It All Started with a Picnic....
The original records of the Old Settler’s Society have been lost. But through writings and recollections, it is agreed that the first Old Settler’s Reunion was held as a picnic in August of 1885 in the Joel Clanton grove. It was mostly through the energy and persuasion of Dr. William Anderson, a pioneer physician, that the first Old Settler’s meeting was held, and the association organized. Annual reunions have been held since that time and with one exception - the year a fire destroyed main street. Reunions were originally held in August but were then moved to the third full weekend of July.
Many traditions were established and carried on from year to year - mailing of invitations to members who had moved away, signing of a guestbook, actual business meeting on Friday afternoon prior to the celebration, games, music, and good food. Some are still carried through to this day especially the honoring of a prominent “Old Settler” or important community figures on a button. This year's button honorees are Roger and Sheryl Young.
The committee feels this celebration is a time of gathering and celebration. Participation by residents, businesses, and organizations within the community is what keeps the celebration alive. Everyone must take ownership in some way to sustain this event. There is a mixture of the old traditions and new events. We must keep moving forward by remembering our past.
Many traditions were established and carried on from year to year - mailing of invitations to members who had moved away, signing of a guestbook, actual business meeting on Friday afternoon prior to the celebration, games, music, and good food. Some are still carried through to this day especially the honoring of a prominent “Old Settler” or important community figures on a button. This year's button honorees are Roger and Sheryl Young.
The committee feels this celebration is a time of gathering and celebration. Participation by residents, businesses, and organizations within the community is what keeps the celebration alive. Everyone must take ownership in some way to sustain this event. There is a mixture of the old traditions and new events. We must keep moving forward by remembering our past.