Month: April 2024

Brunswick: A Cemetery Relocated

April 30, 2024September 21, 2024 Admin

Originally home to several families and bordered by the Cress and Nelson cemeteries, the property on Old Brunswick Road underwent a significant transformation in the late 1950s or early 1960s. The land was sold to the government for the construction of a munitions plant. Upon completion in the 1960s, the plant spanned a few hundred acres and comprised 47 original buildings. It was then known as Brunswick. Nestled within the rolling landscape of that expansive property was a hidden cemetery, known only to a select few. Unlike the nearby Nelson or Cress cemeteries, this resting place, with its handful of graves, held its own mysterious history. It had been the elusive third cemetery, discreetly relocated by Brunswick Corporation before the construction of the facility. Only a few living family members of those who were buried there knew about the relocation. It was not talked about or discussed publicly due to fears of negative publicity for Brunswick. Iris Barker gave one such account of an aunt and brother whose graves were relocated to the Ridgelawn Cemetery in 2020 prior to her passing in 2022. Her brother, John W. Pafford, Jr. who died at 1 day old in 1950 and an aunt, who died at the age of 3 in 1924. An obituary for Mary Frances Pafford was found along with a death certificate however, the death certificate does not list a burial location. The obituary only specifies “…On Sunday Morning, the little body was carried by loving hands to the Methodist Church and there, after a short but comforting service by Reverend Robert Ingraham, the body was taken to God’s Acre…” It is not known if “God’s Acre” may have been a general reference to a burial or an actual name given to this small cemetery that was situated somewhere on the Brunswick property. No death certificate was found for the other infant who was relocated to Ridgelawn Cemetery. Reverend Robert Ingraham was not mentioned in the history of either Wharf Hill or Elizabeth UMC and it is unknown whether he was a visiting pastor of a community church or otherwise. The Cress and Nelson Cemeteries are both sizeable with one containing 60 interments and the other 20. These cemeteries date back to the 1880s respectively. It is unknown at this time the total number of interments that were relocated to other area cemeteries. Some have mentioned a Haulsee cemetery that seems to have been near the area but we are unsure if this contained the graves that Brunswick relocated. If you have further information on relocated graves associated with Brunswick throughout Sugar Grove, please contact us with the information. We would love to add it.

Brunswick, Cemeteries, Communities, Cress, Families, History, Industry, Methodist, Nelson, Nelson, Pafford, Ridgelawn, Stories, Sugar Grove

A History: Wharf Hill UMC

April 30, 2024March 27, 2025 Admin

Methodist church meetings in Sugar Grove date back as early as 1843 as documented in a 1993 history of Wharf Hill UMC. Originally Sugar Grove did not have a Baptist and Methodist church. The congregations met under one roof in a log church. The location of this church is not entirely clear. One source cited by Goodridge Wilson states that the church was located near Roberts Mill and is described as an “old log union church” that was moved to Sugar Grove. Another source, from 1993 on the History of Wharf Hill UMC states that a log church stood on a hill near the present day Sugar Grove Baptist Church. Community elder, Jack Taylor clarified that the old building was likely located about 100 yards east of Sugar Grove Baptist Church on what is presently Maple Leaf Park and tells about the excavation that was taking place when the ball field was being graded at the school adjacent to the church. He recalled that work stopped abruptly after something was hit and uncovered that could have been an old cemetery. It was instead determined that this was the remaining foundation of the old church. This location coincides with the church history which describes a church located on a hill on land either owned or given by James Ward. At some point, there was a church disagreement which resulted in the Methodists and Baptists having their own individual places of worship in Sugar Grove. At the time this came about, Jacob and Alpha Whisman donated a tract of land to Stephen Keesling, James Ward, William R. Buchanan, Alexander Pierce, and James A. Scott who were later named Trustees of the Methodist Church. At one time, this land had the geographical appearance of a wharf and a hill and then became known as Wharf Hill. At some point, the church site and surrounding area served was known as the Wharf Hill School District. When the church was erected on this land, it was then known as Wharf Hill Methodist Episcopal Church, South. This building was constructed of lumber hewn from the local forests nearby and stood on a limestone foundation. The church membership was made up of some of Sugar Grove’s early settlers and their families. For nearly 50 years, this building served the community. During this time, there were lots of changes to land, boundaries, roads, and the relocations of roads in the area. This caused a need for the church to be relocated. In 1905, the original piece of land and $50 cash were traded to T.M. Hutton and his wife for a lot located on the north side of the newly located road and about one-eighth of a mile northwest of the old church building. On this new lot, the church members built a slightly larger church that had plastered walls, stained glass windows and a bell. Much of the lumber from the old building was repurposed and used in the construction of this new building. It was dedicated early in the summer of 1906, under the Reverend Thomas S. Hamilton. Several changes were taking place in Sugar Grove and the surrounding area served by the church during these early years at the beginning of the 20th century. Many of the families who once lived in the area and called it home, moved west. Down at Teas, the lumber business and extract plant brought along with it the Marion Rye Valley Railroad along with new families who settled in the community. Between 1906 and 1951, church attendance grew so much that there was a need for yet another new building that was larger and could better serve the congregation and community. On August 24, 1951, a deed between Virgie H. Haulsee and husband, W.C. Haulsee and the trustees of the Wharf Hill Methodist Church was entered into that involved the purchase of some lots behind the 1905 original church building. In October 1951, ground was broke beginning the construction of the new building. With only limited amounts of money at a time and frequent discouragements in the construction process, the church was finally completed and held its first service on the first Sunday in February 1953.These early services were held in the assembly room and Sunday school rooms in the basement. In 1957, Sugar Grove High School’s graduating class had their Baccalaureate ceremony in the recently constructed church building. This is reflected in the Sugar Grove Maple Leaf yearbook for that year in a single photo of the graduating class participants. Sometime after this, the church also purchased additional adjoining land from Emory Calhoun who owned the Ridge Lawn Cemetery. In later years, the church constructed an open air fellowship hall between the church and Ridge Lawn Cemetery that in recent years was enclosed and remodeled to include a kitchen, fireplace and meeting space where community meals could be enjoyed. Associated Cemeteries: Ridgelawn *Photos from the William Pugh Collection and Elmer Phillippi Collection

Churches, Methodist, Nelson, Pugh, Sugar Grove

A History: Elizabeth UMC

April 27, 2024November 7, 2024 Admin

Church History 1899-1972 Written March 26, 1972 by Sena R. Ward In 1899, in a one room schoolhouse on the property of Monroe Pugh, now owned by his grandson Hix Pugh, three fourths of a mile west of the present Elizabeth United Methodist Church, the idea of the present church was put into a contract. One Sunday each month services were held there. Voting for elections also was done here in the Williams School as it was named. During the week the building, now leveled by the erosive elements of time, served for the following known pupils: Celia Gore Richardson, Cullen Cox, Dave Cox, Claude Cox, Guy Cox, Boss Cox, Ted Calhoun, Hazel Calhoun, Ida, Calhoun, Laura Calhoun, Edith Calhoun, Martha Williams Griffitts, Cordie, Keesling Steffey, Beulah Keesling, French Keesling, Annie Robbins, Fannie Kirby Robbins, Flossie Scott, Chloe Scott Draper Wysor, Jettie Griffitts, Evelyn Griffitts, Bertie Keesling Currin, Edd Pugh, Mable Dunlap Meek, Charles Scott, Alice Scott Griffitts and Minnie Scott Rector. The stewards who drew up the contract were: J.T. Calhoun (Thomps), L.M. Pugh (Monroe), S.A. Meek (Steve), J.C. James (Con), John M. Williams. The original copy of the contract is owned by Mrs. Martha Williams Griffitts. Charles Richmond Scott made the copy from which this is taken: “Know all men by these present, that we, J. M. Williams, L.M. Pugh, J.T. Calhoun, S. A. Meek and J.C. James party of the first part and S. F. Wright party of the second part, have hereby entered into the following contract binding ourselves for the execution of the same under the following bond. The party of the second part contracts to build a church on the lot of ground given by L.M. Pugh, said church to be built according to the pan and specification which have been furnished by Frank Fallenshir and said plan and specification are a part of this contract. Party of the second part is to thoroughly season the lumber, party of the second part shall erect the house doing all the carpenter work except the windows, sash and inside doors, shutters, include pulpit seats, entire inner walls and build the tower, all to be done in workman like manner of the first class, said work to be completed by August 1st 1899. Party of the first part shall pay the sum of $300.00 to the party of the second part when said house shall be received by them or satisfactory party of second part therefor. Party of the first part shall have a credit of $1.00 per day for all carpenters work as subscribed which they may be able to put in on job provided it shall not exceed $50.00 and shall in no way hinder the completion of the work by him aforesaid. We bind ourselves each party to the other in the sum of $1000.00 for the faithful execution of this contract.” May 1, 1899 Signed/ Signed/ S.F. Wright, Contractor J.T. Calhoun L.W. Pugh John M. Williams S. A. Meek J.C. James Mr. Joe H. Scott hauled the big flat rocks that were used for the foundation of the original church. Mr Steve Meek gave and hauled lumber. Mr. Thomps Calhoun sawed it on his mill, located just below where the old Teas School house, which is now used for storing hay. Grandville Griffitts gave the big poplar log which Steve Meek hauled, Thomps Calhoun sawed, and out of which all the original seats were made. Bill Pugh remembers seeing the picture of the log, which was so large they had to cut part of the log out before it could be loaded between the standards on a wagon. Mrs. John M. Williams (known as Aunt Jane) did a great deal of work for the early church. At her death she gave the sum of $500.00, the interest of which was to be used for the church/ She also did the same for the WIlliams Cemetery She gave $15000.00 to the orphanage at Greenville, TN. The church was named for Elizabeth L. Thomas WIlliams (1819-1877), Wife of Rufus K. Williams (1806-1860). Elizabeth was the mother of Sarah Loulle Williams Pugh (1857-1892), first wife of Monroe Pugh. This information was obtained from a bible owned by Mrs. Martha Williams Griffitts. Mrs. Martin Richardson, mother of Mrs. Herbert Scott, attended the dedication of the church in August, 1899, and told Mrs. Scott there were no shade trees around the church; poles were put up for shade. This is quite a contrast to the beautiful sugar maples there today. The first major remodeling of the church was done in 1930. The work was started when the Rev. C. H. Vernon was pastor. A furnace, purchased from Marion Vance, was installed . Basil and Ralph Griffitts did the work under the direction of Bayard Cole. Jim Scott and Bill Meek dug the basement with a horse drawn scraper. Part of the curbing and walks were put in. The church was bricked. I.C. Choate and Steve Meek gave $400.00 each on this job. Others contributed also. The upstairs Sunday School rooms were built by I. W. Leedy. A piano was purchased with money raised by Roy Grifitts. Mae Collins Scott was one, if not the first, organist. The organ was traded in on a piano. So far, no record has been found of the purchase of the organ. Walt Calhoun directed the singing until the organ was purchased. Walter (Bass) Griffitts, Lee Robbins, Estelle Robbins and Claude Sexton lad the floor, finished them and did the other interior painting and refinishing as it is today, 1972. Will Calhoun made the channel rail. The beautiful stained glass windows were given in honor of Emory L. Calhoun, William M and Walter V. Grifitts, Donna H. Keesling, E. L. and Myrtle M. Pugh, Darrell Earnest, Stephen A. Meek, Lanthel Choate, Frank M. Robbins, John A. and Ollie JohnsonBill and Myrtle Meek, G.L. an H.Y. Pugh, Roy Griffitts, W.M. Grifitts and Mae Collins…

Read More “A History: Elizabeth UMC” »

Calhoun, Chisenhall, Choate, Churches, Cole, Communities, Cox, Currin, Elizabeth UMC, Griffitts, James, Keesling, Methodist, Pierce, Pugh, Robbins, Scott, Teas, Ward, Williams

Rye Valley Cemeteries

April 16, 2024August 23, 2024 Admin

Across the Rye Valley you will find many interesting cemeteries that are historic, that pre-date the civil war and maybe a few that aren’t even officially documented or that were previously largely unknown! Check the list below to begin your historic journey! Anderson Cemetery Asbury UMC Cemetery Ashli-Wilkinson Family Cemetery Blue Springs Methodist Church Cemetery Carmi Cemetery Comers Creek Baptist Church Cemetery Cress Cemetery Crigger Cemetery Dennison Family Cemetery Groseclose Chapel United Methodist Church Cemetery* Horne Family Cemetery Hutton-Cox Cemetery James Family Cemetery (Also see Thompson James Family Cemetery) Keesling Cemetery Keesling Cemetery 2 Kirk Cemetery McCarter Cemetery McClure Cemetery Meek Cemetery Morgan Cemetery Nelson Cemetery Pierce Cemetery Porter-Scott Cemetery Pugh Cemetery Rash Family Cemetery Ridgelawn Cemetery Rowland (Roland) Creek Cemetery Ross Cemetery Scott Cemetery Shannon Cemetery Sharon Baptist Church Cemetery Shuler Cemetery Slemp Cemetery South Fork Baptist Church Cemetery Saint Clair Bottom Primitive Baptist Cemetery Thomas Cemetery Thompson James Family Cemetery (Previously Undocumented) West Cemetery

Adwolfe, Blue Springs, Camp, Cedar Springs, Cemeteries, Communities, Flat Ridge, Sugar Grove, Teas

Hamm-Roberts Mill

April 11, 2024November 24, 2024 Admin

In the sleepy town of Sugar Grove, Virginia, there is a quaint red mill, a silent witness to the passage of time since its construction in 1918. Situated along the south fork of the Holston River, it once thrummed with the energy of bustling activity. But as years slipped by and farming practices evolved, the mill fell into a quiet slumber, its wooden floors echoing only the scurrying of mice and the chirping of birds. Constructed in 1918 under the direction of Famous Hamm, the Hamm-Roberts Mill stands as a testament to early 20th-century industrial architecture. Crafted by the skilled hands of architect Jackson Peacock, this multi-story frame edifice originally served as a bustling mill. A.B. Roberts later acquired the property, managing its operations until his passing in 1935. After undergoing meticulous restoration efforts years later, the mill now proudly stands as the sole operational relic of its kind within the county. Enter Sena Ward, an octogenarian at the time of the original publishing of this story whose spirit belied her age. With faded blue jeans and a painter’s cap perched upon her head, she was the unlikely overseer of this dormant relic. A full-time farmer and keeper of livestock, Mrs. Ward wore many hats, but her heart belonged to the old mill. As a young girl, she had danced among the dusty aisles of her father’s business (Adam B. Roberts), absorbing the secrets of the mill with every sweep of her broom. Her education spanned far beyond the confines of formal schooling; she learned the intricacies of belt repairs, gear changes, and the alchemy of turning cornmeal and buckwheat into the finest quality golden flour. Life led her down different paths — from teacher to hospital dietitian — but the call of her inheritance beckoned her home in 1967 at the age of nearly 70. With determination blazing in her eyes, she rolled up her sleeves and set to work. Armed with a broom and a vision, she breathed life back into the forgotten mill. “It’s important for people to know their heritage,” Sena would say, her voice tinged with the wisdom of years gone by. She was more than just a miller; she was a steward of history. Hand looms and ancient artifacts coud still be found around the mill’s storied halls, each telling a tale of a bygone era. “I. think it’s important for people to know their heritage, she explains as she shows off the two hand looms she keeps on the mill’s second floor. “That’s why I save things like old telephones and old Indian tomahawks.” Though the mill still bore the scars of neglect, Mrs. Ward’s determination knew no bounds. With each passing day, she lovingly tended to its restoration, a testament to her resilience and unwavering spirit. Amidst the whirring of machinery and the gentle hum of the river, Sena Ward stood as a beacon of hope, breathing new life into the heart of her community, one grain at a time. Some of the lucky lifelong residents of Sugar Grove still have an original Hamm-Roberts Corn Meal bag, once in a while one of these will turn up at someone’s estate sale framed or in a random box of goodies. They are few and far between. The mill is now over 100 years old and has been repainted. The grounds are well maintained beautifully. It makes for great drive by photography. Driving across the nearby bridge will provide a view of the dam and waterfall in back of the mill. Mrs. Sena Ward was a highly educated woman having earned degrees from Berea, Columbia University and the University of Kentucky. She was a vast source of local history and information as well as a former educator and dietitian. Mrs. Ward also wrote regular articles in the Smyth County News which give us quite a bit of insight into the community from time to time. She lived well into her 90s and passed away August 11, 1995. She was laid to rest at the Blue Springs Methodist Church Cemetery. The Hamm-Roberts Mill is a historic structure that we hope will remain in our community for many, many years to come! *Quotes taken from Southwest Times, Volume 79, Number 28, 3 February 1982

Communities, Industry, Mill, Teas, Ward

Teas Extract Plant

April 10, 2024May 30, 2025 Admin

Situated just outside of Sugar Grove Virginia is the smaller community of Teas wherein lies a storied chapter of industrial history – the Teas Extract Plant. Formerly known as the Marion Extract Plant, this facility was chartered in 1910 in what is now the community of Teas, just outside of Sugar Grove. The charter was granted to the Marion Extract Company on May 20 1910, with a capital of not less than $300k or more than $600k. Officers for the first year named in the charter were W. H. Teas, President, E. M. Campbell, Vice President, both of Ridgeway, PA. Also, J.C. Campbell of Marion was named secretary and treasurer. The Extract Company consisted of the following buildings: Main Building 75 x 100 Engine House 40 x 75 Barreling House 40 x 100 2 Leech Houses each 50 x 250 Chipper Shed 60 x 10 Pan House 40 x 60 Machine Shop 60 x 100 12 boilers, 200 HP each The company expected to use about 100 cords of wood each day It was The name “Teas” was bestowed upon the area in honor of W. H. Teas, the esteemed Superintendent of the Extract Plant, who left an indelible mark on the community. Read more about the history of Teas here. Mr. Teas, a prominent figure in the region, not only oversaw the plant’s operations but also built his grand residence in the heart of the community, a home that still stands today along Teas Road just past the church, serving as a testament to the area’s rich heritage. While the plant was in operation, it boasted its own company commissary, expertly managed by Mr. Charlie Keesling, catering to the needs of its workforce and fostering a sense of community spirit. During its heyday, the Teas Extract Plant employed over 2000 individuals from the surrounding area, becoming a vital economic lifeline for the community. Operating with a capacity of 300,000 gallons per day, it ranked as the second-largest extract plant globally. The plant’s operations revolved around the processing of chestnut, oak, and hemlock bark, primarily for the production of tannic acid. Unfortunately, this demand resulted in a near-extinction of chestnut trees in the region, highlighting the environmental impact of the plant’s operations. However, as resources in the area became depleted, the fate of the Teas Extract Plant was sealed. Once its supply was exhausted, the plant was dismantled, marking the end of an era for Sugar Grove and the Rye Valley area. The community, which had thrived around the plant, witnessed changes as the small houses constructed for plant workers were eventually sold off and demolished. Several community elders have told stories over the years of going outside to watch the demolition of the smokestack and likened the blasting to fireworks. It was quite a memorable spectacle to been according to most accounts given. The legacy of the Teas Extract Plant lives on through the memories and stories shared by residents, preserving its impact on the region’s history. The rise and fall of this industrial giant serve as a poignant reminder of the complexities of progress and the delicate balance between economic development and environmental stewardship. As visitors explore the scenic beauty of Sugar Grove and the surrounding area, they are invited to reflectupon the legacy of the Teas Extract Plant and its enduring impact on the communities it once served. Through the contributions of individuals like Mrs. Lucille Kinkade, who graciously shared her insights, the story of the Teas Extract Plant continues to be woven into the fabric of Sugar Grove’s history, ensuring that its legacy endures for generations to come. Mrs. Kinkade shared this account 7/21/2018. She passed away at the age of 101 on May 23, 2023. Her obituary can be viewed here.

Communities, Extract Plant, Industry, Teas

Brief History of the Rye Valley

April 10, 2024June 12, 2024 Admin

Nestled amid the rolling hills and verdant valleys of southern Smyth County, Virginia, lies the picturesque community of Sugar Grove, a place steeped in history and brimming with tales of resilience, innovation, and community spirit. The story of Sugar Grove and its surrounding Rye Valley area is one of pioneering families, bustling industry, and the enduring legacy of Appalachian heritage. The roots of Sugar Grove stretch back to the early 19th century, when intrepid settlers ventured into the rugged wilderness of southwestern Virginia in search of new opportunities. Among these pioneers were families whose names would become synonymous with the region’s history, including the Cole, Williams, Marks and James families to name a few. These early settlers carved out homesteads from the wilderness, clearing land for farming and establishing tight-knit communities that would endure for generations. One of the most significant chapters in Sugar Grove’s history was the discovery of lead deposits in the nearby mountains, sparking a boom in mining activity during the 19th century. The lead mines brought prosperity to the region, attracting workers and entrepreneurs eager to capitalize on the newfound wealth. The bustling town of Sugar Grove grew up around the mines, becoming a center of commerce and trade in Smyth County. In addition to mining, agriculture played a crucial role in the economy of Sugar Grove and the Rye Valley area. The fertile soil and favorable climate made the region ideal for farming, with crops such as corn, wheat, and tobacco becoming staples of the local economy. Families worked the land with dedication and skill, sustaining themselves and their communities through hard work and perseverance. One of the most notable businesses to emerge in the area was the Teas extract plant. The plant processed herbs and botanicals harvested from the surrounding mountains, producing extracts, mainly tannic acid from chestnut bark. The Teas extract plant became a cornerstone of the local economy, providing employment opportunities and contributing to the prosperity of the region employing nearly 2000 people during its operations. Throughout its history, Sugar Grove has been defined by the resilience and resourcefulness of its residents. In times of hardship, such as the Great Depression, the community rallied together, supporting one another and finding innovative ways to weather the storm. The spirit of cooperation and mutual aid that characterized life in Sugar Grove remains a hallmark of the region to this day. One would think with such a rich history, Sugar Grove would be better documented in the general history of Smyth County. Contrary to what one might think, it’s hardly mentioned and many historically significant writings, photos, publications, mentions and stories have disappeared. I have found research on this part of the county to be a daunting task due to the many dead ends I’ve run upon. Despite the lack of historical information, I do have many interesting stories and articles I have composed that I hope to share. I hope by sharing these, it sparks the interest in someone who may have some old photos or documentation of histories yet unknown. As visitors to Smyth County explore the historic sites and scenic beauty of Sugar Grove and the Rye Valley area, they are invited to immerse themselves in the rich tapestry of Appalachian heritage. From the pioneering families who settled the land to the bustling industry that shaped its economy, the story of Sugar Grove is a testament to the enduring spirit of the Appalachian people. Through preservation efforts and ongoing community initiatives, the legacy of Sugar Grove will continue to inspire and captivate generations to come.

Communities, History, Industry

The Octagon House

April 10, 2024September 21, 2024 Admin

Tucked within the quaint landscapes of Smyth County, Virginia, stands a remarkable testament to architectural ingenuity and the pioneering spirit of its builder, Abijah Thomas. The Abijah Thomas Octagon House, situated near Thomas Bridge, serves not only as a historic landmark but also as a symbol of progress and innovation in the heart of Marion and Sugar Grove. Abijah Thomas, a visionary figure of the mid-19th century, was deeply rooted in the fabric of Smyth County. Born into a family of settlers, Thomas possessed an innate appreciation for the land and its potential. His entrepreneurial endeavors and community involvement marked him as a leader within the region, poised to leave a lasting legacy. Inspired by the writings of Orson Squire Fowler and the architectural trends of the era, Thomas embarked on an ambitious venture: the construction of an octagonal house for his family. In 1856, this project commenced, with Thomas overseeing every detail, from the selection of materials to the meticulous craftsmanship required to bring his vision to fruition. The Abijah Thomas Octagon House, completed in 1858, stood as a striking embodiment of Thomas’s vision. Its unique design, featuring eight sides and a commanding cupola atop its roof, captured the attention of all who passed by Thomas Bridge. The house quickly became a symbol of progress and prosperity in Smyth County, reflecting Thomas’s belief in efficiency and innovation. However, amidst the grandeur of its architecture lies a poignant reminder of the past. During the ante bellum construction of the house, enslaved individuals and children were involved in the laborious process of brickmaking. Each brick bears the imprints of their hands and fingers, a silent testament to the toil and hardship endured during its construction. For generations, the Abijah Thomas Octagon House served as the cherished residence of the Thomas family, bearing witness to the passage of time and the evolution of Smyth County. Its preservation in the 20th century as a historic site ensured that Thomas’s legacy would endure, offering future generations a glimpse into his remarkable life and achievements. Today, visitors to Smyth County have the opportunity to explore the Abijah Thomas Octagon House, immersing themselves in its rich history and paying homage to the enduring spirit of innovation and perseverance that defined its builder. As this architectural gem stands as a beacon of the past, it continues to inspire and captivate all who encounter its timeless charm. **Unveiling the Legacy: “Abijah Thomas and His Octagon House” by Mack Sturgill** In the annals of Smyth County’s rich history, few figures loom as large as Abijah Thomas, the visionary pioneer whose legacy is forever intertwined with the iconic Octagon House near Thomas Bridge. While the octagonal residence has captured the imagination of many, it is Mack Sturgill’s seminal work, “Abijah Thomas and His Octagon House,” that offers an unparalleled exploration into the life and times of this remarkable individual. Sturgill’s book, a labor of love and meticulous research, delves deep into the story behind the creation of the Abijah Thomas Octagon House. Through meticulous detail and vivid storytelling, Sturgill paints a vivid portrait of Thomas’s journey, from his humble beginnings in Smyth County to his enduring legacy as a pioneer of architectural innovation. At the heart of Sturgill’s narrative lies the compelling tale of Thomas’s inspiration and determination to build a home that defied convention. Drawing upon the architectural theories of Orson Squire Fowler and the burgeoning octagon house movement of the mid-19th century, Thomas embarked on a bold endeavor to construct a residence that would not only stand as a symbol of progress but also reflect his own values and aspirations. “Abijah Thomas and His Octagon House” goes beyond mere architectural analysis, delving into the social and historical context of the era. Sturgill sheds light on the laborious process of construction, revealing the role of enslaved individuals and children whose handprints adorn the bricks of the house, a poignant reminder of the human cost behind its creation. Through Sturgill’s meticulous research and evocative prose, readers are transported back in time to experience the sights, sounds, and struggles of life in 19th-century Smyth County. From Thomas’s entrepreneurial endeavors to his community involvement and enduring impact on Marion, Sugar Grove, and beyond, Sturgill’s narrative captures the essence of a bygone era and the enduring spirit of a visionary pioneer. “Abijah Thomas and His Octagon House” stands not only as a testament to the remarkable legacy of its titular subject but also as a tribute to the power of historical storytelling. Through Sturgill’s insightful exploration, readers are invited to discover the untold stories and hidden complexities that lie beneath the surface of one of Virginia’s most iconic landmarks. As visitors to Smyth County explore the Abijah Thomas Octagon House, they do so with a newfound appreciation for the man behind the masterpiece, thanks to Mack Sturgill’s illuminating work. In bringing Thomas’s story to life, Sturgill ensures that his legacy endures, inspiring future generations to embrace innovation, perseverance, and the enduring power of the human spirit. Today the Octagon House is in the process of getting a restoration. For more information, check out the Octagon House Foundation for events and fundraisers to help!

Adwolfe, Black History, Communities, History, Slavery, Thomas