May 2023 Journal Newsletter
Upcoming Events
Check out our upcoming events in May! Members receive free admission or discounts to events throughout the year. Become a Member today.
-
Tuesday, May 9th at 7 PM
Special guest Brad Hasten, retired lawyer and Gainesville Reads volunteer, will show that the Enlightenment not only influenced our Founding Fathers but continues to influence the way Americans think about many of our political issues today.Admission is free for Members and $5 for non-Members. Become a Member today to enjoy free admission to programs like this and much more!
Brought to you by the Ada Mae Ivester Education Center.
-
Saturday, May 13th at 11 AM & 1 PM
The Northeast Georgia History Center cordially invites you to our Mother's Day Tea on Saturday, May 13th. The first seating will take place at 11 AM and a second seating will take place at 1 PM.
Come enjoy a variety of hot teas, sweet and savory treats, as well as a presentation on the history of High Tea with our Education Director Marie Bartlett. There will also be a tissue paper flower craft for the kids and kids at heart. After tea, enjoy exploring the History Center's exhibits, included with your ticket for tea. Our kids scavenger hunt of the galleries is also included.
Tickets are $35 per person for non-Members. Members receive a 15% discount using promo code "member." Memberships are validated after purchase.
Register Now:
Brought to you by the Ada Mae Ivester Education Center
-
Thursday, May 18th from 11 AM - 1 PM
Students in our Homeschool History Club will share their love of history by portraying a historic character of their choice for visitors to our “Wax Museum” on Thursday, May 18th from 11 AM - 1 PM.
Admission to this event is free with a suggested donation of $10. Donations will go toward activities and supplies for future Homeschool Day events.
Join us for a silent auction on great prizes like a guided tour of the archives, a year-long Family Membership, a group on-site program, and more!
We’ll also share resources for homeschool families!
-
From Star Destroyers to hunks of junk, join the Northeast Georgia History Center's favorite Star Wars Nerds, Glen and Matt, as they explore the starships of the galaxy!
This live stream program has become an annual tradition at the History Center since premiering our first Star Wars program back in 2020 during the COVID-19 pandemic. We are keeping the tradition alive with a new Star Wars topic each year, and we're grateful to Glen Kyle and Matt House for sharing their vast knowledge of the Star Wars canon with us!
Watch on YouTube at: https://youtube.com/live/INkM3JHKRSk
-
Our New Gainesville Chautauqua Living History Series is back this summer! During each program, you will meet a historic figure portrayed by a professional living history interpreter. This summer we are highlighting Revolutionary Leaders of Georgia:
General James Oglethorpe
Tuesday, June 13th at 7 PM
Portrayed by Richard BurkeInterpreter & Tradeswoman Mary Musgrove
Tuesday, July 11th at 7 PM
Portrayed by Nicole CastorenoMajor-General Nathaneal Greene
Tuesday, August 8h at 7 PM
Portrayed by Dan McMichaelTickets will be available for purchase online soon!
Brought to you by the Ada Mae Ivester Education Center
Exhibit Update: Regional Schools, Colleges, and Universities
Our Collections & Archives Manager Lesley Jones recently updated our exhibit featuring regional schools, colleges, and universities. The next time you visit, you’ll see new artifacts from the archives as well as items donated by local educational institutions such as Brenau University, the University of North Georgia, and Lanier Technical College.
Some of our favorite items include a beautiful white dress worn by a Brenau student early 1900s, which was a required “uniform” for students of the time; a child’s school desk from Candler Street School in Gainesville; yearbooks spanning the early 1900s to today; and photographs of students from the local school for black students created by educator and activist Beulah Rucker!
If you have items you would like us to consider for this exhibit, we are accepting permanent donations as well as loans. Contact Lesley Jones at lesley@negahc.org.
Military History Featured in Museum Shop
During the month of May, we’re highlighting a great selection of military history books in the Museum Shop. Veterans and active service members receive a 10% discount. Stop by in person or shop online!
Band of Brothers
by Stephen E. Ambrose
“This is the story of the men who fought, of the martinet they hated who trained them well, and of the captain they loved who led them. E Company was a company of men who went hungry, froze, and died for each other, a company that took 150 percent casualties, a company where the Purple Heart was not a medal—it was a badge of office.”
Purchase Now $11.97
WWII Survivor
by Gordon Sawyer
“Author Gordon Sawyer tells the incredible story of an American sailor, Richard Kidder, who found himself with a front row seat in the Philippines as World War II exploded in the Pacific.”
Purchase Now $9.00
One Hell of a Ride: A Memoir
by Edmund F. Jared
“Ed Jared served America as a pilot in World War II; he was part of the China, Burma, India Hump operation, flying over the Himalayas to supply troops in China. Ed Jared's memoir is a national and personal history, a fascinating story and a primer for how to succeed in business and live a good life.”
Purchase Now $15.00
So You Want to be a Leader?
by Dr. James H. Benson, Sr. Colonel, USMC (Ret)
“Much of the narrative herein deals with personal experience and observations in over 26 years as an officer of the U.S. Marines, but I also call on experience, observations, and readings in the fields of business, academics, higher education, and athletics. The ideas and principles here are just as applicable to the small business entrepreneur, corporate CEO, or Baptist minister as to the young U.S. Army lieutenant or high school basketball coach.”
Purchase Now $6.00
A-Train: Memoirs of a Tuskegee Airman
by Lieutenant Colonel Charles W. Dryden USAF (Ret)
“Under the command of Colonel Benjamin O. Davis Jr., the Tuskegee airmen fought over North Africa, Sicily, and Europe, escorting American bomber crews who respected their "no-losses" record. Some were shot down, many of them were killed or captured by the enemy, and several won medals of valor and honor. But the airmen still faced great barriers of racial prejudice in the armed forces and at home. As a member of that elite group of young pilots who fought for their country overseas while being denied civil liberties at home, Dryden presents an eloquent story that will touch each and every reader.”
Purchase Now $15.60
Staff Thrift & Antique Finds
The History Center staff will often find themselves at local antique and thrift shops on the hunt for special items of the past. And sometimes we find great items for the History Center’s educational programs! Here are a few great finds from our Interim Executive Director Libba Beaucham on a recent “treasure hunt” in Athens, Georgia.
A piece of fabric with sewn letters that read “Twinkle twinkle little” beside sewn stars. Also sewn is “Ana age 8 1854.” This is a wonderful way to share the skills that young girls would learn in the 19th century. It also connects children to the past with the familiar refrain of “twinkle twinkle little star,” a song first written as a poem in 1806 by Jane Taylor.
Sheet music from the era of World War I titled There’s a Light Shining Bright in the Window Tonight by C. Arthur Pfeifer. Displayed on the front cover is a window with a blue star flag. These flags were hung in the windows of families who had men serving in the war.
A 1940s “Travel Guide of Negro Hotels & Guest Houses” published by Afro-American Newspapers to assist black travelers in finding safe and welcoming places to stay and visit.
If you have an item you would like us to consider for a donation or loan, please email Lesley Jones at lesley@negahc.org.
Letters from Students
We were so touched to receive letters from students who visited for our Civil War field trip last week! Students also offered their comments as Guada, our Media Producer, asked students what they liked most about the experience:
“I think it was amazing, I really had a good challenge with the scavenger hunt and it has that tweak where you can learn and have fun at the same time, that’s what I want in a place like this.” Johnny
"My experience was amazing, and I really loved it.” Dylan
"It was great! I loved it!" Eva
"I think it was really cool and cool that they know all this information and stuff.” Andy
Staff Work Anniversaries
We are celebrating FOUR staff work anniversaries in May! Here are a few reflections from Lesley, Marie, Leah, and Guada:
Lesley Jones, Collections & Archives Manager
Celebrating 5 Years at the Northeast Georgia History Center
“I started an internship at the History Center in May of 2018 and continued to intern and volunteer in various tasks such as social media, front desk, interpretation, research, curation, and collections. For the past two years, I have worked mostly behind the scenes ensuring the exhibits and artifacts within the museum are well taken care of while creating a solid foundation for the internship program. I am proud to be a part of the amazing staff and love my job more each day. I can't wait to see what the future holds!”
Marie Bartlett, Director of the Ada Mae Ivester Education Center
Celebrating 3 Years at the Northeast Georgia History Center
“Working at the History Center has been a wonderful experience. I love that I get to bring history to life for students, families, Members, and visitors through our educational programs. I even get to work with my husband, Steven, when he conducts blacksmithing demonstrations and living history interpretation! I’m looking forward to more special events like our historic fashion show, high tea programs, and dance lesson programs.”
Leah Jarrett, Museum Services Manager
Celebrating 1 Year at the Northeast Georgia History Center
“Though I have been around the History Center as an intern since the Spring of 2020, it has been a year since I joined the team as the Museum Services Manager. Working here has been such a wonderful experience, both for my professional and personal development. I am very thankful that our previous Executive Director, Glen Kyle, took a chance on me after my college graduation and invited me into this incredibly creative and genuinely kind team. This year, I look forward to contributing to the Northeast Georgia History Center’s primary objective of serving as an approachable conduit between our community and the past.”
Guada Rodriguez, Media Producer
Celebrating 1 Year at the Northeast Georgia History Center
“I love that there are always opportunities for me to learn. Given that I don't have a background in history, I really get to learn alongside every student or parent that visits for field trips, homeschool days, and family days. I look forward to our projects, just finding ways to connect those dots of Georgia history and the history of the community of Gainesville.”
Oral History Project: The Mills of Gainesville
We are working on a great oral history project with our Digital Studio Interns and the help of researcher and former Gainesville Mill employee Ron Hooper. We are currently seeking folks who worked at or had family who worked at any of Gainesville’s mills (Gainesville Mill, Chicopee Mill, and New Holland Mill.) This project will document the experiences of mill workers and those who lived in the mill villages as well as explore the impact of the mills on Gainesville’s economy and growth since the early 1900s.
Our Digital Studio Interns are Henry Rosenberger and Tyler Kinsey, both film students at the University of North Georgia. Henry and Tyler have been working with Ron Hooper who has conducted great research on the mills of Gainesville.
We look forward to sharing updates with you! For now, if you have any recommendations about who we should interview, please email Libba at libba@negahc.org.
Gainesville Reads Accepting New Tutors
We currently accepting new volunteer tutors for our free children’s program, Gainesville Reads, for students in 1st-5th grade who need extra support in literacy skills. Tutors meet with the same student each week to help them build confidence in their reading skills through fun activities, reading books together, and worksheets that address specific challenges of the student. Training and curriculum is provided.
We are seeking new tutors for Fall 2023 so that we can serve even more deserving students in our community.
Details at www.negahc.org/gainesvillereads.
Then Again Podcast
Check out the latest episodes of our podcast Then Again below!
Chainmail is most often associated with the armor of old, but in today's episode, we're joined by artist and jeweler Dave Cain who has taken this ancient art form into the world of jewelry. Learn about the intricate and intensive process of creating chainmail armor and jewelry, the history behind this artisan craft, and the nuances of Dave Cain's work.
Check out Dave's jewelry at www.davecain.com
Listen now at www.thenagainpodcast.com.
Take our listener survey at this link: Then Again Listener Survey
Special Thanks
Our programs would not be possible without the support of the Ada Mae Ivester Education Center.
More information on the Ada Mae Ivester Education Center: AMIEC
We would also like to thank our Partners whose support sustains the History Center’s operations.
April 2023 Journal Newsletter
Northeast Georgia History Center Honored by Contribution from Melvin Douglas and Victoria Kay Ivester Foundation
Our educational programs are made possible by the Ada Mae Ivester Education Center. In 2009 Doug and Kay Ivester dedicated the Education Center to Doug's mother, Mrs. Ada Mae Ivester. Since then, the Education Center has served thousands of students, teachers, families, and patrons through its educational programs, free Family Days, Forums, and community events. This has been a fitting tribute to the Ivester family as they have provided educational resources to their home, Hall County, for years.
Last week, we were honored to receive further support from the Ivester Foundation in the amount of $50,000 towards the initiatives of the Ada Mae Ivester Education Center. Pictured from right to left are Mrs. Ada Mae Ivester, Lynn Darby (President of the Melvin Douglas and Victoria Kay Ivester Foundation), and Libba Beaucham (Interim Executive Director of the Northeast Georgia History Center.)
We are so proud of the success of the Ada Mae Ivester Education Center and look forward to its bright future!
Reception & Plaque Honoring Glen Kyle
The History Center honored our former Executive Director, Glen Kyle, in March by holding a reception with staff, board members, and friends from the community. This was a bittersweet event as we will dearly miss Glen who served the Northeast Georgia History Center as Executive Director for 15 years. To show our appreciation and to honor Glen’s contributions to the success of the History Center, we presented a plaque to be displayed at the History Center. The plaque reads:
“The Northeast Georgia History Center honors the contributions, visionary leadership, and passion for history education of Glen Kyle including: expanding and curating the museum's exhibits and historic structures, establishing the Ada Mae Ivester Education Center and the museum's digital studio, bringing living history interpretation to the forefront of our educational programs, and inspiring thousands of students, teachers, visitors, and patrons to personally connect to the past.”
Local Authors Featured in Museum Shop
We have a great selection of books in our museum shop featuring local authors this month! Visit us in person or shop online at this link.
Grace and Disgrace: Living with Faith and the Leader of the Dixie Mafia
by Phil Hudgins
Billy "Sunday" Birt's story is legend. He was a complicated man, someone who could be a ruthless killer one minute and a gentle lover of animals the next. What is told here is the story of mama, a story untold — until now.
Sharecropper's Son, A Journey of Teaching and Learning
by James E. Southerland
From his birth on South Alabama farmland through youth in Columbus, Georgia, and studies at the University of Georgia, the sharecropper's son James E. Southerland set out on a journey of teaching and learning that spanned six decades…the most vital lesson Southerland shares in his compelling memoir is that our own stories - and those of friends and relatives - feed into and interact with the dynamic history of all humankind.
Dreamcatcher Secrets: a Balfour Mystery
by KC Pearcey
The first novel in the Balfour Mystery series by KC Pearcey finds local psychologist Cora Stone unwillingly pulled into the investigation of a gruesome murder in her small town just as she brings a young foster child into her home. A lovely recluse who knows what she cannot possibly know, Cora has the answers to the questions everyone is asking. But none of the quirky citizens of Balfour are going to believe her. They all have secrets of their own.
I Took the Fork by Phil Hudgins
In his book "I Took the Fork," author Phil Hudgins recounts the life and work of Lessie Smithgall, the co-founder of The Gainesville Times and an active philanthropist.
Upcoming Events
-
Presented by Dr. Bryan Sorohan
Tuesday, April 11th at 7:00 PM
In-Person EventIn the midst of the Great War, Great Britain found itself dealing with a most unwelcome, but long-dreaded, independence movement in Ireland. Dr. Bryan Sorohan of Brenau University will present the momentous events of Easter Week, 1916, from personal, political, social, and military perspectives.
Admission is $5, or FREE for Members of the History Center.
Brought to you by the Ada Mae Ivester Education Center
-
Wednesday, April 26th from 10 AM - 1 PM
The Great Depression was a time of uncertainty, hardship, and desperation for many Americans. Yet, even in these challenging circumstances, Americans learned to "make it do, or do without." During the Northeast Georgia History Center's Homeschool Day on Wednesday, April 26th, we'll explore the lived experiences of everyday Americans during the Great Depression through living history programs and activity stations.
-
This month’s Member’s Only program will be a behind-the-scenes look at items from our archives! Our Archives & Collections Manager Lesley Jones will share five items from the archives in a video series released at the end of April.
Intern Spotlight: Sarah Quinteros
Sara Quinteros graduated from New York University last year with a B.A. in History and Politics, focused on American history during the 1960s. She is an Archives & Collections Intern interested in knowing more about the history of Gainesville, where she grew up. Currently, she has been researching the ownership of photographs taken during World War II which include pictures of Adolf Hitler's yacht that were found in a scrapbook.
As an Archives & Collections Intern, Sarah has learned the proper procedures for storing and preserving artifacts. Sarah has been an enthusiastic and dedicated intern, and we look forward to what her research will reveal!
Arts Council Donates Midland Railroad Artifacts
Last month the Arts Council contacted Lesley Jones, our Archives & Collections Manager, about donating artifacts from the Gainesville Midland Railroad. Upon arrival to the parsonage, we were thrilled to find treasures inside! The collection they have donated to us includes ledgers, passenger manifests, payroll, tax records, maps, and photographs from the Gainesville Midland Railroad ranging from 1906 to 1951. Lesley is currently working on sorting them and learning about this wonderful piece of the Gainesville history. We want to thank Michelle Ferguson and the Arts Council for their kind and generous donation!
Oral History Project: The Mills of Gainesville
We are working on a great oral history project with our Digital Studio Interns and the help of researcher and former Gainesville Mill employee Ron Hooper. We are currently seeking folks who worked at or had family who worked at any of Gainesville’s mills (Gainesville Mill, Chicopee Mill, and New Holland Mill.) This project will document the experiences of mill workers and those who lived in the mill villages as well as explore the impact of the mills on Gainesville’s economy and growth since the early 1900s.
Our Digital Studio Interns are Henry Rosenberger and Tyler Kinsey, both film students at the University of North Georgia. Henry and Tyler have been working with Ron Hooper who has conducted great research on the mills of Gainesville.
We look forward to sharing updates with you! For now, if you have any recommendations about who we should interview, please email Libba at libba@negahc.org.
Gainesville Reads Student Debuts Art at Quinlan
We are very proud of our Gainesville Reads student, Mateo, who recently had his original artwork displayed at the Quinlan Arts Center! Mateo has shown a great interest in art and creative projects, and we can’t wait to see what his future holds!
Become a Volunteer Tutor
We currently accepting new volunteer tutors for our free children’s program, Gainesville Reads, for students in 1st-5th grade who need extra support in literacy skills. Tutors meet with the same student each week to help them build confidence in their reading skills through fun activities, reading books together, and worksheets that address specific challenges of the student. Training and curriculum is provided.
Details at www.negahc.org/gainesvillereads.
Then Again Podcast
Check out the latest episodes of our podcast Then Again below!
Marie Bartlett speaks with Dr. Matt Stanard, Professor of History at Berry College and author of several books and articles about Europe's relations with the wider world including the book, European Overseas Empire 1879-1999: A Short History. Join them as they scratch the surface of the beginnings of European Imperialism in Africa.
Listen now at www.thenagainpodcast.com.
Take our listener survey at this link: Then Again Listener Survey
Special Thanks
Our programs would not be possible without the support of the Ada Mae Ivester Education Center.
More information on the Ada Mae Ivester Education Center: AMIEC
March 2023 Journal Newsletter
After 15 Years, Glen Kyle Steps Down as Executive Director
Our Executive Director for the last 15 years, Glen Kyle, will be transitioning to a new career outside the History Center on March 15th. While this is a great loss to the History Center, Glen is leaving a strong foundation and team that will continue into a bright future.
Here are Glen’s reflections of his time at the History Center:
If history teaches us anything, it's that change is inevitable... maybe especially with the things you think will last forever. With that in mind, I must announce that effective Wednesday, March 15 I'll be stepping down as Executive Director of the History Center. Why, you’re probably asking? A fair question, and not an easy one to answer.
When I first came to the History Center, I had a LOT of ideas and enthusiasm, but also a LOT to learn... and learn I have, thanks to so many who have been so supportive of our mission and of me personally. In that time the History Center has made some amazing strides, evolving into a strong, positive force for education and preservation that this community is both supportive of and benefits from.
But in the last year I reached a lot of hallmarks: I turned fifty; I celebrated 25 years of marriage to my awesome wife Priscilla; one son went off to college and another became a teenager (!); and I hit the fifteen-year mark of leading the History Center. I’ve accomplished a lot in that time, and I am very proud of that, but I believe that I’ve taken the History Center as far as my skills and talents can take it. It’s time to pass the torch on to other folks with other skills and fresh ideas, who can keep pushing the institution forward... and I need to make room for that to happen. I have every belief that I'm leaving the Center and that mission in the experienced and capable hands of the staff; they are my friends and colleagues and it has been a privilege to work with them for so long.
I will, however, NOT be leaving town. I’m excited to be taking a position with Forum Communications, a wonderful strategic marketing company with offices literally down the street. I’ll be working with lots of folks that I already know and count as friends. So, with any luck, you'll see me around and, if the stars align, at the occasional History Center event or program... I love the place (and y'all) too much to say goodbye forever!
I could go on for pages about how this has been the hardest decision I’ve ever made (it is), and what It Has All Meant, and what I’ll remember the most. But I’ll close with this: It’s really the people that have made all the difference. Staff and volunteers, the board of directors, members, YOU folks, and of course those students of all ages who come through and are so excited to learn. Being a part of that, and of this place, has been one of the most meaningful and fulfilling experiences of my life. I will miss it so.
Until we see each other again, safe travels and blessings to you and yours.
Glen
Libba Beaucham Becomes Interim Executive Director
Our Assistant Director, Libba Beaucham, has accepted the position of Interim Executive Director of the Northeast Georgia History Center. Libba has been at the History Center for over five years now leading our digital programs, assisting in operational duties, portraying historic characters, and (like all of our staff) much more.
“Glen has provided a strong foundation for us to move forward into an exciting new chapter at the History Center, and I am honored to take on the duties of Interim Executive Director as we seek to fill this position.”
We congratulate Libba on this important role during this period of transition!
New Board Chair W. Barclay Rushton
In even more big news from the History Center, we’re pleased to announce that W. Barclay Rushton has been voted in as Chair of the Board. Barclay has been a board member since 2019 and is excited to take on the leadership of the Board. He has served as treasurer for several years, which makes perfect sense as he is not only a CPA but is the founding partner of Rushton & Company, a firm he started in 1981. He is an avid mountain biker and Civil War aficionado who dabbles in cattle farming.
Cheryl Vandiver has graciously agreed to finish the year as treasurer so that Barclay can focus on the role of leadership and moving the History Center forward. Thanks for taking on this important task, Barclay! We’re glad to have you at the helm.
Upcoming Events
-
Free Virtual Program
Historians Glen Kyle and Marie Bartlett answer your history questions live with host Libba Beaucham. A fun and interactive virtual program that’s great for all ages!
Join on YouTube, Facebook, or Twitch at the links below on Tuesday, March 7th at 4:30 PM ET.
YouTube: bit.ly/negahcyoutube
Facebook: www.facebook.com/negahc
Twitch: www.twitch.tv/lofi_history
-
The Scots-Irish were some of the first settlers to make the backcountry of the Appalachian region their home. Their beliefs of individuality, self-reliance, and strong kinship ties have shaped Georgia throughout its history and to this very day. Come learn about this group of people through living history presentations, demonstrations, and crafts during our free Family Day on March 12th from 1 PM to 4 PM at the Northeast Georgia History Center.
This program is free to the public thanks to the Ada Mae Ivester Education Center!
Pre-Register for a free Raffle Ticket!
Pre-register online and receive one free raffle ticket for your chance to win a copy of "Chasing the Frontier: Scots-Irish in Early American" by Larry J. Hoefling. This book comes highly recommended by the staff!
-
While America stood aside during the first years of the Great War, Americans at home were fully aware of events in Europe and around the world... and there were many different beliefs and perspectives that of when, or even whether, the United States should become involved. Once war was declared, however, the home front became as important, and as contentious, as the trenches in France.
Join the History Center’s Executive Director Glen Kyle and he illuminates the media, the movements, and the machinations of the American Home Front.
Brought to you by the Ada Mae Ivester Education Center.
This program is free for Members or $5 for non-Members. Tickets may be purchased online using the link below or at the door with cash/card.
-
Join us on Thursday, March 16th at 7 PM ET for Members Virtual Trivia night all about the Girl Scouts of the United States. While only Members can play, anyone can watch and learn. Libba Beaucham, who regularly portrays Juliette Gordon Low at the History Center, will host the fun and interactive game for all ages.
-
The legacy of ancient Roman history influences our world to this day. Come learn about Roman culture and customs when it was at its height during our Homeschool Day at the Northeast Georgia History Center on March 23rd from 10 AM to 1 PM.
Meet a Roman Legionnaire soldier and try Posca, engage in Roman beauty rituals, come touch real ancient Roman coins and learn about whose faces are on them, and more!
This program is free for Members of the History Center or included with admission for non-Members.
Due to the popularity of our Homeschool Days, we now require registration beforehand. We CANNOT guarantee admission to those who have not registered online.
Registration is required for this event using the link below.
Last Month at the History Center
February was a great month at the History Center!
We hosted our very first Valentine’s Day Tea which sold out! Guests enjoyed a variety of hot teas and treats while learning about the history of Valentine’s Day with our Education Director Marie Bartlett. Stay tuned for more teas!
Our Homeschool Day: Daily Life in Medieval Europe was among our most well-attended events to date, and we look forward to providing these every month for our local homeschool families.
Our virtual Homeschool History Club learned about Ancient Rome with Marie and Glen! Details on how to join this free resource: www.negahc.org/homeschool.
Students across Georgia met historic figures like James Oglethorpe, Lewis & Clark, Laura Ingalls Wilder, a WW2 Rosie, and George Washington Carver during our live Webcasts! Webcasts are free to all Georgia teachers and homeschool groups. Details at www.negahc.org/digital.
Dr. Ann Tucker presented a fascinating Forum about her book Newest of Newborn Nations: European Nationalist Movements and the Making of the Confederacy.
Volunteer Spotlight: Mary Abbott
We would like to highlight one of our outstanding volunteers, Mary Abbott. Mary has previously worked with the History Center as an Intern archiving our N.C. White Photography collection. Mary is now working on a project for her undergraduate degree at the University of North Georgia. Her project entails conducting research for a proposed special exhibit about 1960s fashion in Gainesville, Georgia including archival photography and newspaper ads from popular retail stores in Gainesville that were once the talk of the town. The materials she is curating from our archives include display hats, hat boxes, clothing items, and newspaper ads that pertain to 1960’s fashion in Gainesville.
When asked about her favorite part of the research so far, Mary said, “Looking through local newspapers from the 1960’s has been one of my favorite activities. So much knowledge can be gained about local businesses and events taking place during that time. I am thrilled to display clothing and hat boxes from Milliner’s, a popular retail store for women and children’s fashion, which was once on the square. I think this is a great way to honor the fond memories of everyday life in Gainesville.”
Once Mary’s project is complete, she will propose her work for exhibition here at the History Center.
Oral History Project: The Mills of Gainesville
We are working on a great oral history project with our Digital Studio Interns and the help of researcher and former Gainesville Mill employee Ron Hooper. We are currently seeking folks who worked at or had family who worked at any of Gainesville’s mills (Gainesville Mill, Chicopee Mill, and New Holland Mill.) This project will document the experiences of mill workers and those who lived in the mill villages as well as explore the impact of the mills on Gainesville’s economy and growth since the early 1900s.
Our Digital Studio Interns are Henry Rosenberger and Tyler Kinsey, both film students at the University of North Georgia. Henry and Tyler have been working with Ron Hooper who has conducted great research on the mills of Gainesville.
We look forward to sharing updates with you! For now, if you have any recommendations about who we should interview, please email Libba at libba@negahc.org.
Accepting New Tutors for Gainesville Reads
We currently accepting new volunteer tutors for our free children’s program, Gainesville Reads, for students in 1st-5th grade who struggle with reading. Tutors meet with the same student each week to help them build confidence in their reading skills through fun activities, reading books together, and worksheets that address specific challenges of the student. Training and curriculum is provided.
Details at www.negahc.org/gainesvillereads.
Then Again Podcast
Check out the latest episodes of our podcast Then Again below!
Emily Dickinson went from being a “nobody" to taking her place on the world's stage as a great poet. She was rather reclusive as an adult and therefore there are many myths and legends that have surrounded her life's story. In this podcast episode, Marie interviews Dr. Cristanne Miller to discern fact from fiction about Emily Dickinson's life.
Listen now at www.thenagainpodcast.com.
Take our listener survey at this link: Then Again Listener Survey
Special Thanks
Our programs would not be possible without the support of the Ada Mae Ivester Education Center.
More information on the Ada Mae Ivester Education Center: AMIEC
February 2023 Journal Newsletter
2022 History Center Review
As we look forward to a great year in 2023, we are excited to share an overview of our programs, events, exhibits, and more in our 2022 Review of the Northeast Georgia History Center. Thank you to everyone who helped us make 2022 a year of growth, improvements, new projects, new events, and continued success!
You may view our 2022 Review at this link.
We want to hear from you!
We love sharing your comments about our programs, exhibits, and more in our annual reviews. If you would like to share a comment with us, please do so using the form on this page.
Libba Beaucham Becomes Assistant Director
Our Director of the Cottrell Digital Studio, Libba Beaucham, has accepted the position of Assistant Director of the Northeast Georgia History Center! Libba will still maintain her role in the Cottrell Digital Studio while assisting our Executive Director in all aspects of museum operations. Libba has been at the History Center for over five years now and, like all of our multi-talented staff, has worn many “hats” in her time here from producing digital content to portraying historic figures. We wish Libba the best in this new leadership hat!
Museum Services Manager
Leah Jarrett
We would like to officially introduce Leah Jarrett, who has accepted the position of Museum Services Manager!
Leah Jarrett graduated summa cum laude from the University of North Georgia in 2022 with a History major and English minor. During her college education, she interned twice at the Northeast Georgia History Center. Completing both the archival and research internship programs, Leah helped develop the 2021 N.C. White “Fadeless Photographer” exhibit. Additionally, she participated in the Georgia Arts and Culture Archive at the University of North Georgia as a student research assistant.
While a student, Leah was selected as one of two nominees for the Presidential Fellow for the Center for the Study of the Presidency and Congress, and received the Simone De Beauvoir Award for Excellence in Feminist Theory and Practice for her paper, “An Analysis of the Role of Women in Njal’s Saga,” and accepted the Jonas Kauffeldt Outstanding History Student award. She also presented two original papers at the 27th Annual Research Conference for the University of North Georgia in 2021 and 2022 and served as the Secretary of the History Club and Vice President of Phi Alpha Theta, Zeta Phi chapter.
We Welcome Marsha Hopkins to the Board of Directors
We are thrilled to announce that Marsha Hopkins has joined our Board of Directors! Marsha has over 14 years of experience in consulting, research, writing, and public speaking. Her career includes her role as Co-Owner of Hopkins Associates, CEO of the Gainesville College Foundation, and Program Director of the Hall County Boys & Girls Club. Marsha served on the Georgia Mountains Cultural and Historical Trust, which later evolved into the Northeast Georgia History Center. She has also served in the Greater Hall Chamber of Commerce, City of Gainesville Planning Commission, Hall County Historical Society, and United Way of Hall County, to name just a few!
Marsha has received the Joe Cooney Award for Innovation/Excellence in Employment & Training, the Heart of Gold Award by the Gainesville Times & Volunteer Resource Center, and the Gainesville Woman of Distinction Award by the Girl Scouts of Historic Georgia.
“I am excited for this opportunity to be a part of the Board again, and to support the preservation of the history of Northeast Georgia! I look forward to working with others to support the many interesting activities and educational programs offered through the Northeast Georgia History Center.”
We look forward to Marsha’s work with the Board and how she will support our mission!
Last Month at the History Center
Here are the highlights from our events and programs in January!
During Homeschool Day: Common Threads, visitors learned about historic sewing, weaving, shoemaking, and more during with living history interpreters and volunteers!
Our Valley Forge Family Day was revolutionary! Visitors learned about the experiences of soldiers at Valley Forge and even met General George Washington (portrayed by Dan McMichael) and his wife Martha Washington (portrayed by Amy Beaucham). Family Days are now every other month and are free to the public thanks to the Ada Mae Ivester Education Center.
Students met Lewis & Clark, a Civil War Soldier and Nurse, Rosie the Riveter, and more during live Webcasts from our “time machine.” Details about our free Webcasts for Georgia teachers are available at www.negahc.org/digital.
Our kids Homeschool History Club learned about the Women’s Suffrage Movement with a lesson by our Education Director and a time travel visit with Suffragist Lucy Stone! Details on this program are available at www.negahc.org/homeschool.
Last month’s Members-Only program was a “Time Travel Adventure” in which viewers met explorers Lewis & Clark and learned about their grand journey to the Pacific Ocean. All Members have access to this program and more! Digital Memberships are free for all Georgia teachers and homeschool groups. Details about Memberships are available at www.negahc.org/member.
Our Members-Only history quiz in January was all about Westward Expansion in the United States. Congratulations to Member “Yosemite Sam” for achieving the highest score!
Super Museum Sunday
Free Admission!
Sunday, February 5th from 1-5 PM
The Northeast Georgia History Center is will participate in the Georgia History Festival’s Super Museum Sunday on February 5, 2023. Super Museum Sunday is part of the annual Georgia History Festival, the signature K-12 educational program of the Georgia Historical Society, reaching hundreds of thousands of students statewide.
The Northeast Georgia History Center will join nearly 100 historic sites, house museums, art museums, and other points of interest throughout Georgia that will open their doors to the public, FREE of charge.
During your visit, you'll explore 10,000 years of Northeast Georgia history through artifacts, interactive stations, and the historic White Path Cabin.
LoFi History!
A free virtual “Ask a Historian” program for all ages!
Tuesday, February 7th at 4:30 PM ET
Join us for a fun and interactive program with historians Glen Kyle and Marie Bartlett with your host Libba Beaucham. Viewers can chat their history questions for Glen and Marie to answer live! Great for all ages.
View on our YouTube channel or Facebook page on Tuesday, February 7th at 4:30 PM ET. Can’t make it to the live program? Email Libba your questions at libba@negahc.org and you can watch later!
Valentine’s Day Tea
Saturday, February 11th at 11 AM & 2 PM
Join us at the Northeast Georgia History Center for a very special Valentine's Day Tea on Saturday, February 11th! Our 11 AM tea is now sold out, but we have added at a 2 PM tea.
Enjoy piping hot tea and a variety of sweet and savory treats, learn the basics of tea etiquette, and explore the history of Valentine's Day with a presentation by our Education Director Marie Bartlett.
This event is appropriate for ages 8 and up. Tickets are $35 and include admission to the History Center's exhibits and historic structures as well as an exhibit scavenger hunt for kids.
Limited tickets are available online at: Valentine’s Tea Tickets
Forum: Europe & the Confederacy
Presented by Dr. Ann Tucker
Tuesday, February 14th at 7:00 PM
When we think of the Civil War, we almost always turn our attention to the events on the North American continent… but the Confederacy’s attempt at independence was seen abroad as only one of numerous efforts to create a new nation.
Dr. Ann Tucker, professor of history at the University of North Georgia, will discuss this perspective based on her book Newest Born of Nations: European Nationalist Movements and the Making of the Confederacy.
Brought to you by the Ada Mae Ivester Education Center
Admission is $5 at the door, or FREE for members of the History Center!
Homeschool Day: Daily Life in Medieval Europe
Thursday, February 23rd from 10 AM - 1 PM
Homeschool families (and anyone else who would like to join!) are invited to our Homeschool Day: Daily Life in Medieval Europe on Thursday, February 23rd from 10 AM - 1 PM.
Learn about the lives of everyday people of the Medieval era and more with costumed living history interpreters, hands-on activities, and demonstration stations with historically accurate reproduction items.
This program is free for Members or included with the price of admission for non-Members. Become a Member today at www.negahc.org/member.
We appreciate you pre-registering for this event at:
Pre-Registration
Members Mini-Doc: Us Are the Folks
The Life & Works of Artist Benny Andrews
Release: Friday, February 24th
Born in 1930 in the rural north Georgia town of Plainview, Benny Andrews was one of ten children to sharecroppers Viola and George Andrews. His father was a self-taught artist and his mother was determined to provide her children with a good education. The combination of influences in his early life as a poor black boy in the rural South is shown with a unique and unflinching touch through his artwork. Through the mixed mediums of collage, oil painting, sculpture, and textile arts, Andrews delivers powerful, poignant, and reflective works of art that inspire to this day.
In this month’s Members Mini-Doc: Us Are the Folks, we will explore the life and works of Benny Andrews through archival interviews from his time as an artist. The Mini-Doc will be available to all Members on Friday, February 24th.
Become a Member to enjoy exclusive access to programs like this and more at www.negahc.org/member.
Oral History Project: The Mills of Gainesville
We are working on a great oral history project with our Digital Studio Interns and the help of researcher and former Gainesville Mill employee Ron Hooper. We are currently seeking folks who worked at or had family who worked at any of Gainesville’s mills (Gainesville Mill, Chicopee Mill, and New Holland Mill.) This project will document the experiences of mill workers and those who lived in the mill villages as well as explore the impact of the mills on Gainesville’s economy and growth since the early 1900s.
Our Digital Studio Interns are Henry Rosenberger and Tyler Kinsey, both film students at the University of North Georgia. Henry and Tyler have been working with Ron Hooper who has conducted great research on the mills of Gainesville.
We look forward to sharing updates with you! For now, if you have any recommendations about who we should interview, please email Libba at libba@negahc.org.
Accepting New Tutors for Gainesville Reads
We currently accepting new volunteer tutors for our free children’s program, Gainesville Reads, for students in 1st-5th grade who struggle with reading. Tutors meet with the same student each week to help them build confidence in their reading skills through fun activities, reading books together, and worksheets that address specific challenges of the student. Training and curriculum is provided.
Details at www.negahc.org/gainesvillereads.
Then Again Podcast
Check out the latest episodes of our podcast Then Again below!
Mr. Inman & the Swan House with Gene Harmon
The Swan House is one of Atlanta's most famous historic homes and is located on the grounds of the Atlanta History Center. It has many claims to fame including being featured in The Hunger Games movie franchise as Presidents Snow's Mansion. The Swan House was designed in 1928 by Philip T. Shutze for Mr. and Mrs. Inman, who gained their wealth through the cotton industry. In this episode, Marie interviews Gene Harmon who has done extensive research working as a historical interpreter at the Swan House portraying Mr. Inman himself. Learn more about the people who built this magnificent house and their lasting impact on the city of Atlanta.
Claiming Union Widowhood with Dr. Brandi Brimmer
This episode is from our 2022 season of Members Only programs that we are releasing to the public. Consider becoming a Member or Digital Member to enjoy our 2023 season of Members Only programs. In this interview, Marie is joined by Dr. Brandi Brimmer to discuss Dr. Brimmer's fascinating book Claiming Union Widowhood. This book explores the challenges and experiences of African-American widows who navigated the US pension system after the Civil War.
Listen now at www.thenagainpodcast.com.
Take our listener survey at this link: Then Again Listener Survey
Special Thanks
November 2022 Journal Newsletter
Third Annual 24 Hour Telethon!
During our Third Annual 24 Hour Telethon, we are raising donations for our free children’s reading program, Gainesville Reads.
As part of its educational mission, the Northeast Georgia History Center developed Gainesville Reads in 2020 which provides Hall County children with free one-on-one tutoring in literacy skills. Since 2020, Gainesville Reads has helped over 60 local children progress in their reading ability with the support of volunteer tutors.
This program is made possible through donations from the community. During our Third Annual 24 Hour Telethon, all donations will go toward supporting Gainesville Reads.
We are accepting donations now!
If you donate before December 2nd, you’ll receive our Early Bird Extras!
Donate Now
We are seeking local business sponsors for the telethon.
Our Telethon will be broadcast to our 14,200+ Facebook Followers and 2,000+ YouTube Subscribers. Our Telethon is a great way to show potential customers that you support literacy education in your community and provide an excellent service.
Sponsorship Details
Seeking local business sponsors!
Happy 5 Years at the History Center, Libba!
Our Director of the Cottrell Digital Studio, Libba Beaucham, celebrated five years at the History Center last month! Libba joined the team in 2017 as a part-time Media Producer, but quickly became a leader in the development of our digital programs. In 2018, she accepted the position of Director of the Cottrell Digital Studio and has since led the production our live Webcasts for schools, digital programs for the public, social media content, and our podcast. She also portrays historic characters like Juliette Gordon Low, a WW2 Rosie, and Lucy Stone! Libba also led the development of our children’s reading program, Gainesville Reads, which has supported over 60 local children with free one-on-one tutoring.
Here is a reflection from Libba about her time at the History Center so far:
These last five years at the History Center have been such a rewarding and gratifying time of my life, and I expect the next five will only get better. When I first arrived at the History Center, our live Webcasts with historic characters were brand new. It was exciting to be part of something so unique, ahead of its time, and really fun. I joined in October of 2017 when the History Center had performed just three Webcasts. Since then, we have produced 310 Webcasts and “time traveled” with over 17,000 students!
Among the most memorable experiences of my time here was actually during the pandemic. When schools and businesses were shut down, we were able to be there virtually thanks to the Cottrell Digital Studio. For weeks, we provided daily history programs for the public to enjoy from home. The connections we made with folks across the country (and even the world!) are still strong to this day, and it’s a really special feeling to know that we could be there to entertain, teach, and get through a tough time together. Because of these new connections, we created a Digital Membership program that now has over 300 Members!
Before I arrived at the History Center, I was working at a wonderful children’s literacy program in New Haven, Connecticut called New Haven Reads. Given our mission to be an educational resource for the community and my previous experience, I pitched the idea of developing a “sister” program called Gainesville Reads with the consultation of my former teammates at New Haven Reads. During our 2019 Taste of History fundraiser, that idea became a reality. With the support of former Governor Nathan Deal, former First Lady Sandra Deal, and the generous donations of attendees, we raised far more than our initial ask. Since then, Gainesville Reads has supported over 60 local children with free one-on-one tutoring from trained volunteer tutors. (Check out last year’s annual review to see comments from parents about their child’s progress!)
There are so many stories to tell about my time here, but something that is at the root of every story is our passion for what we do. I did not expect to become such a history nerd when I arrived, but I wouldn’t have it any other way.
- Libba
Last Month at the History Center
Here are the highlights from our events and programs in October!
Homeschool Day: Harvest Time on the Homestead
Time travel with students to meet historic characters during our live Webcasts
Homeschool History Club with a lesson about World War I
Members Mini-Doc: Meet Mary Musgrove
Members Virtual Trivia Night about the life and works of Edgar Allan Poe
America in World War II Family Day
Collaboration with Elachee Nature Center for a Night Hike with our Education Director Marie Bartlett who provided lessons on Appalachian myths and folklore
Debuted our “headless historian” Squarecrow on the downtown square!
New podcast episodes at www.thenagainpodcast.com
Holiday Quilts & Crafts
The Hall County Quilt Guild will be at the History Center on Saturday, November 5th from 10 AM - 1 PM with a beautiful display of holiday themed quilts and decorative items plus a Christmas ornament creation station. Learn about the history of quilting, how to begin quilting, and take home a handcrafted Christmas ornament! This program is free for Members or included with the price of admission for non-Members.
Members Mini-Doc: The Census Over the Centuries
Our Executive Director Glen Kyle will present this month’s Members Mini-Doc about the history of census taking. For thousands of years, civilizations have kept record of its citizens through a census, and those records provide today’s historians with a wealth of knowledge about various cultures. From the ancient Babylonians to today, Glen will explore what we can glean from census data and share the challenges of the census taker (including a story of Hall County’s first census!)
This program will be available to Members on Friday, November 18th.
In-Person Trivia Night: Thanksgiving History & Traditions
Join us at the History Center on Thursday, November 17th at 7 PM for our in-person Trivia Night! This month’s theme is Thanksgiving History & Traditions. This program is family-friendly and great for all ages.
This program is free for Members. Digital Members will be able to join virtually. Admission is $5 for non-Members.
The winner will receive an Individual Membership for themselves or a friend!
Groups are welcome to team up, but only one Individual Membership will be awarded.
Become a Member to enjoy free access to programs like this!
Ask a Historian: Early Explorers
Members are invited to submit their questions for our monthly “Ask a Historian” topic. This month’s topic is early explorers. Ever wonder how early explorers like Marco Polo, Christopher Columbus, Hernan Cortes, and more survived such daring feats? Curious to know what kind of technology they used? What they ate at sea? What dangers they faced? Ask a away and our historians will create a video answer just for you!
Teachers are encouraged to submit questions from their students!
Members can submit their questions using the Members Portal or emailing Libba at libba@negahc.org.
Free Family Day: Voices of Valor - the American Experience of the Vietnam Conflict
The Northeast Georgia History Center invites families and folks to its FREE Family Day Voice of Valor: The American Experience of the Vietnam Conflict on Sunday, November 13th from 1-4PM.
The History Center is honored to host several veterans of the Vietnam War for this event who will share their experiences with visitors. Honor a veteran by planting a flag in our American Freedom Garden, learn how to make a name rubbing, enjoy our living history display with artifacts, and write thank you cards for our active duty servicemen and women just in time for the holidays!
GSE's that will be addressed with our Voices of Valor Family Day:
SS5H5 Discuss the origins and consequences of the Cold War.
SS5H6 Describe the importance of key people, events, and developments between 1950- 1975.
Oral History Project: The Mills of Gainesville
We have just begun a great oral history project with our Digital Studio Interns and the help of researcher and former Gainesville Mill employee Ron Hooper. We are currently seeking folks who worked at or had family who worked at any of Gainesville’s mills (Gainesville Mill, Chicopee Mill, and New Holland Mill.) This project will document the experiences of mill workers and those who lived in the mill villages as well as explore the impact of the mills on Gainesville’s economy and growth since the early 1900s.
Our Digital Studio Interns are Henry Rosenberger and Tyler Kinsey, both film students at the University of North Georgia. Henry and Tyler have been working with Ron Hooper who has conducted great research on the mills of Gainesville.
We look forward to sharing updates with you! For now, if you have any recommendations about who we should interview, please email Libba at libba@negahc.org.
Accepting New Tutors for Gainesville Reads
We currently accepting new volunteer tutors for our free children’s program, Gainesville Reads, for students in 1st-5th grade who struggle with reading. Tutors meet with the same student each week to help them build confidence in their reading skills through fun activities, reading books together, and worksheets that address specific challenges of the student. Training and curriculum is provided.
Details at www.negahc.org/gainesvillereads.
Then Again Podcast
In our latest episode of Then Again, we try out a new episode format and dive into a fascinating Civil War figure:
Recent events have led to the re-evaluation of the memory and commemoration of Confederate symbols and leaders, from statues to street names to military bases. One man, however, seems to come through that re-evaluation as someone who's convictions, in the end, are something to at least respect and perhaps admire... join us as we dive more deeply into the life and legacy of James Longstreet with Richard Pilcher of the Longstreet Society.
Listen now at www.thenagainpodcast.com.
Take our listener survey at this link: Then Again Listener Survey
