Category: History

The Vital Importance of Local Rural History: Preserving the Past for a Brighter Future

September 14, 2024 Admin No Comments

Understanding and preserving the history of our rural communities is essential, not just for honoring the past but for enriching our present and future. From documenting personal stories to valuing cemeteries and church histories, local rural history holds untapped treasures that benefit everyone. Among these, the histories of rural churches stand out as particularly significant, serving as cornerstones of both spiritual and community life. Sometimes the smaller congregations slip through the cracks and are absorbed by larger churches in communities but that doesn’t mean these are any less important. Knowing the origin of things can help unlock the rest of the story in some cases. For example, local history in our community of Sugar Grove indicates that there was a community church when the area was settled and it was later that Baptist and Methodists constructed their own independent houses of worship with each of those churches having their own distinct histories and place in the fabric of time. Local rural history serves as a bridge connecting past generations to the present. Recording this history helps preserve the stories, traditions, and experiences that have shaped our communities. By capturing these narratives, we safeguard a rich tapestry of human experience that might otherwise be lost. Local history provides a sense of identity and continuity for communities. Through stories of past struggles, triumphs, and daily life, we understand our cultural heritage. This awareness fosters a sense of belonging and pride among residents, reinforcing community bonds. Historical records offer invaluable educational tools, providing insights into how rural life has evolved over time. They illustrate changes in technology, social structures, and economic practices, enriching our understanding of progress and perseverance in shaping current environments. This knowledge can be particularly enlightening for young people, helping them appreciate the journey of their community. Rural communities often have unique customs and traditions that differ significantly from urban practices. Documenting these traditions ensures they are not forgotten and can be celebrated and passed on to future generations. Cemeteries are crucial for uncovering both community and ancestral histories. Far beyond merely being resting places for the deceased, they serve as vital historical records and cultural landmarks. Each grave site offers a unique narrative, revealing details about the individuals buried there and the eras they lived through. For genealogists and family historians, cemeteries are treasure troves of information. Tombstones frequently include essential details such as birth and death dates, familial connections, and sometimes personal inscriptions. This information is invaluable for tracing family lineage and gaining a deeper understanding of one’s ancestral heritage. The design and inscriptions on gravestones can reflect historical trends and cultural influences of the time. For example, elaborate monuments from different eras can indicate shifts in societal values and artistic styles. By studying these elements, historians can gain insights into the social and economic conditions of the past. In Sugar Grove, the Morgan Cemetery and Slemp Cemetery stands out as prime examples of places to view different types of markers from different eras. The Slemp cemetery has a large variety of historic and modern markers while the Morgan Cemetery is filled with older graves and markers dating back to the pioneer days of our community. Maintaining and documenting cemeteries ensures that the memories of those who have contributed to the community are preserved. It also helps prevent the loss of these important sites due to neglect or natural decay. Churches in rural areas often hold a unique and central place in community life, making their histories exceptionally rich and multifaceted. They are not just places of worship but also serve as historical and cultural touchstones for their communities. Documenting and preserving church histories is crucial for several reasons. Rural churches frequently maintain detailed records of baptisms, marriages, and burials. These records are invaluable for genealogists and historians, providing essential data for understanding family connections and local demographics. More than just records, these churches have often played pivotal roles in the development of their communities, from hosting town meetings to serving as gathering spots during times of crisis. Many rural churches are known for their unique architectural styles and artistic features, reflecting local craftsmanship and historical periods. From simple, modest buildings to elaborate structures with intricate stained glass and carvings, these churches often embody the artistic and architectural evolution of the community. Documenting these aspects preserves cultural heritage and provides insights into the aesthetic values of different eras. Beyond their religious functions, rural churches often act as community hubs. They host social events, support local charities, and provide a space for communal gatherings. The history of these activities reveals much about the social fabric and communal spirit of the area. Recording these stories highlights the integral role churches have played in shaping community life. Elders in rural communities often have rich memories of church life, including personal anecdotes, historical events, and local traditions tied to the church. These oral histories are crucial for capturing the full scope of a church’s influence on its community. As these elders pass away, their personal experiences and insights risk being lost unless they are documented and shared. The process of gathering these stories must be undertaken with urgency. Elderly community members are a diminishing resource, and their passing leaves gaps in our historical knowledge. By interviewing them and documenting their stories now, we can preserve these narratives for future generations. Sharing the collected stories can foster a greater appreciation for local church history within the community. Publications, oral history projects, and community events can help disseminate these stories, making them accessible and valuable to everyone. Sharing and documenting local rural history is a collective responsibility that benefits everyone. Partner with local historical societies, museums, and libraries to support their efforts in documenting and preserving history. Their expertise can guide you in preserving local narratives and artifacts. Encourage community members to share their stories and memories. Oral histories, personal photographs, and local documents can provide a wealth of information that enriches the historical record. Utilize platforms such as local newspapers, online…

Communities, History, Resources

The Connection Between The Morgan Cemetery and Ridgelawn Cemetery

September 11, 2024September 14, 2024 Admin 3 Comments

In the charming community of Teas, a very old and historic cemetery stands quietly on a hilltop, enveloped by the tranquil beauty of farmland and lush pastures. It silently surveys the small community from its elevated perch. If you’re not from the area, you might not even notice it, as it’s nestled away from the usual routes and seldom frequented these days. For those who know where to look, the taller gravestones rise against the distant horizon, meeting the skyline. Nestled off the beaten path, Morgan Cemetery is a hidden gem, albeit somewhat challenging, location for those who wish to pay their respects. The cemetery, with its tranquil setting, might escape the notice of those who aren’t specifically searching for it. Yet, it holds a wealth of local history, serving as a final resting place for many early Teas, Sugar Grove and Rye Valley residents, including several members of the Calhoun family. (Article about the Morgan Cemetery coming soon.) Morgan Cemetery’s seclusion adds to its charm but also presents practical challenges. Its inaccessibility makes it a place that requires intention and effort to visit, which perhaps contributes to the depth of its historical significance for those who do make the journey. You can hike up the hill but beware of the bull. The best way up is a 4 wheel drive with the permission of the farmer. As the communities of Teas and Sugar Grove grew, so did the need for a more accessible cemetery. Enter Ridgelawn Cemetery—a project that came to fruition with the purchase of land from one of the Calhoun brothers, either Emory or Ellis (I’m not sure which at this time but will update when I get that information). This acquisition marked a significant shift, not just in terms of land ownership but in how the community would manage its historical and memorial locations. This new location provided much easier access to the burial sites of loved ones. This purchase took place sometime in the 50s along with the building of the new Wharf Hill UMC building. There was a little known fact about the transaction of this land. It contained a small separate parcel located in the top corner where the Calhouns would make a family cemetery of their own which would later become part of Ridgelawn Cemetery. It is within this general area that our story focuses. Several graves in this area of the cemetery are of notable interest, including those of James Thompson Calhoun, , and George Washington Calhoun. These graves were originally part of the Morgan Cemetery before being relocated to Ridgelawn Cemetery by one of the Calhoun brothers for easier access and maintenance. As Ridgelawn Cemetery was established in the1950s, this section was incorporated into the larger cemetery and is now managed by Wharf Hill UMC. We have found death certificates for two of the relocated individuals that list their original interments as “Teas” and “Morgan.” Unfortunately, we were unable to locate information for the third grave. The gravestones, many of which are from the early 20th century, stand as poignant reminders of a bygone era. They bridge the gap between Morgan Cemetery’s historical significance and Ridgelawn Cemetery’s modern role. For visitors, this family plot at Ridgelawn offers a unique opportunity to reflect on the passage of time and the ways in which communities adapt while maintaining their historical roots. As you visit Ridgelawn Cemetery and stand before the Calhoun family plot, it’s important to consider the journey these stones have made. From the secluded, picturesque Morgan Cemetery atop the hill to their new home in a more accessible location, these gravestones serve as a physical manifestation of the family’s enduring presence and the community’s commitment to preserving its history. These stones are among the oldest in the Ridgelawn Cemetery. While Morgan Cemetery may be difficult to access, its hidden nature adds to its mystique and historical charm. It stands as a testament to the past, reflecting an earlier chapter of community history. Ridgelawn Cemetery, with its modern amenities and enhanced accessibility, offers a space where history and the present intersect, ensuring that all residents are honored and memorialized. In navigating these spaces, we connect with the stories and lives of those who came before us, bridging eras and maintaining a continuity that enriches our understanding of both local history and the evolving landscape of community memory. Cemeteries are a very important part of local histories across the planet and can serve as information sources for many purposes. With this in mine, I was thrilled to find out that Elizabeth UMC recently took on care of the Morgan Cemetery which will most assuredly preserve it for many generations to come. If you would like to see the Morgan Cemetery on the horizon, stand with your back facing the mill and look straight across the way up on the ridge in the distance. You should see the tall Williams stone and a few others against the sky. (The Williams stone is the tall one on the left side of the featured image. ) Nancy Calhoun Contributed the following on this post: I understand that my great uncle, Ellis Calhoun, was instrumental in establishing Ridgelawn and in moving family graves. My grandfather, Emory Calhoun, was the oldest Calhoun brother in the family of James Thompson “Thomp” and Sarah Elizabeth “Sally” Blankenbeckler Calhoun. He moved to Oklahoma in 1909 with his wife, Sarah Cathrine “Kate” Scott and their newborn son, Howard Calhoun. He made yearly visits “home” and stayed involved in various matters, including church. My great uncle, Ted Calhoun, gave us a tour of the new cemetery when we visited in the 60s. He related how a younger brother died young and had a coffin with a glass top. When it was dug up for the move, a perfect little soldier was visible under the glass since he had been buried in a military uniform. As they watch, he turned to dust and disappeared. Calhoun Grave Marker which was relocated Death Certificate.,…

Calhoun, Cemeteries, Churches, Communities, Elizabeth UMC, Families, History, Methodist, Morgan, Mysteries, Ridgelawn, Stories, Sugar Grove, Teas, Uncategorized, Wharf Hill

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

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