Clarke County GaArchives History - Books .....Athens And Clarke County 1801-1860 1923 ************************************************ Copyright. All rights reserved. http://www.usgwarchives.net/copyright.htm http://www.usgwarchives.net/ga/gafiles.htm ************************************************ File contributed for use in USGenWeb Archives by: Joy Fisher http://www.genrecords.net/emailregistry/vols/00001.html#0000031 April 1, 2005, 2:07 pm Book Title: History Of Athens And Clarke County HISTORY OF ATHENS and CLARKE COUNTY 1923 H. J. ROWE, Publisher THE McGREGOR CO., PRINTERS, ATHENS, GA. BOARD OF EDITORS CHANCELLOR DAVID C. BARROW DR. SYLVANUS MORRIS DR. ANDREW M. SOULE DR. J. M. POUND MISS MILDRED RUTHERFORD DR. W. A. CARLTON HON. FRANK A. HOLDEN Athens and Clarke County 1801-1860. By DR. SYLVANUS MORRIS. "Haec olim meminisse juvabit." GEORGIA removed the Cherokee Indians from her soil in the year 1738. All the upper part of the state adjacent to the Carolinas was included in the counties of Franklin and Washington. Jackson County was cut off from Franklin in 1784, and in December, 1801, Clarke was cut off from Jackson. The county has lost territory to Madison, Greene, and Oconee. The county is named for Elijah Clarke, a distinguished soldier in the War of the Revolution. The former county site, Watkinsville, is named for Major John Watkins of Augusta. In the summer of the year 1801, a committee was authorized to select a site for the University, which had been chartered by the Legislature in 1795. The members of the committee were John Mil-ledge, Abram Baldwin, George Walton, John Twiggs, and Hugh Law-son. They met at Billups' Tavern on the Lexington road, and went up into the then county of Jackson to the Cedar Shoals of the Oconee River, where the dam of the Athens Factory is now located. Daniel Easley had a mill there. He was a Revolutionary soldier, and owned a considerable tract of land on both sides of the river. This had been granted to him by the state. The date of the grant in the office of the Secretary of State is 1800. There must have been an earlier grant. The committee was so pleased with the location, then a forest of grand oaks, and with the bold spring which used to be back of Phi Kappa . Hall, that they decided on it for the College. They enjoyed the excellent shad caught that day below Easley's dam. John Milledge bought of Easley-633 acres of land, and donated it to the state for the University. A few wooden buildings were erected on the campus reservation of 36 acres, and the College opened in 1801. Josiah Meigs was the first president. By 1803, the Old College had been finished, the first permanent structure on the campus. The income was derived from rent and sale of land. The land brought a mere trifle and more than a hundred years later was bought back by the Alumni for the University. It is worth well over $100,000.00. The early struggles for existence of the College are not here told. The history of the University is written by a far abler pen than any ever used by this writer. The village grew up around the University, and was named Athens. In 1803 there were not a dozen houses in Athens. The only store was on the corner now occupied by the Dupree Building. It was kept by Mr. Stevens Thomas, and there as time went by, he amassed a comfortable fortune. He married a daughter of Dudley Gary. Major John Gary kept the only hotel in the place. It was situated about the middle of the block on Broad Street toward the river beyond Thomas Street. He afterward built a commodious house on the block between Clayton and Washington. His hotel, "The Swinging Limb," was long famous. Of the people who were living in Athens in 1803, there are no surviving relatives, except those of Hull, Thomas and Gary. The names, Easley, McKigney, Wright, Martin, Allen, Lewis, and Hayes are memories only to the delver in the past. Among the early residents of the village were Rev. Hope Hull, who settled here in 1803, Augustin S. Clayton, Major John Gary, Stevens Thomas, who had the only store worthy of the name, Mrs. Lucy Gary, widow of Dudley Gary, of Gloucester county, Virginia. Dr. Wright was the first physician in the village. He came with President Meigs from Connecticut, Col. Nicholas Ware, member of the Board of Trustees, Dr. James Nisbet, Ebenezer Newton, Mr. Thomas Hancock, Dr. A. B. Linton, Andrew Graham, who built the largest store in the place on the National Bank corner. It was a rival to the Thomas store. There the villagers met daily to settle the affairs of the nation and of the world. The fluctuations in the growth of the village corresponded largely with the ups and downs of the College. The only houses were on Oconee Street, and there were none beyond Dupree Hall and Clayton Street. The houses built between 1803 and 1812 are mentioned by Dr. Henry Hull in his sketches. During that time the village grew rapidly and the population was increased by new comers. In 1820, Col. Thomas W. Hamilton moved to Athens from Columbia County, and built a house on College Avenue, opposite the Costa's. It was afterward the home of John H. Newton, and Eustace W. Speer, successively. Col. Hamilton's son, Dr. James S. Hamilton, built E. R. Hodgson's house, (his home until his death) and Mrs. A. S. Phinizy's house for his mother. CLARKE COUNTY Turning now to the county, we find it sparsely settled, very little land in cultivation. Among the early settlers in that part of the county which extends toward Madison, we find that John Espy was living in 1795, at what was afterward Colt's Mill. Among the other extensive landowners were the Matthewses, relatives of Governor Matthews. Toward Oglethorpe, we find the name of Puryear, for whom the district was named, William Main, Graham, Morton, Dean, Jennings, Gerdine, Billups, and Grier, the well-known settler of Chalky Level, Corporal Grier. In the Georgia Factory District we find the names of Levi Crawford, John White, Thomas Moore. Among the early settlers in the part toward Walton, were Jesse Daniel, Duke Hamilton, R. W. Williams. In Kenney's District were Ransom Nichols, Samuel Kenney, Thomas Mitchell, Samuel Wier, Hugh Neissler. In this district was also Halscot, the home of Dr. Jackson, father of General Henry R. Jackson. The first Superior Court of the county was held in March, 1802, at the house of Isaac Hill, .on land now owned by Mr. Ashford of Watkinsville, on the Simonton Bridge road. Hon. Thomas Peter Games presided. For him, Carnesville in Franklin County was named. The judges who have since presided in the county are Dooly, Underwood, Clayton, Rice, Erwin, Hutchins, Russell, Brand, Cobb, Fortson. Athens was incorporated in 1806. There is no record of the names of the first fathers of the municipality. We can only guess at their struggles with such weighty matters as street mud, police, taxation, cows, hogs, and goats at large. As to this last, even in his time, this writer has distinct unfragrant memories. The first election recorded is for commissioners of the town. Their names are: Stevens Thomas, Albon Chase, William E. Dearing, Leonidas Franklin, James D. Frierson, Watkins Baynon, Elizur L. Newton. In 1833 the plan to build the Georgia Railroad was inaugurated in Athens, and the charter was granted that year. The road was to run from Athens to Augusta, but the Greensboro line became the main stem. The Board of Directors was composed of James Camak, William Williams, John A. Cobb, Elizur L. Newton, Alex B. Linton, W. M. Morton, and one member from Augusta. The presidents of the road were James Camak, William Dearing, John P. King, Charles H. Phinizy. The present incumbent is Jacob Phinizy, an Athens man. The charter was in thirty days of expiration for failure of stock-subscriptions. William Williams took a million dollars of shares and saved the day. That is some money now, but then was many times more. He lived on the lot corner of Broad and Lumpkin. His land included the Law Building, the Holman Building on Broad and Clayton up to the line of the old Flisch lot, He built Princeton Factory. He was from New Jersey, hence its name. The factory was owned for a long time and operated by Dr. James S. Hamilton, up to his death. The branch from Union Point to Athens was built in 1841. The cars were drawn by horses. On the first train to come were Edward R. Hodgson and his wife, his brother, William P. Hodgson, and his sister, Miss Ann Hodgson. The Hodgson Brothers established the carriage and wagon factory on Oconee Street. Their vehicles were known and justly prized in several states. Klein and Martin maintained the excellence of the Hodgson vehicles, until the factory burned recently. A branch of the Bank of the State of Georgia was established here in 1834, James Camak being president, and Asbury Hull, cashier. It continued in operation until superseded by the National Bank. The bank building stood on the lot, corner of Clayton and Jackson. It was afterwards, the summer home of E. P. Clayton of Augusta, and later was a hotel until replaced by the present buildings. Among the most prominent citizens of early Athens was. Hon. Augustin S. Clayton. He married Julia, daughter of Hon. Thomas Peter Games, first judge of the circuit. Mrs. Henry W. Grady was his grand-daughter. He was judge of the circuit for several terms, succeeding in office his father-in-law. Judge Clayton, John Nisbet, William Dearing, and Abram Walker built the Athens Manufacturing Company, afterwards called the Georgia Factory. This was the first cotton mill using water-driven machinery south of the Potomac. It succeeded at once. John White came as superintendent, and subsequently acquired the entire property. His descendants own and operate the factory today. The Athens Factory was built by William Dearing and John Nisbet, and was destroyed by freshets twice. The present substantial brick buildings were erected through the energy of Superintendent John S. Linton. At a later time, R. L. Bloomfield was superintendent. The "Cook Armory" was purchased after the War between the States, and was called the Check Factory. This concern enjoyed a long period of prosperity, and paid handsome dividends to the stockhoders. Athens checks commanded the best price wherever they were known. The Pioneer Paper Mill was built by John S. Linton and Albon Chase. It was the first paper mill to be established in the state. It cleared sixty per cent, profit the first year. The Southern Mutual Insurance Company was moved to Athens from Griffin in the year 1848. The company was chartered in 1847. The officers the year it began business in Athens were Asbury Hull, president; J. N. Parsons, secretary. The Athens directors were Y. L. G. Harris, E. L. Newton, John H. Newton, Albon Chase, John I. Huggins, W. Letcher Mitchell, W. M. Morton, Henry Hull, Edward R. Ware, and B. F. Hardeman. Shortly afterward, Albon Chase became secretary, and held the office until his death. Starting with no capital, under economical and sagacious management, it has through long years of its existence paid enormous sums in losses, returned handsome dividends to the members, (sometimes as much as 75 per cent.) and accumulated a surplus of over a million dollars. The present secretary, A. E. Griffith, is rounding out a half century of service with the company. A telegraph line to Union Point was completed in 1852, but the patronage did not justify its continuance for long. The Combs Express Company opened an office here in 1853, with Terrell L. Lampkin as agent. It was subsequently changed to the Adams, and afterwards to the Southern Express Company. For thirty years it was under the efficient management of Capt. William. Williams. The gas works were built in 1852 by John W. Nicholson and W. S. Grady. The material used was pine wood, and intensity of illumination depended upon the fatness of the pine. The Athens Foundry was established in 1853, and under the able management of Reuben Nickerson, and afterward of Thomas Bailey, had a long and successful career. Twelve per cent, dividends were regularly paid for years, and one year, two extraordinary additional dividends of fifty per cent, each were declared. The corporators were William P. Talmage, John S. Linton, Edward Palmer, Peter A. Summey. One of the hotels of early Athens was the Franklin House, now thfc. Athens Hardware Company. It is said that the deed to the lots on Broad Street from the College to Oconee Street contain a condition of reversion should intoxicating liquor be sold thereon. However that may be, the bar of the Franklin House was reached by means of a bridge connecting it with a house in the rear. Elizur L. Newton built the Newton House, corner of College Avenue and Broad Street. It has outlived all its contemporaries and still stands, having changed its name several times. It had a belfry and a bell about the size of a locomotive bell. Its clanging tones warned the hungry villagers that the banquet was spread. The dinner bell sounded at noon. The building, corner of Broad and Jackson Streets, was formerly an hotel. There was at one, time a hotel on Wall Street, wherein President Monroe held a levee. The two last mentioned ceased to be houses of public entertainment anterior to the memory of the oldest inhabitant. The Hancock Tavern is mentioned elsewhere in these sketches. The Old Town Hall was built in 1845. It stood in the middle of Market Street, now Washington Street. The basement was where fresh meat was sold. When an animal was butchered and dissected for sale, it was customary to ring the town, hall bell to notify the villagers of the fact. Not only town and political meetings were held there, but theatrical performances by native talent and traveling barn-stormers. When the county site was moved from Watkinsville to Athens, in 1871, it was here that the sessions of the Superior Court were held. Its old walls echoed to the voices of the distinguished members of the bar of the Western and Northern Circuits. The greatest speech the writer ever heard was there delivered by Hon. B. H. Hill. Athens early in her history provided opportunity for education. Among the schools for boys were those conducted by James Fulton, A. M. Scudder, Williams Rutherford, Thomas Seay. The fact that none of them spared the rod may account for the sturdy intelligence of the men of Athens at a later time. Miss Emily Witherspoon taught a school for children from 1843 until just before the centennial celebration of the county and city. At that time she was still alive. Perhaps a majority of the matrons and maids of Athens of her day learned their letters at her knee. The Athens Female Academy was presided over by Rev. Thomas P. Stanley, and in 1845, by C. P. Martin, succeeded by Mrs. Coley. The Grove School for girls was under the charge of Mrs. E. Bishop, Mrs. William Gerdine, and Miss Galloway. In 1857, largely through the instrumentality of T. R. R. Cobb, plans for a female high school were formed. The school opened in 1859, and was named for Mr. Cobb's daughter, "The Lucy Cobb Institute." The principal was Mrs. Wright. Madame Sophie Sos-nowski came to the Lucy Cobb as principal. Through some disagreement with the trustees, she resigned, and established the "Home School." It flourished for many a year. Far more precious than the careful instruction given was the association of young girls with a woman of such lofty ideals, exalted character, and social charm. The first newspaper in Athens was established in 1807 by Rev. John Hodge. Even the name has passed into oblivion. Alexander McDonnell bought the outfit and published The Georgia Express. In 1814 Samuel W. Minor succeeded McDonnell, and the paper shrunk to the size of 12 by 14 inches, and finally faded out. Patrick Robinson followed with The Athens Gazette, afterwards changed to The Athenian, conducted by 0. R. Shaw. Some years later, Albon Chase and Alfred Nisbet bought the paper and changed the name to The Southern Banner. Maj. Ben Perley Poore was one of the first editors. He entertained negroes at his house after he had been received by the best people of the town. Then and now that is a little too much for this latitude. The major returned to his native North. He was afterward assistant librarian of Congress. He never referred to his experience in the South. At a later time The Southern Cultivator was edited by William W. White. He also wrote a book on Southern Gardening. Dr. William L. Jones afterward owned and edited The Cultivator. The printing plant was where the Y. M. C. A. building now stands. It was one of the few agricultural periodicals in this part of the country, and had a wide circulation. The question may be pertinently asked how the people of early Athens occupied themselves outside of business. The great event of the year not only for Athens, but the state, was the University Commencement. It occurred in August. Visitors from the coast and from other parts of the state came. It was not only a gala time of much hospitable entertaining, but it was an occasion of political significance. Public men, candidates for office, and distinguished citizens attended to meet friends and constituents, and make addresses. Governor Gilmer, in the "Georgians," gives speeches made by him at Athens during Commencement on weighty matters of the time. It was a general holiday for the colored population, and for years until long after the war, the streets were thronged with negroes, as on circus day now. Visiting among the ladies and evening teas were quite the fashion. The men of leisure assembled at some central place, discussed the affairs of the nation and the village, and went virtuously home. Even to this day it is difficult to get the male Athenian out of his home after dark. His predecessor did not care to prolong the day's seance. A prominent Athenian once said, "Athens is the ideal of a social neighborhood. No man ever sets his foot in his neighbor's house, nor ever permits a neighbor to set foot in his house." Young men and maidens found the Botanical Garden a lovely place, wherein to while away the hours in those occupations which have engrossed their kind since first there were young people in the world. The writer, though not a resident of early Athens, has heard from some who participated in these innocent pastimes, glowing accounts of—the beauty of the garden. History records a May party given by the young ladies a long time ago. Amateur theatricals were also popular, and histrionic talent long survived in Athens. Dancing-as taught in the "Dancing Academy," had almost the stateliness and certainly the grace of the minuet. Who shall say that the young folk were not as happy in these amusements as those of this day of jazz and animal dances? It is recorded that President Monroe visited Athens, and held a reception in the old hotel on the corner of Broad and Wall Streets. It is safe to say he nowhere met a more select and refined company. With the exception of President Taft, other presidents- have not visited Athens, As they did not know what they missed all we can do about it is to be sorry for them. Pleasures unknown may be about one's pathway; his is the misfortune to have passed them by. Not in the line of amusement, but filling a large space in life, of those days was religious work and worship. From early times Athens has had strong churches and pastors. Their impress upon the character of the community is felt today. In Athens religion and education have ever gone hand in hand. The history of the Athens churches is not part of this outline. One abler to do justice to the subject than this writer has the duty of tracing the rise and growth of our religious centers. Outside the churches themselves, however, there were, from early times in this as in other counties, great gatherings at camp meetings. Lasting a week, the camp meeting aroused great religious enthusiasm. And although the enthusiasm frequently ended with the meeting, who shall say it served no good purpose? If only one of those who "professed religion" became a sincere Christian, the camp meeting stands justified. The military spirit was much in evidence and the militia drills, especially the general annual muster afforded great excitement, and not a little drinking of "Georgia wine." Dr. Hull in his sketches describes these doings. He mentions that the state inspector was named Fouche, and was called Foch. This sounds like prophesy. Under the old military system, the last officers of the Athens company mentioned in history .were Dr. William Bacon, Captain; and William B. Wells, Lieutenant. In the War of 1812, the call was made for volunteers from each county. Captain James Merriwether filled his company with fine young men. Mrs. Julia Ann Smith, widow of J. L .Smith, corporal in Merriwether's company, is now living at Wadley, Ala., age 87, and drawing pension for her husband's services in 1812. Another company was formed from this county. Both joined General Zachery Taylor, and did good service at Autosee and Calabee Swamp. A quota from this county took part in the removal of the Cherokee Indians. They were under command of Captain Isaac Vincent. Among these the writer knew Asa M. Jackson, Jesse Daniel, Nathan Cook, William Buchanan. They were refused the bounty because they sympathized with the Southern Confederacy. The Athens Guards were chartered in 1855, with the following officers: Captain, C. B. Lombard; First Lieutenant, Miller Grieve; Second Lieutenant, H. J. Adams; Ensign, William G. Delony; First Sergeant, John C. Turner; Second Sergeant, E. P. Lumpkin; Third Sergeant, Thomas U. Camak; Fourth Sergeant, William J. Morton. The Guards were the favorites of the town. Each private was adorned with splendor rivalling Solomon's magnificence. Their parades were marvels of color. The Guards saw service in the war, for four years in Lee's army. The day of gorgeous uniforms passed with the invention of long range, accurate fire, small arms. General Lee, when Commandant at West Point, was the first soldier of a civilized country to suggest inconspicuous uniforms. The National Artillery of Athens was chartered by the Legislature in 1859. The Acts do not give the names of the incorporators. The names of the members of these organizations have passed out of memory. No lists have been discovered by this writer. It is but one further example of the well known truth, that the makers of history are not writers of history. The National Artillery was known in the War between the States, as Troup Artillery, and took part in all the great battles in Virginia, Maryland, and Pennsylvania. Hope Fire Company was chartered in 1849; A. K. Childs, Chief Engineer; Eeuben Nickerson, Captain; C. S. Newton, Secretary and Treasurer. This organization was called into existence by the fire which destroyed the Athens Factory. It continued service until the establishment of the paid department some years ago, 1891. The same may be said and more of Pioneer Hook and Ladder Company, which received a charter in 1860. The corporators named in the Act were Henry Beusse, Robert T. Hoyt, Richard Hughes, John Bird. "We have now reached the eve of that dread period of four years of War between the States. When South Carolina seceded from the Union, other Southern states, Georgia among the number, called conventions to consider the matter. The delegates from this county were Howell Cobb, Thomas R. R. Cobb, and Jefferson Jennings. One of the most ardent advocates of secession in Georgia was T. R. R. Cobb. All three of the delegates voted for the ordinance. Georgia withdrew from the Union, and for four years the people of this county abandoned peaceful pursuits and gave all their energies to the Confederate States. 1860-1865 When Georgia seceded from the Union, the war spirit was unusually high in Athens, due among other causes, to the fact that T. R. R. Cobb had preached a crusade for secession with fiery zeal and power. This county furnished to the Confederacy at least two thousand men. Some idea of the character of the enlistment may be gained when we note in the roster of soldiers the names of six Bradberry brothers, twelve Elder brothers, and ten Bone brothers. Often has it been told that the mother of the Bone boys wrote to General Lee asking for one of her sons to be allowed to come home and make her a crop. The letter signed by General Lee himself, saying he needed all her ten sons at the front was read at the centennial. It is a pity a document of such interest should be lost. A copy of The Banner for Memorial Day, 1912, lies before the writer. Gleaning from it, the commands which went to the front from this county were Troup Artillery, Captain, Marcellus Stanley, afterwards Captain H. H. Carlton; Athens Guards, Captain H. C. Billups; Clarke Rifles, Captain, Isaac S. Vincent, who died en route and was succeeded by Captain J. J. McKee; Georgia Troopers, Captain, W. G. Delony; Ritch's Company, Captain, J. E. Ritch; Mell Rifles, Captain, Thomas U. Camak; Johnson Guards, Captain, S. P. Lumpkin; Highland Guards, Captain, W. S. Grady. Beside these, there were organized for home defense, Lumpkin's Battery, Captain, E. P. Lumpkin; White's Company, Captain, James White; Cook's Company, Captain, Ferdinand Cook; Oconee Rangers, Captain, John E. Turner; Lipscomb Volunteers, Captain, F. W. Adams. Last but by no means least, that most unique organization, the "Thunderbolts," Captain, John Billups. Although not enlisted in the Confederate service, they deserve special mention. The battles in which the Clarke companies were engaged are given, and lists of the casualties. It is interesting reading to many of the residents of this county. Perhaps the single action in which this county lost most severely was Crampton's Gap. Generals Howell Cobb and Semmes were ordered to hold the gap at all costs. They had 2,200 men against Franklin's 40,000. They held the pass for twelve hours, and the surviving 139 slept on the field. Among the officers who fell were Thomas U. Camak, John B. Lamar, and Jefferson Lamar. •One of the guns of Troup Artillery at the crest of the gap, had the carriage shot away, and was captured. The writer has never been able to learn whether it was the Helen or the Olivia. The guns were named for the Misses Newton (Mrs. Lamar Cobb, and Mrs. H. H. Carlton.) A complete roster of the troops from this county has been made by A. L. Mitchell, and is deposited in the court house. That it was carefully and accurately done goes without saying. Among the severe losses to this county and the state was that sustained when T. R, R. Cobb fell at Fredericksburg in sight of the home of his ancestors, He was truly a many minded man. To deal adequately with the part this county took in the war would be almost to write a history of-the war itself. Of the gay and gallant youth who marched away in the early days of 1860, many an one never returned. Ah! Well, while their loved ones sorrowed, they were assured that of the Confederate Soldier it can be truly said his deeds are written in history, embraced in poetry and celebrated in song. But what of the home folks left in Athens when the men went to war? The women lost no time in starting to do their bit. In May, 1861, they organized the Soldiers Aid Society, and set to work sewing, knitting, making garments, and the innumerable things needed by soldiers in the field. A copy of The Athens Banner, October 9, 1861, gives the quarterly report of the Society. It shows the following items: Coats, 301; trousers, 297; shirts, 734; drawers, 624; socks, 348; havelocks, 60; extra garments, 65. The president of the society was a lady, active in all things in aid of the Southern cause, Mrs. Myrtis Franklin. The secretary was Mrs. Paulina Thomas, the treasurer, Mrs. Augusta Clayton King. The members were Mesdames Laura Cobb Rutheford, Susan Dowdell Lipscomb, Elizabeth P. Hodgson, Mary Nisbet Hull, Y. L. G. Harris, John H. Newton, Stevens Thomas, Howell Cobb, Susan Golding, Blanton Hill, Sarah H. Rucker, Rosa P. Smith, Thomas Baxter, Marcellus Stanley, Rosa H. Delony, Petter Summey, Martha S. Lucas, Cosmo P. Richardson, Walter Mitchell, Henry Brittain, Thomas Daniel, Pleasant Stovall, A. K. Childs, Nathan Hoyt, Reuben Nickerson, Misses Mary Linton, Sallie Moss, Ann Hodgson, Seney Dorsey, America Carlton, Lizzie Colt. It is due to those whose names are on this roll of honor that they should be inscribed in any sketch of this town. That the men too old for active service did not shrink is evidenced by the organization of that unique, historic, military unit, the Thunderbolts. It is a source of continual regret that the history of the Thunderbolts has not been written, and now it can not be written. All the members have passed, over the river. The command was composed of the elderly gentlemen of Athens, men of means and position. Not even a roster is available. They were not enlisted in the Confederate service, were organized solely for home defense, refused to be sworn into the service or to be inspected by staff officer sent for that purpose. As Private Junius Hillyer fully explained in his protest to the oath, they were authorized by the laws of the state. The Captain was Col. John Billups. Among the rank and file were Col. W. L. Mitchell, Dr. Edward Ware, Dr. Henry Hull, Judge Junius Hillyer, Col. Stevens Thomas, Judge Y. L. G. Harris. The Thunderbolts were out on several occasions. Some six hundred Yankee prisoners were brought to Athens by Col. William Cabell Preston Breckinridge, and corralled on the campus. The Thunderbolts were called out to guard the prisoners. They also were out to repel Wilson's raiders. A charming sketch of. the Thunderbolts from the facile pen of T. W. Reed is published in the "Annals of Athens." When Wilson's raiders appeared on the height beyond the Paper Mill, Lumpkin's Battery fired a shot from the hill this side. The enemy veered off, and did not enter the town. Curious, a year ago, an officer in Wilson's command mentioned the incident. He said the supposition was that the place was entrenched and strongly held. Thus the only shot fired in anger by the battery during the war saved the town from invasion. The privation, the makeshifts, the lack of comforts, medicines, luxuries, endured by the people of Athens during the war in no way differ from the experience of all Southern people. Recital of them is a part of the history of the South during the war. Many local incidents might be given, some sorrowful, some pathetic, some ludicrous. Through it all runs the golden thread of patient courage. The armies in the field were sustained by the knowledge that the army at home did not shrink from duty. 1865-1923 The close of the War between the States found the University closed, business disorganized, the farms partially cultivated. Nearly everything was gone, except the only thing which really matters, the firm and unconquerable spirit of self-reliance, implanted in Athenians by the example of the men and women of the long ago. Athens and the county shared in the destruction visited upon the entire South by four years of war. A vivid picture has been drawn of the then conditions. The toll of the young manhood taken by the casualties of war far exceeded the losses in the devastating wars of the Great Frederick. The accumulated wealth of two hundred years was swept away. The seed corn and the ox had gone to feed the hungry soldier, and the plow fell under him as he fought. The slave property was confiscated. Millions of dollars, the dependence of widows and orphans, invested in Confederate securities, disappeared by forced repudiation. More than three million young men and women left the South within a year after the war. After the army with bayonets, came the more terrible army with carpet bags. The states were military districts. White men were disfranchised. The Freedman's Bureau upheld the negro in any contention with his former master. The land thus devastated was left to the old men, the women, the children, and the cripples to redeem. No country has ever risen from such a condition except by repopulation from without. But the day of miracles is not past. Within a single decade the South had lustrated her altars, put to flight the political brigands, raised cotton crops which turned the balance of trade in favor of this country, and thus made good the debt contracted to conquer her. Political power in Congress was in her hands; peace and prosperity were in her homes. Henry Ward Beecher, after traveling through the South at this time, said from Plymouth pulpit: "The Southern people abound in all the grand virtues that adorn the human race." The reconstruction period was no pleasanter in Athens than, elsewhere. Federal soldiers were quartered in the College buildings. The commander's headquarters were in Phi Kappa Hall. The troops left the usual marks of wanton depredation on the Chapel. It is strange that there were so few cases of friction between the soldiers, and the disbanded Confederates. Knox, of the Freedman's Bureau, had a difficulty with Tom Frierson, shot him in the leg, and a general riot was prevented only by the intervention of the soldiers. Clarke County sent two negroes to the Legislature, Madison Davis, and Alf Richardson. The former was conservative, sensible, and favored peace and order. He was scarcely a negro, under the definition of our Code, and retained his seat when the negroes were expelled from the Legislature. Alf Richardson was a turbulent and dangerous negro, advocating violent measures against the whites. The Ku Klux killed him in his house, in what is now Oconee County. The Union League exercised baleful influence among the negroes, urging them to lawlessness and violence. Their meetings were held in an old shop on the corner of Hull and Hancock. It was an awesome sound at night emitted from the deep toned horn, blown about the streets summoning the members. The meetings were characterized by dire oaths and frightful paraphernalia of skulls and cross-bones. Except that the members religiously voted the ticket, few crimes were committed. The Ku Klux kept them in wholesome restraint, and had the situation well in hand by 1870. So Athens and Clarke county accepted the situation and cheerfully went to work. The University opened under Chancellor Andrew A. Lipscomb. The state aided wounded soldiers, and the attendance began with about 150 students. The merchants replenished their stocks as far as they could. The high price of cotton put the farmers to active work. The banks opened, and money began to circulate. At this time we find the merchants were: grocers, Center & Reaves, Huggins & Dobbs, Sanson & Pittard, Weatherly & Sons; dry goods, Frederick W. Lucas & Son, M. G. & J. Cohen, Moses Myers, Jacobs & Michael; clothiers, Charles Stern, J. Ritch; druggists, Long & Billups, R. M. Smith; confectioner, L. Flisch; hardware, Childs & Nickerson, Summey & Newton; books and stationery, W. N. White. The pulpits of the churches were filled as follows: Baptist, by Mr. Ivey, a much beloved pastor; Methodist, by that gallant soldier and faithful man of God, Gen. Clement A. Evans; Presbyterian, by Mr. Burkhead, soon succeeded by Charles M. Lane, than whom no truer Christian or purer soul has ever lived; Episcopal, by the lovable, gentle, Christian gentleman, Matthew H. Henderson. The physicians were Richard D. Moore, the prince of doctors, Crawford W. Long, who first used sulphurous ether as anaesthetic in surgery, the three Carltons and R. M. Smith. James Camak was not an active practitioner. Among the lawyers William L. Mitchell had practically retired, and was professor in the Law Department of the University. Asa M. Jackson was ordinary. The other members of the bar were Junius Hillyer, Samuel P. Thurmond, Lamar and Ho well Cobb, Albert L. Mitchell, Emory Speer, W. Bailey Thomas, T. W. Rucker, Louis Thomas, and later, Pope Barrow. For some time Georgia's most powerful advocate and eminent son, Benjamin H. Hill, made his home in Athens. The Southern Mutual Insurance Company was directed by Y. L. G. Harris, president; Albon Chase, secretary, counting on the board Ferdinand Phinizy, John H. Newton, Elizur L. Newton, Dr. Henry Hull, Stevens Thomas, Edward R. Ware, and B. F. Hardeman. The National Bank of Athens was organized in 1866. Asbury Hull, Jr., was made president; F. W. Adams, cashier. Directors were John White, Thomas Bishop, John W. Nicholson, Albon Chase, and Dr. Henry Hull. There were two tan-yards in Athens, Doyal's and Kirkpatriek's. All that remains as a reminder today is the name of the tan-yard branch. The Watchman was owned and edited by John H. Christy. He was elected to Congress, but the Republican majority excluded him. The Northeast Georgian was edited by H. H. Carlton. Both were weekly publications. With the latter, Pleasant A. Stovall began his career as journalist. Although affairs were in a most unsettled condition, people, while mourning their losses, did not mope. A grand tournament was held on the level north of Judge McWhorter's home. Athens "gathered there her chivalry and her beauty." Men and women who took part can tell the inquirer today more than this writer knows or has space to record. The queen was Miss Mary Lou Yancy, than whom there has not been a fairer daughter of the state. The first circus to visit Athens after the war, spread the tent on the lot now occupied by Dupree Hall. Shortly afterward the Hall was built by Mr. Lewis Dupree of Oglethorpe County. John W. Brumby was the contractor, and McCulloch the architect. For many years it was used as a theatre, likewise a skating rink, also a business college, and furthermore, as a dance hall. In 1866 the Ladies' Memorial Association was organized, a successor to the Soldiers' Aid Society. The purpose was the fitting observance of Memorial Day, and the erection of a monument to the soldiers of this county. Faithfully they have achieved both results. The officers were: President, Mrs. Laura Cobb Rutherford; vice-presidents, Mrs. Augusta Clayton King, Mrs. Howell Cobb, and Mrs. Y. L. G. Harris. With indomitable energy, the members set to work to raise money for the monument. In addition to subscriptions, sundry pay performances were held. Notable among these was the May party, in which the youth and beauty (female) took part. The only male performer was Harry Phinizy. He was Cupid. Miss Millie Rutherford was crowned queen. Miss Marianna Frierson was gypsy queen. The writer has interviewed several of the participants in this affair. Their accounts differ widely in detail, so he will not here amplify further. He was present, but knew but few of the actresses, and can not speak from memory of their parts. More notable even than the May party, was the burlesque given the following week in the Town Hall by the students of the University. Many of the actors have reached high places in church and state. Especially, two have held the office of Chancellor of the University. These festivities were followed by a presentation of Mrs. Jarley's wax works. This called for performers of all ages and both sexes, and was a brilliant success. The affair was under the management of Miss Anna Camak. A. A. Lipscomb of Washington was Mrs. Jarley, and Robert Hodgson was his assistant. Histrionic talent has never been lacking in Athens, and while light comedy has been the rule, more exalted roles have been attempted. A public performance was given for the benefit of the widow of a distinguished Confederate officer who was said to be in need. The proceeds were returned with the statement that the lady was very comfortable, thank you. Musical talent has never been lacking in Athens. Among the notable musical events was the rendition of the Oratorio of Esther. Between fifty and a hundred Athenians took part in the performance, which was staged at Dupree Hall. Mrs. J. W. Brumby was Esther, Mrs. H. H. Carlton, Haman's wife, John Hope Hull, Haman, and _____ Camp, Ahasuerus. Nothing on so grand a scale has been attempted since The Haydn Music Club ran successfully for quite a while, and gave enjoyable concerts. Among the members were Prof. Schirmacher, Prof. Alfred W. Wurm, Messrs. A. L. Hull, C. P. Willcox, W. W. Thomas, Mrs. T. A. Burke, Mrs. Charles Stern, Misses Ria Bearing, Nathalie Hamilton, and others. Cobb-Delony Camp of Confederate Veterans was organized in Athens. There is no record giving the date or names of officers and members. Hon. H. H. Carlton was the first commandant. The camp was so named in honor of T. R. R. Cobb, and William G. Deloney. The latter fell in action. No more gallant soldier ever carried sabre than Col. Deloney. Recently the state reunion was held in Athens. The parade would stir the heart of the most indifferent. If those were men of a conquered army appearances are certainly deceptive. They were men who redeemed a wasted land and held its destinies in their hands. Athens out-did herself in hospitable entertainment. It is a bright page in her history. The Confederate Cross of Honor was suggested by an Athens woman, Mrs. Alexander S. Erwin (Miss Mary Anne Lamar Cobb), and has been adopted by the United Confederate Veterans. Fit was it that Cross Number One should have been conferred upon her soldier husband. It is probable (though disputed) that his command was "farthest at Gettysburg." He stood at the high water mark of the Confederacy. The location of the buildings in Athens in 1870, public, private, and business is fully set forth in a series of sketches by this writer, "Strolls About Athens in the Early Seventies." The business section 'has been almost entirely rebuilt. Many of the old dwellings have been moved near the street and the ample grounds are now occupied by houses. Of the families of that time, the only ones living in the same houses now as then are Dearing, Camak, Moss, Hardeman (Mrs. J. W. Brumby.) But one must remember that 1870 was some time ago, and in that time Athens has changed from a town of family residences to a thriving business city. In 1871 the county site was changed from Watkinsville to Athens. The court house, now the high school, was not built until 1876-77. In 1875 Oconee County was created, and thus Clarke lost territory for the third or fourth time. The street railways of Athens have had a checkered career. As early as 1870, W. B. Thomas built a freight road from the Georgia Railroad depot on Carr's Hill to College Avenue. It did not pay, and was abandoned in a few years. In 1885 the Classic City Street Railway was chartered. It was built by Snodgrass of Texas. The motor power was Texas mules. It was sold to J. H. Dorsey, and in 1889 was sold by receiver to E. G. Harris. In 1889, E. G. Harris, L. A. Mitchell and J. T. Voss obtained a charter for the Athens Railway Company. The first cars propelled by electricity were operated June, 1891. It was sold at public outcry in 1894, and purchased by W. S. Holman. The Athens Electric Railway Company was then organized by W. S. Holman, J. Y. Carithers, Albon P. Dearing, J. A. Hunnicutt, and C. D. Flanigen. Under the able management of the last named gentleman, the company entered upon a period of success and prosperity. It was succeeded by the present corporation, The Athens Railway and Electric Company. The Athens Electric Railway Company developed power at Mitchell's Bridge, Tallassee Shoals, and Barnett Shoals, and installed electric lights on the streets, and in the business houses and dwellings of the city. In 1876 a prohibition law for the county was enacted by the Legislature. It remained on the statute book until 1890, when the Athens Dispensary was created. The law for the dispensary was drawn by Andrew J. Cobb. The idea was carried by T. L. Gannt to South Carolina, and there became a state measure. The dispensary continued in operation until eliminated by the general prohibition law of the state. It is interesting that when the great Russian Chancellor, Witte, decided to take over the liquor business, making the Czar the only liquor seller in the empire, he sent an emissary to Athens to learn the facts about the working of the dispensary. The great event of that time was the building of the Northastern Railroad. The charter was granted in 1872. On a warm day, in summer, of course, the town turned out in procession with mounted marshals, sheet iron band, and the other usual accompaniments, marched out into the woods, where the Southern station now stands. After much oratory from enthusiastic speakers, Dr. Henry Hull struck the pick into the ground, the first work on the railroad. It was proposed to connect Athens and Knoxville, Tennessee, but it has not extended beyond the terminus on the main line of the Southern, named by Capt. Hurt, Lula, in honor of Miss Louise Phinizy, now Mrs. Calhoun of Atlanta. The first train came into Athens in the centennial year, 1876. The record, dated November 21, 1876, shows the following officers: A. K. Childs, president; John Calvin Johnson, secretary and treasurer, succeeded by R. L. Moss, treasurer, and T. A. Burke, secretary. The directors were: Howell Cobb, John White, John H. Newton, J. A. Hunnicutt, T. A. Burke, John W. Nicholson, R. Nickerson, W. B. J. Hardman, R. L. Moss, C. G. Talmadge, Henry Beusse, Alexander S. Erwin, Henry A. Lowrance, R. K. Reaves, C. W. Hood, Wm. S. Erwin, and Ferdinand Phinizy. In 1879, C. D. Flanigen came to Athens for the purpose of erecting an ice factory. He decided to try the market first, and sold ice one summer. He found that most Athenians preferred good well water, and thought iced water unhealthy. Many people think that way now. Finding the demand not sufficient to justify the outlay, Flanigen went into other business. He had, however, started the demand and ice has been sold and used in Athens ever since. Before that time it could be had at L. Flisch's confectionery (of toothsome memory) for five cents a pound. An ice factory was started by S. Rexinger but did not succeed. Later, the present plants were established, and ice ceased to be a luxury and became a necessity. In 1885 the public schools were authorized by vote of the people. Prof. B. C. Branson, now of the University of North Carolina, was the first superintendent. At first, there were only two buildings, one for white children, and the other for negro children. With the growth of the city the system has expanded and expanded, and yet the call is for more and better buildings. But that is another story. When the court house was built on Washington Street, the old court house became the high school. The ample grounds and the facilities there are a source of pride to Athenians. Any sketch of Athens which fails to mention the fire companies would be the play of Hamlet omitting that character. Hope Fire Company and Pioneer Hook and Ladder Company were the pride of the town. Practically every able-bodied young man was a member of one or the other. When they paraded everybody turned out to see them. But at a fire they were great. Everybody who could move attended the fire, and took part in the excitement. Without detracting from the excellent work of the firemen on many occasions, it is no criticism of them to say that many absurd incidents marked the occasion. Squirting dirty water on the crowd, intentionally or not, added greatly to the fun. But saving the furniture out of the house was a thing to be seen to be appreciated. A gentleman whose house was near a fire, stood at his gate and refused entrance, except through personal violence. E. P. Bishop was captain of Hope. He was succeeded by W. W. Thomas. Henry Beusse was captain of Pioneer. The latter company took many prizes at state meets. They were welcomed home with banquets and speeches. One long to be remembered occasion was the state meet in Athens, 1888. The entertainment of the visitors was lavish to prodigality. The contests were held on Broad. Street. Athens took her full share of the prizes. In the foot races, Gus Nicholson was the Athens star. The best time made by Pioneer was 15, April, 1884, at Macon. They ran 125 yards with the truck, handled three ladders, placed one of forty feet length, sent a man to the top, replaced ladders in thirty-two (32) seconds. Captain, E. I. Smith; Drill Master, C. G. Talmadge. Pioneer was never beaten in any event in which it participated. Ah, well! These are things of the past which delight a few to recall. The paid department was organized in 1891, and its management of fires has since been on the line of strict business. If there is a better department, or more efficient chief than George MacDorman in the state, it has yet to be proven. The contract between Athens and Charles E. Robinson of New York, to establish a system of Water Works was signed in 1882, for a twenty year period, J. H. Rucker being mayor. The works were established on the branch west of Lumpkin Street. The supply was not sufficient. Litigation followed. The plant was sold under mortgage foreclosure, the pipes dug up, the stand pipe taken down, and the power house burned up, or perhaps down. No other town has ever had a water works and a fire engine destroyed by fire. We are nothing if not unique! Thirty years ago this last spring, the bonds for the City Water Works were issued. The works have been built, have been enlarged by an addition. Athens city water is ranked by the state authorities as first class, and the bonds have been paid. The first telephone exchange was installed by the Southern Bell Telephone and Telegraph Company in the year 1882, with about fifteen or twenty subscribers. This was only six years after the telephone apparatus had been invented. The first manager was Mr. James A. Wotton, and he served until the latter part of the year 1885, when he was succeeded by Mr. M. K. Layton, who served until the latter part of year 1887, when he was succeeded by Mr. T. M. Bishop, who served until November 1, 1888, at which time he was succeeded by Mr. H. C. Conway, who served until his death, April 25, 1913, and J. W. Jarrell succeeded him and is still manager of this exchange. There are, according to records, as of this date, 2,419 telephones in service here. Perhaps the immediate cause inducing the paving of the streets was the havoc played with them by army wagons in 1898. That winter, three regiments from New York, Pennsylvania, and New Jersey, respectively, were camped beyond the terminus of Hill Street. The country was at war with Spain. These troops behaved well, and made a pleasant impression upon our people. The winter was unusually rainy, and the mud was an after-thought of the campaigns in Virginia, 1860-64, and a preliminary to France in 1918. Street paving bonds were issued in 1900. Sidewalks began to be paved in cement the next year. Up to the time of the War between the States, little cotton was grown as far north as Athens. The cotton belt was on the level lands. Since that time, the introduction of commercial fertilizers has made this a cotton growing section. Athens has .become one of the chief inland cotton markets of the state. Between 90,000 and 180,000 bales have been handled here in a single year. There were at one time, two cotton compresses here. The last of them was destroyed by fire some years ago. The Public Schools of Athens, 'having been authorized by the Legislature, were opened in the year 1886-1887, under E. C. Branson as superintendent. The State Normal School opened in 1895, S. D. Bradwell, president. The history of these two institutions are the subjects of separate sketches. In 1845 the Empire State Chemical Company was organized and began the manufacture of commercial fertilizers, under the management of E, E. Hodgson, Sr., E. B. Hodgson, Jr., and Harry Hodgson. The oil mill was bought in 1915. This is one of the most important plants in the city. In 1899, Hon. John R. White appeared on the street with the first motor car. It created as much of a sensation, no doubt, as the first buggy owned by Elizur Newton, had made so many years before. Today there are about two thousand registered automobiles in the county. Whether or not the drivers thereof own them is not a matter of inquiry here. The writer has interviewed some four or five persons who brought the first automobile to town. He settles the controversy by suggesting that they all came together at one and the same time. The number of unregistered automobiles is likewise not a subject of inquiry here. The Southern, Manufacturing Company was chartered in 1902. The corporators were A. H. Hodgson, E. R. Hodgson, J. M. Hodgson, J. Y. Carithers, W. T. Bryan, W. C. Ash, and D. F. Miller. The development of hydro-electric power by the Athens Street Railway Company is one of the most important facts in our history. Besides running its cars, the lighting of streets, business houses, homes, at least two cotton factories operate with electric power. The company developed successively at Mitchell's Bridge, Barnett Shoals, and Tallassee. And the demand is for more power. The City Hall was completed in 1904 at a cost of $50,000.00, L. F. Goodrich of Augusta being the architect, and J. W. Barnett, contractor. In the years during which Athens was changing from a town of residences to a business community, the county has experienced steady, substantial growth in wealth and population. The thriving towns of Winterville, Georgia Factory and Princeton are evidence of the prosperity of the county. Farm lands have greatly increased in productivity and value. Improved methods have been adopted, better breeds of farm animals are being introduced. Diversification, raising food crops, fruits arid vegetables, rearing of beef cattle, and hogs for market, attention to dairy products all are freeing the county from the single crop slavery of cotton. The fact that there are no large estates depending solely on cotton gives the county an exceptional advantage. The farmers are appreciating the assistance afforded by the State College of Agriculture. Homes and home conditions show marked improvement during the last decade. These favorable conditions are sure foundations of lasting prosperity. The question may be asked, why this county should entertain a sentiment of pardonable pride in things other than material. The question recalls an incident in the life of Hon. Logan E. Bleckley. When a young man he came down from his mountain home to Atlanta. A somewhat distinguished citizen to whom he was introduced, asked rather sarcastically, "What do you raise in Rabun?" The prompt answer was, "In Rabun we rear men." The same may be said of this county. She has given to the country two governors of the state, four chief justices, one presiding justice, seven judges of the Superior Court, one United States Senator, four Representatives in Congress, one Cabinet officer, one Ambassador to a foreign country, two Confederate Generals, three physicians of more than local fame, three foreign missionaries, one Chancellor of the University, at least one scholar whose achievement^ are known throughout the world of science, and a journalist whose eminent services to state and country will ever preserve the memory of his genius. Without boasting of the past, let us be worthy of our predecessors. Athens is not the home of the ideal, nor the city of the violet crown, nor mother of arts and eloquence. But she has been always the home of right-thinking, right-acting, refined, and cultured men and women. While dark blots have marred her fair escutcheon, they have not dimmed its brightness. While this writer purposely passes these over, he is reminded that all history has elements of personal bias. Not many a historian can say that he did "naught extenuate, nor set down aught in malice." As we look back over the last thirty years of our history and note the physical advances that have taken place, their number surprises us. Five railroads, improved highways, numerous automobiles, paved streets and sidewalks, ice in common use, street cars, telephones, telegraph lines, water works, sewers, paid fire department, fire alarms, public schools, mail delivery, handsome business houses, imposing church edifices, elegant city hall, commodious court house, these fill us -with pride. We rightfully congratulate ourselves upon, these evidences of prosperity. But let us not forget that they were made possible by the men and women of former days. Our priceless heritage is the unconquerable spirit which laid firm and sound the foundations of material, intellectual and moral excellence. Theirs was the spirit which, met cheerfully the trials and sorrows of war. Theirs was the spirit which was undaunted amid the wreck of war and the horrors of reconstruction. The material things, the things seen, are the things temporal. The things of the spirit are the things unseen. They are eternal. HISTORICS. OLDEST HOUSE. When the University location was chosen in 1801, Daniel Easley, from whom the land was bought, was living in a house on what is now Oconee Street. In 1803, he sold it to Rev. Hope Hull, who occupied it until some time about 1842. Edward R. Hodgson bought the house from Hope Hull and lived in it until his death. Horace Martin lived there a long time. The house is now unoccupied and going to ruin. It is the oldest building now standing in Athens. Such other buildings as were in existence in 1803, were between the top of the hill and the river. They all have disappeared. Old College was completed in 1803. The temporary buildings on the campus erected between 1801 and 1803 have all disappeared. BOTANICAL GARDEN. Extending along the ravine from Knox Institute to Waddell Street was the Botanical Garden. It contained rare trees, flowers, and shrubs from all parts of the world. It was both a source -of information and a pleasure ground. Even today, relics may be- found in strange trees in the lots of the negro inhabitants. Dr. Ward, curator of the garden, lived on the lot now the home of Lamar Rucker. Among the many curious and interesting trees still standing is perhaps the largest gyncope in the world. In the garden was planted the sprig of willow from Napoleon's grave on St. Helena, sent by the French government at the time of the reintombment to William H. Crawford. The sprig was received by Dr. Jackson, Mr. Crawford being dead, and by him given to Dr. Ward. Mr. Crawford was minister to St. Cloud during all of Bonaparte's public career, and was the only minister of a foreign country who remained in Paris during the Hundred Days from the return from Elba to Waterloo. If the original tree is not standing, many willows propagated from it are nourishing in the ravine. Those who remember the garden have never ceased to regret its destruction, and the occupation of the site by cabins, and their concomitants. Knox Institute, under the present efficient management, preserves with undeserved merit the unsavory memory of Knox, the Agent of the Freedman's Bureau. ROMAN CHAPEL. In rear of the Roman Catholic Church is a small small wooden building. It was the law office of Joseph Henry Lumpkin, the first Chief Justice of Georgia, and of his son-in-law, Thomas Reade Rootes Cobb, codifier of the laws of Georgia, eminent lawyer, gallant soldier. Here sessions of the Supreme Court were held, when the court was ambulatory. Here, Lumpkin, Cobb, and William Hope Hull founded the Lumpkin Law School, now the Law Department of the University of Georgia. Classes were held there. Afterward, school was held there. Carlton Hillyer, Benjamin Hunter, W. W. Lumpkin, and others taught in that building. For a while it was used as a chapel by the Roman Catholics. The plans for the establishment of the Lucy Cobb Institute were inaugurated in that building. Thus it has been the scene of the activity of the dominant forces of civilization, law, education, religion. CURIOUS TREE. More people have heard of Athens through publications in newspapers throughout the country of the tree that owns itself, than in any other way. No one supposes that a tree can be a land-owner. Certainly Dr. Jackson knew this. But his wish that this tree should not be felled is as sacredly respected as would be a life estate in it. No one has seen the deed, it is not of record. The tradition gives the tree an individuality all its own. The tradition is as firmly rooted as if a writing had been sealed and delivered, and no doubt the tree is rooted with equal firmness. Unless some steps are taken to repair the damage inflicted by sleet some years ago, the life estate of the tree is likely to be much curtailed. Dr. Richard T. Ely, of the University of Wisconsin, in his great work, "Property and Contract," mentions this tree with appropriate comment. Dr. W. H. Jackson was a professor in the University, and father of Chief Justice, James Jackson. DOUBLE BARREL CANNON. This singular weapon, now gracing the city hall square, was designed by John Gilleland, and cast at the Athens Foundry under the supervision of Thomas Bailey. It was proposed to connect the projectiles with a chain. Thus, when fired, it would sweep away ranks of the foe at one fell swoop. Often has the account been given of the only firing of the gun with chain shot. One ball came out before the other. The whirling motion consequent thereon caused the destruction of a considerable area of thicket, and stampeded the crowd of spectators. It was never fired again. Thus the Federal army escaped annihilation, and Athens has the only double barrel cannon in the world. COOK'S ARMORY. When New Orleans was threatened during the War between the States, Ferdinand Cook moved his plant to Athens. He built the armory across the river opposite the foot of Broad Street. He made first class rifles for the Confederate Army. The Filipinos made their last stand in the crater of an extinct volcano on the far away island of Mindanao. Refusing to surrender, they were killed or captured. Captain Edward Lawton was in charge of the party to glean the field. He mentioned in a letter to his wife, daughter of Major W. S. Basinger, that he found a rifle, bearing on the lock plate, the inscription, "Made in Athens, Ga., 1864." The writer asked the War Department to give this old rifle to the University as a curio. He received a bundle of documents which, (some of them) had travelled from Washington to the remote corners of the Philippines. He learned that useful weapons had been issued to the Islands Constabulary. Inquiry among them all failed to trace the rifle. Useless weapons, General Pershing had ordered thrown into the sea. This is perhaps the fate of that old gun, that fifty years afterward had not heard that "The War" was over; and un-reconstructed, was still shooting at Uncle Sam's soldiers. The papers contained an official history of Cook's Armory. HAUNTED HOUSE. The house, fronting on Harris Street between Hill and Cobb, is known as the haunted house. Jefferson Lamar in that house married his cousin, Miss Mary Lamar, during the war. In the midst of the ceremony the gas went out. Shortly thereafter Lamar was killed at the defense of Crampton Gap. This caused the superstitious to think that the house was haunted. The rear of the house was much nearer Milledge than Harris. E. R. Hodgson moved it to its present position, and the "hants," if there were any, quit. HANCOCK TAVERN. The house stood where the VonCannon-Wall Building now is, was a tavern on the stage line between the coast and the west. "W. T. Thompson wrote that part of Major Jones' Courtship which describes the "fantastics" during the University Commencement in the second floor room on the northeast corner. Benjamin H. Hill boarded there while attending college. He was a favorite of Mr. Hancock, who predicted a great career for him. ROCK COLLEGE. The oldest building on the Normal School campus was built by the University for a preparatory school. Prof. B. T. Hunter, father-in-law of Capt. J. W. Barnett, was the principal, and Prof. W. W. Lumpkin, father of E. K. Lumpkin, associate. Afterward, it was a dormitory and boarding house for students. It and the adjacent lands were the site of the College of Agriculture, until the establishment of the Normal School. The building and land were donated by the University to the state for that school. This building is constructed of cement and crushed stone. Boxing was filled with this mixture. It was given time to harden and additions were made. There are no steel rods or other re-inforcements in the walls. As this building was completed shortly before the War between the States, in 1859, and is today sound and substantial, there should be no doubt as to the durability of concrete construction. If there are any other buildings in the state, of similar construction ante-dating, or contemporaneous with this one, the fact has not been mentioned. The excavation for the stone can be seen today. "Who suggested the idea, this writer would much like to know. From the method of construction the building was known as the "Rock College." JOHN HOWARD PAYNE. No sketch of Athens is complete which omits mention of John Howard Payne. The most complete account of his adventures in Georgia, which has met the writer's eye, is given in the History of Rome, by George W. Battey, Jr. Payne came to Georgia in 1835. He was a guest in Athens at the home of General Edward Harden. He paid his addresses to the daughter, Miss Mary Eliza Greenhill Harden. Neither he nor Miss Harden were ever married to each other, nor either to any one else. She lived to a good old age in the Harden, home on Hancock Avenue, a lady with the graces and accomplishments of a former era. Her niece, Miss Evelyn Harden Jackson, still owns the house. She has written a delightful short story of the Payne episode. She has many interesting things reminiscent thereof. There is a persistent tradition that Payne gave Miss Harden the original manuscript of "Home, Sweet Home/' the song which had made him famous. No one has ever seen it, and if she had it, she probably destroyed it for sentimental reasons. It seems queer that the song (or rather the words) should have been written by one who had no home except "Home, Sweet Home," and perhaps had to sing it himself. MADAME GOUVAIN. All sketches of Athens mention this lady and the interesting fact of her friendship for the Empress Josephine. Michael Gouvain was Secretary of President Monroe. They exchanged lands in San Domingo for the "D'Estaing Grant," which lies partly in Clarke and partly in Madison County. The land was granted by the state to Count D'Estaing for services in the War of the Revolution. Madame Gouvain long survived her husband, Michael Gouvain. She had an attractive French Chalet about where the Georgia Railroad station is now. Her intimacy with the Empress arose when she lived near Mlmaison. Her sister, Countess de Villars, was lady in waiting to the Empress. Her descendants in Athens, Mrs. A. A. McDuffie, and Miss Evelyn Jackson, have interesting letters from the Empress to Madame Gouvain. She wrote a short sketch of her life which is reproduced in "Annals of Athens." Needless to say, the D'Estaing lands were not the rich principality the Gouvains perhaps imagined them to be. She says: "The long literary of my name is Rosalie Renie Marie Claudine Josephine Yvron Vincent Dennis, de Kederon, de Trobriand, daughter of Chevelier de Trobiand." She married first Gen. Ange de la Pierriere, and second, Michael Gouvain. MADAME SOSNOWSKI. Sophie Sosnowski, daughter of Dr. Wents. Court Physician at the Grand Ducal Court of Baden, married, in the Strasburg Cathedral, Joseph Sosnowski, a Polish patriot. Compelled to flee from her home, she came to America. She was governess in the family of Barnwell Rhett, at whose house the Ordinance of Secession was drawn. She established a nourishing school in Columbia. S. C. Her account of the burning of Columbia, by Sherman has been published, and is most interesting reading. She was highly educated, and an accomplished musician. But more than these, her high ideals, lofty character, and social charm were the priceless assets of the Home School. The school continued until a few years ago, when she died full of years and honors. CRAWFORD W. LONG. Often it has been told how Dr. Long came to observe the effect of sulphurous ether in rendering one .insensible to pain. He was the first man in the world to use this anaesthetic in a surgical operation. He removed a tumor from the breast of a patient in Jackson County. This man was living a few years ago. The fact and date are beyond dispute. His house was on the lot now occupied by the W. T. Bryan home. A memorial shaft was erected a few years ago, on the campus and presented to the University by Dr. Joseph Jacobs of Atlanta. He is a loyal admirer of Dr. Long, and served his initiate in the drug store of Long & Billups, in Athens. The Legislature selected Dr. Long as one of the two Georgians whose statue is to be placed in the statuary hall in the Capitol at Washington. No money was appropriated and when the statue is installed it will be through the work and generosity of friends and admirers. LEVI CRAWFORD. Before dams were erected on the rivers of the state shad ran up as high as the mountains. It is unlawful to dam a navigable stream. Levi Crawford owned a large tract of land in this county. He decided to prove the navigability of the Oconee River. He built a boat of proper dimensions, loaded it with clay to build a chimney on his land in Florida, manned it with his negroes and began his cruise. When he reached the Fontenoy mill, he demanded that the dam be removed. Being refused, he beached his boat, went to Milledgeville to lay the matter before the Legislature, with a view of appealing to the Federal government. Meeting no success, his boat rotted above the Fontenoy dam. Shad are stopped at the edge of the escarpment, and thousands of miles of streams are no longer the hatcheries of shad. This writer heard Judge Erwin say that when he was a boy, he saw fresh shad for sale in Clarkesville, which had been taken from the nearby streams. OCONEE GREENINGS. When the trees were cleared from a large field owned by John White (by him acquired from Levi Crawford) a seedling apple tree was left near the middle. It had been known to the Indians. Many trees were propagated from the scions. Oconee Greenings were known and prized beyond the limits of the state, and even in England. The tree has disappeared long ago, and Oconee Greenings are but a pleasant memory. CLEMENT L. VALLANDINGHAM. When Abraham Lincoln was a candidate for re-election, Vallandingham took the stump for the Democratic candidate. Word went to Washington, that unless Vallandingham was silenced, Ohio would go Democratic, and Lincoln's defeat meant Southern independence. Vallandingham was arrested, refused habeas corpus, tried by military commission, and expelled from the North. There was not an armed foe on the soil of Ohio, and all her courts were open. Vallandingham came to Athens, and visited his friend, General Howell Cobb. After the war, while arguing a case, he handled the pistol to illustrate the evidence, thinking it unloaded, pulled the trigger, and fell dead, before the jury. JOHN JACOBUS FLOURNOY. This gentleman was long a familiar figure on our streets. Long hair, white patriarchal beard, and rubber coat, worn winter and summer, rain or shine marked him. He was a man of education and extended reading and at one time had comfortable means. In old age he developed a mania for what he called trigamy. He wrote voluminously to distinguished men, various societies and to university classes. Oliver Wendell Holmes mentions him in "The Poet of the Breakfast Table." He died in Jackson County and his library was dissipated. RIVER BRIDGE. For a long time there was a warning sign, at the entrance to the only bridge, reading: "Any person driving on this bridge faster than five miles an hour is subject to a fine of $5.00. A negro violating this rule gets thirty lashes, the informer to receive one-half." (See cartoon in Harper's previous to emancipation.) REFUGEES REFUGEES. During the war a number of persons from the coast took refuge in Athens. They occupied the University buildings. The following list of names is taken from the Vestry Book of Emmanuel Parish: Mrs. Crawford, New Orleans; Miss Crawford, New Orleans; Miss Mary Linton, New Orleans; Misses Wilkins, New Orleans; Mrs. Font, New Orleans; Mrs. John Huger, New Orleans; Miss Meta Huger, New Orleans; Miss Emma Huger, New Orleans; Mrs. William Huger, New Orleans? Mr. and Mrs. C. Baylor, New Orleans; Capt. and Mrs. F. Cook and family, New Orleans; Misses Roundtrees, New Orleans. Mrs. W. H. Stiles, Savannah; Miss Gordon, Savannah; Mrs. John Screven, Savannah; Mrs. J. N. Owens, Savannah; Mr. and Mrs. S. P. Screven, Savannah; Miss Footman, Savannah; Mrs. Waldburg, Savannah; Mrs. J. H. M. Clinch, Savannah; Mrs. Warfield, Savannah; Mrs. Griffin, Savannah; Mrs. J. W. Nevitt, Savaniiah; Miss E. Tschudi, Savannah; Miss Carter Bryan, Savannah; Mrs. Cleghorn, Savannah; Mrs. Weed, Savannah; Miss Lou Guerrard, Savannah; Miss Kolloch, Savannah; Mrs. Neville, Savannah; Mrs. Holmes, Savannah ; Mrs. Kennard, Savannah; Mrs. Stotesberry, Savannah; Miss Stotesberry, Savannah; Mrs. George Kolloch, Savannah. Mrs. James Bancroft, Charleston; Mrs. Langdon Cheeves, Charleston; Mrs. Pinkney Huger, Charleston; Misses Cheeves, Charleston; Mrs. Holmes, Charleston; Miss Holmes, Charleston; Maj. John Barnwell and family, Charleston; Miss H. Elliott, Charleston; Mr. and Mrs. Carter, Charleston. Mrs. Rixie, Washington, D. C. Mrs. Robert, Elizabeth, N. J.; Mrs. S. Elliott, Elizabeth, N. J. Mrs. Schlatter, Brunswick. Mrs. Col. Brown, Richmond; Mrs. Heath, Richmond. Mrs. Farrah, Vicksburg; Miss Ellen Martin, Vicksburg. Mrs. 0. Owens, Mobile. Mrs. Kelley, no address; Miss Rixie, no address; Miss Lant, no address ; Mrs. Beckley, no address; Miss Grigg, no address; Mrs. Girandeau, no address; Mrs. Gen. Davis, no address. NAMES OF STREETS Pursuant to a resolution proposed by A. A. Franklin Hill, a member of the town council, the streets were named. Many of them bear the names of citizens who were prominent in those days. BROAD was first called Front Street. The name was changed when the other streets received their designations. WASHINGTON, until recent years, was Market Street. When the name was changed, Dr. E. W. Speer suggested Washington. MILLEDGE AVENUE. Governor John Milledge gave the land for the establishment of the University. BALDWIN. Abram Baldwin proposed the bill in the Legislature under which the University was authorized. That bill is the University Charter. MEIGS. Josiah Meigs was the first president of the College. CHURCH. Alonzo Church was president of the College. He was the grandfather of James Barrow. WADDELL. Moses Waddell was president of the College. His son, William Henry Waddell, was professor of ancient languages. FINDLAY. Dr. James Findlay was elected president of the College. During the summer immediately after his election he travelled to collect money for a library. He died of fever before exercising his duties as president. James and Louis Camak are his descendants. He founded the University Library. CLAYTON. Augustin S. Clayton was judge of the circuit, and one of the most progressive and prominent citizens. Henry Grady married his granddaughter. Judge Clayton's house was at the corner of Clayton and Thomas Streets. Here his widow, daughter of Hon. Thomas Peter Games, lived for many years. LUMPKIN. Hon. Wilson Lumpkin was a member of Congress, and Governor of the State. His granite mansion still stands at the west end of the Agricultural College. Atlanta was named Marthasville for his daughter, Martha Atalanta Lumpkin. HULL. Mr. Asbury Hull was the first president of the Southern Mutual after it was moved to Athens. He built the house, now the Morton home, than which there is none in Athens and a few in the state handsomer. THOMAS. Mr. Stevens Thomas, the principal merchant; of his time, had his store where Dupree Hall stands. His home was in rear of the store, fronting Thomas Street. CHASE. Mr. Albon Chase was secretary of the Southern Mutual after the company was moved to Athens. His house is now owned by the Yanceys. HARRIS. Col. Jeptha V. Harris was a prominent citizen of Athens. Capt. J. H. Rucker and Hon. T. W. Rucker are his grandsons. Hon. Stephen W. Harris lived where St. Mary's Hospital now stands. Mrs. John W. Brumby is his grand-daughter. For which of these two the street was named is not recorded. POPE. Mr. Burwell Pope was a wealthy resident. His widow lived for many years in the house which stood where the post office now stands. Mr. T. P. Stanley and Miss Sallie P. Stanley are his grandchildren. BILLUPS. Col. John Billups, a prominent citizen of Athens, lived in a handsome colonial mansion on the lot where the Crane family reside. Mrs. Ben Barrow, Mrs. John Carlton, and Mrs. Henry Carlton are his descendants. HILL. Mr. Blanton Hill was a successful merchant and lived where the First Baptist Church now stands. His widow and his -daughter, Mrs. W. G. Noble lived there for many years. HANCOCK AVENUE. Mr. Thomas Hancock lived in the house which gave way to the VonCannon-Wall Building. It was at one time a stage tavern. He gave the land on which the First Methodist Church and parsonage are built. Miss Marianna Frierson is his great-granddaughter. PRINCE AVENUE. Mr. Oliver Prince lived near what is now the Normal School. He was the author of Prince's Digest of the Laws of Georgia. He was drowned in shipwreck off the Carolina coast. Miss Basiline Prince is his grand-daughter. Mr. Bishop was on the same boat. He came to take charge of the Botanical Garden. DEARING. Mr. William Dearing was the second president of the Georgia Railroad. Mrs. A. R. Nicholson, and Mr. Albin P. Dearing are his grandchildren. Mr. Bearing moved to Athens from Charleston in 1821, and engaged in business. He built the house on the northeast corner of Thomas and Washington, and lived there. HOYT. Br. Nathan Hoyt was for thirty years minister of the Presbyterian Church. His house was next that of Br. Ware, afterward the home of Br. Lyndon. Hon. E. T. Brown is his grandson. REESE. Dr. C. W. Reese was a physician and lived in the house, corner of Pulaski and Hancock, opposite the Roman Catholic Church. Mrs. A. A. McDuffie is his grand-daughter. He served as surgeon in the Italian army for eight years. DOUGHERTY. Mrs. Puryear, a widow whose husband was murdered by his negroes, moved to Athens and lived on the present city hall lot. She married Maj. Charles Dougherty. Her two sons, Judge William Dougherty, and Hon. Charles Dougherty, rose to distinction in the state. JACKSON. Dr. Henry Jackson was professor in the College, chief of legation to St. Cloud under William H. Crawford, father of General Henry R. Jackson, and author of the "Red Old Hills of Georgia." PULASKI. Why Count Pulaski should have been honored by having an Athens street named for him is one of the "amiable and admirable secrets" of history. Some admirer, no doubt, suggested the name. WHITE. Mr. John White was owner of Georgia Factory, largely instrumental in organizing the National Bank of Athens. A number of his descendants are prosperous and prominent citizens of Athens and Clarke County. BARBER. Mr. Weathersby Barber lived near Linton Spring. He was a keen observer of nature in her many moods. Many a quaint saying of his, replete with wisdom, is recalled by old people. He had a broad vein of humor. Many amusing incidents might be told but for lack of space. He was named for a Cherokee Indian Chief, his father's friend. FRANKLIN. Mr. Leonidas Franklin, whose widow survived him many years, was a resident of early Athens. The house was a gem of artistic taste and beauty, and stood on Prince Avenue, nearly opposite B. K. Lumpkin's house. The dramatic talent of Athens here essayed productions from "The Lady of Lyons" upward and downward. Miss Mary Franklin is a daughter of Col. Franklin. Her fame as an artist needs no mention here. COBB. John Addison Cobb came to Athens from Jefferson County. He came originally from North Carolina, His two sons were among the most distinguished Georgians. Howell Cobb was successively Governor of the state, Speaker of the United States House of Representatives, Secretary of Treasury, and General in the Confederate Army. T. R. R. Cobb was a distinguished lawyer, codifier of the laws of the state. The code is unique among the law books of the world. He was delegate to the Confederate Constitutional Convention in Montgomery. The original draft of the Constitution is in his handwriting. He was a General in the Confederate Army, and fell at Fredericksburg. BAXTER. Thomas W. Baxter came to Athens from Hancock County in 1831. The Baxter lot was the square between Hill and Meigs Streets. His widow gave generously for the building of St. Mary's Church, which is named for her. Her daughter, Sallie, was a great belle, married Edge worth Bird, moved to Baltimore, lived on Mount Vernon Place until her death a few years ago. HENDERSON. Dr. Matthew H. Henderson was rector of Emmanuel Church for years, beloved by all who knew him. He married Miss Ada Screven of Savannah. BLOOMFIELD. Robert L. Bloomfield came to Athens from New Jersey, was superintendent of Athens Factory, ardent and active member of Emmanuel Church, built St. Mary's, made generous gifts to it. Dr. James C. Bloomfield is his son. CHILDS. A. K. Childs was head of the firm of Childs & Nickerson. His house is on the corner of Clayton and Thomas Streets. Reuben Nickerson afterward owned the house and lived there. Mr. Childs bought the Lumpkin house on Prince Avenue, now the Y. W. C. A., and moved to it. Walter L. Childs, and Mrs. Chancellor Barrow are his children. STRONG. Elisha Strong was an Athens merchant. He lived on Jackson Street where the public school building is now situated. He was the son of Charles Strong, a Revolutionary soldier, who came from Virginia to Oglethorpe County. Charles Strong's daughters were Mrs. Golding, Mrs. Pope, Mrs. Moss, Mrs. Newton. His descendants among us today are the Gerdine, Linton, Moss, 'Stanley, Newton families. GRADY AVENUE. William S. Grady, head of the firm of Grady and Nicholson, was wounded in the war, and died of his wound. He bought the house now owned by J. H. Beusse, from Richard D. B. Taylor. Hence it is known as Henry W. Grady's boyhood home. The house was built by General Robert Taylor. It burned the night it was completed, and was rebuilt as it now stands. The contractor confessed that he burned it, in order to have the contract to rebuild. General Taylor built E. K. Lumpkin's house for his son, Robert G. T. Taylor, and also the house on Cobb Street for his son, James J. Taylor. He has descendants in Athens and elsewhere. File at: http://files.usgwarchives.net/ga/clarke/history/1923/historyo/athensan568gms.txt This file has been created by a form at http://www.genrecords.org/gafiles/ File size: 83.2 Kb