Thomson Guards Dispatch
January - June, 2024
Tom Holley, Editor
June 2024 Dispatch
Camp's Annual Business Meeting
Next Meeting -- June 25
Next Meeting -- June 25
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Report — GEORGIA DIVISION REUNION — June 1, 2024
On June 1, 2024, Camp 91 sent six members to attend the GA Division Reunion at the Georgia Agricultural Center in Perry, GA. They were Jimmy Crawley, Tom Holley, Mike Lacefield, Dobbie Lambert, Tommy Miller, and Lewis Smith.
Fifty-eight camps were represented with 136 delegates making a quorum. There were over 400 members attending. The GA Commander-in-Chief Tim Pilgrim gave an overview of the division current status. Georgia is the largest division in the confederation with 121 camps and over 3,000 members. Pilgrim believes our growth and stability is due to good communication thru Constant Contact emails and the GA Confederate newspaper. “An informed membership is a confident membership.” |
Elections of division officers were held. Commander Pilgrim was confirmed without opposition for another two year term. The Lt. Commander South was replaced by Chris May.
The division lobbyist to the GA general assembly made a few brief comments. He made it plain, “one letter has the impact on a congress person of 20 emails. Send short, polite but firm letters for the most profit.”
Since the Georgia Supreme Court gave us a favorable monument ruling in September 2022, there have been no other attempts at removing a monument. We are currently still involved with lawsuits in 6 counties that removed monuments prior to September 2022. By the end of July the GA division will currently sue the
The division lobbyist to the GA general assembly made a few brief comments. He made it plain, “one letter has the impact on a congress person of 20 emails. Send short, polite but firm letters for the most profit.”
Since the Georgia Supreme Court gave us a favorable monument ruling in September 2022, there have been no other attempts at removing a monument. We are currently still involved with lawsuits in 6 counties that removed monuments prior to September 2022. By the end of July the GA division will currently sue the
committee currently caretaking Stone Mountain for their reckless, careless and inappropriate changes to the park.
Congratulations! Camp 91 was the awarded 2024 SCV Georgia Division Camp of the Year. You all make a great team. Thanks for the hard work protecting our Southern History and Heritage. Please stay the course: our efforts are working. Sincerely, Tom Holley |
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The Thomson Guards Monthly Meeting — May 2024
by Lewis Smith, Camp Historian
Published in The McDuffie Progress, The Warrenton Leader
and The Journal Messenger & Reporter (Washington and Lincolnton)
by Lewis Smith, Camp Historian
Published in The McDuffie Progress, The Warrenton Leader
and The Journal Messenger & Reporter (Washington and Lincolnton)
On the 28th of May, eighteen Thomson Guards members and spouses met at Fernanda’s for chat-chat and pasta. At 7:00 in the library, after welcoming our guests, we enjoyed a prayer and a very informative report on David Moore’s horseback tour with friends of the Gettysburg battleground. He also visited the cyclorama and museum. David described the fields’ scenery and the main players of the three days of battles in great detail. He was riveting. After a short business meeting, our 38 attendees were entertained by a terrific program presented by ‘Coach’ John Barnett. John has been an educator in the Wrens and Thomson public school systems and at Briarwood Academy since 1979. This month’s program was John’s review of his third local history book, Salute to the Fallen, a tribute to the McDuffie Countians who died for our freedoms.
Coach Barnett talked of his heroes, Dwayne Patrick, Richard Hawes, Luciano Graziano, Jerry Lee Wilson, Bob White, James Kinlow, Jim Baggott. He praised his daughter Callie Ann for travelling with him to all the cemeteries and libraries he loves to visit and research his stories. He called her a history nerd, she wasn’t there to dispute it. He talked glowingly of his children and his wife Kim. John had the statistics to prove our community has been hit hard by war. 14 of our men are buried on foreign soil and six are buried in Arlington. On a field trip a few years ago, a couple of John’s students found the graves of four of the six. Only four? Well, they only had two hours and there are 400,000 graves there. We thoroughly enjoyed John’s stories. Go buy his book. |
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Camp 91 Goals — July 1, 2024 – June 30, 2025
Recruit to 55 voting members in Camp 91 by June 31, 2025. The camp currently has 45 regular members and one associate member as of June 15, 2024. We need to add a minimum of 10 new members. Every member to commit to bring at least 1 like-minded guest.
Participate for community exposure and recruiting purposes:
• Harlem’s Laurel & Hardy Festival - October
• Thomson’s Camellia City Festival - October
• Warrenton’s Sportsman’s Festival - November
· Wrens Festival
Have a soldier memorial service for Private John Thomas (Seth) Wright in TMC when headstone arrives.
Support other SCV camps:
*Have group attendance at the Lee-Jackson Banquet in Millen
*Support other camps in 5TH Brigade that may have a memorial service
Flag cemeteries: 1. Thomson Memorial Cemetery first Saturday in April 2025 for the GA Confederate Memorial Day. Continue efforts in 2025 to also flag the 2. Harlem City Cemetery and the 3. Old Wrightsboro Methodist Church cemetery 4. Sallie White cemetery in Warrenton
Provide a scholarship of $150 to the GA Division Christian Youth Camp
On Saturday April 2025, have an official Confederate Memorial Service at Thomson Memorial Cemetery with guest speaker. The service will be in lieu of the regular fourth Tuesday April meeting.
Thomson Memorial Cemetery to be kept thoroughly cleaned. Continue to wash all veterans gravestones.
Have a group carpool to the Confederate Memorial Service at Stone Mountain on April 2025
Mark all U.S. Veterans graves with U.S. flags in May for Memorial Day 2025 and in November 2024 for Veterans Day.
Send six voting members to attend the Georgia reunion in June
Send at least one voting member to Houston to attend the SCV National Reunion in July.
Continue presence in 4 local county newspapers (McDuffie County Progress, Warren County Leader, Jefferson County Farmer, The Lincoln/Wilkes County Journal)
Continue presence in GA Confederate
Continue upkeep of scrapbook.
Continue the Dispatch - one each month + memorial programs
Continue the website. www.thomsonguardscamp91gascv.com
Provide good used books to the Georgia Division office. The office sells these books to help cover the expenses of the office.
Continue camp’s excellent and generous support of the GA Division Legal Defense Fund.
****We must support the Hunley Award for a local JROTC member. Camp members, (preferably veterans) to become liaisons to Thomson High School JROTC supervisor.
Continue to have camp members join both National and Georgia Guardian programs.
The camp to continue to post U.S. flag, GA flag, and all military service flags along Tom Watson Way during holiday periods.
Continue our monetary commitment to the SCV National museum at Elm Springs. - Camp 91 heard and met the charge from the C-I-C Boshears to give $60 per month for 2 years. We are 1/2 way there.
Continue to have well vetted, fact based, quality speakers at each camp meeting.
Create a network of liaisons to interact with other community organizations: museum (Lewis Smith to Cassidy Blackwell), library (Tom Holley-Jill Brooks), newly elected mayor (Tom Holley-Benji Cranford), county commission chairman (David Moore- Lewis Smith to Chase Beggs), and city government manager (David Moore-Jimmy Crawley to David Crawley)
Repair and clean the wilderness gravesite of the Fulbright brothers located near Boneville.
Keep the camp financially stable.
Participate for community exposure and recruiting purposes:
• Harlem’s Laurel & Hardy Festival - October
• Thomson’s Camellia City Festival - October
• Warrenton’s Sportsman’s Festival - November
· Wrens Festival
Have a soldier memorial service for Private John Thomas (Seth) Wright in TMC when headstone arrives.
Support other SCV camps:
*Have group attendance at the Lee-Jackson Banquet in Millen
*Support other camps in 5TH Brigade that may have a memorial service
Flag cemeteries: 1. Thomson Memorial Cemetery first Saturday in April 2025 for the GA Confederate Memorial Day. Continue efforts in 2025 to also flag the 2. Harlem City Cemetery and the 3. Old Wrightsboro Methodist Church cemetery 4. Sallie White cemetery in Warrenton
Provide a scholarship of $150 to the GA Division Christian Youth Camp
On Saturday April 2025, have an official Confederate Memorial Service at Thomson Memorial Cemetery with guest speaker. The service will be in lieu of the regular fourth Tuesday April meeting.
Thomson Memorial Cemetery to be kept thoroughly cleaned. Continue to wash all veterans gravestones.
Have a group carpool to the Confederate Memorial Service at Stone Mountain on April 2025
Mark all U.S. Veterans graves with U.S. flags in May for Memorial Day 2025 and in November 2024 for Veterans Day.
Send six voting members to attend the Georgia reunion in June
Send at least one voting member to Houston to attend the SCV National Reunion in July.
Continue presence in 4 local county newspapers (McDuffie County Progress, Warren County Leader, Jefferson County Farmer, The Lincoln/Wilkes County Journal)
Continue presence in GA Confederate
Continue upkeep of scrapbook.
Continue the Dispatch - one each month + memorial programs
Continue the website. www.thomsonguardscamp91gascv.com
Provide good used books to the Georgia Division office. The office sells these books to help cover the expenses of the office.
Continue camp’s excellent and generous support of the GA Division Legal Defense Fund.
****We must support the Hunley Award for a local JROTC member. Camp members, (preferably veterans) to become liaisons to Thomson High School JROTC supervisor.
Continue to have camp members join both National and Georgia Guardian programs.
The camp to continue to post U.S. flag, GA flag, and all military service flags along Tom Watson Way during holiday periods.
Continue our monetary commitment to the SCV National museum at Elm Springs. - Camp 91 heard and met the charge from the C-I-C Boshears to give $60 per month for 2 years. We are 1/2 way there.
Continue to have well vetted, fact based, quality speakers at each camp meeting.
Create a network of liaisons to interact with other community organizations: museum (Lewis Smith to Cassidy Blackwell), library (Tom Holley-Jill Brooks), newly elected mayor (Tom Holley-Benji Cranford), county commission chairman (David Moore- Lewis Smith to Chase Beggs), and city government manager (David Moore-Jimmy Crawley to David Crawley)
Repair and clean the wilderness gravesite of the Fulbright brothers located near Boneville.
Keep the camp financially stable.
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McDuffie County’s Historic Wrightsboro Community:
Then and Now — Compiled by Karen Holley This exhibit features a wooden ballot box and the Criminal Docket book of the 274th District. Both items date back to the early 1900s and were used in the Wrightsboro General Store. Built in the late 1700s, the general store was owned and operated by Samuel Carlton Hawes, and then by his son John Ellis Hawes. Both men served as the Justice of the Peace. This made the centralized store a
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convenient location, serving as the Wrightsboro voting precinct, handling legal matters and, of course, shopping. The Hawes Farm (1815) and the general store are across the road and can be seen from the Wrightsboro Church porch.
The Criminal Docket of the 274th District covers a summary of all legal matters from 1905-1940, handled by these two Justices. It is a very fragile ledger book with handwritten notes for each case. Types of charges included assault and attempted murder, murder, hog stealing, disturbing peaceful worship, carrying a pistol without a license, gambling, kidnapping, basic grifting, violating prohibition laws and wife whipping.
There is a photo of John Ellis Hawes sitting in front of his store and two photos of a one-room schoolhouse with a partial list of student names. The accompanying scrapbook provides historical background but also demonstrates how this historic district is involved with contemporary times. The scrapbook includes articles, documents and photos about the church, the community, William Bartram’s two visits, rural education, the founding and current happenings of the Wrightsboro Foundation, Bicentennial and 250th Anniversary celebrations, the Rock House, a headstone rededication, and even the recipes for two Southern cocktails, the Azalea and the Mint Julep.
The exhibit also highlights the use of the Wrightsboro Church (1810) and Newton home (1850) in the making of the 2023 Hollywood movie, “The Hill.” Our historical sites are cherished for their historical importance, many dating back to colonial days, but they can also provide a positive financial benefit for the community during modern times.
The Criminal Docket of the 274th District covers a summary of all legal matters from 1905-1940, handled by these two Justices. It is a very fragile ledger book with handwritten notes for each case. Types of charges included assault and attempted murder, murder, hog stealing, disturbing peaceful worship, carrying a pistol without a license, gambling, kidnapping, basic grifting, violating prohibition laws and wife whipping.
There is a photo of John Ellis Hawes sitting in front of his store and two photos of a one-room schoolhouse with a partial list of student names. The accompanying scrapbook provides historical background but also demonstrates how this historic district is involved with contemporary times. The scrapbook includes articles, documents and photos about the church, the community, William Bartram’s two visits, rural education, the founding and current happenings of the Wrightsboro Foundation, Bicentennial and 250th Anniversary celebrations, the Rock House, a headstone rededication, and even the recipes for two Southern cocktails, the Azalea and the Mint Julep.
The exhibit also highlights the use of the Wrightsboro Church (1810) and Newton home (1850) in the making of the 2023 Hollywood movie, “The Hill.” Our historical sites are cherished for their historical importance, many dating back to colonial days, but they can also provide a positive financial benefit for the community during modern times.
Rachel Newton (left) and Jennifer S. Newton, played extras in the congregation at the Wrightsboro Church. They posed with Dennis Quaid who had top billing in “The Hill” and is also known for his role as Jerry Lee Lewis. After a long day of filming at the Newton home, he granted a personal request by playing and singing Great Balls of Fire at their piano for family members to enjoy.
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Commander’s Post — Selected by Lewis Smith, Camp Historian
David vs Goliath — Fun fact
David vs Goliath — Fun fact
From the Babylon Bee official website. Breaking news:
ELAH VALLEY — A young boy named David has found himself under intense scrutiny and condemnation for his alleged violence against a kindly Palestinian giant named Goliath. Those critical of the young boy's action call this yet another tragic case of disproportionate force and cultural insensitivity.
"It's a clear case of bigotry and attempted genocide," declared activist Ehud as they held a candlelight vigil for Goliath outside the battlefield. "David had the audacity to use a slingshot against a giant armed only with his faith and a kind soul. David's actions are nothing short of barbaric."
Critics of David's actions argue that he should have pursued more peaceful methods of conflict resolution, such as dialogue or complete and utter surrender. "There were plenty of opportunities for mediation, conflict de-escalation, and letting the Philistines slaughter every Israelite," insisted local man Gehazi. "Instead, David chose violence, perpetuating harmful stereotypes about giants being inherently aggressive."
Schools across the world saw protests break out as students condemned David and called for the destruction of Israel. "David needs to be held accountable for how his actions have negatively impacted this gentle, peace-loving community of Philistines," said Ehud. "Though a person of size, we must acknowledge that Goliath lived as a marginalized individual. Also, we need to destroy Israel."
Meanwhile, David has reportedly gone into hiding, fearing for his safety amidst the wave of backlash. "I was just defending my family and my sheep," he mumbled nervously, adjusting his slingshot. "Does no one get that they were going to kill the men and rape the women? No one?"
At publishing time, Goliath's descendants have reportedly hired a team of lawyers to explore their legal options demanding reparations, including modest terms like "Destroy Israel."
ELAH VALLEY — A young boy named David has found himself under intense scrutiny and condemnation for his alleged violence against a kindly Palestinian giant named Goliath. Those critical of the young boy's action call this yet another tragic case of disproportionate force and cultural insensitivity.
"It's a clear case of bigotry and attempted genocide," declared activist Ehud as they held a candlelight vigil for Goliath outside the battlefield. "David had the audacity to use a slingshot against a giant armed only with his faith and a kind soul. David's actions are nothing short of barbaric."
Critics of David's actions argue that he should have pursued more peaceful methods of conflict resolution, such as dialogue or complete and utter surrender. "There were plenty of opportunities for mediation, conflict de-escalation, and letting the Philistines slaughter every Israelite," insisted local man Gehazi. "Instead, David chose violence, perpetuating harmful stereotypes about giants being inherently aggressive."
Schools across the world saw protests break out as students condemned David and called for the destruction of Israel. "David needs to be held accountable for how his actions have negatively impacted this gentle, peace-loving community of Philistines," said Ehud. "Though a person of size, we must acknowledge that Goliath lived as a marginalized individual. Also, we need to destroy Israel."
Meanwhile, David has reportedly gone into hiding, fearing for his safety amidst the wave of backlash. "I was just defending my family and my sheep," he mumbled nervously, adjusting his slingshot. "Does no one get that they were going to kill the men and rape the women? No one?"
At publishing time, Goliath's descendants have reportedly hired a team of lawyers to explore their legal options demanding reparations, including modest terms like "Destroy Israel."
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Unknown source from the Internet
I ONCE WAS A NORMAL PERSON.
I used to think I was pretty much just a regular person, but I was born white, into a two-parent household which now, whether I like it or not, makes me privileged, a racist, and responsible for slavery.
I am a fiscal and moral conservative, which by today's standards, makes me a fascist because I plan, budget, and support myself.
I went to school for 16 years and have always held a job. But I now find out that I am not here because I earned it, but because I was "advantaged".
I am heterosexual, which according to gay folks, now makes me a homophobic.
I am not a Muslim, which now labels me as an infidel.
I am older than 70, making me a useless dinosaur who doesn't understand Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, or Snapchat.
I think, and I reason, and I doubt most of what the ‘mainstream’ media tells me, which makes me a Right-wing conspiracy nut.
I am proud of my heritage and our inclusive culture, making me a xenophobe.
I believe in hard work, fair play, and fair reward according to each individual's merits, which today makes me an anti-socialist.
I believe our system guarantees freedom of opportunity not freedom of outcome or subsidies which must make me a borderline sociopath.
I believe in the defense and protection of my nation for and by all citizens, now making me a militant.
I am proud of our flag, what it stands for, and the many who died to let it fly, so I stand during our National Anthem - so I must be a radical.
Funny - it all took place over the last decade!
I am a fiscal and moral conservative, which by today's standards, makes me a fascist because I plan, budget, and support myself.
I went to school for 16 years and have always held a job. But I now find out that I am not here because I earned it, but because I was "advantaged".
I am heterosexual, which according to gay folks, now makes me a homophobic.
I am not a Muslim, which now labels me as an infidel.
I am older than 70, making me a useless dinosaur who doesn't understand Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, or Snapchat.
I think, and I reason, and I doubt most of what the ‘mainstream’ media tells me, which makes me a Right-wing conspiracy nut.
I am proud of my heritage and our inclusive culture, making me a xenophobe.
I believe in hard work, fair play, and fair reward according to each individual's merits, which today makes me an anti-socialist.
I believe our system guarantees freedom of opportunity not freedom of outcome or subsidies which must make me a borderline sociopath.
I believe in the defense and protection of my nation for and by all citizens, now making me a militant.
I am proud of our flag, what it stands for, and the many who died to let it fly, so I stand during our National Anthem - so I must be a radical.
Funny - it all took place over the last decade!
BLESS ALL OF US NORMAL PEOPLE!!!
May 2024 Dispatch
Meeting -- Tuesday, May 28
Salute to the Fallen: A Tribute to McDuffie Countians Who Paid the Ultimate Price
by John Barnett
Salute to the Fallen: A Tribute to McDuffie Countians Who Paid the Ultimate Price
by John Barnett
John Barnett is a native of McDuffie County and a 1975 graduate of Thomson High School. He earned a BA, Masters, and Educational Specialist Degrees from Augusta State University. He began his teaching and coaching career at Wrens High School in 1979 and joined the Thomson High faculty and coaching staff in 1982 as Head JV football coach. From 1984-1992 and 1999-2010, he was Defensive Coordinator. He retired in 2010, but briefly coached linebackers in 2014 due to shortages on the coaching staff. During the 21 seasons, he was Defensive Coordinator, the Bulldogs won 202 games, 12 Region Titles, and 3 State Championships. His public-school teaching career spanned 31 years. In 2017, Coach Barnett was inducted into the Brickyard Wall of Fame.
In March 2019, he joined the Briarwood faculty and was coaxed out of retirement where he served the Buccaneers as Defensive Coordinator for 3 seasons. They reached the Finals in 2019 and the Semi-Finals in 2020. During the 2021 season, Coach Barnett was blessed to be part of his 250th victory as a Varsity football coach.
He and his wife Kim, a retired educator, recently celebrated 31 years of marriage. They have a daughter, Callie Ann, an 8th grader at Briarwood and two granddaughters Belle and Emma Lou Fulmer and a grandson Lucas Barnett Woods. His two older daughters are THS graduates: Anna Fulmer is a Registered Nurse at Augusta University and Ashley Woods is a teacher at Carver Elementary in Jefferson County.
In March 2019, he joined the Briarwood faculty and was coaxed out of retirement where he served the Buccaneers as Defensive Coordinator for 3 seasons. They reached the Finals in 2019 and the Semi-Finals in 2020. During the 2021 season, Coach Barnett was blessed to be part of his 250th victory as a Varsity football coach.
He and his wife Kim, a retired educator, recently celebrated 31 years of marriage. They have a daughter, Callie Ann, an 8th grader at Briarwood and two granddaughters Belle and Emma Lou Fulmer and a grandson Lucas Barnett Woods. His two older daughters are THS graduates: Anna Fulmer is a Registered Nurse at Augusta University and Ashley Woods is a teacher at Carver Elementary in Jefferson County.
The Barnetts are active members of First Methodist Church in Thomson, where he sings in the Chancel Choir. He also enjoys singing in a Men’s Ensemble called Measure of Grace, which has performed at many revivals, Camp Meetings, Community Events, and other venues since 2015.
In 2014, Coach Barnett co-authored a history of Thomson High football, entitled Ghosts of the Brickyard, which has sold nearly 1700 copies. In 2020, he completed the authorship of A Fifty Year History of Two State Construction for the Poston Family. Salute to the Fallen is his third book on local history. *** $20 per book / cash, check, Venmo & CashApp accepted. *** |
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Ron Awe Rebuilds Another Wall at
Thomson Memorial Cemetery For the past month, Compatriot Ron Awe has been working very closely with David Moore and the Thomson Memorial Cemetery committee. They were working against time before Camp 91’s Confederate Memorial Day service to complete the rebuild of another crumbled and falling wall. They had many obstacles to overcome.
First, a massive 48” diameter Magnolia tree had to be removed; it caused all the damage to begin with. Next, the decorative fence around the plot was carefully taken down and laid aside. The wall was taken out and all the bricks were cleaned for reuse. Next, the tree roots were removed and the foundation poured. Ron then rebuilt the brick walls and integrated the metal fence posts. Finally, the beautiful wrought iron fence was welded back in place. The photos tell the story.
The end result is ~40’ of brick wall around another Confederate gravesite. Thank you, Ron. Thank you, David. Live The Charge! |
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Why?
- We have a great camp with great members doing a great job in community service. Your help makes the camp a great team!
- Our membership is all about learning our history, protecting our heritage and honoring our ancestors. What is more important?
- With significant judgment in our favor by the Georgia Supreme Court, we are slowly winning the battle to save our monuments.
- We need you in our numbers when we approach our legislators. Simply put, the more of us the stronger our voice.
If not ME, who? If not Now, when?
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Since it is SCV dues time, you may wish to become a life member. Should you wish to do so these numbers would represent your investment. Especially if one is older in age, if one looks at this long term, it is quite a deal.
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On April 20th, a beautiful Saturday morning, our local Sons of Confederate Veterans camp, The Thomson Guards, met in the Thomson Memorial Cemetery to enjoy another annual observance of Confederate Memorial Day. Surrounded by Old Glory, the Georgia State flag and five different Confederate flags, our speakers enthralled the 90 history-buff attendees who gathered to celebrate the true history of the South and to honor their Southern ancestors. Sons of Confederate Veterans strive to do nothing and say nothing that might bring dishonor to their camps or to their Confederate heroes. All SCV meetings are fully open to the public. Contact our local camp through our commander Tom Holley at [email protected] or our website at thomsonguardscamp91gascv.com.
Photos clockwise: 1. US, GA & CSA Flags, 2. Dave Donehoo and the HIT String Band, 3. Mark Cheek playing bagpipes
with Jimmy McDaniel praying, 4. Tom Holley welcoming guests, and 5. Phil Turner, the Gray Poet.
with Jimmy McDaniel praying, 4. Tom Holley welcoming guests, and 5. Phil Turner, the Gray Poet.
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Clockwise: 1. Julie N. Hardaway, Vice President General of the United Daughters of the Confederacy 2. Jimmy McDaniel, Camp 91 Chaplain
3. David Moore (right) , SCV & Thomson Memorial Cemetery Committee Chairman 4. David Hollingsworth, keynote speaker
3. David Moore (right) , SCV & Thomson Memorial Cemetery Committee Chairman 4. David Hollingsworth, keynote speaker
Saturday's outside program at the cemetery began with some beautiful Appalachian and old-time music performed by David Donehoo and his Lincoln County HIT String Band, ten young musicians appropriately named Hillbillies In Training. After Tom Holley welcomed us and Jimmy McDaniel said a prayer, we pledged our allegiance to the USA and GA State flags and our affection to the Confederate flags. Mark Cheek, Thomson’s local bagpipe aficionado, played six great songs throughout our service. Karen Holley, a DAR and UDC member and long-time SCV associate, introduced Julie Hardaway, the national Vice President General of the United Daughters of the Confederacy, who spoke to us on the importance of remembering our ancestors and emulating their virtues and principles. After Phil Turner, the Gray Poet, recited two terrific poems (one of Boys in Gray and another of Belles in Dixie), Jimmy Crawley introduced our speaker, history professor David Hollingsworth, PhD of Augusta University.
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Dr. Hollingsworth delivered a rousing address that stirred us all. He had recently come upon a battlefield near Bamberg, SC, at River's Bridge where 700 rebels stood their ground against nearly 7,000 troops of William Sherman's army as they pushed towards Columbia. The hero of Dr. Hollingsworth's story was CSA Lt. Simeon S. Kirby. As the Union troops flanked the Confederate right, another Union division crossed several miles downstream to flank the Confederate left. Under a smokescreen created by rapid artillery and rifle volleys, the Southerners withdrew. But before the retreat was accomplished, a Union sharpshooter crawled close to the Confederate cannons and killed Lt. Kirby with a shot through his chest. One of Kirby’s men, Pvt. W. M. Larke, demanded revenge and grabbed a rifle to shoot the Yankee. “I took aim at the fellow and hollered at him,” Larke recalled. “When he looked up, I shot him clear through.” Just like shooting turkeys. Dr. Hollinsworth placed great emphasis on the fact that Lt. Kirby was reading his Bible when he was killed. He read his Bible daily even during a deadly battle. In the midst of our daily battles, that’s what we should also be doing.
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If Not Us, Who? If Not Now, When?
April 2024 Dispatch
Meeting -- Saturday, April 20
Confederate Memorial Day Commemoration
Confederate Memorial Day Commemoration
10:30 a.m. -- Thomson Memorial Cemetery
- 212 Tom Watson Way, Thomson
- Please attend our most important event of the year.
- Note that this memorial service will replace our regular monthly meeting.
- Bring friends, children and lawn chairs.
- Period clothing encouraged; we may change clothes at McDuffie Museum before lunch.
- 338 Main Street — Parking is behind building off Greenway Steet.
- 127 Main St. -- Parking behind building or in Knox Shopping Center.
Fighting to the End by David Hollingsworth, PhD
Dr. David Hollingsworth is the keynote speaker for our camp Confederate Memorial Day ceremony. He will discuss the qualities of the Confederate soldier that we all admire. Dr. Hollingsworth received his BA degree in history from Augusta College. He earned his MA degree in Church History at Trinity Evangelical Divinity School. He received his PhD at the University of Kentucky with a concentration in US and Southern Religious studies. David is married with two college aged children. Since 1998, he had been a high school teacher or a college professor. He often shares his lectures with Sons of Confederate Veterans camps.
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As a special treat, we are pleased to announce that we can all look forward to two special music performances. Mark Cheek will play several tunes on his bagpipes. And, for about fifteen minutes before and after the program, Dave Donehoo and his students, the HIT (Hillbillies in Training) String Band will play Appalachian and Old Time favorites.
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CITIZEN-SOLDIERS
The citizen-soldiers who fought for the Confederacy personified the best qualities of America. The preservation of liberty and freedom was the motivating factor in the South’s decision to fight the Second American Revolution. The tenacity with which Confederate soldiers fought underscored their belief in the rights guaranteed by the Constitution. These attributes are the underpinning of our democratic society and represent the foundation on which this nation was built.
These attributes are the underpinning of our democratic society and represent the foundation on which this nation was built.
Today, the SCV is preserving the history and legacy of these heroes so that future generations can understand the motives that animated the Southern Cause.
The SCV is the direct heir of the United Confederate Veterans, and the oldest hereditary organization for male descendants of Confederate soldiers.
These attributes are the underpinning of our democratic society and represent the foundation on which this nation was built.
Today, the SCV is preserving the history and legacy of these heroes so that future generations can understand the motives that animated the Southern Cause.
The SCV is the direct heir of the United Confederate Veterans, and the oldest hereditary organization for male descendants of Confederate soldiers.
Captain William Johnston
Thomson Guards, 10th GA |
Organized at Richmond, Virginia in 1896, the SCV continues to serve as a historical, patriotic, and non-political organization dedicated to ensuring that a true history of the 1861 - 1865 period is preserved.
Membership is open to all male descendants of any veteran who served honorably in the Confederate armed forces. Source: Army of Tennessee,
Sons of Confederate Veterans, "The Sentinel" Monthly Newsletter. |
Noah Washington Stone
Thomson Guards, 10th GA |
Captain
John Thaddeus Stovall Thomson Guards, 10th GA |
William Andrew Hoss
19th Alabama |
John McCorkle IV
Pettus Volunteers, 37th GA |
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At the March meeting of Camp 91, Thomson Guards,
a new SCV member was inducted. Mr. Christopher Wade Matthews (R) was sworn in by Compatriot David Moore (L) and is seen receiving his certificate and pin from Lt. Commander Jimmy Crawley. Wade’s ancestor is Private William Edward Wade, a soldier in Company F, Thomson Guards, 10th Georgia Infantry, Semmes’ Brigade, ANV. The Thomson Guards are very excited to welcome Wade into the Sons of Confederate Veterans. |
Compatriot Barrett Smith
is our latest Georgia Guardian. He was extremely helpful in restoring the Stanford Brothers cemetery and is committed to keeping it well kept in the future. Congratulations, Barrett. |
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Above Photos Clockwise: 1) Museum, 2) Robert E. Lee and 3) Elm Springs / Below: Jefferson Davis
Spring Break with the Grandsons
It was another break in school action so Karen and I took another great vacation with Gene and Marshall, our grandsons from Marietta. We started with the Ark Encounter and the Creation Museum near Cincinnati. Both are wonderful and a remarkable Christian experience; go if you possibly can. We then visited Lincoln’s birthplace home and the National Corvette Museum. Next we toured the SCV National Confederate Museum and Historic Elm Springs. Finally, we saw Ruby Falls, the Battle of Chattanooga National Park and then experienced a trolley tour of beautiful Chattanooga, Tennessee.
These ten photos are a brief overview of the SCV museum and Elm Springs. It was a worthwhile trip. |
Bench commemorating Southern Women with quote from Robert E. Lee.
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Commander’s Post by Tom Holley
Some fifty years after the WBTS, Lawrence Binion wrote For The Fallen in remembrance
of casualties of war. This poem was often read during funerals or memorial services.
It is particularly appropriate as we remember our Confederate ancestors on Memorial Day.
Some fifty years after the WBTS, Lawrence Binion wrote For The Fallen in remembrance
of casualties of war. This poem was often read during funerals or memorial services.
It is particularly appropriate as we remember our Confederate ancestors on Memorial Day.
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“They went with songs to battle, they were young.
Straight of limb, true of eyes, steady and aglow. They were staunch to the end against odds uncounted, They fell with their faces to the foe. They shall not grow old, as we that are left grow old, Age shall not weary them, nor the years condemn. At the going down of the sun and in the morning, We shall remember them.” And the grieving responded, “Lest we forget, lest we forget.” |
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Union bandmaster Patrick S. Gilmore wrote these lyrics to an Irish folk tune in June 1863. After the war, When Johnny Comes Marching Home Again became popular in both the North and South.
When Johnny comes marching home again, Hurrah, Hurrah!
We’ll give him a hearty welcome then, Hurrah, Hurrah! The men will cheer, the boys will shout, The ladies, they will all turn out, And we’ll all feel gay when Johnny comes marching home. The old church bell will peal with joy, Hurrah, Hurrah! To welcome home our darling boys, Hurrah, Hurrah! The village lads and lassies say, With roses they will strew the way, And we’ll all feel gay when Johnny comes marching home. Get ready for the Jubilee, Hurrah, Hurrah! We’ll give the heroes three times three, Hurrah, Hurrah! The laurel wreath is ready now, To place upon his loyal brow, And we”ll all feel gay when Johnny Comes Marching Home. Let love and friendship on that day, Hurrah, Hurrah! Their choicest treasures then display, Hurrah! Hurrah! And let each one perform some part, To fill with joy the Warrior’s heart, And we’ll all feel gay When Johnny Comes Marching Home. |
March 2024 Dispatch
Meeting -- Tuesday, March 26
Artillery and Gun Powder
by Steven Earl Burke and Bernard T. Martin, Sr.
by Steven Earl Burke and Bernard T. Martin, Sr.
Our favorite re-enactors, Steve and Bernard, are back with another interesting program examining artillery and gun powder. See how they fashioned their own 3 pounder cannon and learn why the Confederacy was never without quality powder.
Both gentlemen are well known in the area, esp. with regards to SAR and SCV, for their research, re-enactments, authentic handmade clothing, handmade tools and weapons including cannons and gunpowder, as well as their Christian faith and commitment to our country. Both Steve and Bernard were awarded the DAR Excellence in Historic Preservation Medal by the Captain John Wilson Chapter, National Society Daughters of the American Revolution, for their outstanding lifelong work.
Please refer to the Dispatch section of the camp website for more information on these speakers. Previous programs that they have presented to Camp 91 include: The Bible and the Constitution ((July 2023), Wilderness Survival Skills (July 2022) and Sherman’s March to the Sea (2017?).
Both gentlemen are well known in the area, esp. with regards to SAR and SCV, for their research, re-enactments, authentic handmade clothing, handmade tools and weapons including cannons and gunpowder, as well as their Christian faith and commitment to our country. Both Steve and Bernard were awarded the DAR Excellence in Historic Preservation Medal by the Captain John Wilson Chapter, National Society Daughters of the American Revolution, for their outstanding lifelong work.
Please refer to the Dispatch section of the camp website for more information on these speakers. Previous programs that they have presented to Camp 91 include: The Bible and the Constitution ((July 2023), Wilderness Survival Skills (July 2022) and Sherman’s March to the Sea (2017?).
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Announcements
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- The E. Porter Alexander Camp in Augusta will hold its Confederate Memorial service on Sat., March 30, 11:00 a.m., at Magnolia Cemetery.
- Our next meeting is our Confederate Memorial Service, on Saturday, April 20, at the Thomson Memorial Cemetery. This will take the place of our regular Tuesday night meeting. Please, bring a like-minded friend.
- The Stone Mountain SCV Confederate Memorial Day service has been scheduled for Saturday, April 27, 2024, from 10:00 am to 1:00 pm.
- The June 1, Georgia Division Convention and Reunion is in Perry, Georgia. We will have 5 voting delegates. Please let Tom know if you are interested in attending; arrangements must be made.
- The July 2024, National SCV Convention is in North Charleston, SC. The registration information is on the website, scv4.org The event will be held at the Embassy Suites Convention Center.
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- Compatriot Joe Patrick had a heart attack Tuesday afternoon January 23rd while helping a friend start his automobile. He is doing very well, another miracle.
- Compatriot Jeffrey Hathorn had a full hip replacement done on February 1. The hip replacement is doing extremely well. However, the anesthesia caused him to lose most of his sight in his left eye. This has become a huge challenge.
- Please continue to pray for these men as they recover.
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Camp 91 Goals with Results -- June 1, 2023 – May 31, 2024
In September 2023, Camp 91 worked to formulate these goals for the upcoming year. This is our
roadmap to accomplish our efforts in meeting the Charge. Some have been accomplished, others are in
process, while some are yet to be. Nearly all of the Camp 91 activities can be reviewed in the newsletter
and the website: www.thomsonguardscamp91gascv.com.
This year’s annual business meeting is scheduled in June, rather than in September. This will align our camp calendar with the national and division SCV calendars. Therefore, our target date for completing this year’s goals is June 25, 2024.
roadmap to accomplish our efforts in meeting the Charge. Some have been accomplished, others are in
process, while some are yet to be. Nearly all of the Camp 91 activities can be reviewed in the newsletter
and the website: www.thomsonguardscamp91gascv.com.
This year’s annual business meeting is scheduled in June, rather than in September. This will align our camp calendar with the national and division SCV calendars. Therefore, our target date for completing this year’s goals is June 25, 2024.
We must concentrate on completing the goals highlighted in red.
Results are listed in blue.
Please read them carefully to decide how you can best help.
Results are listed in blue.
Please read them carefully to decide how you can best help.
1. Recruit to 40+ voting members to Camp 91 by June 2024. The camp had 34 regular members and
one associate member as of June 15, 2023. We need to add a minimum of 6 new members. Every
member to commit to bring at least 2 like-minded guests or family members to a meeting in the
next 9 months. -- As of March 4, 2024, there are 45 members. With you help we could make 50.
2. Participate for community exposure and recruiting purposes:
- Harlem’s Laurel & Hardy Festival - October 7 -- Twelve members participated. Collected names of 14 potential members. Collected $114 for Legal Defense Fund.
- Thomson’s Camellia City Festival - October 21 -- Eight members participated. Collected names of 7 potential members. Collected $40 LDF.
- Warrenton’s Sportsman’s Festival - November 12 -- rained out
3. Clean the Confederate Ladies Association Monument at the old train depot between now and
Spring. -- Nine members met Saturday, October 28, to clean the monument. We spent nearly four
hours. Photos and write-ups were included in the Dispatch and in 3 local newspapers for
public awareness.
4. Have a memorial service for Lt. Col. William Judson Crawley, g-g-grandfather of Camp Lt.
Commander Jimmy Crawley. -- The service was held December 14, 2023, at the Old Wrightsboro Church. There 45 participants. It was a beautiful and meaningful service; Jimmy’s account of his g-g- grandfather was fabulous. Three of the four newspapers and the GA Confederate ran our story. We signed one new member on the spot. Collected $150 for legal defense fund.
5. Support other SCV camps:
- Have group attendance at the Lee-Jackson Banquet in Millen -- On January 19, Camp 91 had thirteen representatives participate in this great event.
- Have group attendance at the Berry Benson Memorial Service -- cancelled due to COVID and thunderstorms.
6. Flag the cemetery Saturday April 6, 2024, for the GA Confederate Memorial Day.
7. Support a scholarship of $150 to the GA Division Youth Camp. -- Done at February camp meeting.
8. On Saturday, April 20, 2024, conduct Confederate Memorial Service at Thomson Memorial Cemetery with guest speaker. The service will be in lieu of the regular fourth Tuesday April meeting.
9. Thomson Memorial Cemetery to be kept thoroughly cleaned. Continue to wash all veterans gravestones.
-- The camp washed a total of 32 veteran’s gravestones since June 2023. To date the camp has washed over 60. We completely rebuilt three grave plot brick walls. Painting and repair of all benches is complete.
10. Have a group carpool to the Confederate Memorial Service at Stone Mountain on April 27, 2024.
11. Mark all U.S. Veterans graves with U.S. flags in May for Memorial Day and in November for Veterans Day. -- November 2023, thirteen gravesites were flagged and the service flags posted along Tom Watson Way.
12. Send five voting members to attend the Georgia reunion on June 1.
13. Send at least two voting members to Charleston to attend the SCV National Reunion in July.
14. Continue presence in 4 local county newspapers (McDuffie Progress, Warren Leader, Jefferson Farmer, The Journal) & GA Confederate.
- Continue upkeep of scrapbook.
- ·Continue the Dispatch
- Continue the website. www.thomsonguardscamp91gascv.com -- Each goal completed to date very well.
15. Continue camp’s excellent and generous support of the GA Division Legal Defense Fund. -- In last half of 2023, the camp gave ~$2,510.
16. We must support the Hunley Award for a local JROTC member. Camp members, (preferably veterans) to become liaisons to a High School JROTC supervisor.
17. Continue to have camp members join both National and Georgia Guardian programs. -- Since June 2023, we had two members join the Georgia Guardian program. The camp has 7 guardians total. Barrett Smith is most recent 3/2024.
18. The camp to continue to post U.S. flag, GA flag, and all military service flags along Tom Watson Way during holiday periods. -- The camp has flown the flags for every holiday so far in 2023- 2024. We are leaving the U.S. flags flying at the gate full time.
19. Continue our monetary commitment to the SCV National museum at Elm Springs. -- Camp 91 met the charge from the C-I-C Boshears to give $60 per month with additional giving. Since July 2023, we have donated $2,180.
20. Continue to have well vetted, fact based, quality speakers at each camp meeting. -- Again, this year 2023- 2024, the camp has arranged for incredible speakers each month with very interesting topics.
See website for a complete list.
21. Create a network of liaisons to interact with other community organizations:
- museum (Lewis Smith to Chase Beggs)
- library (Tom Holley to Jill Brooks)
- newly elected mayor (Jimmy McDaniel to Benji Cranford)
- county commission chairman (Jimmy Crawley to Charlie Newton)
- city government manager (David Moore to David Crawley.
22. Repair and clean the wilderness gravesite of the Stanford brothers located on the Yarborough
property near old Wrightsboro. Permission was granted by the landowner 11/11/2023.
-- Six members met at the site Saturday, January 20, to formulate a plan. There are two Confederate soldier’s marked graves and at least eight unmarked graves. March 4, 2024 this work is nearly complete. Barrett Smith is the new GA Guardian.
23. Keep the camp financially stable. -- Current Savings Account $600. Current Checking Account $600.
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Thomson-McDuffie Museum, 121 Main Street. Thomson, Georgia
The American Revolution Experience invites visitors to consider the choice faced by members of the revolutionary generation as tensions mounted in the 1770s: Would these ordinary citizens risk their lives and livelihoods in pursuit of liberty? Or would they remain loyal subjects of the British crown, coming into conflict with neighbors and family?
The exhibit surfaces diverse viewpoints and experiences, touching on the journeys — both literal and figurative — of Patriots and Loyalists, men and women, Black and Native populations and even international allies. Rather than focusing only on generals and famous statesmen, it introduces audiences to drummer boys, military mapmakers and other ordinary people who were impacted by global events.
The traveling exhibit includes 12 panels highlighting thematic connections between profiled
individuals and three interactive kiosks that connect to the full digital biographies, provide documentary context on the Revolutionary War and offer information on how to visit the places tied to these individuals today.
The exhibit surfaces diverse viewpoints and experiences, touching on the journeys — both literal and figurative — of Patriots and Loyalists, men and women, Black and Native populations and even international allies. Rather than focusing only on generals and famous statesmen, it introduces audiences to drummer boys, military mapmakers and other ordinary people who were impacted by global events.
The traveling exhibit includes 12 panels highlighting thematic connections between profiled
individuals and three interactive kiosks that connect to the full digital biographies, provide documentary context on the Revolutionary War and offer information on how to visit the places tied to these individuals today.
About the Organizations
From a grassroots organization started by historians nearly 40 years ago, the American Battlefield Trust has grown into one of the most successful land preservation and education organizations in the nation. The Trust has protected almost 60,000 acres associated with the Revolutionary War, War of 1812 and Civil War, representing 160 sites in 25 states from Massachusetts to New Mexico. Its 350,000 members and supporters believe in the power of place and the continued relevance of our shared history to modern American society. Learn more at www.battlefields.org.
The National Society Daughters of the American Revolution was founded in 1890 to promote historic preservation, education, and patriotism. Its members are descended from the patriots who won American independence during the Revolutionary War. With nearly 190,000 members in approximately 3,000 chapters worldwide, DAR is one of the world’s largest and most active service organizations.
The National Society Daughters of the American Revolution was founded in 1890 to promote historic preservation, education, and patriotism. Its members are descended from the patriots who won American independence during the Revolutionary War. With nearly 190,000 members in approximately 3,000 chapters worldwide, DAR is one of the world’s largest and most active service organizations.
Provided by the American Battlefield Trust
in partnership with the National Society Daughters of the American Revolution
Hosted by the Captain John Wilson Chapter, NSDAR, and McDuffie Museum, Inc.
in partnership with the National Society Daughters of the American Revolution
Hosted by the Captain John Wilson Chapter, NSDAR, and McDuffie Museum, Inc.
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February 2024 Dispatch
Meeting -- February 27, 2024
Jefferson Davis, Washington, Georgia, and the
Last Official Acts of the Confederacy by Skeet Willingham Robert M. (Skeet) Willingham, Jr. is a native of Washington, Georgia. He is a writer, researcher and administrator of Vintage Wilkes on Facebook. His educational background is in American and Southern literature and history.
He is married to Virginia Lee King and they have one son, three daughters and eight grandchildren. He is a sports fan, collector and researcher of Southern folk pottery and coin silver, and a historic preservationist. |
Jefferson and Varina Davis
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Skeet has served as curator of several exhibitions on Southern folk pottery including articles, news releases, brochures, lectures, and exhibit catalogs.
He is a member of the Episcopal Church of the Mediator, former vestry member, senior warden, and director of the Brotherhood of St. Andrew.
He has worked to restore several historic homes including their present residence, “Magnolia Cottage” (1873) in Washington, Georgia.
He is a member of the Episcopal Church of the Mediator, former vestry member, senior warden, and director of the Brotherhood of St. Andrew.
He has worked to restore several historic homes including their present residence, “Magnolia Cottage” (1873) in Washington, Georgia.
Skeet Willingham has authored more than seventeen books including:
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While working in coordination with the Thomson Memorial Cemetery Committee, Thomson Guards, Camp 91 Compatriot Ron Awe volunteered to replace 35 feet of crumbled and fallen brick wall that encloses the plot of a Confederate soldier. Mr. Epp Wilson’s fence crew removed the old structure and Compatriot David Moore cleaned many of the old bricks. Ron formed and poured the concrete foundation and replaced the wall. He did a wonderful job out of respect to the history, heritage and honor of our ancestors. Because the committee receives no financial support from the county or city for the cemetery, Camp 91’s volunteer work has been essential to returning the cemetery to its former glory. The Thomson Memorial Cemetery encloses the gravesites of 110 Confederate veterans. Thank you for your service Ron.
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Lee - Jackson Banquet
On Friday evening, January 19, The Buckhead-Ft. Lawton Brigade Camp 2102 in Millen held its annual Lee-Jackson Banquet. It was an absolute honor and privilege for thirteen representatives of Thomson Guards Camp 91 to attend and enjoy the event. I would like to congratulate Commander Dale Thompson, Adjutant James Saxon, Historian Steve Rathbun, Neil Dickey and other camp members for their hard work achieving this fabulous evening. The catered food was fantastic, Pastor Weaver’s discussion of Generals Lee and Jackson was superb, and the fellowship among the nine camps represented was excellent. It is very important that we support our brother camps; they appreciate it and we learn from it.
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Thomson Guards’
Confederate Memorial Day Service Save the Date: Sat., April 20 Camp 91 Thomson Guards will hold our Confederate Memorial Day service Saturday, April 20, at 10:30 am. It will be held at the Thomson Memorial Cemetery on Tom Watson Way. Note: This service is in lieu of our regular April monthly meeting.
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The “Charge” to the Sons of Confederate Veterans indicates this is one of our most important responsibilities to honor, respect and remember our Confederate heroes. Please put this on your calendar now and plan on attending with your wife, children or grandchildren. Please wear period clothes if you have them and bring lawn chairs.
All details are not in place yet but we already have commitments from an excellent speaker, Dr. David Hollingsworth, and our bagpiper, Mr. Mark Cheek.
We are also pleased to introduce Julie N. Hardaway, Vice President, United Daughters of the Confederacy, who will bring greetings from this national sister organization. We can also look forward to hearing her present our August program on a very interesting topic: the Nancy Hart Militia, the All-Female Militia Unit of LaGrange, Troup County, Georgia.
I will be contacting many of you soon for assistance. It will be fun and rewarding. Please plan to attend.
All details are not in place yet but we already have commitments from an excellent speaker, Dr. David Hollingsworth, and our bagpiper, Mr. Mark Cheek.
We are also pleased to introduce Julie N. Hardaway, Vice President, United Daughters of the Confederacy, who will bring greetings from this national sister organization. We can also look forward to hearing her present our August program on a very interesting topic: the Nancy Hart Militia, the All-Female Militia Unit of LaGrange, Troup County, Georgia.
I will be contacting many of you soon for assistance. It will be fun and rewarding. Please plan to attend.
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Announcements
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Prayer Needs
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- Compatriot Joe Patrick had a heart attack Tuesday afternoon January 23rd while helping a friend start his automobile. He was rushed to Piedmont Augusta and had quadruple by-pass surgery Wednesday morning. He did remarkably well and has come to live with his sister for a while in Harlem. I spoke to him and he is very optimistic.
- Compatriot Jeffrey Hathorn had a full hip replacement done on February 1. He is doing extremely well but will need one month to recover.
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The woke democrats from DeKalb County are at it again, they pushing their House Bill 794 which removes Stone Mountain Memorial Park as a Memorial to the Confederacy.
The memorial carving was first declared a memorial in May 1924 when General Lee's bust was revealed. In 1958 the State of Georgia purchased the park as a Memorial to the Confederacy and was open to the public on April 14, 1965. State law code 12-3-191 & 12-3-192 specifies all of Stone Mountain Memorial Park as a Memorial to the Confederacy and is protected by 50-3-1.
House Bill 794 eliminates the park as a Memorial to the Confederacy altogether, removes the Memorial from the park's name, and opens the door to removing the road and building names, and their ultimate goal of removing the memorial carvings. See the below link to review a copy of HB 794.
House Bill 794 has been placed in the House Governmental Affairs Committee and will be brought up in the 2024 Georgia General Assembly Session.
The memorial carving was first declared a memorial in May 1924 when General Lee's bust was revealed. In 1958 the State of Georgia purchased the park as a Memorial to the Confederacy and was open to the public on April 14, 1965. State law code 12-3-191 & 12-3-192 specifies all of Stone Mountain Memorial Park as a Memorial to the Confederacy and is protected by 50-3-1.
House Bill 794 eliminates the park as a Memorial to the Confederacy altogether, removes the Memorial from the park's name, and opens the door to removing the road and building names, and their ultimate goal of removing the memorial carvings. See the below link to review a copy of HB 794.
House Bill 794 has been placed in the House Governmental Affairs Committee and will be brought up in the 2024 Georgia General Assembly Session.
What can we do now?
Contact the Speaker of the House Jon Burns and ask him to NOT support HB 794 and keep it in the Governmental Affairs Committee.
- Jon Burns, Speaker of the House, [email protected]
- [email protected], Office: (404) 656-5020, 332 State Capitol, Atlanta, GA 30334
Refer to the original email, dated Jan. 29, 2024, that was sent to all GA SCV members.
This article can also be found on https://www.georgiascv.org/ and Facebook.
Links, other contact information and a copy of the proposed bill are listed.
This article can also be found on https://www.georgiascv.org/ and Facebook.
Links, other contact information and a copy of the proposed bill are listed.
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Fifth Brigade Commander Tommy Miller (left) presents
SCV Distinguished Service Award and Medal to Adjutant David Butler. As a founding member of Camp 91, David has done an outstanding job handling the camp paperwork. He has run camp meetings when the commander was absent. And, he regularly makes great presentations to the Thomson Guards and other camps in the area. David has done a great job in recruiting new members and he helps at most all outside camp functions. He is everything a camp commander needs to keep a camp running smoothly. Congratulations David. |
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New Members inducted into the Thomson Guards by Adjutant David Butler (right) during January 23rd meeting.
New SCV member Damon Davis
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Reinstated member Ben Faulkner
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New SCV member Phil Garrett
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New SCV member Bubba Hunt
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Transfer member Tommy Miller
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Transfer member Chuck Spradling
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The Thomson-McDuffie County Museum is pleased to display its second remote exhibit which is housed in the entrance lobby of the City-County Administration Building, 210 Railroad Street in Thomson. This exhibit features Native American artifacts, many from this area and some dating back to prehistoric times.
Georgia Day, observed on February 12, is a day that all Georgians can remember and reflect on our state’s history. On this date in 1733, General James Edward Oglethorpe and 144 colonists from Britain landed at the mouth of the Savannah River. During those early colonial days, all settlers needed to adjust not only to their physical surroundings, but also to the indigenous peoples who had been erroneously referred to as Indians. |
As we celebrate Georgia Day and the state’s history beginning in 1733, we must also recognize those who were already living here for thousands of years, perhaps as early as 12,000 years ago. As the Europeans mapped the area, they noted tribal names on their maps. Several tribes inhabited McDuffie County with the Creek tribe being the most prominent. There were also Cherokees, Uchees and other tribes. William Bartram in the late 1700’s writes about the Indians living in an area above the town of Wrightsboro overlooking the north branch of Little River.
The remote exhibit features a wide variety of hand-made artifacts which were used for tools, weapons, games, religious ceremonies, food, smoking and ornamentation. This small exhibit is representative of a more substantial collection on display at the McDuffie Museum. It was recently noticed that our “hometown museum” actually displays more Native American artifacts than the “Native Lands” exhibit currently on view at the Atlanta History Center.
Artifacts in the remote display include:
Artifacts in the remote display include:
- Two frames with twenty-one arrowheads and points, all identified by name, location and dates.2) Several items are prehistoric, dating more than 6,000 years old: clay pot, discoidal game ball, round game ball, bead necklace, grooved ax made of hardstone, arrow sharpener and fishnet weight.
- Later dates: postal tomahawk (c. 1700), peace pipe (c. 1830), stone club (c. 1850), hand-carved frog effigy pipe (c. 1850), and Cherokee wolf effigy clay bowl (c. 1850).
- There are two diplomatic peace medals that were awarded to Indian chiefs for their assistance during wartime: a British Gorget (c. 1760) and a peace medal from President Zachary Taylor in 1849.
- Modern pieces: two plaques with chief portraits in Wedgwood Jasperware (c. 1930) and two Goebel figurines, depicting a boy dancing for rain and a boy fishing with a bear (c. 1970).
The McDuffie Museum’s first remote exhibit debuted in November 2023.
Several items related to the Thomson Fire Department were displayed, compliments of Lt. Commander Jimmy Crawley. Historian Lewis Smith (right), Commander Tom Holley and wives, JoAnn (right) and Karen, serve on the McDuffie Museum Board of Trustees. |
If Not Us, Who? If Not Now, When?
January 2024 Dispatch
Meeting -- January 23, 2024
South Mountain and Sharpsburg by David Butler
South Mountain and Sharpsburg by David Butler
Dunker Church rebuilt at
Antietam National Battlefield |
David Butler is a native of Columbia County, Georgia. He graduated from Evans High School in 1987 and then went on to attend North Georgia College. He graduated from North Georgia College in 1992, earning a B.B.A. Degree in Business Management.
He began his career in the fire service in February 1991 and is currently a battalion chief with Columbia County Fire Rescue, where he also serves as the county's fire investigator. He is married with one daughter and two sons. He and both of his sons are members of the Thomson Guards Camp #91, SCV. He and his family are members of Philadelphia Methodist Church, Harlem. David is a National and Division life member of the Sons of Confederate Veterans. He is also a member of the Sons of American Revolution, the Columbia County Historical Society and has served several terms as president of the Columbia County Historic Preservation Advisory Committee. He is also an avid genealogist. |
Truce at the Dunker Church by Alfred Waud
A sketch by well known Civil War artist Alfred Waud depicts a truce between the opposing sides being held in front of the church on September 18, in order to exchange wounded and bury the dead. At least one account states that after the battle the Union Army used the Dunker Church as an embalming station. One tradition persists that Lincoln may have visited the site during his visit to the Army of the Potomac in October 1862.
https://www.nps.gov/anti/learn/historyculture/dunkerchurch.htm
A sketch by well known Civil War artist Alfred Waud depicts a truce between the opposing sides being held in front of the church on September 18, in order to exchange wounded and bury the dead. At least one account states that after the battle the Union Army used the Dunker Church as an embalming station. One tradition persists that Lincoln may have visited the site during his visit to the Army of the Potomac in October 1862.
https://www.nps.gov/anti/learn/historyculture/dunkerchurch.htm
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Dear Camp 91 Membership:
The Thomson Guards, Camp 91 is growing!!! We are very pleased to announce the new members that have decided to join Camp 91, Thomson Guards. Since the new SCV fiscal year which began July 1, Camp 91 has had four men join the SCV for the first time: Damon Davis, Phil Garrett, Bubba Hunt and Barrett Smith. We had two men who were previous members from other camps reinstate their membership: Ben Faulkner and Dr. Bill Tankersley. And finally, we have four men wishing to transfer their membership from the Ambrose R. Wright SCV Camp in Evans: Tommy Carl Miller Jr., Tommy Carl Miller III, Lee Spradling and Charles Spradling. We sincerely welcome all of our new members.
Camp 91’s success and continued growth can be attributed to maintaining the standards originally established by our seventeen charter members in 2017. As Southern gentlemen, all of our aspirations and actions are a direct reflection of our commitment to supporting “the Charge.” Camp 91 members actively work together to fulfill camp goals, learn from fact-based historical presentations and enjoy a shared camaraderie. For the benefit of all existing and future members, we are dedicated to maintaining these positive characteristics for ourselves, as well as the camp atmosphere. Now with forty members, our camp is eligible to have five voting delegates represent us during national and division reunions.
Thank you to the following camp members who have made long-term commitments supporting “The Charge,” SCV and the Georgia Division. Your leadership skills have been fundamental in our camp’s growth and success. The Guardian and other certificates of merit or appreciation are posted in the “About Us” section of our website.
Tom Holley, Commander
The Thomson Guards, Camp 91 is growing!!! We are very pleased to announce the new members that have decided to join Camp 91, Thomson Guards. Since the new SCV fiscal year which began July 1, Camp 91 has had four men join the SCV for the first time: Damon Davis, Phil Garrett, Bubba Hunt and Barrett Smith. We had two men who were previous members from other camps reinstate their membership: Ben Faulkner and Dr. Bill Tankersley. And finally, we have four men wishing to transfer their membership from the Ambrose R. Wright SCV Camp in Evans: Tommy Carl Miller Jr., Tommy Carl Miller III, Lee Spradling and Charles Spradling. We sincerely welcome all of our new members.
Camp 91’s success and continued growth can be attributed to maintaining the standards originally established by our seventeen charter members in 2017. As Southern gentlemen, all of our aspirations and actions are a direct reflection of our commitment to supporting “the Charge.” Camp 91 members actively work together to fulfill camp goals, learn from fact-based historical presentations and enjoy a shared camaraderie. For the benefit of all existing and future members, we are dedicated to maintaining these positive characteristics for ourselves, as well as the camp atmosphere. Now with forty members, our camp is eligible to have five voting delegates represent us during national and division reunions.
Thank you to the following camp members who have made long-term commitments supporting “The Charge,” SCV and the Georgia Division. Your leadership skills have been fundamental in our camp’s growth and success. The Guardian and other certificates of merit or appreciation are posted in the “About Us” section of our website.
Tom Holley, Commander
Member
David Butler
Jimmy Crawley Ben Faulkner Jerry Holley Tom Holley Dobbie Lambert Mike Lacefield Patrick Lunceford Jimmy McDaniel David Moore Lewis Smith |
Life Member
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Guardian Responsibility
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Booker T. Washington and Monuments
We've all heard the claims that Confederate statues were erected to intimidate blacks, especially, supposedly, during the Jim Crow era. The following letter from Booker T. Washington, which shows his support for the memorials, makes it clear that the claims are not valid: |
To Mamie A. Harrison
Rochester N. Y. June 16, 1914
My dear Madam:
Replying further to yours of June 6th, I would state that I am going to take up very carefully the matter of the Confederate monument about which you wrote me, and see if I can find someone to give the money that is still needed. I am very much interested in the matter and thank you for writing me. During the summer months people with money are very much away from home and it is hard to reach them, so it may be I may not be able to do anything about it until fall.
"I want to say again how very much we all appreciate the visit of [former Confederate] General George Paul Harrison to Tuskegee. We all realize more and more that men like him are the true friends of our race, and that any monument that will keep the fine character of such heroes before the public will prove helpful to both races in the South.
Yours truly,
Booker T. Washington
……………………………………...
Washington, Booker T. , Papers Volume 13:14-15. University of Chicago Press. Page 64.
Courtesy of an Archivist of source documents from Confederate Records during the War Between the States...
Deo Vindice!
T.D. Lively
Rochester N. Y. June 16, 1914
My dear Madam:
Replying further to yours of June 6th, I would state that I am going to take up very carefully the matter of the Confederate monument about which you wrote me, and see if I can find someone to give the money that is still needed. I am very much interested in the matter and thank you for writing me. During the summer months people with money are very much away from home and it is hard to reach them, so it may be I may not be able to do anything about it until fall.
"I want to say again how very much we all appreciate the visit of [former Confederate] General George Paul Harrison to Tuskegee. We all realize more and more that men like him are the true friends of our race, and that any monument that will keep the fine character of such heroes before the public will prove helpful to both races in the South.
Yours truly,
Booker T. Washington
……………………………………...
Washington, Booker T. , Papers Volume 13:14-15. University of Chicago Press. Page 64.
Courtesy of an Archivist of source documents from Confederate Records during the War Between the States...
Deo Vindice!
T.D. Lively
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Announcements
Taking Care of Business — Have you responded to this need yet?
GA Confederate — the hard copy has become too expensive to mail.
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- The Stone Mountain SCV Confederate Memorial Day service has been scheduled for Saturday, April 27, 2024, from 10:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. We will arrange a carpool.
- The Georgia Division Reunion is Saturday, June 1, in Perry, GA. We can have 5 voting members attend so we have room for some new attendees.
- The July 2024, SCV National Reunion is in North Charleston, SC. The registration information is on the website, scv4.org The convention will be held at the Embassy Suites Airport, North Charleston. So far, the Holleys and the Lacefields plan to attend. Come join us.
- Please pray for Dollie Lacefield. She had a very serious leg operation and it will require a long time to mend. Also, please pray for my brother, Compatriot Jerry Holley. Jerry had a very serious infection enter his right leg. Since Christmas Day he has been in Doctor’s Hospital ICU.
- Our next regular monthly meeting is Tuesday, January 23. Please, bring a like-minded friend.
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Memorial Service for
Lt. Colonel William Judson Crawley, CSA
Lt. Colonel William Judson Crawley, CSA
The Sons of Confederate Veterans is a history, heritage and honor society. The SCV proclaimed purpose is "to encourage the preservation of history, perpetuate the hallowed memories of brave men, to assist in the observance of Confederate Memorial Day, to aid and support all members, and to perpetuate the record of the services of every Southern soldier".
On Thursday, December 14, Camp 91 Thomson Guards gathered at the historic Wrightsboro Methodist Church to perform a small part of that mission. For many years Compatriot Jimmy Crawley’s grandfather took care of Lt. Colonel William Judson Crawley’s gravesite. Then Jimmy’s father took over the responsibility. Finally, it has become Jimmy Crawley’s honor to care for his history and heritage.
Two years ago Jimmy joined the National Guardian program within the SCV. Jimmy has taken an oath to care for this gravesite as long as he is physically capable. This includes cleaning the site, being sure it is marked with a Southern Cross of Honor, flying a Confederate flag over it on Confederate Memorial Day, and finally, making sure it has an appropriate stone marker.
On Thursday, with 45 witnesses present, we honored Lt. Colonel William Judson Crawley by unveiling a permanent gravestone during his memorial service. Congratulations to Compatriot Jimmy Crawley for his dedicated service to his ancestor and the SCV. Following is a part of his family history Jimmy Crawley shared at the service.
William J. Crawley was born near Barnwell, SC, in an area known as Three Mile Creek community. WJ was the son of plantation owner, William Crawley. In 1853, at the age of 18, he was sent to Charleston to attend the newly established military school, The Citadel. In 1855, he graduated, went home, and began teaching in Dunbarton, SC.
On a visit to Louisville, GA, WJ met Matilda Elizabeth Todd, the granddaughter of the local judge. They soon married and settled back in Barnwell.
In November, 1861, William Judson Crawley mustered into the Holcomb Legion of Barnwell County as a captain. This newly formed group drilled for a few months before they were ordered to protect the coastal area near Charleston. Very soon after they were ordered to Rappahannock Station, VA. The men in Holcomb’s Legion flew battle honors for: The Second Battle of Manassas, Battle of South Mountain, Battle of Sharpsburg, Siege of Petersburg, Battle of the Crater, Battle of Fort Steadman, Battle of Five Forks, and Appomattox Court House. During four years of war, the legion suffered 66% casualties.
Captain Crawley was grazed by a mini ball at Second Manassas. He was shot in the chest at the Battle of Saphony, VA. The mini ball to the chest was never removed. In the 1880 census, WJ was living in Thomson, GA with his wife and seven children. They lived on Hall Street next door to Captain William Johnston of the Thomson Guards.
We should all imagine and admire a young man of 27 years old leaving his wife and family to protect and defend his beliefs. We should all seek to defend his good name, to guard his history, emulate his virtues and protect the principles he loved and which made him glorious.
Camp 91 wishes to express special thanks to Mr. Mark Cheek for playing beautiful bagpipe music, Mr. Phil Turner, the Gray Poet, for reciting his magnificent poem, “Rebel Coming”, and Mr. Epp Wilson for helping ready the church and cemetery grounds.
On Thursday, December 14, Camp 91 Thomson Guards gathered at the historic Wrightsboro Methodist Church to perform a small part of that mission. For many years Compatriot Jimmy Crawley’s grandfather took care of Lt. Colonel William Judson Crawley’s gravesite. Then Jimmy’s father took over the responsibility. Finally, it has become Jimmy Crawley’s honor to care for his history and heritage.
Two years ago Jimmy joined the National Guardian program within the SCV. Jimmy has taken an oath to care for this gravesite as long as he is physically capable. This includes cleaning the site, being sure it is marked with a Southern Cross of Honor, flying a Confederate flag over it on Confederate Memorial Day, and finally, making sure it has an appropriate stone marker.
On Thursday, with 45 witnesses present, we honored Lt. Colonel William Judson Crawley by unveiling a permanent gravestone during his memorial service. Congratulations to Compatriot Jimmy Crawley for his dedicated service to his ancestor and the SCV. Following is a part of his family history Jimmy Crawley shared at the service.
William J. Crawley was born near Barnwell, SC, in an area known as Three Mile Creek community. WJ was the son of plantation owner, William Crawley. In 1853, at the age of 18, he was sent to Charleston to attend the newly established military school, The Citadel. In 1855, he graduated, went home, and began teaching in Dunbarton, SC.
On a visit to Louisville, GA, WJ met Matilda Elizabeth Todd, the granddaughter of the local judge. They soon married and settled back in Barnwell.
In November, 1861, William Judson Crawley mustered into the Holcomb Legion of Barnwell County as a captain. This newly formed group drilled for a few months before they were ordered to protect the coastal area near Charleston. Very soon after they were ordered to Rappahannock Station, VA. The men in Holcomb’s Legion flew battle honors for: The Second Battle of Manassas, Battle of South Mountain, Battle of Sharpsburg, Siege of Petersburg, Battle of the Crater, Battle of Fort Steadman, Battle of Five Forks, and Appomattox Court House. During four years of war, the legion suffered 66% casualties.
Captain Crawley was grazed by a mini ball at Second Manassas. He was shot in the chest at the Battle of Saphony, VA. The mini ball to the chest was never removed. In the 1880 census, WJ was living in Thomson, GA with his wife and seven children. They lived on Hall Street next door to Captain William Johnston of the Thomson Guards.
We should all imagine and admire a young man of 27 years old leaving his wife and family to protect and defend his beliefs. We should all seek to defend his good name, to guard his history, emulate his virtues and protect the principles he loved and which made him glorious.
Camp 91 wishes to express special thanks to Mr. Mark Cheek for playing beautiful bagpipe music, Mr. Phil Turner, the Gray Poet, for reciting his magnificent poem, “Rebel Coming”, and Mr. Epp Wilson for helping ready the church and cemetery grounds.
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Many would agree that 2020-2023 has been an awful time for political conservatives living in the United States. Nine million improperly vetted immigrants crossed our southern border; some are known to be terrorist. The results of inflation survived to reap insidious results especially among lower income families; limiting out credit card use has become a necessary norm. Racism reared its ugly presence in our esteemed universities to show the extreme hatred of Jews; the rally cry of Diversity, Equity and Inclusion has been exposed. The green movement determined that we must never use fossil fuels again; this is in spite of the fact that the country is not prepared for the elimination of fossil fuels. The military is intent in making our armed forces woke; our adversaries are testing us at every opportunity with Russia, China and Iran strategizing their next moves. Crime is running rampant; be very careful when you leave the house. And, the list goes on…
So, what does one resolve to do. Some suggestions:
All these suggestions go hand in hand with participating fully with the Sons of Confederate Veterans. Many of our members only go to meetings; and, then, just once in a while. Please get involved; Camp 91 is doing some great things for our community and beyond. We can always use your help.
Make these items your New Year Resolutions. God bless you all!
Respectfully submitted,
Tom Holley
So, what does one resolve to do. Some suggestions:
- First, and most importantly, let’s all go to church to worship and pray. Build a firm foundation of faith and trust in our Lord Jesus Christ. Our ultimate reward will exist through Him even if all else fails.
- Second, become involved in your community and beyond. Watch the news reports and get educated. Go to the local school board meetings, the county commissioner meetings and the city council meetings. Voice your opinions. Write or call your congressional representatives. Be involved in your children’s or grandchildren’s lives.
- Vote! Vote! If you decide not to be involved and you do not do anything to help remedy the situation don’t complain and don’t blame anyone but yourself. Your country needs you to participate. You are now an adult; act like one. Vote!
All these suggestions go hand in hand with participating fully with the Sons of Confederate Veterans. Many of our members only go to meetings; and, then, just once in a while. Please get involved; Camp 91 is doing some great things for our community and beyond. We can always use your help.
Make these items your New Year Resolutions. God bless you all!
Respectfully submitted,
Tom Holley