write the Paschal Troparion for him in our language. It seemed that it brought the monks great joy to know that the Faith of the Apostles was alive and well in America.
Among the great treasures there were the head of St. Photini, the Samaritan woman at the well and equal-to-the-Apostles, the forehead of St. Panteleimon, St. Anastasia of Rome, and the hand of St. Makrina, the sister of St. Basil and St. Gregory of Nyssa.
Now there was only the task of going down from the mountain, a more formidable task than ascending it. To go back into the world, to remain detached from the snares of the devil and the flesh, and to be attached ever-increasingly to the Holy Trinity, this is the “impossible” task (“with God all things are possible”) that is given to most of us. May Christ our true God, who said, “Without Me you can do nothing,” equip us for such a task. To Him be glory, thanksgiving, and worship, with His Unoriginate Father, and His All-Holy, Good, and Lifegiving Spirit. Amen.


The toponym itself, “Tria Castella”, seems to refer to three castles that today are not preserved, but which do appear engraved in the bell tower of Triacastela, although it could also refer to three castros: Triacastela, Lagares and San Adrián. At present, there are very important finds at the Cova Eirós site, which demonstrate the settlement of the area by Neanderthals, which means that since Prehistory these lands were the main step for human migrations.
The current town of Triacastela, Vilanova de Triacastela, was founded by King Alfonso IX in 1228. During the nineteenth century their lands were stages of struggle against Napoleonic troops and Carlist confrontations.
Its rugged relief forms a typical mountain landscape since it is situated geographically in the foothills of the Galician Eastern Sierras. It limits to the north with the municipalities of Láncara and Becerreá; to the south and the west with Samos; and to the east with As Nogais and Piedrafita de O Cebreiro.
The municipal term of Triacastela is conformed by eight parishes: To Balsa, Cancelo, Lamas, Monte, Santalla, Toldaos, Triacastela and Vilavella, by which they distribute some thirty nuclei of population.
By Google Translate
–MUNICIPAL FAIR: In the square of the Town Hall of Triacastela.
Day 28 of each month.
–CRAFTS FAIRS: Holy Saturday.
–CORPUS FESTIVITY: May/June.
–FESTIVITIES OF THE MONTH OF JUNE: Day 13 Festivity of San Antonio (Meizarán, Vilar and A Balsa).
Day 29 Feast of San Pedro (Biduedo).
–FESTIVITIES OF THE MONTH OF JULY: Day 25 Feast of St. James the Apostle (Cancelo).
–FESTIVITIES OF THE MONTH OF AUGUST: Day 15 Festivity of the Virgin (Sta Mª do Monte and Vilavella).
Day 17 Feast of San Mamede (San Mamede and Triacastela).
–FESTIVITIES OF THE MONTH OF SEPTEMBER: First Sunday Festival of San Adrián (Santalla de Alfoz).
Second Sunday Romería of the Virgin of Carmen (Lamas de Biduedo).
Third Sunday Festival of the Virgin of the Remedies (The Interns).
By Google Translate


Information about the breed
The Polish Tatra Shepherd Dog is an ancient regional race, but its career as a breed is fairly new. The shepherds took it fast and loose with the appearance. Their dogs, meant to guard their homes, property and cattle had to be reliable guardians, keeper and helper (czuvac), which means able to work independently and be cautious with strangers. They needed to be strong, but also agile and intelligent enough to be able to compete against wolves and bears. Because of the sheep, preference was given to white dogs.
It was only after the First World War that there was a split between the different types of white mountain dogs and they became various breeds.
During World War I the Polish army also sought resistant dogs in the country and thus many “owczarki” from the Podhale region were annexed by the army. They worked among others as messenger dog, scout dog, ammunition carrier, sled dog, service dog, rescue dog and guide dog. In 1937 an exhibition was held in Zakopane of these all-rounders. Plans were made to establish an independent club and a standard had to be drawn up. Unfortunately these plans were abruptly ended as World War II broke out. The Tatra Shepherd Dog was considered a soldier and whether they were in the army or not, they suffered heavily from this. The end of the war seemed to be the end of this ancient breed. But the Tatra Shepherd Dog dog had learned to survive over thousands of years.
In 1956 there were 110 Tatra Shepherd Dogs on the exhibition in Zakopane and they began again restoring the breed.
A breed club was established, a standard formatted and one began selecting breeding stock. Dr. Dereziński has played a very important role here, he has represented the interests of the Tatra Shepherd Dog and without his commitment to the breed, it would not be on the level what it is today.
In 1967 the first breed standard is accepted by the Federation Cynologique International (FCI), ever since they are officially called Polski Owczarek Podhalański.


|Haydu during her 2012
Pioneer Hall of Fame induction.
World War II veteran Bernice “Bee” Falk Haydu, WAI 42360, a member of the Women Airforce Service Pilots (WASP) will be awarded an honorary doctorate degree from Vaughn College during its commencement ceremony on Saturday, May 16, 2015. The ceremony will be held in the William B. DeCota Hangar beginning at 10 a.m. Queens Borough President Melinda Katz will deliver the commencement address to more than 150 graduates.
Bee was among the first women to fly military airplanes for the Army Air Force. As president of the WASP organization from 1975 to 1978, she led the fight in Congress to recognize the WASP as veterans more than three decades after the end of the war. The bill was signed into law by President Carter in 1977, and allowed the WASP access to Veterans Administration benefits.
In 2000, Bee was inducted into the New Jersey Aviation Hall of Fame and her original uniform is on display in the Smithsonian Air and Space Museum. In 2012 she was inducted into the Women in Aviation International Pioneer Hall of Fame, and in 2014 she received the FAA’s Wright Brothers Master Pilot Award.
“Bernice Falk Haydu is an outstanding patriot and it is our pleasure to award her with an honorary doctor of science degree and recognize her service to this country,” said Sharon B. DeVivo, Vaughn College president. “She also spent her life devoted to aviation and blazed a path for women in this industry and we are thrilled to salute all of her achievements. WASP have assured that women pilots everywhere are recognized for their achievements and receive the acknowledgement they deserve.”


AINSDALE CONGREGATIONAL CHURCH (1878 - 1973)
Ainsdale Congregational church was founded in the mid 1800's. The original premises was above the old Bank (What is now Morrells bar). The current building was constructed in 1878.
The first minister of the new church was the Reverend Samuel France. It appears (from the archives), he was appointed Minister after the opening of the new church. It is unknown who, if anyone, led the church prior to 1878. Reverend Samuel France acted as minister of the church until 1885. On 24th February 1888, whilst holidaying in New Amsterdam (now New York), aged 35, the Reverend became ill and died following a short illness. A plaque was placed in the Sanctuary in his honour.
There is no information on the ministers following, however, Reverend J.S Drummond, whose tenure took the church through the first World War, lost his son Corporal Alan Drummond within his first year of service to the church.
Towards the end of his tenure, Reverend Drummond began to sharing his preaching role with, Ronald Hardy, a 17 year old Sunday scholar.
AINSDALE UNITED REFORMED CHURCH (1973 - 2014) (Worshiping with Cornerstone Baptist Church since 2008)
In 1973, the congregational and presbyterian churches joined together as one church. This was a national merger, therefore Ainsdale Congregational Church became Ainsdale United Reformed Church. Prior to the merger, Reverend Walter Lazenby led the congregation through the change and into the new era. Shortly after the merger's success and the settlement of the congregation, Reverend Lazenby retired from the ministry.
Following the departure of Reverend Brian Acty in 1995, the church found itself with a dwindling congregation, a small amount of church elders and no minister...all hope seemed lost. Fortunately, in early 1996, God provided the answer. Reverend Robert Shallcross arrived at the church, also the minister at Formby U.R.C, he was able to share his time between the two churches. Reverend Shallcross saw the church through some major changes. One of which was the redevelopment of the church garden into a wonderful space open to the community.
In 2007/2008 the church again faced possible closure but in 2008, they joined with the local baptist congregation, Cornerstone Baptist Church to form a Local Eccumenical Partnership.
The "official" merger took some time to finalise and during this time, Reverend Shallcross had been called to take care of three struggling churches in Liverpool and departed in 2009. He was succeeded by Reverend Peter Lyth who took on the role of interim minister before becoming the church's official minister when we joined the Southport and Formby Team Ministry.
AINSDALE VILLAGE CHURCH (2014 - Present)
After 8 years of worshipping together, Ainsdale United Reformed Church and Cornerstone Baptist Church were officially and legally merged, forming Ainsdale Village Church. In 2014, a special service was held in the church. It was led by U.R.C Moderator Reverend Jackie Embry, as well as Baptist Moderator, Reverend Phill Jump. Present were members of both churches, both past and present, with invitations extended to Reverend Robert Shallcross and Cornerstone leaders Ralph and Margaret Gower.
In 2015 we were lucky to take part in a ministerial exchange with Rev. Alan Missen along with his wife Sue, who joined us for 3 months from Rangiora (South Island, New Zealand).
In late 2022, Reverend Hillary Smith moved to the village after joining the Team Ministry following the departure of Reverend Janet Calderley.
Ministers 1878 - Present Day
1878 to 1885
1885 to 1891
1891 to 1894
1894 to 1913
1913 to 1915
1915 to 1920
1920 to 1928
1928 to 1933
1933 to 1944
1944 to 1949
1949 to 1953
1953 to 1962
1962 to 1973
1973 to 1982
1982 to 1990
1984 to 1989
1990 to 1995
1996 to 2009
Reverend Samuel France
Reverend Frederick Smith
Reverend J.W McEwan
Reverend Gibson Deauville
Reverend B. Hargreaves
Reverend James Siddall Drummond
Reverend Frederick William Nicholson
Reverend John Bather Herring
Reverend Frederick William Nicholson
Reverend Wiliam John Leslie Paxton
Reverend David Arthur Haries
Reverend Frederick William Richard Lines
Reverend Walter Cecil Lazenby
Reverend William Wright
Reverend Stuart Jackson
Reverend Wilson Morris
Reverend Brian Acty
Reverend Robert Shallcross
Reverend Peter Lyth
Reverend Hilary Smith
Inducted on Tuesday, April 13th 1954 (7:00pm)
Inducted on Wednesday, June 12th 1963 (7:30pm)


The blues songs became popular in the United States during the early 1900’s. Guitar, piano and harmonica were the fundamental blues instruments. Blues style had started using largely the instrumental kind of music but afterwards singing played an essential role in many blues tunes. This music has been mainly originated from the African American community at the southern United States. The source of this design is also closely linked to the spiritual music of the African American community. The first blues tunes were played with slaves and poorer white people mainly communicating regret and defiance. Afterwards the design developed into different forms like nation and played a fantastic part in development of rock and roll.
This type of music got the name “Blues” in 1925. The name “The Blues” which meant despair came in the one-act farce “Blue Devil” from George Coleman. The “Dallas Blues” was the tune given by Hart Wand that was illustrated and became the very first copyrighted blues article. The design blues could be further afield ranging from nation to blues. Delta, Piedmont, Jump and Chicago Blues designs are the most well-known forms of the blues music form. The design transformed from acoustics to electric blues and from 1970 a new form called Blues-Rock arrived in.
From 1900 the music transferred from team performances to more of individualized fashions. A couple of characteristics remained prevalent in all forms of blues songs. Yet things like call-and-response cries were current long before the invention of modern blues. From a vocal music of slaves, the blues evolved to a vast array of fashions in usa. However, no particular African American music could be identified because the only ancestor of the blues. The listed music of blues are located from as back as 1920’s.
The background and music of blues stays to be somewhat critical for America. The tunes and guitar playing styles provided by the Blues were accommodated by various additional music. The Blues singing and guitar approaches became the heart of American musical arrangement. The guitar methods and vocal phrasings continue to be followed in the majority of the fashions of contemporary modern music. Each of the American music is rooted in the Blues. You can get more information at bluesrevue site.


The Roosevelt New Orleans, A Waldorf Astoria Hotel123 Baronne Street (1/2 in from Canal Street)New Orleans, LA 70112, US
Reservations open March 31, 2018
A Legendary History
Many hotels believe they've got a memorable past. But it's few who can say their history is rooted in legends. And it's even fewer who have had 80 miles of highway built, just so the governor could get his favorite drink. The legend of Huey P. Long and the Airline Highway is just one of so many that define our brilliant foundation in the early 1900s.
The Roosevelt Hotel and the land on which it sits are filled with history. In the 1830s, the era was home to the State Capitol, Charity Hospital, Christ Episcopal Church, and the mansions of famed Louisianians of French and Spanish descent. That period culminated in 1893 with the opening of the lavish Grunewald Hotel, built by Bavarian-born businessman Louis Grunewald to replace the Grunewald Hall performing arts center. It was so successful, that by 1900, they began acquiring the adjoining property. At the stroke of midnight on New Year's Eve 1907, a 400-room, 14-story annex opened to chimes and whistles.
Located amongst the flurry of excitement on Canal Street, the Grunewald quickly established itself as a centerpiece of the city's acclaimed entertainment scene. The Cave, with its grotto-like atmosphere, filled with architectural rock formations, nymphs and gnomes, was largely regarded as one of the country's first nightclubs, and kept revelers up all hours of the night, dancing to the early sounds of Dixieland jazz.
Though the famous basement nightclub closed when the Grunewald era ended, the tradition of entertainment lived on at The Roosevelt's new venues––The Blue Room and The Sazerac Bar. Famous, infamous and anonymous alike all flocked to The Roosevelt for live performances or just to grab a drink at the legendary establishments.
Though we have had many identities in the past, it was during The Roosevelt years that we became known as the beacon of luxury in the South. As a revolving door of the time's most famous faces––Louis Armstrong, Cab Calloway, Ray Charles and Jack Benny, just to name a few––we've established a legend that continues to grow to this day.
Soon after The Fairmont's closing in 2005, the historic property was purchased and plans were made to return it to its original magnificence and former name––The Roosevelt. Now, after a $145 million restoration, it has been reborn with all the grandeur of old New Orleans and the modern amenities that exceed the standards of today's luxury hotels.
How to Get AroundTo reach the hotel from the airport, you may use the airport shuttle which runs 24-hours a day. Upon arrival at the airport, guests can purchase tickets from the Airport Shuttle information desks. These desks are staffed 24-hours a day by informed, responsive tourism personnel who sell shuttle tickets, answer travel-related questions, and offer helpful visitor information about events throughout the city. Passenger vans arrive at and depart from the airport every 10 minutes. If you prefer, you may take a taxi for a flat rate.
Once at the hotel, New Orleans offers various other transportation services including a streetcar system, public buses, and ferries. Visitor passes are available at hotels and shopping areas. The pass entitles you to unlimited rides on all streetcar and bus lines. For additional transportation options, go to www.neworleanscvb.com.


George Stanley, Prime Minister of Felonia, was sat at his desk when Alexander Lloyd - the Chancellor - had confronted him with the letter.
It had been building up since last November. Stanley had been concerned about Felnoy’s health and sanity since that incident at the banquet, but never as much as he was now.
What was especially concerning was the consequences of the old Emperor’s thoughts; he had hidden away in his palace, and shut the doors to any visitors, apparently as a matter of health. Visits of foreign diplomacy had been postponed, which had damaged Felonia’s reputation somewhat.
Then Stanley had received letters from Felnoy, stating policies he wanted introduced. One or two of these were acknowledged, but some were clearly ludicrous; to create a political office for the Emperor was an insane proposition. The Emperor had not had any real control over the happenings of the country for centuries; so much respo


Our HistoryBible Baptist Church of Upper Darby began as a church planting work of Bible Baptist Church in West Chester. For many years, a significant group of people traveled from Delaware County to Chester County to go to church. This gave the leaders of Bible Baptist in West Chester an idea to start a like-minded church in Delaware County. An evangelistic Bible study was begun in the home of one of it’s members. It appeared that through this effort God was confirming His intentions to start a church in Delaware County. Many souls were being saved at this Bible Study so that a nucleus of people was encouraged to form the foundations of this new church.
The first service of Bible Baptist took place on June 28, 1992. A core group of 23 people made up this assembly. After 4 years, Bible Baptist Church became seff-supporting. It incorporated in 1996. God has saved souls through this ministry and brought up servants to follow the Savior. It has been our privilege to serve in outreach ministries such as Haverford State Hospital in the early years and the George W. Hill Correctional Facility later on.


publication design on the documentation of 17th century VOC stones and their new destination
The Ballast Project _
The publication design has two parts; the lefthand side shows the process of the project and the right hand side shows the development of the final art piece. The two parts connect by visual parallels with a direct link to the journey, the history of the VOC-stones and the final art piece. The book also contains the complete administrative paperwork necessary to get the ownership of the 17th century stones.


Liverpool Football Club approached JMU Learning Methods Unit to create a multimedia CD-Rom, for commercial use. The CD would contain Interviews, games, memorabilia, videos, archive footage, club history etc.
Role 3D content creator, Area specific Director
Archive footage, old match programmes, badges, penants, kits, autographs were supplied by fans and collated and then digitized. Five rooms were created, each representing a decade from the 50s to the 90s. Objects in the room were interactive – old cine reels could be taken from a shelf and loaded onto a projector in the 50s room, for example by a simple click and drag method.


Artist Background: Nyurapayia Nampitjinpa, also known as Mrs. Bennett, a Pintupi woman, was born circa 1935 in Yumara. She later moved to Kintore. She was the wife of John Bennett Tjapangati (c.1930-2002), a Pintupi speaker and one of the original artists at Papunya in the 1970’s. Mrs Bennett passed away in 2013. Her works are included in many Australian Public Institutions and private collections.


Mike Skala was the creator of this product and was a genius. After his passing a few years ago, his family worked very hard to learn and keep the company going. It was a struggle at times, but they found a way to honor Mike's commitments and carry on. We have offered technical assistance to them over these last few years and formed a relationship with Sherrie and her daughter. When they mentioned they might be ready to sell, we let them know we would be interested. Over the last year we've been talking about it more and finally in March we purchased the company and drove up to meet Sherrie and learn more about the manufacturing. We are honored they have trusted us with the opportunity to carry on what Mike started many years ago. It's important to us to acknowledge his legacy in these products.


George undertook to replace the old cross at Woodmancote church representing the shed on behalf of Westbourne church. The church was undergoing a restoration program in time for Christmas. This meant sourcing the timber, oak, carving the inscription and assembling the cross and treating the wood ready for installation. Stewart and Terry gave him a hand to erect the new cross and remove the old one. This was completed in the week before Xmas ready for the Christmas services.
The old cross


Wanneroo Joondalup Art Society was officially incorporated 23rd January 2013; this was the culmination of over 38 years of fellow artists forming a bond through their love of all mediums of painting, exhibiting and fellowship.
Perth’s Northern corridor had unprecedented growth in the 1970’s and local Artists were unable to become a member of the only art group, Trigg Art Club, their Membership was capped at 60 and also boundaries were strictly adhered to.
Whitford Art Group began in 1972; they met in the Coffee Lounge at the Duncraig Leisure Centre, their membership soon expanded. They held exhibitions at local shopping centres donating their profits to Camp Quality.
– June 1974 Chris Clarkson put a notice on the board at the Duncraig Recreation Centre
– And in the local paper, asking for interested people to form an Art Group further north. There was an evening meeting and a committee was formed. 70 was to be the membership cut off. Wanneroo Art Society was born. Some Artists were members of both groups.
– 1978 Wanneroo Art Society held three exhibitions at Mullaloo Surf Life Saving Club. Proceeds were donated to the Surf Club. Two Exhibitions a year were held there until 1981.
Norm McGow made the stands for the exhibitions and also won the competition for the Wanneroo Art Society’s first Logo, (Xanthorrhoea), Wanneroo Art Society was incorporated 28th January 1982.
The Whitford group had no one willing to take office or be on the executive, it was also difficult to find a suitable venue for their exhibitions.
In the late 1980’s Whitford Art Club joined the Wanneroo Art Society, with a donation of $2000.00. Whitford Art Club as a stand-alone club ceased to exist.
The combined membership now became 150.
Sir Charles Court, Patron for Wanneroo Art Society opened many exhibitions, adding prestige and recognition to the society.
1991 Because of rebuilding being done to MSLC the Wanneroo Art Society moved down the road to Sorrento Surf Life Saving Club for Exhibitions and meetings – Since then, Sorrento Surf Life Saving Club has been our Exhibition venue each May and September.
With rapid suburban expansion along the northern coast, Joondalup became a major centre. In 1998, a splitting of the City of Wanneroo formed the City of Joondalup, and because the Art Society encompasses the 58 suburbs in both cities, “Joondalup” was added to the name in 2013 to properly reflect this. We are now the Wanneroo Joondalup Art Society.


Here is a list of the modern iranian peoples:
Modern Iranian peoples
Peoples Countries/regions found in
Baloch Pakistan, Iran, Afghanistan
Kurds Iran, Iraq, Turkey, Syria
Ossetians Russia, South Ossetia (Georgia)
Pamiri people Tajikistan
Parsis & Iranis India
Pashtuns Afghanistan, Pakistan, India
Tajiks of China China
Wakhi Afghanistan, Tajikistan, Pakistan, China
my point in posting this list is to point to the fact that virtually all afghans except the Uzbeks are of iranic stock
the turks have central asia and the arabs have north africa and the mideast but we ( Iran, Tajikistan and Afghanistan) only have each other
the motivation behind this information is not a wish to "control" afghanistan/ tajikistan, i just want to revel in my kinship to people beyond iran's current borders
Posted by Nick (afghan):
What you need to know is that Afghans and Iranians (Persians) are of two different origin might share ancestors some 15%-30% of the Persians who some 3000 years ago shared common roots and even so the true ancestors of Most Persians claim ie Medes were only a ruling class not a majority when they reached Iran. But the rest of IRanians are of different race mostly Elamic who are closely linked with Babylon or Assyrians. Where As Afghans (Saka tribes of Sakastan reference Bishtun) helped Medes beat Assyrians in taking control of Susa and Pars "the beauty of all cities" Which has always been the capital of Iranian civilization.
Over all Afghans have always had their own kingdoms, empires and system of ruling infact even different religion at times although Zorastrian came into Iran during 650 BCE but it was very much practiced by Afghans, in fact an Afghan religion.
Ariana was well known nation of Afghanistan, its border does not surpass Tus or Khybar and from Oxus to Markan was all known as Aryana.
I tried my best to link the areas into three old provinces.
-Zawalistan (also known as Seistan/Sistan/Sakastan/Zabolistan) with its famous Zoroastrian---> areas as Bost, (LAshkargah), Archorisia (Kandahar), Zabul, Gerdiz, Jibal (Ghur/Urzagan), Ghazni, Quetta, Zarhanj (Nimroz) and Helmand.
-Pakhtria (Bactria) -->modern Kondoz, Mazar-i sharif, Takharistan, Badakhshan, Baghlan, Samangan, Sar-e-pol. Note Pakhtrian empire included all of Kabulistan)
-Kabulistan-> areas such as Nuristan, Kabul, Parwan, Parachinar, Maydan Shahr, Paktika, Tank, Zhob, Bamian, Chitral, Peshawar,
-Aria, -->Herat, Badghis, and Farah.
No my friend language does not represent blood roots, as we know languages changes all the time like depending on the time and region for example Iran from historical point of view had over 10 famous languages.
language was born with heavy influence of Greek loan words sometimes referred as Parthian Language. Later a during Sassanian a new language came about known as " From 3000 BCE-2000 BCE their language known as Akkadian (Kingdom that ruled most of Iran also known as Elamid with their capital at Susa modern Pars) and from 1950 BCE up to 1000 BCE their language was known as Old Assyrian. From 1000 BCE to 700 BCE their language was Assyrian or Neo-Assyrian. From 650 BCE a new language was born known as Median language of (Medes 750 BCE-650 BCE) were of Aryan origin, by the late Cyrus (king of Anshan) a new language was born known as Old Palavi (550 BCE). By 200 BCE AshkaniNEW Palavi" by the time of Shapur I it enjoyed a great period of fame, by the Afghan Kushanis whom Wahram III or Vahram III (He was known as Ardeshir Niku later Persian named him Ardeshir Kar (donkey) I assume because he was non-Persian) launched his attacks and took over this was the period known as Kushano-Sassanians soon he died his son known as Yazdegerd the Unjest (In fact according to many source he was Just since he allowed many religions like Hinduism and Buddhism again he was not liked because of his origin) from which his son the famous Bahram Ghur and thanks to Kushanis during this period a new version was born known as New Sassanian ;) the mixture of Afghan influence continue to hunt down crown until coming of Islam. From 680 AD up to 1000 AD Arabic was used (However further in the north-West of Iran Arabic was used until late 1300 and 1400 AD. And Now its widely just Savifadi Farsi or known as Persi, in the west known as Persian.
As you can see Language changed over many times does that represent any Race?
In the same fashion Afghans have always went through these steps, Verdic (Book of Famous Rigvada) 3000-2000 BCE, old Awestian 2000-1200 BCE, and from 1200 BCE to 700 BCE Old Pakhtrian was used (Sometimes referred to as Awestian) can be identified as middle Awestian. From 650 BCE-350 BCE Prakṛta was spoken all over Afghan land also known as Prakrit which was the language of Afghanistan and language of our famous writer Paṇini's who created the Aṣṭh-adhyayi (Eight-Chapters) of Verdic Grammar otherwise today Rigvada would of been impossible to to read and understand. New Pakhtrian (also know as new Bactrian) which was the Language of Afghanistan from 300 BCE-150 BCE used loan word from Greeks and the system of writing was also used, by the 150 BCE another language was born from the Kushani which was an old version of Pakhtrian came about also sometimes known as Tokharian used by many Afghan empires such as Kadarites and Abdals (Abdalites) remained until upcomings of Islam. Arabic from 690 AD until 900 AD and from 900 AD Dari and by 14 century old language of Pakhtrian from lost mountains of hindukush came Pakhtu, heavily supported and today has over 20-30 million speakers. And Now we have Pashtu and Dari, (1940 AD-2007 AD)


The marketing team here at Astra Bank recently chatted with Richard Campbell, Chairman of our bank. We asked him a few questions and Richard spoke to us at length about the history and his times with the bank. In a succinct series of blog posts, we are excited to share with you some excerpts from this chat. You’ll read about interesting anecdotes and trace the traditions and roots of a bank deeply rooted in service to the community. We’ll take you through the significant changes that have impacted the banking and financial services industry and how you as customers have always remained the steadfast focus of our operations.
In this forthcoming series of blog posts we will share you with you the highlights of our chat and would welcome your questions, comments and any stories you would like to share with us as a customer of Astra Bank.We look forward to hearing from you!


An Old Home Place with Memories
by Sara Francis Miller
Powder Springs Messenger, April 1995
Near the right-of-way for the turnoff on Powder Springs Marietta Road to Cater Road sits a small yellow weather boarded house. It sits on a hill with a holly tree on the left. This is an old log farm house with two bedrooms and a kitchen. Another room was added on the house after the Civil War.
Here Jonathan Lindley grew wheat, cotton, corn and vegetables for his wife, Asenath and their five children. Nearby neighbors: the Selmans, Hunters and Pettys were friends. Jonathan Lindley like many others went to fight in the Civil War. Unfortunately he list his life in the battle. So his brave wife was left to raise the family. She had determination to make a go of it-even walked to Marietta with two other women to get a peck of meal.
During the war the Yankee soldiers shot in to the front wall of the cabin. The shrapnel splintered the log. A splinter closed the eye of the baby Asenath (Thomas Newell Lindley) was rocking. That very log is now in the museum in the park.
The house has had many owners: Tom Lindley, Fannie Turner, T.H. Scruggs, Mr. Glen Thrasher, Mr. I.L. Bowling and Nash Hovers who worked at Coats and Clark Thread Mill. The last tenants were a granddaughter of Nash Hovers; Angela and her husband Steve Tessereau. They have built a new house on Carter Road. Each family member has the vivid memories of living through wars and depressions and making ends meet regardless of good and poor crop years, stubborn mules, sickness and death.
Moving this historic house will help to make an easier turn for the motorist who may not be aware of the little log house with a shed room added to the back of the house. Hold on to the memories of happy carefree barefoot summers and wading in nearby Noses Creek and finding Indian arrowheads and spent Federal Army bullets.
The Powder Springs Elementary School will celebrate its 30th anniversary in October at this location on Grady Grier Drive.
Douglas Brice, Neighbor Staff Writer, August 11, 1988
For 15 years Grady Grier braved the elements as a school crossing guard, helping the children of Powder Springs and Milford arrive safely at school and home again.
In recognition of his service to the people of Powder Springs, the Powder Springs City Council announced last week that the new street leading to the new Powder Springs Elementary School from Old Austell Road will be named Grady Grier Drive in his honor.
“I think that’s the most appropriate to name the street after him,” said Murray Barber, assistant superintendent for elementary operations for the Cobb County Public Schools.
Barber was principal of Tapp Middle School from 1975-1981, while Grier served as crossing guard. He knew Grier for almost 30 years as a fellow member of the First Baptist Church of Powder Springs before Grier’s death in 1985.
“He was a real friend to the students,” said Barber. “The kids loved him.”
Grier was often on hand at student orientations, even though not required, directing traffic and making himself available to meet parents.
Aaron Grady Grier, known by his friends simply as Grady, died March 22, 1985, at the age of 89. He was married 58 years to Maggie Hays Grier, who died in 1975, and had two sons, Billy and Herbert.
Originally from Cherokee County, Grier worked 35 years at the old Whittier Mills in Atlanta. They moved to Powder Springs in 1956.
Grier drove a school bus for three years in Powder Springs and served as a school crossing guard from April 1969 to 1976 at Milford Elementary School then at Tapp Middle School from 1976 until shortly before his death.
Grier was known as a man who loved people and was always actively involved with his church, the school and with the job of living in general, said Barber. He had a strong faith in God and was always kind and thoughtful.
“He was a person who encouraged others,” said Barber. “One of his favorite pastimes was to call people on the telephone on his or her birthday and, after a brief hello, he played happy birthday to them on the harmonica.”
“Grady Grier’s faith was an inspiration to many,” said Barber.
“He just enjoyed life,” said daughter-in-law Ruth Grier.
Grier joined the First Baptist Church of Powder Springs in the late 1950’s, taught Sunday school, sang in the choir, was a deacon and was involved with the senior citizens’ group.
The Rev. Michael Woods of First Baptist, who came to Powder Springs in 1981, remembers him as a man who seemed much younger than his age, he said. In fact, he practiced in the choir the Friday before he died.
“I never knew Grady to say anything ill about anybody,” said Woods. “He was a man of integrity.
Although Grier seldom discussed his faith in God, “He’s one who just liked (his faith) to the fullest,” said Woods. “I never did see him depressed.
Woods considers it appropriate they named a street next to a school after him, he said.
Grier worked at Tapp until March 1984, when he left for medical reasons, but returned that fall. He stayed until November 1984. He died the following March.
At the time of his death in 1985, he also had two daughters-in-law, Ruth and Nellie Ruth, four grandchildren, nine great-grandchildren, and one great-great grandchild. He had one surviving sister, Lena Hill of Acworth.
A search began in late 2017 for more information on a curious resident of the Methodist cemetery in Powder Springs, GA. On a mid-sized tombstone topped with a carving of a parachuter reads:
Reo Flock Russell
June 19, 1909
Nov 2, 1936
Daredevil Sister of the Fabulous Flock Family
This grave, on the far right side of the cemetery, sits alone as if the family anticipated burying more members alongside Reo. More interesting still is the fact that, judging by the last name of Russell, Reo was apparently married, but still buried alone in a cemetery almost a hundred miles from her hometown of Fort Payne, Alabama. Why? Hearsay from the community agrees that Reo, who was a barnstormer—trick airplane performer—loved the landscape of Powder Springs from the air, and wanted to be buried in the small Western Georgia town. One may think she died performing, as she was only 27 at the time of her death, however, reports are that she suffered from tuberculosis. Apart from a single page on the Encyclopedia of Alabama website*, there isn’t much information on Reo Flock herself, but plenty on her famous brothers, who were early NASCAR racers. In fact, the name “Reo” derived from the REO Motor Car Company. There is a full biography of her family on the EoA website** as well, along with the only known photo of Reo, in which she is hanging from a (grounded) airplane.
Also worthy of mention is Reo’s sister, Ethel Flock, who was included in the book NASCAR: The Complete History by Greg Fielden. On page 19 it states: “A few female drivers, including Sara Christian, Louise Smith, and Ethel Flock, competed alongside with the fellows.” Later, on page 42, there is a captioned photo of Ethel with one of her brothers, and it reads, “Fonty Flock poses with his sister, race car driver Ethel Flock Mobley, before the Oct. 23 Atlanta race. Mobley drove in two Strictly Stock events in ’49, including the Daytona Beach race that has three female drivers in the lineup. Ethel was the wife of Mobley, who fielded modified cars for Tim Flock.” The Encyclopedia of Alabama page related that Ethel moved from women-only races to regular competitions, and even beat two of her brothers in a single race! Her career was short-lived, however, as—according to the EoA—she retired to focus on her family life.
Women in the early to mid-20th century were often regulated to a barely a mention in history, as my sleuthing has proved. In my quest to find more information on the intriguing Reo, I attempted to contact living family members who could vouch for the supposed information, and perhaps offer a more personal account of her life for the records at the Powder Springs Historical Society. Unfortunately, I did not get a response as yet, but have found that a great-niece, Carrie Flock, is a retired boxer. Apparently the Flocks are still producing fierce females!
Powder Springs Methodist Cemetery
3975-4043 Old Austell Road
Powder Springs, GA 30127
HISTORIC METHODIST CEMETERY
POWDER SPRINGS, GEORGIA
The Methodist Cemetery was established in 1847 and is located on the east side of Old Austell Road approximately one mile from historic downtown Powder Springs. It is sometimes referred to as the “old cemetery” and often confused with the neighboring cemeteries across the street – Powder Springs City Cemetery and the Powder Springs Memorial Gardens Cemetery.
The earliest marked burial is dated 1847 and is that of Samuel Cobb Scott born 1776. Samuel was a Captain in the war of 1812 from Abbeville, S.C. He and his wife Jane (who died 1866) are buried at the rear of the cemetery near the wood line that separates the cemetery from the shopping center. Their graves are sunken and marked with field stones. There are also some unmarked graves.
The first Methodist Church was a log cabin that was located on the south side of the present cemetery. The land was owned by Elisha Lindley (1816-1876) and Jane Scott Lindley (1813-1885), who were Charter members of the Methodist Church. They gave this land for both the “Church Building” and the “Methodist Cemetery”. This information was gathered by Sarah Frances Miller for a ‘History of The Powder Springs Methodist Church’ in the 1970’s and is in “A Brief History of the Powder Springs First United Methodist Church” written by Richard T. Huber, Sr., published in 2010.
The Church was officially organized in 1844 and a frame building was constructed on the lot where the present church sets. This land was given by Johnathan Lindley, Jr. (1808-1868), also a charter member.
In the Methodist Cemetery are buried a number of the early families of Powder Springs. These are Baggett’s, Butner’s, Camp’s, DuPre(e)’s, Florence’s, Furr’s, Lindley’s, Landrum’s, Miller’s, Murray’s, McEachern’s, Nestlehutt’s, Ragsdale’s, Rice’s, and Stovall’s. These included merchants of various trades, businessmen, farmers, mayors, and doctors.
There are graves at the very back of the cemetery in the woods that are said to be those of slaves. At one time they were marked with field stones.
Elisha Hamilton Lindley (1816-1876) and Jane Scott Lindley (1813-1885), charter members of the Methodist Church; Johnathan Lindley, Jr. (1808-1868) and Uriah Mathews (1826-1911) Powder Springs first Undertaker in 1850.
Mayor’s of Powder Springs: W. W. Scott (1845-1930); J. H. Lewis (1876- 1946): Frank Furr (1922-1955); Robert Hubert Lindley (1888-1965) and Harry Miller (1896-1975). These are just a few of the Mayors who may be buried in this cemetery.
George David Miller (1867-1955) was one of the first rural male carriers for Powder Springs in the early 1900’s and a City Councilman. The buggy he used to deliver the mail is on display at the Seven Springs Museum. Harry Miller (1896-1975) delivered mail from 1918-1928 who’s route included delivering to the A & M School in Macland (McEachern Schools). Ezma D. Lindley (1879-1950) was Postmaster 1923-1928. Roberta Murray (1888- 1972) was a Postmistress 1915-1922 and known as the first historian of Powder Springs.
Doctor’s: J. D. Middlebrooks (1861-1938) and a City Councilman in the early 1900’s.; J. S. Vaughan (1862-1923) and a City Councilman in the early 1900’s. Robert Rootes Murray (1836-1909), Confederate Army Surgeon and father of Roberta Murray (1888-1972); and William Edgar Butner (1868-1927).
T. N. Lindley (1858-1937) was Marshal in 1901. Thomas A. Parks Lindley (1849-1916) was Marshal in 1900 and 1906. Dotson A. Bennett (1892-1943) was Marshal and night watchman in 1934.
T. N. (Thomas Newell Lindley) (1858-1937) became Undertaker and owner of the funeral home in 1899 when Uriah Matthews sold the business to him. Mr. Lindley had a store and bookstore with a casket room on the back of this business in downtown. At his death, his grandson Pick Lindley took over the funeral home business.
Seaborn Epperson (S.E.) Smith (1871-1940) was the depot agent for the Southern Railway Depot. In 1923 he was also the President of the Bank of Powder Springs. He has a “Woodman of the World” marker. John L. Calloway (1865-1888) and Lindley Murray (1869-1889) both worked for the East Tennessee, Virginia, and Georgia Railroad. Both men were crushed between railway cars in accidents and killed.
John A. Lewis (1853-1926) owned one of the cotton gins in town and built the two story brick building downtown around 1900, that is referred to as The Lewis Building.
William LaFayette Florence (1873-1949) wife Agnes Lindley (1875-1927) His first job was on the East Tennessee, Virginia And Georgia Railroad as a Conductor. Mr. Florence also was the owner of W. L. Florence Construction Company. In 1941, he and his company graded, created and built Rickenbacker Air Field and Highway 41 from Marietta to Atlanta. In 1942 this airfield then became part of the Marietta Aircraft Plant which was Bell Aircraft and better known as the “Bell Bomber Plant”. The air field was later shared by Bell’s successor Lockheed-Martin and Dobbins Air Force Base and the Naval Air Station of Atlanta. His company also built many of the access roads for the plant as well as the railroad underpass. Mr. Florence was also a farmer in Powder Springs where he raised various crops and cattle. Florence Road was named for him and his farm which was where the farm was located.
Francis C. House (1825-1883) was member of Atlanta City Council but resigned in April of 1861 to join the Confederate Army. A few years after the war, Mr. House moved to Powder Springs where he purchased a lot with two buildings at the back of the property in downtown Powder Springs. The two existing building were originally used as a Wells Fargo Way Station, stables and blacksmith shops as early the 1830’s. Mr. House then built the front part of the building facing Marietta Street which he used for his carpentry business. His sons continued to use the back parts as blacksmith’s shops. This is the current Country Store building.
J. B. McCutcheons (1906-1973) was Umpire for Powder Springs Baseball Team in the 1920’s and 1930’s. Ralph Linton “Len” Spratlin (1925 2015) member of the Powder Springs Baseball Team in1947 and 1948. Walter McElreath (1867-1951) was the founder of the Atlanta Historical Society and donated two million dollars to the Society. Mr. McElreath was admitted to the Bar in Marietta but lived and practiced law in Atlanta. He was also a member of the Georgia General Assembly 1909-1912.
On the far right side of the cemetery is a grave that sits alone. The marker is a mid-sized tombstone topped with a carving of a parachute that reads: Reo Flock Russell, June 19, 1909 – Nov 2, 1936. Reo Flock was a ‘barnstormer’ during the 1920’s and 1930’s. She was a trick airplane performer, stunt parachutist, as well as an expert Skeet Shooter. Reo loved the landscape of Powder Springs from the air, which was part of the flight pattern for airplanes at that time. It is said that this is the reason Reo wanted to be buried here.
Sarah Frances Miller (1918-2002) was a Powder Springs Historian whose family were long time residences of the Powder Springs community. She was an educator for over 35 years in Cobb County; a charter member and President of the Seven Springs Historical Society; the Historian of the Mimosa Garden Club; one of the historians of the First Baptist Church and charter member of and Co-Secretary and Treasurer of the Powder Springs Senior Center. Miss Miller was the driving force behind the creation of the Seven Springs Museum where she served as President and curator for many years. She also co-authored the cookbook “Seven Springs Sampler” which is a history of Powder Springs with drawings of some the older homes along with recipes plus information about herbs. Miss Miller was also named the South Cobb Citizen of the Year on May 21, 1992 by the Austell/South Cobb Rotary Club and the South Cobb Division of the Cobb County Chamber of Commerce. She received an award/statue of a bronze Eagle on an American Flag.
There are also numerous Veterans from various wars buried here. These are only a few of those Veterans. A ‘Thank You’ always to all our Veterans no matter when or how they served their country.
War of 1812 – Samuel Cobb Scott (1776-1847).
War Between the States (American Civil War) – Elisha H. Lindley (1816-1876) and his son William R. Lindley (1840-1863). They both served in the same Company in the Confederate Army. William was killed in battle on 11-29-1863 and his father brought his body back home for final burial. William J. Manning (1843-1915); Elijah N. Ragsdale (1814-1909); Bellington Sanders Florence (1829-1887); and William Y. Stovall (1824-1900). James Rice (1810-1889) enlisted in 1863 at Powder Springs.
World War I – George M. Furr (1891-1980); Grady H. Furr (1897-1976); Robert Hubert Lindley (1888-1965); John R. Middlebrooks (1889 1921). Thomas J. McDonald (1887-1960); John Hansel Baggett, Jr. (1897-1977); William R. Bennett (1890-1948) medic: Luke T. Mizell (1878 1938) Coast Guard (1899-1903) served in the Philippines in 1900.
World War II – Milton Bowden (1920-1981); Robert Murray Middlebrooks Turner (1917-1997); Billy Dean Roper (1927-1981); Robert P. Boyd (1910-1979)
There are memorial markers throughout the cemetery honoring the lives and families of those buried here in their final resting place.
The Methodist Cemetery has approximately 900 graves. There is still room for many other graves, even today in 2018.
All those buried here have left our community a better place just by choosing to settle and living their lives here.
Papa was George David Miller, 1867-1955
Grandfather to Sara Frances Miller
A buggy that he used to deliver the mail is on display at the Seven Springs Museum
Early Postal Service Established in Mid-1800’s
by Sara Frances Miller
Powder Springs Messenger, April 1995
Letters were a way of communicating before the telephone. Post offices were established in each little community for the convenience of the people. We had post offices at Lost Mountain, Upshaw, Brownsville, Moon Station, Storey’s Store and Powder Springs.
Myrtle Kilgore says that there was a post office at Brownsville because she remembers hearing her mother talk about it. The mail came twice a week and they received a paper that was published twice a week.
Myrtle says she thinks the post office was in the old store which is no longer standing. The Brownsville post office was established on March 21, 1860, and discontinued February 28, 1906.
Moon Station was established September 6, 1895 and discontinued November 14, 1902. The post master was Mary E. Rakeshaw.
The Springville (now Powder Springs) post office was established April 11, 1836. An early post office in Powder Springs was in the lobby of the Lindley House Hotel. The office was moved across the street to a small wooden building on the corner where the Pat Mell hardware store is now located.
From there it moved to the spot where Taylor’s Upholstering Company was located in 1964. In 1915, Dave Miller built a marble front building on the north side of Marietta Street for the post office.
In August 1964, the post office was moved to a new building which J. B. McTyre built to lease to the government. This building was built on Pine View Drive.
The Untied States government built a $368,000 facility on Old Austell Road in October 1976. This office is more than five times as large as the old post office on Pine View Drive.
No government service has been more appreciated by the people than the rural free delivery routes. Tom Watson was one man who worked hard to secure this service for the farmers. This service began in 1902. There were four routes going out from the Powder Springs Post Office. The first mail carriers were G. D. Miller, John Hughey, Bud Moon, and Henry Morris.
These men carried their route by walking, riding a bicycle or driving a horse and buggy over the mudyy, unpaved roads. Among others who had later routes were Clem Chandler, Harry C. Miller, Judge Russe Wood Brannon Thomas, Carl Yarbrough, Bob Burkett, Lynn Garmor and Ronald Wolfe.
Clerks in the office included Dovie Bookout, Maude Westbrooks, Roy Tapp, Sarah Leake, Ray Hardy, Sharon Fawcett, Evelyn Elliott, Gladys Wallace, Linda Brantley and others.
Before automobiles were used, two of the carriers bought mail wagons. These wagons were enclosed and pulled by a horse. John McKenney had a red wagon and Dave Miller had a green wagon. There was a sign painted on the side that read “Mail Wagon.”
Sewell Kellett told the members of the Ruritan Club to get the houses in town numbered. Once this was done he appealed to Congressman John Davis to get city delivery.
City Mail Delivery began October 28, 1964. Robert Landers and Sewell Kellett were the first city mail carriers. When Robert retired because of a disability, Manning Hatcher took hisp lace. Since that time, Virginia Files, Earl Hammond, Anita Taylor and others have served. We have 26 mail trucks.
Following is a history of post masters and the dates they were appointed.
Lost Mountain Office: James A. Turner, July 5, 1848; Angus Johnson, February, 25, 1849; Andrew M. Faulkner, August 5, 1850; Joseph Ruff, July 10, 1851; Angus Johnson, August 26, 1852; John Moore, Jr., July 12, 1854; George M. Lewis, December 22, 1858; Henry J. Hopkins, January 25, 1860. The office was discontinued September 28, 1866 and reestablished June 30, 1869. John R. Ward, June 30, 1869; Joshua Jackson, December 2, 1872; Warren S. Watson, November 9, 1880; John C. Watson, January 14, 1884; and J. W. Arnold, 1898.
Upshaw Office (later called Macland): Isaac D. Upshaw, April 12, 1881 and A. A. Griggs, 1898.
Powder Springs Office: Charner B. Strange, April 11, 1836; Jacob Gimble, November 21, 1837; Jackson I. Kizer, February 2, 1839; Wiley J. Kiser, April 30, 1839; Andrew J. Kiser, November 2, 1865; Madison S. Kiser, February 12, 1873; Wiley J. Kiser, October 12, 1874; Henry S. Autry, April 26, 1881; Miss R. Marchman, February 13, 1883; Welburn H. Bailey, November 26, 1883; Jas. W. Smith, March 25, 1884; Welburn H. Bailey, June 26, 1885; Mrs. Kate B. Smith, April 18, 1889; John McD. Christian, March 23, 1892; Mrs. Kate Smith, April 20, 1897; Rufus A. Evatt, May 1, 1900; Belle Wright, January 13, 1903; Robert H. Buchanan, March 7, 1910; Roberta Murray, July 10, 1915; Awtrey C. Moore, May 4, 1922; J. Arthur Westbrook, January 11, 1928; Mrs. Estelle Tapp, July 1, 1935; Edgar R. Leake, August 31, 1962; Rudolph B. Kellet, September 11, 1963; Jack West, June 6, 1975; Mrs. Jackie Norton, January 8, 1981; and Clarence Nichols, February 1993.
Papa Was a Mailman
by Sarah Frances Miller
Powder Springs Messenger, 1995
This story was told to me by my uncle, the late M. J. Miller, on May 22, 1984.
Papa had a mail wagon. It had a window in the front that was hinged at the top. It could be pulled up and tied in the summer. In the winter, the window was pulled down and locked in place. There were two holes in the bottom of the window frame. This was for the lines or reins used to control the horse.
Both sides has sliding glass windows to open to deliver the mail. There was a small heater in the wagon until the mail carriers carried parcels. Then they used metal foot warmers with heated soapstone briquettes which were put in a tray in the carpet-covered metal box.
My Saturday job was to grease the four wheels and the fifth one also–the fifth wheel was really the turning axle.
Horse power was important on his twenty mile route. This was Route Number 3 from the Powder Springs Post Office. He traded horses often. He traded with the Irish horse traders who camped at the spring in the City Park. He even bought several from the Atlanta Fire Department. These horses would run if they heard a bell. George heard a bell at the New Hope Church and made a fast mile and a half to town.
Papa used three horses. Every third day, one of the horses remained at home to rest. He changed horses every day at the halfway point–his farm. The fresh horse enabled him to pick up or maintain his speed.
Rainy off days were harness repair days. He had his own repair kit–punches, brads and a hand bradding machine.
He drove his horse and buggy in the summer and the mail wagon in the winter for about 25 years.
For about five years he had a driver for his Model T Ford automobile to take him around his route. Various ones chauffeured him–Earl McKinney, Clyde Spratlin and Jake Miller.
His son, Jake, hurried off one day, sliding into mailboxes and then speeding up. Papa said, “You are going to turn us over if you don’t slow down.” Finally when they were about one and a half miles from home Papa took the spark and the throttle and held them together. So they really came in fast weaving from side to side of the road. Jake was frightened. He was afraid they would turn over.
The postman doctored his own horses. Onion tea was given for the colic. He cut up onions in a two gallon galvanized bucket, added water and boiled it about thirty minutes. He poured the tea in a long neck whisky bottle.
He put a halter on the horse and pulled the horse’s head up as high as he could get it over a rafter in the barn. Then he put the quart bottle in the horse’s mouth and rubbed his throat so he would swallow. The horse would baptize him with about half the potion.
PUSH RODS AUTO CLUB
1956 – 1965
The club was organized in the summer of 1956 after a meeting of about eight local teenagers at the Hunter Tire Company in Austell, Georgia. Charles Furr was the first president of the club. It was active until about 1965.
The club had their shop in a garage located in the middle of downtown Powder Springs in a building on main (Marietta) street between the old telephone exchange (now a courtyard) and Lovinggood’s Grocery Store. Here the club met and worked on their own cars, each other’s cars and built race cars for drag racing. These cars were very active on the drag racing scene during those years, winning many trophies.
Members during this time included; Earl Abernathy, Aubrey Brady, Ray Caldwell, Guy Camp, George Eubanks, Gary Eubanks, Tom Ellerbee, Charles Furr, Jim Gunnell, Raymond Gunnell, Sammy Hardy, A.C. Hunter, Donald Hunter, Ed Hunter, Russell Hunter, Jack Lane, Jimmy Lindley, Virgil (V.A.) Lovinggodd, Jr., Bennie Meadows, James Meadows, Jimmy Meadows, Butch Mize, James Moss, Raymond Moss, Virgil Purvis, Grady Roberts, Wayne Roberts, Charles Scott and Johnny Turner.
On October 3, 2000, Push Rods held their Second Annual Union and Car Show at the Threadmill Mall in Austell in which they honored the founding members, recognizing the ones who were still living. These men were presented with a plaque commemorating the occasion and honoring their part in starting and making Push Rods what it is today. Founding Member, James Moss has donated his plaque and original jacket to the Seven Springs Historical Society and is on display at the Seven Springs Museum.
1967 – PRESENT
The club was re-organized in 1967 and continues to meet monthly on the first Tuesday evening of each month.
According to an article in the Marietta Daily Journal dated in October of 1967, the young teenage boys of Powder Springs did not have a home or place to meet to enjoy their love of cars, but were a loosely knit band of high-speed drivers. They however, did call themselves “Push Rods ‘67”. with the help of the Powder Springs Police Department and Fire Department, local ministers and businessmen, this group of teenagers began a new Push Rods Club. With this help and guidance, the Push Rods Club was able to find a place to gather and work on their cars.
The business community helped them secure and remodel an old garage with high ceilings on main (Marietta) Street in downtown Powder Springs. They now spent as much time in this old garage street, working on their cars, talking about them and how much they love and enjoyed driving them.
The original Push Rods of 1957 gave them the old Push Rods sign and a ‘rail job’ with an engine which would be the club’s new Hot Rod and racing entry. This garage, which they now rented, was available to them 24 hours a day. The club then became a non-profit corporation.
The club planned fund raising events to buy jackets and front bumper tags with the Push Rod emblem for their members.
Some of the early members were: James McTyre, Tony Dudley (VP), Larry Croker, Greg Wehunt, Richard Mellichamp, Wendell Brumbelow, Ricky Shiflett, Roger Puckett, Tim Crawly, Gary Huggins and Terry Cochran. Early advisors for the club were: David Hilton, Powder Springs Fire Chief and Captain Larry Barkwell of the Powder Springs Police Department along with a minister and an attorney.
The club has won several racing trophies over the years.
In 1978, the Push Rod’s Garage was used as part of a movie staring Tim Conway, “They Went Thataway and Thataway” The front of the building was destroyed as part of the scene where they ran/crashed a car into the building. Afterwards, they repaired the building. Powder Springs Push Rods continues to be totally non-profit today.
Proceeds are used to provide assistance to those in OUR community and Calvary Children’s Home, Bullock and Caring Hands. The club holds various events and car shows throughout the year that help fund these charities.
The Push Rod Members still enjoy working on their cars, talking about them, showing them off and talking to anyone else who enjoys automobiles as well as they do. Even though the members of the club may have changed over the years, here in 2018, they are still an active part of our community.
SPRINGVILLE LODGE #153
OF FREE AND ACCEPTED MASONS
POWDER SPRINGS, GEORGIA
The Springville Lodge #153 of Free and Accepted Masons was established in 1848. Although the original charter for the town of Springville was repealed in 1851 then re-chartered as Powder Springs in 1859, the Springville Lodge has maintained its original name.
The first Master of the Lodge was N. M. Calder in 1851.
From 1872 until 1915 the home of the Springville Lodge was in the upper level of the new Methodist Church on Marietta Street. It was only with the assistance of the Springville Lodge that the Methodist were able to construct a new church building after the original was destroyed during the Civil War. In the early 1900’s Congress enacted legislation authorizing payment for damages to the churches. At this time the joint ownership between the Masonic Lodge and the Methodist Church was dissolved. The Church was then able to purchase the equity in the property then held by the Masons.
The Masons in turn purchased a building located at 4434 Marietta Street downtown, from Mr. J. A. Lewis. This building remained their home until 1966.
In 1966 the Masons moved into their present location on Hwy 278 (Austell-Powder Springs Road) in Powder Springs. The Grand Master was Paul H. Ponder and Lodge Master was Raymond L. Ward, Jr.
Some of the Masons have served more than one term, consecutive or various years, as Master of the Lodge. George W. Lane (1841-1914) was one such Mason. He served twelve terms over the years of 1884 through 1914.
Many other Masons have served in other capacities of the Lodge over the years. Some of the members have celebrated fifty or more years as Mason’s. In 1998, 50 year awards were presented to Samual Camp, Thomas H. McCollum, Junior Deacan, and Michael Long.
Through the years, the Lodge has held various fund raisers to help those in need whether in the community or outside the community. They have awarded scholarship money, fed the homeless, helped individuals and families get back on their feet – just to name a few.
The Springville Lodge continues to be an active part of the community even in 2018. They have regular Communication twice a month, meeting on the second and fourth Tuesday.
The Baptist Cemetery was established in 1840 and is the oldest cemetery in Powder Springs. It is located downtown on the corner of Jackson Way and Pineview Drive.
The earliest marked burial is dated 1840 and is that of the infant daughter of W. Jaud Kiser, one month and 26 days. Her mother was Nancy Kiser.
According to “The History of the First Baptist Church of Powder Springs, GA” by Virginia Tapp, the Springville Baptist Church building “stood on the edge of the Baptist Cemetery on a hill just off the Old Lost Mountain Road. The lot was donated by Mr. D. R. Turner”. The First Baptist Church was originally named the Springville Baptist Church which was originally part of the Primitive Baptist Church in Powder Springs.
In the Baptist Cemetery are buried a number of the pioneer families of Powder Springs. There are Butner’s, Baggett’s, Compton’s, Goodwin’s, Hardy’s, Kiser’s, Landrum’s, Lindley’s, Ragsdale’s, Rice’s and more. Some were merchants of various trades, others were farmers, pastors, doctors and just regular town folks.
Elijah Ragsdale (1798-1858) was one of six charter members of the Springville Baptist Church. Reverend Parker M. Rice (1801-1853) was the first pastor of the Springville Baptist Church. Della Boswell Kuykendall (1875-1963) was the first telephone exchange night operator in Powder Springs for nine years.
There are several Veterans from various wars buried here, also. War of 1812 – Elijah Ragsdale (1778-1858) and James F. Blackstock, Jr. (1789-1852). War Between the States (American Civil War) – Joseph K. Moon, CSA, (1820-1870). Spanish American War – David B. Lindholm (1872-1914).World War II – Florence W. Neese (1917-1989) and Arthur Parks (1918-1953). Vietnam – Kenneth Lamar Newton (1945-2016).
The last burial was in 1979 until 2002, 2015, 2016 with one each.
There is a large open area in the Cemetery that does not have any markers that would identify graves in the area. However, the indentions in the earth appeared to indicate that there were burials here. In 2017 The Seven Springs Historical Society took on a project to have this area studied to help determine if there were actually unmarked graves in this area of the Baptist Cemetery.
The Historical Society contracted with Omega Mapping Services in December of 2017 to have this area surveyed by using ground penetrating radar. In January 2018, Len Strozier of Omega Mapping Services came out and did this survey. Several members of the Historical Society met Len at the Cemetery.
In the process he identified 135 unmarked graves, marking them with orange flags. Some of the graves were buried deeper than usual indicating much earlier burials than 1840 and could possibly be Indian Burials. Powder Springs has a history of Cherokee and Creek tribes living in the area. Numerous artifacts have also be found verifying their presence.
Len has provided the Historical Society and the Seven Springs Museum with maps and a CD with his findings. These maps mark the spots where burials are located. Once the Historical Society received these maps, Holland Supply was then contacted about ordering these markers.
The Historical Society then purchased 135 lot markers from Holland Supply. These markers are 3½ inch stainless steel discs and 10 inch zinc coated carriage bolts or pins.
In late March of 2018, several members of the Historical Society met at the Cemetery and installed these markers. The markers lie flat on the ground and will not interfere with the normal maintenance off the Cemetery. They can later be located by metal detectors.
The Seven Springs Historical Society plan to place a marker recognizing that these 135 burial sites are now identified and marked for future generations. The Society also plans to erect a sign identifying the Cemetery as the Baptist Cemetery.
Photos by Stan Kaady
Powder Springs, Georgia
1940 – 2013
On April 17, 1940 all the ladies in the community were invited to organize and join a garden club. The meeting was held in the home of Mrs. Faye Lindley with twenty two ladies present.
The club was named the Co-Operative Garden Club. The first President was Mrs. B. L. Barton. The other officers elected were: Mrs. Cecil Barr, Vice President, Mrs. M. J. Miller, Secretary, and Mrs. Parks Lindley, Treasurer.
Other Charter Members were: Mrs. J. K. Brown, Mrs. W.L. Jennings, Mrs. Verna Lawler, Miss Hazel Lindley, Mrs. F. E. Norris, Mrs. K. E. Norris, Mrs. W. R. Tapp, Sr. and Mrs. J. C. Vaughn.
This may not be complete due to the original list being lost at some point.
Their pledge as gardeners was to do all in their power to take care of our trees, flowers and birds, and to watch for opportunities to make and keep our community clean and beautiful. The Club would met in the homes of the members once a month. Dues were set at ten cents a month. The members had certain requirements. Each one was to plant three mimosa trees. At every meeting, each member was to bring an arrangement of flowers. These could be a miniature not over eight inches tall, a single specimen or a tall arrangement to be judged.
In April of 1941, the Club changed its name the Mimosa Garden Club and was federated. In November of the same year, the Club was affiliated with the Garden Club of Georgia, and later the National Council of Garden Clubs, and the Marietta Educational Garden Center.
The members have kept their pledge through community and individual projects. They sponsored side walk plantings of watermelon red crepe myrtles in 1942. These grew so large that they obscured the vision of the motorist and had to be cut down later. At this time the total membership was limited to twenty five ladies. During the war years (1941 – 1945), programs and exhibits were changed to Victory Vegetable Gardens and canned food exhibits. The members donated cooking fats which they had saved. The Club received a small amount of money and red food stamps. The food stamps were given to the school cafeteria.
In 1944 Mrs. Thomas (Louise) Clonts sponsored a Junior Garden Club named the Dirt Daubers. It was not active after 1945.
After the war, the Mimosa Garden Club returned to keeping their pledge as gardeners to take care and keep the community clean and beautiful. They continued to study horticulture, flower arranging and how to help maintain the trees, flowers, herbs, birds and butterflies in the community. Many outstanding arrangements have been made by the members over the years.
In the 1950’s they sponsored a Georgia Power Cooking School. They sponsored more than eight flower shows and sent arrangements made by various members to the Cobb County Fair where they won several blue ribbons. They also sent flowers and arrangements to Rich’s Garden Center.
In 1978 Mrs. Faye Lindley inspired the Garden Club to set up a Meditation Garden at the Powder Springs City Cemetery. The ladies have continued to maintain this garden over the years.
The Club decided to landscape the Powder Springs Park. Hastings Seed Company offered their assistance in making a plan. Roses, Iris, and Magnolia Trees were planted there.
In the 1980’s they bought barrels for the downtown area of Powder Springs which they planted and maintained. They planted bulbs at the new Powder Springs Civic Center (The Ron Anderson Memorial Center).
In 1984, the Club helped with organizing the Powder Springs Beautification Committee. On December 13, 1984, there was an event commemorating the Certification of the Committee. Harold Norris was The Team Leader in this project. He was one of the charter Members of the Seven Springs Historical Society. In later years, the Powder Springs Beautification Committee changed its name to Keep Powder Springs Beautiful Association, and are currently still active.
In 1988, Mrs. Willie Mae Godfrey led the Club to establish a Memorial for the members at the Seven Springs Historical Society Museum in Powder Springs Park. Trees were planted in honor and memory of several of the members who had passed away.
In 1989, with the help of Imogene Abernathy and Bonnie Yeager the club planted an herb garden at the Seven Springs Museum.
The Garden Club also asked the Mayor to call a public meeting to establish a Powder Springs Cemetery Association to provided perpetual care. (City Cemetery located on Old Austell Road on the right). This project has been successful and supported by the community.
Through the years many ladies, individually, have made flower Gardens, Rock Gardens, Herb Gardens, day lily gardens, and a colorful cottage garden. Mrs. Martha Brown landscaped her own yard to reflect the beauty of Calloway Gardens. Imogene Abernathy planted a unique herb garden at her home. Several of the members especially worked with horticulture.
Mrs. Martha Brown and Mrs. Dot Burkett faithfully provided special flower arrangements for the Baptist and Methodist Churches for many years. Others have worked on yearbooks and scrapbooks for the Garden Club, winning many awards. During the 1990’s there were many projects undertaken by the Garden Club.
They planted flowers, trees, landscaping on the Grounds of the newly organized Powder Springs Senior Center at the Old Powder Springs Elementary School.
A Butterfly Garden was planted with flowers that would attract the Butterflies, at the Seven Springs Historical Society Museum. Stepping Stones were installed using old grind stones from the Murray Landrum grist mill that had operated in Powder Springs in the early 1900’s. These stones were donated to the Museum by Marsha Doughtery.
A golden path of flowers was planted in honor of the 1996 Olympics. These flowers were planted in 1995 so that they would be in bloom during the Olympics. Snapdragons, marigolds, dahlias, daises, roses, lilies among others that are beautiful.
The Club built Butterfly and Blue Bird House. Some were hung around town and others were sold as fundraisers.
Mrs. Patti Briel and Mrs. Betty DuPre won a state award in 1995 with the Club’s scrapbook.
As the twenty first century came, things were changing which offered new challenges for the Mimosa Garden Club. The years 2000 through 2013 were not as well documented as the earlier ones. However, they left a lot of their scrapbooks, Minutes of meetings, collection of books and various other documents to the Seven Springs Historical Society and are housed at the Museum where we welcome anyone who wishes may come and enjoy their handiwork.
The Mimosa Garden Club continued to work to carry out their Pledge to take care of our trees, flowers and birds and to watch watch for opportunities to make and keep our community clean and beautiful.
The Club continued maintaining the flower and herb gardens and trees they had planted around the Seven Springs Museum. When we experienced the flood in 2009, they helped to revitalize and care for the flowers, herbs and trees around the Museum and other areas in the community.
The Garden Club actually contributed and supported the Garden Clubs and organizations they were members of all through the many years they existed. They worked with these organizations on various projects around the Community, County and State, supporting them monetarily or by volunteering in any way that was needed.
The Garden Club also supported many charities over the years with donations, making crafts for their residences, fund raising and volunteering. Some of these included: the restoration of the Garden Center in Marietta; Open Gate Home for the abused and homeless children; Cobb County Beautiful Roadways with wild flowers on the medians; the American Cancer Society; and Milledgeville Garden Therapy Program at the State Mental Hospital.
The Club continued to increase their knowledge, enjoyment by Members going on field trips to see the many gardens and Horticulture Centers around the state and visiting the Biltmore Estates Gardens in North Carolina.
Even though the Mimosa Garden Club was disbanded in 2013, they will always be known for their many kinds of contributions and their enjoyment for the preservation of all of Nature’s Beauty. The Club, in it’s seventy three years of service, has left its Legacy in many of the trees, gardens and flowers that they had planted throughout the Community
As a member of the Garden Club of Georgia, the Mimosa Garden Club was presented with a large circular sign depicting the Garden Club of Georgia’s logo. The sign was originally erected at the parking area of the old Seven Springs Museum in the trees and flower gardens they had planted.
When the Seven Springs Museum moved to the Bodiford House, the sign was moved and hung on the back wall of the house under the screened in porch for all to enjoy when they park their cars at the Museum.
In 2017, the Seven Springs Historical Society acknowledged and Honored the Mimosa Garden Club, it’s members and charter members for their contribution to the community and the Seven Springs Historical Society and Museum with a plaque which is displayed in the Museum.
This 2018 history of the Mimosa Garden Club has been compiled from information gathered by Sarah Frances Miller, various Club documents, notes, scrapbooks and Minutes of their meetings.


The History of Coffee! October 16, 2014
Coffee was first roasted and brewed in Arabia. Coffee was used in Muslim religious ceremonies and secular life. Coffee spread with Islam, traveling to India, North Africa, and the eastern Mediterranean. The first coffee houses were developed and these public houses became hubs of social activity. As people sipped coffee, they chatted, listened to live music, played chess, watched performers, and discussed current events. Coffee houses became important information centers causing them to be called, “Schools of the Wise” (http://www.ncausa.org/i4a/pages/index.cfm?pageid=68).
Arabia however, did not want to share its monopoly on coffee beans. When exporting coffee beans it is rumored that they would boil them to make them infertile. Legend further claims that a smuggler hid beans strapped to his stomach in 1600’s and these beans became the start of the European agricultural involvement in coffee. Coffee spread to Europe and although initially there were mixed feelings (the “Elixir of the Devil” was a term that did not inspire much confidence in drinkers), coffee made it’s way into the heart of Europeans. The pope tried coffee to see if it truly was Satan’s drink. He enjoyed it and not tasting Satan’s influence in his cup, he gave it the Papal approval.
Again, as coffee became more widely imbibed, it led to shops that fostered conversation and the spread of knowledge. Much like the Coffee Houses in Arabia, these houses brought together all different people and become centers for ideas and social activity. With all this sharing of ideas, many rulers were concerned about what their subjects were discussing and whether these discussions were promoting revolutionary discussions.
The coffee beans that were taken from Arabia were successfully cultivated in Java by the Dutch. Unlike the Arabian coffee growers, the Dutch took a different approach to sharing their coffee plants. They were confident in their coffee producing skills, which led them to lavishly gift aristocrats with branches of coffee trees. They gifted the King of France, Louis XIV, with a branch. This precious commodity was planted in his royal gardens, a symbol of prestige and power.
Though many in Europe enjoyed coffee, the fertile beans were still guarded from most. Gabriel de Clie was a young officer in the French Army stationed in Martinique. He imagined Martinique as the start of a French coffee producing area, while on leave in Paris, his request for a clipping start cultivating coffee trees was denied. In true fashion with coffee history, he smuggled the coffee back with him and in the cover of darkness, he made his way into the royal gardens and took a seedling.
After a dramatic voyage, wrought with pirates, attempted seedling sabotage and storms, the seedling finally made their way to the Americas. The coffee trees sprouted from the stolen branch, growing into the trees that would bring coffee to South America. However, the French were not keen on allowing others to grow coffee in the Americas. Brazil had a secret agenda when visiting the French colony. The handsome colonel, Francisco de Mello Palheta, was to bring coffee beans back to Brazil. Although the French governor denied his request, his wife thought otherwise. Charmed by the colonel, she gifted him flowers the final night of his stay, hidden inside were seedlings which he brought back to Brazil, beginning a new age of coffee production.
Brazil grew into one of the largest coffee producing countries, which allowed coffee to become more than just a drink for the elite. Unlike the history of coffee retold above, the production of coffee today is more receptive to different coffee growers in many areas of the world. Today, coffee producers and coffee roasters share feedback about the beans and work together to produce the highest quality coffee.
Although we don’t have charming colonels stowing coffee in flowers or Dutch smugglers strapping coffee to their stomach, coffee is still just as much of a commodity, stimulating conversation and bringing people together.
Written by: Caitlyn Prien


Eli and Bessie Cohen founded the Cohen Camps in 1935 based on a deep commitment to strengthening the Jewish people through education, community, and cultivating a connection to the people of what would become Israel.
Histories of our three Jewish camps
Eli and Bessie realized the power of the immersive experience of summer camp and its ability to engage, teach, and develop children in an informal setting. They saw summer camps as an excellent vehicle for addressing core needs of the Jewish community. In collaboration with others, they helped found Camp Bauercrest, the first all-boys Jewish overnight camp in New England. Wanting to provide the same opportunity for young Jewish women, the Cohens independently founded Camp Pembroke, still New England’s only Jewish cultural camp just for girls, in 1935.
Understanding the need to provide all children with an immersive Jewish experience in an outdoor setting, in 1940 they founded Camp Tevya, our larger co-ed camp, as a “fresh air” camp for low-income inner-city Jewish youth.
Eli and Bessie were active in helping to create the State of Israel by raising funds and cultivating a commitment to the effort. They founded Tel Noar Lodge in 1945 as a camp where young adults, aged 18-25, could spend a meaningful vacation imbued with Zionist spirit and learning. After the founding of the State of Israel in 1948, Tel Noar Lodge became Camp Tel Noar for children and teens, like the other two.
Contributions to Boston area and Israel
The Cohen family has long supported many Jewish and social causes in the Boston area, such as Hebrew College in Newton. The Epstein Hillel School in Marblehead was for many years called Cohen Hillel Academy in honor of Eli and Bessie’s contributions.
The Cohens also invested their charitable donations to support Israel in its early years, contributing to the Hadassah Hospital, Wingate Institute, and David Yellin College of Education, among other institutions.
While all three camps remain rooted in Eli and Bessie’s vision, they have progressed and transformed to meet 21st Century communal concerns, with a focus on engaging young people in exploring a deep, personal and joyful connection to Jewish life, Jewish values, Israel and their communities. All three camps are pluralistic, welcoming all families and all Jewish backgrounds and experiences.
Today, the Cohen Camps combine the character and passion of three special communities, the trustworthiness of three generations of family leadership, and the expertise and shared resources of the staff and Board of a single organization. As independent, non-denominational, nonprofit camps, the camps are entirely-self supported through tuition and the generosity of donors.
Each season, we embrace new families and celebrate the return of second- and third-, and now fourth-generation families as campers and staff.