Jackson County GaArchives History .....History of Harmony Grove-Commerce, Chapter 18 1949 ************************************************ 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 August 22, 2004, 3:59 pm CHAPTER XVIII PATRIOTIC, CIVIC AND FRATERNAL ORGANIZATIONS COMMERCE CHAPTER AMERICAN RED CROSS This chapter, the first and largest in Jackson County, was organized in 1916 with the following officers: Mrs. T. C. Hardman, Chairman; Mrs. M. F. Nelms, Vice-Chairman; Mrs. A. B. Deadwyler, Secretary and Home Service Chairman; and Miss Lillian Pittman, Treasurer. This organization has performed in an efficient way the purpose of its institution to supply relief in cases of disaster and to those who are in need of food and clothing. This chapter distributed flour and clothing from the Government to people without employment. On occasion of fires and storms they gave immediate help. During the war periods the chapter established sewing rooms and accepted allotments of surgical and garment material and made them up for war needs, and conducted courses in first aid and in nursing. The Home Service Chairman of this chapter was very active in giving information and aid to those who were in service. The Commerce Chapter has always exceeded its quota in the annual drives as the citizens of Commerce always responded liberally to the cause. Mrs. A. B. Deadwyler served faithfully for thirty years as Secretary and Home Service Chairman for the organization until her death in 1946. Mrs. C. W. O'Rear has, since her death taken her place. Mrs. T. C. Hardman served one year as chairman until her death in 1917. Mr. T. C. Hardman succeeded to the Chairmanship and served twenty-five years. Miss Lillian Pittman served for a similar period as Treasurer. Succeeding T. C. Hardman as Chairman were H. P. Little, H. F. Bray, and Mack Barber, the present Chairman. Succeeding Miss Lillian Pittman as Treasurer were Miss Mae Sharp and Mrs. G. C. Hood, the present treasurer. LUTHI-GILLESPIE POST, No. 93, AMERICAN LEGION Preamble to the Constitution of The American Legion "For God and Country, we associate ourselves together for the following purposes: To uphold and defend the Constitution of the United States of America; to maintain law and order; to foster and perpetuate a one hundred per cent Americanism; to preserve the memories and incidents of our association in the Great War; to inculcate a sense of individual obligation to the community, state and nation; to combat the autocracy of both the classes and the masses; to make right the master of might; to promote peace and good will on earth; to safeguard and transmit to posterity the principles of justice, freedom and democracy; to consecrate and sanctify our comradeship by our devotion to mutual helpfulness." If you are an honorably discharged veteran of either World War I or II, you are eligible for membership in The American Legion. It is the world's largest and most active veterans organization. It was formed by fighting men of the A.E.F. in France in March, 1919. Now there are Posts in practically every community throughout the nation. The charter and organization of this Post was dated March 15, 1927. The following were the charter members: Willis N. Harden Robert W. Gardiner Aubrey Suddeth W. O. Pruitt Talmadge F. Harden Coleman Eckles A. T. Turner F. Style Carr A. D. Bolton Lammie Sims Hubbard Harris E. M. Childs Obe Pruitt Eric L. Hunt Harold C. Barnett Huran Hancock The Luthi-Gillespie Post, No. 93 has been active in and has fostered many worthy causes. Among them are the Child's Welfare Program, Americanism Program, the Boy's State Oratorical Contest (sent two boys for several years), the School Patrols, American Legion Baseball, and relief in disaster. They sent all the cash in the treasury and two trucks of clothing and food to Gainesville storm sufferers. This organization is in opposition to Communism and subversive elements. This is the largest veterans organization in the history of the world. Their present membership is 224 with the following officers: F. H. Burns Commander Thos. L. Cheatham Sr. Vice-Commander Thomas McClure 1st Jr. Vice-Commander W. A. Hix 2nd Jr. Vice-Commander Leo O. Black 3rd Jr. Vice-Commander O. S. Watts 4th Jr. Vice-Commander John O. Richey 5th Jr. Vice-Commander M. R. Barron Adjutant Reagan Sanders Assistant Adjutant Jim Nunn Service Officer I. M. Tate Assistant Service Officer E. L. Hunt Chaplain L. Paul Judge Advocate Dr. A. A. Rogers, Sr. Finance Officer Clayton Hood Sergeant-at-Arms AUXILIARY OF THE LUTHI-GILLESPIE POST No. 93 OF THE AMERICAN LEGION, COMMERCE, GA. The Unit was organized, November I i, 1941. Names of charter members as listed on charter: Mary Little Hoytie Langston Thelma Harris Carr Mattie Porter Alma Hunt Nezzie L. Seagraves Pauline Dillard Ina Sims Rachel B. Chandler Lucy S. Tate Lessie Massey Bertha Luthi Harris Willie Lou Page Elbertice Barnett Lola Linderman Reine D. O'Rear Louise D. Harden Ruth Campbell Mattie Lou Carson Marion Rogers Maurine Hix Francine Harden Iris Ayers Asbell Annie Mae Foster Mary Harden Purpose of the Auxiliary The Auxiliary was formed for one purpose, to aid the Legion in carrying out their program in the following activities: Rehabilitation of Disabled Veterans, Child Welfare Activities, Educational Aid for Orphans of Veterans, Serving the Local Community, Supporting Adequate National Defense. We believe in the following ideas and principles: assisting in the care of veterans of both World Wars, in the education and welfare of the children of all veterans of all wars, the betterment and beautification of the community in which we live, the advocation of a return to a greater spiritual influence in the homes and lives of our people, a true spirit of fellowship and cooperation with all people for world development. The local unit has always cooperated with other civic organizations in Red Cross Work, supported the bloodmobile, help secure scholarships, send yearly gifts to veterans hospitals, and assisted in a financial way in the Christmas parties. At the present time we are helping a French orphan. The following ladies have served as Unit Presidents: Mrs. H. P. Little 1941 to 1943 Mrs. A. A. Rogers 1943 to 1945 Mrs. W. B. Benton 1945 to 1946 Mrs. T. F. Harden 1946 to 1948 Mrs. J. H. Harris 1948 to At the present time the Auxiliary has 62 active members, and two junior members. MCCOY-BORDERS POST, No. 5279 VETERANS OF FOREIGN WARS OF THE UNITED STATES The McCoy-Borders Post No. 5279 was organized at Commerce, Ga., on January 20, 1946. The Charter was issued with a total of 61 Charter Members. Qualifications are: Veteran must have HONORABLE DISCHARGE or still be in service. Must have Overseas Service In Defense of Our Country. At the first meeting the members voted to name the Post in honor of two of the first men, who fell in the Defense of Our Country, from Commerce. Regis Borders and Ledford McCoy were the two chosen. Hence the name McCoy-Borders. Officers were also elected at the first meeting. They are as follows: 1946 Commander W. D. Bolton Sr. Vice-Commander J. B. Wilburn Jr. Vice-Commander William Harrison Quartermaster William Sutton Adjutant Elliot Moore Chaplain George Harber Officer of the Day Carlos Jackson Service Officer Reagan Sanders Sergeant-Major J. P. Sailors Quartermaster-Sergeant Duard Baxter Patriotic Instructor Scales Morris Post Historian Reagan Sanders Trustees Hugh D. Williams, Gordon Eubanks, Frank Hanley 1947 Commander William Harrison Sr. Vice-Commander Leo Black Jr. Vice-Commander Sidney Johnston Quartermaster William Sutton Adjutant William Sutton Chaplain Charles Fruit Officer of the Day Hollis Catlett Service Officer William Bolton Sergeant-Major Alva Clark Quartermaster-Sergeant James Harris Patriotic Instructor Scales Morris Post Historian Reagan Sanders Trustees Hugh D. Williams, Thomas Cheatham, Frank Hood 1948 Commander Kenneth Tucker Sr. Vice-Commander John Richey Jr. Vice-Commander R. Sanders Quartermaster J. B. Elrod Adjutant J. B. Elrod Chaplam Charles Fruit Officer of the Day Hollis Catlett Service Officer William Bolton Sergeant-Major William Harrison Quartermaster-Sergeant William Sutton Patriotic Instructor Scales Morris Post Historian Reagan Sanders Trustees Clayton Hood, Duard Baxter, George Harber JAMES PITTMAN CHAPTER DAUGHTERS OF THE AMERICAN REVOLUTION The James Pittman Chapter Daughters of the American Revolution was organized March 16, 1916 by Mrs. C. E. Pittman, organizing regent, appointed by the National Society D.A.R., Washington, D. C. The Chapter was named for James Pittman, a soldier from Virginia who settled in Columbia County, Ga., thence to Madison County where he died. The following were organizing members: Mrs. C. E. Pittman, Mrs. C. D. Stark, Mrs. C. C. Ward, Mrs. M. F. Nelms, Mrs. M. T. Sanders, Mrs. J. T. Quillian. Mrs. C. A. Adams, Mrs. H. A. Nix, Mrs. W. T. Bennett, Misses Allene and Annie Little, Reba Pittman, Lillian Pittman, Claire and Maurine Anderson, Ida Bohannon, Cecil and Lou Ona Little. The following officers were elected: Mrs. C. E. Pittman, Regent; Mrs. M. F. Nelms, Vice-Regent; Miss Claire Anderson, Recording-Secretary; Miss Lillian Pittman, Corresponding Secretary; Mrs. C. C. Ward, Registrar; Miss Maurine Anderson, Treasurer; Mrs. M. T. Sanders, Historian; and Dr. Gilbert Dobbs, Chaplain. The object of the D.A.R. is to preserve the memory of its Revolutionary patriots, to study its history, to educate its youth in patriotic ideals and in the duties of citizenship. It has been the purpose and effort of the James Pittman Chapter to set forth and promote the aims of the National Society. The Chapter has been engaged in patriotic work, such as furnishing scholarships to various schools, preserving historic spots and other phases of patriotic education. Fifteen dollars was contributed for a memorial chair to be placed in Constitution Auditorium in honor of the Chapter. The James Pittman Chapter has marked the graves of three Revolutionary soldiers, two soldiers of the War of 1812. It has promoted the observance of Armistice Day and given a flag to the school and prizes each year to the pupil in the school who makes the highest mark in United States History. It has also given a prize to the grade that renders best a selected patriotic song. The following have served as Regents of the Chapter: Mrs. C. E. Pittman, Mrs. T. C. Hardman and Mrs. T. F. Harden. Mrs. Pittman is the present Regent. The present membership is about forty. J. E. B. STUART CHAPTER UNITED DAUGHTERS OF THE CONFEDERACY The J. E. B. Stuart Chapter U.D.C. was organized by a committee from Camp John H. Morgan, U.C.V. No. 1330, on May 5, 1905 with thirty-one memmbers. The following officers were elected: Mrs. Mary Bennett Sanders, President; Mrs. R. L. Daughtry, Vice-President; Mrs. Dora Carson Deadwyler, Recording Secretary; Mrs. Beulah Hightower Cooper, Corresponding Secretary; Mrs. Ophelia Maxwell Quillian, Treasurer, and Mrs. May Goodwin Brown, Histroian. G. L. Carson, First Lieutenant of Camp John H. Morgan, was asked to select a name for the chapter. He bestowed the name J. E. B. Stuart in memory of James Euell Brown Stuart, his commander in the Confederate Army. The object of this organization is "to honor the memory of those who served and those who fell in the service of the Confederate States; to erect monuments to the heroes of the Confederacy; to fulfill the duties of grateful kindness toward the survivors and those dependent upon them and to collect, compile and preserve true and impartial Confederate history." The constitution declares the object to be historical, educational, memorial, benevolent and social. The J. E. B. Stuart Chapter has followed and promoted through the years since its organization the programs and projects as outlined by the general organization as well as many local activities. In 1913 the chapter placed markers at eighteen graves of Confederate soldiers in Grey Hill cemetery. Since that time other markers have been placed there. Memorial Day has been regularly observed by appropriate programs and decorating the soldiers' graves. Other activities include the bestowal of crosses of honor on Confederate veterans and Crosses of Service on lineal descendants of Confederate veterans who served in the World Wars; basket dinner given each January 19th to the veterans of Camp Morgan and prizes each year to the pupil in the Commerce school for the best essay on a subject pertaining to the Confederacy; the erection of a monument in Memorial Park, owned by the chapter, honoring the women and the veterans of the Confederate States and the planting of a magnolia tree in memory of Mrs. Dora Carson Deadwyler. Those who have served as President are: Mrs. Mary Bennett Sanders, Mrs. C. A. Mize, Mrs. Minnie Barber Hardman, Mrs. C. E. Pittman, Mrs. C. C. Ward, Mrs. F. H. Williamson, Miss Claire Anderson, Mrs. E. G. Brock, and Mrs. A. B. Deadwyler. Miss Claire Anderson is the present President and is serving the second time. IN MEMORY OF GENERAL ROBERT E. LEE Address by T. C. Hardman to the J. E. B. Stuart Chapter U.D.C., January 19, 1933 Today we celebrate the 126th anniversary- of the birth of General Robert E. Lee. It is fitting that the memory of those great characters in history who have represented great principles and stood for great causes should be perpetuated. In our own nation, the life and work of George Washington, Franklin, Jefferson and all the colonial patriots are dear to every American citizen that loves liberty and civil and religious freedom. General Robert E. Lee, whose memory we revere, comes of a long line of noble sires whose family is entwined with the early history of the American colonies and especially related and connected with Virginia history. We particularly know and love the memory of these great men because of their intimate connection with Southern ideals and Southern chivalry. The memories of great men are perpetuated on account of varied accomplishments, noble deeds in all lines of endeavor, in science, in government, in discoveries, in progressive knowledge, but, perhaps, there is no realm of endeavor so fruitful of honor and love a people bestows upon its heroes as in patriotism and adherence to national ideals and in the defense and the honor of one's home and one's country. We honor George Washington, the Father of our Country, because he was "first in war, first in peace and first in the hearts of his countrymen." Men are remembered for the impress they have made upon the world. Caesar is remembered because of his great intellect, leadership of men and statesmanship; Hannibal as the great foe of Rome and for his devotion to Carthage; Napoleon because of his great military genius and personal magnetism; Newton for his great scientific discoveries; Shakespeare and Byron and Dickens for their influence on the literature of the world; Washington and Kossuth for their devotion to the cause of their country. But Robert E. Lee makes a wider appeal to our admiration and loving memory of him. He was at once a military leader of great ability, a patriot of the highest type, a statesman broad in judgment, an educator of recognized ability, a beloved leader and, above all, a Christian gentleman that typified the true ideal of Southern man-hood. General Lee was born in Stratford, Va., Jan. 19, 1807, the son of Henry Lee, known as Light Horse Harry, who was a young commander of note in Washington's army. He was a descendant of Thomas Lee who came to Virginia in its early history. Light Horse Harry Lee, the father of Robert E. Lee, was first cousin to Richard Henry and Francis Light-foot Lee, both signers of the Declaration of Independence. Light Horse Harry was governor of Virginia and influential in its history. General Lee had all the opportunities of station. He attended West Point, graduating in 1829. He was noted in his service in the Mexican War. He married Mary Curtis, great-granddaughter of Martha Washington, and was living at Arlington Heights at the outbreak of secession. He was offered the command of the Union Army by Lincoln, but having a conviction of his obligation to his own state, he decided to offer his service to his native state. General Lee was greatly opposed to slavery and secession and was greatly disturbed by the dissolution of the Union, but expressed his views and sentiments in the memorable words: "It will be a sad day when the Union is dissolved but if it can only be maintained by sword and bayonets in which strife and civil war are to take the place of brotherly love and kindness, it has no charms for me. If the Union is dissolved and the government dispersed, I shall return to my native state and share the miseries of my people and, save in defense, draw the sword no more." The life and influence of this great man, who is more and more attracting the attention of the world, may be considered, at least, from four angles: First, as a military leader, second as a patriot, third as a statesman, fourth as a gentleman typical of the best ideals of the South. Probably it will be out of the question to discuss the influence of his life in all the realms mentioned in the brief time allotted. I shall only briefly rehearse to you his record as a militry chieftain in the three years in which he was in command of the army of Virginia and then direct your consideration to what I deem the highest reach of this great man as a military leader. The world has stood aghast in astounding admiration at the genius of one who was able to carry on a struggle for a cause he believed in for over a period of three years against such overwhelming odds. In the early part of the struggle he acted as adviser to President Davis. His early military operations in West Virginia were not very brilliant. In the summer of 1862 at the Battle of Seven Pines, or Fair Oaks, Johnson having been severely wounded, Lee succeeded to the command. In a few weeks, by skillful maneuvers, after seven days battle around Richmond, he compelled McClellan to retreat, and finally to withdraw from the Penninsula. By a masterly handling of his army, aided by the renowned Stonewall Jackson, he overwhelmed Pope's army at the second Manassas. Invading Maryland, he again met McClellan at Sharpesburg, or Antietam, where his advance was checked. Withdrawing into Virginia, he completely blocked and defeated Burnside at Fredericksburg in Dec. 1862. After a winter of recuperation of both armies, Hooker having succeeded Burnside, Lee met him on the bloody field of Chancellorsville and completely routed his army, but with the irreparable loss of Jackson. He drove Hooker out of Virginia and continued his advance with the invasion of the North. He met the Northern army, under command of Meade, at Gettysburg July 1, 2, 3, of 1863, in which the Federals succeeded in repulsing his attack. Retiring to Virginia, his army was not engaged during the remaining part of the year. In the spring of '64 he successfully withstood the onslaughts of Grant's army, numbering three to his one. From the Wilderness, Spotsylvania, and Cold Harbor and finally around Richmond and Petersburg he held the army of Grant at bay and in the march to Richmond Grant's losses were equal to the total of Lee's army. His emaciated army, without food or clothing, he finally surrendered at Appomattox April 9, 1865. As an index to the honor and respect his foes had for him, General Grant declined to accept the sword of Lee and permitted Lee's officers to retain their swords and sidearms. If there was any reflection on his character, or aspersions cast on his good name it was not by those who, as foes, met him in battle, but by those unprincipled politicians who sought to disgrace and destroy the South. In the world's history every crisis in national life has its peculiar characteristics. In the American Revolution the dominating principle was liberty, civil and religious freedom. The keynote was sounded by Patrick Henry in his ardent and immortal peroration: "I know not what course others may take, but as for me, give me liberty or give me death." The French Revolution was a result of the extravagance and oppression of the ruling class. In the uprising of the War of 1812, the chief concern was the honor and integrity of our nation and the demand for national rights. The prevailing feeling was expressed when our envoys to France were insulted with a dishonorable proposition. The answer was, "Millions for defense, not one cent for tribute." The conflict of the sixties came about amid a different atmosphere and ideals. The predominating spirit in this era was the rights of property, the sanctity of the home, the respect for the father and mother in the home, a great respect and high esteem for womanhood, and the strong attachment for local states rights. Amid these conditions of national crises it is but natural that many leaders and writers should express the drift of thought and life. This was indeed an era of idealism in government, in religion and in the home. This idealism must find its expression in the lives and spirit of its leaders. General Lee was a marvelous type of his day, gentle, kind, highminded, brilliant, strong, conscientious. It is no wonder that he said that "duty is the sublimest word in the English language." In all the strife of war, battle and carnage, he never once lost his high sense of justice and right and his love and tender care for his followers. This nation will probably never fully appreciate how much credit is due this great leader, whose influence went a long way to ameliorate the spirit of hatred and animosity between the sections of our country. His bearing, following the surrender of the South, was both dignified and conciliatory. He enjoyed the respect and love of all of his soldiers. To the humble soldier and to the Negro servant alike, he was "Marse Robert." To his subordinates in the army he was the considerate, wise leader and commander. General Lee, was, possibly, not superior in military tactics and generalship to the Johnsons, and did not have the daring execution of a Jackson, but the marvel of his career was the combining of every great and noble quality unequaled in the annals of history. If we are today to draw a lesson from this great and noble life, it is because he typified the best thought and life of the day, when homes were sacred and the family was what God intended it to be. I believe there is no period in world's history, or place on God's earth, when and where there was a higher standard of manhood and womanhood maintained, and when the Christian life was the standard of integrity. It is worthy that we shall preserve in memory the life and deeds of one who so fittingly represents this period. Today, after a lapse of seventy years, the world has moved into a different atmosphere, to the machine age where individuality is submerged in the whirl of machinery and the "forgotten man" is in the majority; when chivalry and personal qualities are obliviated in the modern theory of technocracy. The danger of modern progress is the loss of the finer qualities of character. The "flapper" of the present day displaces the modest and queenly "young lady" of the sixties. The sterling qualities and integrity of the men of the 19th century is lost in the mechanical operations, manipulations, mergers and mad rush for gain in the 20th century. It is a worthy purpose for your organization to undertake the perpetuation of the principles of the old South and we are fortunate in having the ideal hero of such a worthy cause. THE CHAMBER OF COMMERCE The local Chamber of Commerce was organized in this city on July 261 1945, when a large group of business men met in the city hall and formulated plans for progressiveness. F. E. Durst, Jr., was elected President; Dr. Paul T. Scoggins, Vice-President; Albert S. Hardy, Jr., Secretary and James E. Jarrell, Treasurer. In addition to the officers the Board of Directors included Mose Gordon, R. M. Davison, Howell P. Little, C. W. Hood, Jr., and A. D. Bolton. Forty-seven merchants of the city became charter members of the organization. The work of the trade body was carried on by the officers until January 1946 when J. Mac Barber, who had recently returned to Commerce after service in the Army Air Force, was elected Executive Secretary. Offices were established above the Piedmont Cafe. An airport survey was conducted under the auspices of the Chamber and representatives of the Civil Aeronautics Authority were invited to Commerce to inspect proposed airports. A labor survey was fostered by the organization and cards sent to potential employees throughout the section. The survey showed that there were more than 1,200 skilled and unskilled persons who desired employment in this city. The information has been of value to the organization in its attempts to secure new industries. The organization brought the local merchants closer together working for the common good of all, and stores of the city agreed to close at one o'clock on Wednesday afternoons throughout the summer months. As a result of the work of Secretary Barber and directors of the organization contracts were awarded by the State High-way Department for the paving of the Commerce-Carnesville Highway in June 1946, the paving of the Commerce-Maysville-Gillsville Highway in August and the resurfacing of the Athens-Commerce Highway pavement in August of the same year. The Chamber assisted in the securing of rights of way on the Commerce-Gillsville Highway and the Secretary made many trips and had numerous conferences with Highway officials. Mr. Barber decided to pursue his education at the University of Georgia under the G.I. Bill and was succeeded by F. X. Credle of Parson, West Virginia, who took over the duties as Executive Secretary on April 1, 1947. Working with the directors, a 65-point of activity was worked up by Mr. Credle and adopted by the local Chamber. Among the objectives were elimination of reckless driving in Commerce, Clean-Up and Paint-Up campaign, assignment of a city police within the school zone for safety of the children and extension of the city sewerage system. All the above program was presented to the city council and was favorably adopted and put into effect with the prospect and plans for early extension of the sewerage system. Also a modern bus station was secured by contact with the parties interested, whereby the station was moved from the rear of the Commerce Drug Company to the corner of North Broad and Jefferson Streets. This organization also fostered the formation of a credit body for local merchants. The organization moved into new offices in June 1947 and now has a small auditorium, nicely equipped with steel chairs for their monthly meetings. Mr. Credle was instrumental in starting a movement to secure a federal designated route through Commerce. He made many trips to cities along the route from Smoky Mountain National Park, by the Okefenokee Swamp, into Florida, and secured their cooperation. The Suwanee River Highway Assocation was the outgrowth of his initiative and with the organization of different cities interested have recently succeeded in getting an extension of Federal Route 441 from Fargo through Homerville, Pearson, Jacksonville, Ca.; McRae, Dublin, Irwinton, Milledgeville, Eatonton, Madison, Athens, ;Commerce, Homer, Cornelia, thence through Clayton into Cincinnati and Detroit. The route has been designated as the Uncle Remus Route in memory of Joel Chandler Harris, author of the Uncle Remus Stories. New officers were elected in April 1948 and W. M. Veal, prominent Commerce druggist, now heads the organization. Other officers include W. M. (Bill) Hendricks, Vice-President, W. D. Bolton, Secretary, H. Odell Williams, Treasurer. Directors of the local Chamber include H. F. Bray, F. E. Durst, Jr., Albert S. Hardy, Jr., R. M. Davison, James H. Hope, W. L. Smith, and Reagan Sanders. The organization has recently secured improved mail and express service to the city and a new bus line. THE LIONS CLUB The Lions Club of Commerce was organized in the old Central Hotel on June 21, 1940 with the following as Charter members: H. F. Anthony, C. H. Beard, C. W. Chandler, M. B. Clinkscales, C. U. Franks, Hubert Franks, David Hendrix, Sam Hood, James L. Hope, James E. Jarrell, C. H. Montgomery, R. E. Moore, John I. Renka, Jr., Dr. Paul T. Scoggins, Cellar Stark, T. J. Syfan, Irven M. Tate, J. J. Venable, Dr. J. C. Verner, H. Odell Williams and C. O. Wood. Dr. Paul T. Scoggins was the first President and T. J. Syfan first and only Secretary the club has had; James E. Jarrell, First Vice-President and Dr. J. C. Verner, Second Vice-President; C. H. Beard, Tail Twister. This club is one of the new civic organizations of Commerce and has been very active in sponsoring public welfare interests and has contributed probably more to the schools and athletics than any other organization. They have been wide awake and have not let any opportunity escape their vigilance. These young men are loyal to every forward looking enterprise and their generosity is deeply appreciated by the citizens of Commerce. May their tribe increase. Among other things the club has sponsored the following: Trade campaign among merchants Lighting of the ball field at the grammar school Grading football field and building concrete seats. Donated $750.00 to high school for sound equipment in high school. Donated $275.00 a year for several years to lunch room program at grammar school Donated playground equipment for grammar school Contributed to and entered into all worthwhile civic projects. THE COMMERCE KIWANIS CLUB The local Kiwanis Club was chartered on August 28, 1925 by District Governor W. W. Munday. W. H. Wrighton was the first President and F. E. Durst the first Secretary. The following were signers of the original charter petition: J. B. Hardman, W. B. Rice, F. E. Durst, A. B. Deadwyler, G. L. Hubbard, W. H. Wrighton, B. M. Durham, W. N. Harden, C. W. Hood, Jr., C. W. O'Rear, C. C. Ward, R. C. Nix, C. M. Scoggins, N. B. Lord, C. L. Veatch, Claud Montgomery, George T. Rice, A. D. Harris, T. H. Davis, P. A. Hughes, L. L. Davis, A. D. Bolton, and Dr. A. A. Rogers. Rev. W. H. Wrighton was the first President and J. B. Hardman was the second. The rules of the club require a change of President each year. Roscoe F. Powers is the President for 1948. Harvey F. Bray has served as Secretary consecutively since 1934. Mr. Bray has rendered efficient service through the years and is considered one of the best secretaries in the Georgia District of Kiwanis International. The Commerce Kiwanis Club has for more than twenty years ministered to and encouraged the development of the town and community on a plane in keeping with the objects set forth in their constitution to promote the application of a higher social, business and professional standard. These have tended to a more intelligent, aggressive and serviceable citizenship, which has resulted in the maintenance of a high idealism and good will. The Club has maintained its interest from the beginning in community affairs and has enlarged its membership. BOY SCOUTS The Boy Scouts were organized in Commerce in 1919 by Rev. J. E. Ellis and R. L. Sanders with Mr. Sanders as Scout Master. He served faithfully for ten or twelve years. This Troop was local and independent, functioning some twelve years, and reached a total membership of 35. After the lapse of a few years the Scouts were reorganized and sponsored by the Commerce Kiwanis. This Troop became a member of the national organization and was known as Troop 35 of the Piedmont District of Northeast Georgia Council, Inc. The Cub Scouts, ages from 10 to 12, were later organized and are sponsored by the Commerce Lions Club. The Senior Scout Outfit was organized in 1948 with ten members and Rev. C. W. Fuitt as Adviser. These older boys, ages 16 to 18, plan their own programs and largely train themselves. Senior Scouting is designed to bring out the physical, mental, moral and spiritual well being of the boy as he grows into manhood. This Troop has 15 members with Rev. Robert Marshman as Adviser. The regular Scouts, Troop No. 35, has 42 members, ages 12 to 16. DeWitt Hill is Scout Master and Farris Hubbard is Assistant Scout Master. The Boy Scout organization is for the purpose of training and their pledge is: "I pledge myself on my honor I will do my best to do my duty to God and my country and to obey the Scout law; to help other people at all times; to keep myself physically strong, mentally awake and morally straight." THE COMMERCE WOMAN'S IMPROVEMENT CLUB The Woman's Improvement Club of Commerce was organized on the last Tuesday of March, 1912. On this date Mrs. H. C. White, President of the Georgia Federation of Women's Clubs, and Mrs. M. A. Lipscomb of Athens, met with a group of Commerce women for the purpose of organizing a club. There were nineteen women present. The following are the names as appear on the minutes of this meeting: Mrs. C. J. Hood, Mrs. W. W. Stark, Mrs. Claud Montgomery, Mrs. H. R. Harber, Mrs. J. J. Harber, Mrs. L. G. Hardman, Mrs. E. B. Watson, Mrs. C. W. Hood, Mrs. J. H. Williford, Mrs. M. F. Nelms, Mrs. C. W. Cooper, Mrs. Leatus Sanders, Mrs. R. L. Sanders, Mrs. Luke Davis, Mrs. C. E. Pittman, Mrs. T. C. Pittman, Mrs. J. J. Sheppard, Mrs. J. T. Quillian and Mrs. J. L. Dale. These constituted the membership enrollment. By the end of the club year there was a membership of fifty. Naming the Club The initial idea was to organize a Mothers Club to study and discuss questions relative to the child and the home. In addition, the idea of a civic club had been presented to the Commerce women by P. T. Harber, enterprising editor and publisher of the Commerce Observer and member of the Commerce Board of Trade, in an article "Why Commerce Should Have a Woman's Civic Club." After discussion, it was decided to enlarge the purpose of the organization to embrace the improvement of the town and the cultural improvement of the members as well as the home. Since the main idea of the organization was "improvement" the name Commerce Woman's Improvement Club was adopted. Activities of the Club The first project was the inauguration of a Clean-Up Campaign for the town, two each year, one in spring and one in the fall. This program was maintained for several years. Other activities included: trash cans provided for the city; the maintenance of a rest room at the Four County Fair, also for the city for a time; beautifying and partial upkeep of school grounds, cemetery and Spencer Park, and plantings of shrubbery and flowers along the railroad right of way, in parks and other places in town. Donations were made to the school library and other departments. Health campaigns were inaugurated in the interest of the school and the community. Lectures and programs were sponsored on the subjects of health, education, citizenship, public welfare, child welfare, music, art, literature, and international relations. A lot on South Broad Street was purchased and in 1938 a club house building was erected and partly equipped at a cost of about $ 10,000.00. Funds were raised by operation of a candy kitchen at the Four County Fair, ice cream festivals, plays put on by home talent, banquets, benefit parties, sponsoring lectures, lyceum courses and entertainments of various kinds, oyster suppers and many other ways and means. Those who have served as President are as follows: Mrs. J. L. Gale, Mrs. M. F. Nelms, Mrs. J. J. Harber, Mrs. L. G. Hardman, Mrs. T. C. Hardman (Nelms), Mrs. Claud Montgomery, Mrs. A. A. Rogers, Mrs. W. Stark, Mrs. T. F. Harden, Mrs. C. E. Pittman, Mrs. W. M. Veal, present President. Total membership, 1949, is 100. In 1913 the Commerce Woman's Improvement Club was federated with the General Federation of Women's Clubs and has been a regular contributor to Tallulah Falls School, which is owned and supported- by The Georgia Federation of Women's Clubs. The Commerce Club has contributed to other educational causes fostered by the State and General Federation. THE COMMERCE GARDEN CLUB In September 1928 a group of Commerce women met in the home of Mrs. V. L. Davis and were directed by Mrs. W. D. Hooper, of Athens, in the organization of the Garden Club. Mrs. Hooper was Chairman of Admissions to the Garden Club of Georgia, into which the Commerce Garden Club was granted admission November 15, 1929. According to the constitution the object of the organization is "to foster a love for gardening through a more intelligent understanding of the methods and requirements of horticulture, and to express the same in the development of home gardens and the furthering of city beautification." "Any resident of Commerce or its environs actively interested in gardening is eligible for membership." The following named-and possibly others-are thought to have been present at the first meeting with Mrs. V. L. Davis: Mrs. R. L. Black, Mrs. E. G. Brock, Mrs. A. B. Deadwyler, Mrs. B. M. Durham, Mrs. Sam Edwards, Mrs. T. C. Hard-man, Sr., Mrs. T. C. Hardman, Jr., Mrs. A. F. Hood, Mrs. C. J. Hood, Mrs. Ernest Jackson, Mrs. R. C. Nix, Mrs. W. W. Prickett, Mrs. M. C. Roberts, Mrs. G. T. Rice, Mrs. W. B. Rice, Mrs. T. J. Syfan, Mrs. W. W. Stark, Mrs. C. W. Truitt, Mrs. J. C. Verner, Mrs. H. C. Williamson, Mrs. W. O. Willi-ford, Mrs. W. Y. Harber, Miss Grace Hood. The club has contributed to the social and cultural life of the community and has done much toward its beautification. It has been instrumental in securing specialists to present excellent programs on practically every phase of horticulture. Classes in the growing, preservation, and cooking of foods, in flower arrangement and in interior decoration have been sponsored. Landscape architects have directed plantings on the grounds of churches, schools, the cemetery and the Municipal Rose garden. Flower shows have been featured annually. Mrs. V. L. Davis was most instrumental in the organization of the club. She was its first president and has been drafted for that service at least two other terms. Mrs. Fred Williamson, Sr., is now president. Others who have served in that capacity are Mrs. C. W. Truitt, Miss Grace Hood, Mrs. A. A. Rogers, Sr., Mrs. T. F. Harden, Mrs. Florence Kendall Hood, Mrs. John Hood, Mrs. P. T. Scoggins and Mrs. T. A. Harber. THE STUDY CLUB On September 25th, 1936, a group of ladies who enjoyed reading met at the home of Mrs. L. G. Hardman, Jr., for the purpose of organizing a Book Club. Much interest was shown among those present and Mrs. L. G. Hardman was appointed temporary Chairman and Mrs. A. A. Rogers, temporary Secretary of this group. Mrs. T. C. Hardman and Mrs. C. W. Hood, Jr., were asked to serve on the Nominating Committee. It was decided that the club should meet once each month and that dues should be paid, to be used for the purchase of new books. At the close of the meeting the following officers were elected: Mrs. L. G. Hardman, President; Mrs. John Hood, Vice-President; Mrs. Noel McConnell, Secretary and Treasurer; Mrs. L. G. Hardman, Jr., and Mrs. A. A. Rogers, Program Committee. The first meeting of the newly organized club was held at the home of Mrs. L. G. Hardman on Tuesday, October 13, 1936 with thirteen members present. It was unanimously decided that the club should be called "The Study Club." From the beginning this small group felt that they had organized not just for their personal pleasure, but for the purpose of furthering the cultural interests of the town. In November 1936 they invited Mrs. Emma Garrett Morris of Atlanta to come to Commerce and review Margaret Mitchell's "Gone With the Wind." The public was invited to this review. At a later date Mr. Elmer Ransom of Augusta spoke to the Club and Mrs. Robert Church of Atlanta has reviewed books on several occasions for the Club and invited guests. The books that the Study Club bought were made available to the public but the need for a Public Library was felt so keenly by this group, they decided to start a drive for library funds to which the citizens responded very generously. Mayor Howell P. Little and members of the City Council offered a room in the City Hall and so in June 1946 the Study Club very proudly opened the doors of the town's first public library and invited the citizens to come and visit their library. Since that time this group has given time and money to keep the library functioning and feel that it has been a great help to this community. They are now working with other interested persons in trying to secure a County Library in order that rural people may have books to read. A SKETCH OF THE HUDSON LODGE No. 295 F. & A. MASONS INSTITUTED IN 1875 AT HARMONY GROVE This Lodge was instituted in 1875 at Harmony Grove. The membership of this Lodge came from the Phidelta Lodge in Banks County. Part of the members of this Lodge moved their membership to Homer. Those who were charter members or joined soon after the Harmony Grove Lodge was organized, are as follows: D. M. Nix, C. T. Nash, J. C. Wade, J. P. Huson, W. F. Lord, J. P. Wood, J. N. Wood, and V. H. Deadwyler. There were perhaps others though the records are not complete. M. S. Porter was the first to affiliate on Sept. 1, 1875. The first to be raised were T. P. Hudson and J. N. Hudson, August 2, 1876. The five Emeritus Masons: W. W. Stark, F. L. Lord, J. M. Nix, L. L. Davis, and H. F. Bray. This Lodge met for the -first fifteen years in the wooden school building where it was organized, then over the Hood Building on North Elm Street until 1925, when they moved to the Hardman Building over the drug store on South Broad Street. This is their present location. This Lodge has steadily increased in membership and influence. Their present membership is 118. The present officers are Charles Castleberry, W.M., Colquitt Sims, Secretary, Jesse Porter, Treasurer. SKETCH OF HARMONY GROVE LODGE No. 30 INDEPENDENT ORDER OF ODD FELLOWS OF COMMERCE, GA. By W. F. Meixsel and Kyle Savage, Committee Harmony Grove Lodge No. 30 was organized on June 13th, 1900 by T. S. Mell, Grand Master of Georgia and the following officers were elected: W. D. Pierce, Noble Grand, Willie B. Spulberger, Vice-Grand, Geo. L. Hubbard, Treasurer, J. M. Carson, Secretary. The following were charter members: R. J. Smith, who later became Grand Master of the Grand Lodge of Georgia and Grand Representative to the Sovereign Grand Lodge, George Rice, Claud Montgomery, J. C. Massey, T. E. Key, J. W. Roberson, A. G. Stark, C. S. Bates, Jno. B. Hardman, W. W. Williamson, F. H. Aderholdt, R. L. Sanders, E. B. Watson, J. T. Stovall, C. A. Mize, W. B. Rice, A. D. Harris, A. L. Bolton, Jno. C. Silman and others. This Lodge was organized with approximately 30 members. The Lodge has had a steady growth since its institution. The officers at present are-Preston Benton, N.G., J. C. King, V.C., P. D. Howington, Finance Secretary, Kyle Savage, Recording Secretary, Fred Brown, Treasurer. The principles of Odd Fellowship are Friendship, Truth, Love, Faith, Hope and Charity. We have a Burial Benefit for the Brother and his wife. We also have an insurance for a member if he cares to carry same. To become a member of this Lodge one must be 18 years of age, white and of good moral character and believe in a Supreme Being, the Creator and Preserver of all things. No saloonkeeper, bartender or professional gambler can belong to our Order. Our Lodge is founded upon the Holy Writ and the Holy Bible must be opened at all meetings and same is opened and closed with prayer. This Lodge enjoys a membership of over 100 members. A Sham Battle The Confederate veterans enjoyed recounting their experiences of the camp and the battles of the sixties. One feature in the year 1910 was a sham battle staged by Camp J. H. Morgan. A hundred or more veterans in their old gray uniforms paraded down Broad Street, several on horses, led by Captain T. A. Little, G. L. Carson and W. T. Thurmond. The battle took place in and around Willoughby Park, ending in a charge down Broad Street. Real maneuvers were executed and the blast of fire-arms suggested a real battle. This sham battle was intended to represent the second and third days of the battle of Gettysburg, July 2nd and 3rd, 1863. Following in the wake of the charge of battle were a considerable number of men, women and children. Great excitement prevailed, especially among the small children. It was a real representation of war. Additional Comments: From HISTORY OF HARMONY GROVE - COMMERCE JACKSON COUNTY, GEORGIA BY THOMAS COLQUITT HARDMAN 1810-1949 File at: http://files.usgwarchives.net/ga/jackson/history/other/gms166historyo.txt This file has been created by a form at http://www.genrecords.org/gafiles/ File size: 46.1 Kb