-Chapter IV- TOWNS, COMMUNITIES, AND MILITIA DISTRICTS (1880-1980)
Schools in Eton
Schools have been important to both Pleasant Valley and Eton residents. In 1872 M.W. Harris deeded one acre of land on land lot 51 (9th and 3rd) for a school. Located north of present-day Eton, this school was most likely the first educational facility to be called Pleasant Valley. Miss Cleopatra Bates (later Mrs. F.M.Jones) taught at this school in 1881 as did Kate Langston in 1884.
In the 1890's a new, larger school was built in town near the present Methodist church. This two-story building was popularly known as Pleasant Valley Academy though deeds refer to it as Mount Pleasant Academy and Mountain Valley High School. Apparently these 1897 documents reflected the addition of dormitories for non-commuting students. Trustees of the school at that time were G.B. Jackson, C.C. Langston and A.J. Mason. Another possibility is that the school had burned and was being rebuilt when these deeds were made. The dormitories, located between the present churches (near the railroad) were described as follows by former student Hill Jones:
"They were one room, raw-lumbered buildings. They had no windows, only shutters, a wood heater, and a cook stove."
J.T. Leamon was principal at Pleasant Valley for several years (1892-93,1896-1900) while other teachers were T.J. Harris (1891).____ Cox (1894), ____ Talley (1894). Kate Langston (1896-97), ____ Harper (1897). Jennie Gilbert (1899-1900). Professor Mizer. C.H. Shriner (1900), Lula Gladden. Charlie Rooney,M,P. Bates(1890),Sam Berry. J.C. Waters, and___..Nanny. Mr. Jones also remembers Lela Wilson as a teacher who had a special knack for controlling unruly students. She pinned their clothing to her apron so that they would be close by for her to keep an eye on at all times.
Commencement was a special time for Academy students. The all-day affairs featured songs and recitations by students, dinner and supper, and addresses by important men of the county. A program from 1900 listed S,A. Brown, J.H. Loughridge. C.C. Keith, and G.A. Strawn as trustees, along with Mr. Mason and Mr. Jackson mentioned earlier.
In 1909 a new facility, named Eton High School, was constructed on a big hill at the northwest corner of town. This fine, large building was in use for almost 30 years. It burned in January, 1937 and classes were held in the old Jackson store building until it burned in March. Classes were then moved to churches and the high school gymnasium which had been completed in 1932-Eton High also had a dormitory in the early days (1910).
Teachers at Eton during this era included William Greenlee who was principal in 1910, Residents remember Mr. Greenlee well because of the tragedy which his wife committed suicide by pouring kerosene over her body and then setting herself on fire. The Greenlees had been missionaries before coming to Eton.
Other educators at Eton High included principals E.H. Beck. Rosie White (1918-20) Fred I. Davidson. C.C. Carlmn (1927-28), T.B. Clyburn (1929-30), Earl Foster (1930-32), and Elswick Keith (1933-34). Teachers in the secondary school included Claude Brown (1932-33). J.A. Gregory (1912). Mrs. E.H. Beck (1912) SO Williams (1934), Pauline Partott. Betty Murray, Florida Harris, JW Puckeit Floy Hammontree. Lenora Strickland. Steve Rheburg (1933-34), Lee Jones. Fletcher Charles, Mrs. Mae Brown (1918-19), Ruby Henderson (1932-34). "Moon" Mullins, Parks Lawrence. Helen Mixon, and Frank Harmon (I920's).
Among the other Eton teachers were Mr. & Mrs. J.R. Porter (1932), Dorothy lackson (1932-34), Thelma Henderson (1932). Jane Noland (1929-32). Marmierite Clyburn (1929-30), Elizabeth Norton Keith (1929-35), Adel Kellum /1Q29-30). Lois Trussell (1929-30, 32-33), E.J. Vann (1933-34), Elizabeth Jackson (1933-35). Reba Richardson (1933-35), Frances Phillips (1933-35). Hazel WilliaĞis (1934). George Ross (1934). Edward Chapman (1934). Leland Man-tooth (1934-35). Ainslee Vaughn (1934). Aileen Rogers (1936-37), George Colvard (1936-37), and Lyndell Bond (1936-37).
After the High School building burned, property on Glenn, Harris, and Hall Streets was obtained from the Eton Town Company and the present Eton Elementary was built. Over the years additional land was obtained from Mrs. F.C, Bentley. W.W. Keith, Sr.. W.W. Keith. Jr., and Judson Vick. With consolidation. Eton school grew and housed grades 1-7 (later 1-8) for many years. Presently students from kindergarten through sixth grade attend Eton,
Several teachers who began teaching at the older school continued their careers at the new one including Mrs. Macie Jackson, Mrs. Maude Young, Eunice Loughridge Fincher. Ronald Richardson. Also some educators from earlier years later returned to Eton at various times, particularly Earl and Lucy Foster along with Mrs. Elizabeth Keith. Mr. Foster again served as principal in 1938-39 and 1948-53. Miss Margaret Brice. a long-time educator, also served as principal in the 1940's while other leaders were William Beavers. B.V. Ozment (1955-64), Robert Morrison (1964-68). Paul Leroy. James Clegg (1970). Leonard Whaley, Howell Brown, and W.T. Green (1972 to date).
Many people have taught at Eton in the last 50 years, but the school has been fortunate to have many who worked at the school for several years. In addition to those already mentioned. Maurine Keith, Nadine Wilbanks Keith, Dennie Sue James, Walter Richards, Mrs. Walter Richards. Annie Laurie Howard, Stella Baxter. Billie Morrison, Mildred Baxter Petty, Elaine Holcomb Edwards. Becky Whaley. Bernita Harris. Icy Plemons. Mrs. J.L. Long. Jerry Swilling, Mrs. Rossie Dunn and Gladys Bradley were Eton teachers for some time. Miss Will Dee Baxter is presently the senior member of the Eton faculty. In more recent years Dr. Norman Jordan, Sharon Stafford Klippert. Kathy Welch, Delores Kimsey. Charlotte Weaver, and others have taught at Eton.
In the days of school trustees many residents gave Eton their support. Among them were F.T. Brown (1932). W.M. Jackson (1932), H.R. James (1930-42), R.A. Mantooth (1930-36). Paul Leverett. S.L. Cantrell (1933). W.J. Gregory, G.C. Bates, and J.C. Loughridge (all 1937-42). T.C. Richardson (1942-56). Tom Uegory (1950-54), J.P. Lougbridge (1953), C.D. Harris (1951-55). Herbert ^lliams (1953-56), Herbert Childers (1953-54), Kirby Parks (1954-56). Harve fillips (1954-56). and Mrs. Johnnie Hartley (1954-56). The Eton Parent-Teach-rs Association was organized in the 1940's.
Eton also had a school for black children for some time. Teachers there included Aleen Brooker (1929), Lillie Rivers (1933-37), and Lucille Branham (1937-39). This school was located northwest of Eton near the Children's Home.
Eton has one of the oldest churches in Murray County. The Baptist Church was established about 1834, but since no records from the earliest years exist, 1842 is sometimes considered the official organization date. The first church building was a log structure, but a wooden frame edifice was erected in the 1840's. A deed dated May 27, 1843 mentions "the land where the Pleasant Valley Baptist meeting house and campground (with tents) is located." Martin Keith was the owner of the property and Deacons Samuel Miller and William Dates accepted the deed. Revs. Evan Pierson and Ramshire were early pastors. James Adams was pastor in 1848-49 when the church had 81 members and contributed $2.15 to missions. Benjamin Maddox was also an early member.
In 1861 the church joined the newly formed North Georgia Baptist Association just as the Civil War began. Association records of 1870 report that the church was then without a pastor and had only 43 members. The leaders of the church at that time included Jesse Thompson. M.L. Keith, and W.A. Latch. According to Mrs. Glenn Howard, former church historian. 1899 was an important year for the congregation as it marked "the greatest evangelistic meeting in the history of the church . . . even people who had laughed at religion prior to this time went up for prayer, and most of them were converted." Rev. MC-Afee Bates baptized 48 people as a result of his revival work.
The turn of the century brought several changes to Pleasant Valley Church. The name became Eton and in 1906 a new sanctuary was built. The beautiful building was designed by architects Jim Redmond, tester Moody and another man who was employed by the railroad and did the scroll work Several railroad workers attended services at Eton
The 1906 structure boasted hardwood floors, a new piano, new pews gas heat, and six Sunaay school rooms when it was built. Measuring 40 x 60' the church features a high domed ceiling, stained-glass windows, and fine accoustics. A second steeple was added to the building in the I960, largely due to the efforts of Mrs. Elma Childers and Mrs. Annie Laurie Howard.
J.N. Barnetle was a noted leader in the early Sunday school. In 1935 Eton Produced the first Sword Drill winner for North Georgia, Neva Mae Green (Wilbanks). as well as the first North Georgia winner of the Public Speaking Contest. Ruth Shields (Oswald),
The church had 86 members in 1972. but Sunday school enrollment was larger, Marvin Childers was then superintendent. Eton also contributed to various mission programs and other Baptist projects. Gary and Rodney Bailey served as church musicians for some time and Gary is presently the organist.
As the church grew a new, larger sanctuary was built adjacent to the old structure on land provided by Mr. & Mrs. Jack Poag. Deacons and building committee members were Herbert Childers. Martin Dooley, Mrs. Kirby Patterson, Pastor Tom Turner, Glen Wilbanks. John Burgess, Berlie Greeson, James Loughridge, and Judson Vick. Ground was broken in June, 1977 and dedication services were held in March of the next year. The new brick sanctuary will seat around 330 people and cost $I50.000. By that time 178 people were members at Eton and ten new Sunday school rooms were part of the new building. The old building is now used for educational purposes and as a fellowship hall.
Other pastors of Eton Baptist Church not previously mentioned include William Ellis. Jim Stone. McAfee Bates, Jule DuWeese, John F. Cox. N.L. Os-borne, C.P. Rooney, L.E. Hudson, Robert Taylor. W.A. Woody, T.A. Brown, J.A. Boyd, A.H. Nanney, Rev. Yearby. J.T. Ballew, T.A. Burgess. Milas Welch] J.W. Dooly. J.H. Cargall, W.F. Huffaker. Walter Harper, S.P. Chitwood, w.n! Kelly, Jeff Moore, Kirby Parks, W.E. Ward, Trumau Perkins, M.E. Simpson, Tom Phipps, B.F. Babb, Ed Campbell, Barry Massey, and Erwin Crider. The Baptist Church has seen many changes in its century and a half of existence and remains an active member of the North Georgia Baptist Association.
The Eton Methodist Church was organized early in the 20th century and some say that its Sunday school is the oldest in Eton. An article from The Chatsworth Times in the early 1960's describes this congregation as follows:
"Many ideas and plans originating from the Eton Church have been adopted by other churches. The congregation, although not a large one, is very dedicated. They stand always ready to help anyone or any other church."
For many years the church was included in a circuit with other churches. Chatsworth and Mt. Zion shared the same pastor with Eton for a time. In 1928 A.W. Williams was pastor of the Eton charge, serving Summerhour. Hassler's, McCamy's, Eton, and Center Valley Methodist Churches. Later the number of churches on this circuit was reduced to three and then to two-Eton and Center Valley. Eton is now on the charge with Casey Springs.
Deeds to the church in 1911 and 1913 list W.M. Harris. W.C. Lindsey, D.S. Butler, and B.R. James as trustees of the Eton Methodist Church. Mrs. Johnnie Hartley, and several members of the Hall, Harris, and Loughridge families have been active in the church for many years. Several improvements in the church building were made in the 1960's and early 1970's.
In more recent years an Eton Chapel Church of God was begun. Their church, located east of Eton, was dedicated December 2, 1979. Solomon Douhne was pastor.
Many residents of Dunn, Pleasant Valley and Eton are buried in the Eton Cemetery, west of town just off Highway 411. Containing many 19th century interments, the oldest marked grave is that of Hugh Clement who died in 1853 in his 78th year. The O'Neill Family Cemetery is located a short distance northwest of the Eton Cemetery.
Three other pioneer families have their own burial grounds north of Eton. Near the edge of town on the Old Federal Road is the Loughridge Family Cemetery. Among the interments are the clan's patriarch. Colonel Benjamin Loughridge who died in 1877, and several members of related families such as the Gudgers. Keiths, and Gregorys, Many burials date back to the 1800's.
Further north on the east side of the Old Federal Road is the John Bates family plot. General John Bates (1779-1854) and his wife. Barbary (1779-1848), were two of the very first residents of Pleasant Valley. Located on what was more recently the Rector Harris property, this cemetery also contains the remains of "Bone" Bates. John S. (Sly) Bates, and infant twins of Mr. & Mrs. Ross Bates. John Bates's brother, Julius (1780-1864) and his wife Temperance (1784-1868) are buried on their farm which was between Eton and Crandall, west of highway 411 near J.L. Patterson's.
The Maynard Harris (1813-1881) family cemetery is just east of 411 above Eton near Diamond Carpets. Some 16 members of the family are buried there. The Union Cumberland Presbyterian Church was located on the Loughridge farm near the "Hassler's to Crandall" Road. Founded in 1889, the church was organized by Rev. S.H. Henry, probably for the convenience of area Cumberland Presbyterians who were not able to get to Sumach each Sunday. Elders John Gregory, Joel N. Lagan, and Eli S. Stanford purchased a small corner lot from S.T. Fincher for $200 on which to build their church.
Active for only a decade. Union Church was dissolved in 1899. Six years later Elders Gregory. Stanford, Ross Bates, O.K. Bates, and S.A. Brown authorized School Commissioner W.D. Gregory to sell the property, on lot 19 (9th District, 3rd Section), and give the proceeds to the Sumach congregation. The reason for this arrangement was that the Union Church was also a school site, even after the church dissolved. Teachers at the Union school were Miss Laura Humphreys (1891), M.D. Terry (1893-95). Lola Gregory (1896). Agnes Terry, Miss Georgia Gregory (1897), and Ben Bates (1899-1900). The church stood several years thereafter.
West of the Union Church site on a hill north of the Loughridge Road is an old family cemetery. While there are at least four unmarked graves, the only marked burials are those of Martha Adair (1789-1857) and Edward Adair (1789-1864). According to tradition a Mr. Johnson was murdered near this area right after the Civil War when raiders called him out to his front gate one night and shot him.
Deep in the mountains of McDonald's District near the Gilmer County line was the Boatwright settlement. Here, on the upper reaches of Holly Creek was the Boatwright mill as well as another mill. In addition to mineral springs the Pruden and Bryant Tanyard was also located near this community according to an 1890's map. Also. Murray County School records reveal that John C. Ballew taught at a school on Holly Creek "in the mountains" in 1881. This fits the Boatwright settlement. Other early mountain families were the Tibbs and Gamblings.
Another and older mill community was Hassler's, located east of present-day Eton. According to long-time area resident Ruth Terry Bates waters from Beaver, Crooked Pine, and Gambling Mountains formed Beaver, Emory, and Russell Creeks along with Pear Branch. These tributaries fed Hassler's Creek, named for William Hassler who started a mill on the creek even before the Indians were removed. Hassler was of German ancestory and came to Murray from North Carolina.
Hassler's first mill was a pounding mill that operated less than a year before it was washed away in a flood. While this mill ran, Mr. Hassler had been building a large three- and one-half-story frame building which had a 22-foot overshot wheel. Since Hassler's Mill also ground wheat and not just corn. Hassler's enjoyed a booming business, particularly following the Cherokee removal in the 1830's.
Tradition has it that an Indian village was located east of Hassler's Creek and that Mr. Hassler often traded salt to the natives in exchange for the gold they dug in the mountains. The story goes on that the tried to find the mines, even sending one of his slaves to follow Indians to the site, but was unsuccessful in this effort.
In 1854 the Hassler s Mills post office was established with Mr Hassler as post master. A general store, a cotton gin, a sawmill, and a blacksmith shop were added to the complex. Since the mill in the name was plural, many believe that Mr. Hassler built another and possibly two other mills in the area. Later Dan Isenhower and the Rogers family operated mills in the community as did the Windlers for a time. Marvin Rogers reports that competition between the mills was keen and based on the quality of the grind.
However things changed at Hassler's. The post office closed in 1866 and Mr Hassler died in 1871. He was buried in the Hassler Cemetery where many of his relatives have since been laid to rest. The Terrys and the Gregorys were also early settlers in the area and the Jathan Gregorys established a family burial ground east of Hasslers on the north side of the road atop a steep hill Another Terry-Gregory Cemetery, containing several unmarked graves, is said to be off the Cool Springs Road west of the Winkler home.
At Hassler's Mill. Aaron Nix, Jack Nix. Jerry Calhoun, Tint Calhaun, Tom Terry, and John Henson succeeded Mr. Hassler as mill operators. Mr. Dan Isenhower also left the area and moved to Oklahoma where he ran a mill for the Indians. Mr. Lewis Terry was the last owner of Hassler's Mill and also bought the old Earnest store. Marion Cloer was the last miller but he also had a blacksmith shop and doubled as the community's "dentist" since he pulled teeth for area residents. The mill was torn down about 1927 or 1928,
The Hassler's Mills post office was re-established in 1879 with William J. Peeples as postmaster. Succeeding postal officials were Thomas J. Painter (1882-85). Adolphus Logan (1885-89), James C. Barksdale (1889-91). and Emory A. Earnest (1891-1909). Mr. Logan and Mr. Earnest had stores. Other businesses were Chambers' Store, another blacksmith shop, and the M.E, Rogers Saw & Planing Mill, Tom Terry had a store near the mill at the turn of the century, but moved away after a flood in 1905 or 1906 during which Mr. Terry had to carry his wife out of the combination home and business on his back and then return to get their babies, Ruth and August. In 1900 Hassler's Mill had a population of 55. Dave Winkler was also a grist miller in the area.
The Earnests were about the first in the area to have electric lights since they had their own "dynamo." Power lines did not reach the area until around 1947. Ben Rogers had one of the first cars in 1916 while the first telephones were installed in 1914.
The Hasslers also gave their name to a Methodist church which existed in the community for almost a century. In 1855 William Hassler deeded one acre of land near the present Hassler Cemetery to Charles Adair, Robert McCamy, Franklin Summerhour, Daniel H. Burgin. and Robert Logan for a church and school. A school operated at Hassler's Chapel at this location (Lot 266, 26th District, 2nd Section) off and on until the 1880's at least.
In 1895 the church moved south to a site near the Hassler's Mill where the Robert Tankersley's now live. Leaders at this time were S.A. Gregory, D. Isen-hower. and W.J. Peeples according to the deed from A.T. Logan. (This property was on lot 264.) In 1928, Hassler's was on the Eton Charge and A.W. Williams was the pastor. In 1935 Hassler's had 35 members and L.R. Huckabee was the pastor. Services continued into the 1940's and in 1943 a Vacation Bible School was held there. By 1950 the church had disbanded and in 1951 the old Hassler's church was moved to Mount Zion.
Several years later Mrs. Marvin Dunn wrote an article for The Chatsworth Times in 1973 entitled "Reminiscing about Hassler's Chapel." Mrs. Dunn said: At that time, Hassler's Chapel . . . was larger so the young people and children especially enjoyed the Christmas Tree there every Christmas. They always had a large spruce pine tree reaching to the ceiling. It was lighted with small candles fastened on the tree limbs, other decorations were popcorn strung on sewing thread, and the gifts were all hung on the tree, some of them wrapped in shiny paper. A prettier Christmas tree has never been trimmed.
The programs for this occasion were always under the direction of Miss Jinnie Terry, and this was a time when every child in the neighborhood had an opportunity to have a part on the program . . .
Another annual event at Hasslers was the Childrens Day. It took place in summer. We always spent the day, and dinner was spread on lire ground at noon. And, of course, the children were the entertainers, with Miss Jinnie directing. She taught us our songs and speeches, helping us until we knew every word. No song books or papers were on the stage while we were performing . . .
Members of Hasslers Chapel started moving away. Some died and only a few were left here, so they moved the church, and the remaining members joined nearby churches. Some belong to The First United Methodist Church in Chatsworth. Others joined the Mt. Zion United Methodist Church.
Hassler's had also been a school at this location. Bessie Mae Adams was the leacher there from 1908 until 1910. Jennie Terry also taught there.
According to long-time residents E.A. and C.T. Earnest (better known as "Red" and "Sparky"), another church had existed in the area before Hassler's moved to its last location. A cemetery, probably connected with this "Little Bethel Church." is atop a high hill east of Cool Springs Road across from the Rogers home. The long-abandoned graveyard has several unmarked burials in addition to the graves of James Lee Hembree, Susan R. Latch (1840-1864), and Jesse Ben Burgin (1845-1867).
South of the old Hassler's community is the Cool Springs Baptist Church, founded in 1876. Charter members were J.B. Rogers, Mary Rogers. J.R. Terry. W.T. Swanson. Ellen Swanson, Louisa Spears, Elizabeth Beavers and Martha Harkins. The first church, a log building, was located across the road from the present church site on land obtained from C.S. and J.D. Pangle. The deed refers to it as the "Old" Cool Springs Church Property which indicates that a religious group had met at the spot earlier. Some people feel that this had been a "Union Church" and that the deed was made when the group became a Baptist congregation and a school was established at the site.
On November 7. 1911 J.W. Brown deeded property to church trustees William Wilson, Anderson Beavers, Samuel Hickey, Dave Winkler, and J.C. Sluder. The next year a timber structure was erected near the site of the present building which was completed in 1951. B.F, Rogers furnished the seats for the second church. In 1972 Cool Springs had over 300 members.
Several ministers have been ordained by the church, including J.R. Terry (1882), R.C. Beavers (1893). A.A. Green (1922), A.T. Russell (1940), and M.W. Winkler (1951). Three gentlemen have served Cool Springs as deacons for over 50 years. They are Miles P. Bramblett, Wylie Davis. and the late Bill Hickey.
One of the early pastors was E.J. DeWeese who lived near Pleasant Hill in Gilmer County and walked 15 miles to preach at Cool Springs. Pastors since 1903 include William McNabb, J.P. Fore. M.H. Welch, J.A. Maples, S.W. Bennett, W.A.Campbell, W.A. Woody, John Vineyard, Robert Eliott, MR. Hogan, W.E. Se.f, A.A. Green, Mark Baxter, Ed Payne, H.C. Hensley, J.M. Owens, A.T. Russel, Fl,oyed Childers, Carl Gladdis, Milas Winkler, Frank Harper, T.D. Hooker, Fred Winkler, Thurman Hightower, Clinton Lunsford, Raymond Beavers, Arthur Corbin, and Harvey Silvers. A cemetery adjoins the church.
The Cool Springs School operated for many years and B.A. Gregory (1881), E.A. Earnest (1884. 1893), Will Lowery (1891), Miss Georgia Gregory (1894-96). John Gregory (1897). M.D. Terry (1899), and Jennie Terry (1900) were among the early teachers there. Evidently the community's school moved back to Hassler's for a short time right after the turn of the century, but reopened at Cool Springs in the teens. Jennie Terry again taught at Cool Springs during this era. Other teachers included Hattie Charles (1916). August Terry (1928-29, 1932). Marie Winkler (1928-29, 1932), Neptha Rogers (1932), George Ross (1933-34). Milma Earnest (1934-36), Walter Richards (1936-37), Hoke Jackson (1937-39), Virginia Tatum (1942-43), Gladys Winkler. Jack Poag. Mrs. Mary Long, and Ruth Blackwell all in 1944-45, Mrs. J.L. Long (1947-48). and Mrs. ClintWalker(1949).
Cool Springs School burned twice, once in 1931 and again in 1937. Each time trustees constructed a new building. Mr. Early Moore was a long-time trustee. Others included D.E. Winkler (1930), C.L. Patterson (1932), J.L. Winkler (1943-49). M.P. Bramblett (1944-47). Charlie West (1947-49). and J.L. McDeras (1947-49). The school consolidated with Eton in 1949.
In the 1930's a church and school were briefly re-established near the old Hassler site. Ben Rogers deeded part of lot 266 (26th District. 2nd Section) "Starting at a tile near Hassler's Cemetery including the building located thereon, known as the Rogers School Building" for a small Baptist Church which might have also been called Fort Mountain. Rev. Lyle was the minister. However the church was short lived and in 1937 the property was returned to Mr. Rogers.
West of Hassler's was the Lewis Terry home, built in 1888. Owned by C.W. Bradley since 1949, the house was occupied by three generations of Terrys. Mr. Bradley, retired educator and active member of numerous civic organizations, outlined the story of the house as follows:
"I live in the old Terry house on Holly Creek Farm. William "Bill" Terry moved here from Tennessee in 1856. He deeded the farm to his three sons in 1882, Lewis Terry got this portion and raised a large family here. Grover and Cyrus, two of his boys, got the home place and lived here with their family. 1 bought the farm from Grover .... Lewis Terry was Georgia Department of Transportation Director Tom Moreland's great-grandfather on his mother's side of the house."
The Hassler community was located between two beautiful mountains. Fort and Grassy. An article in a 1920's Geological Survey of Georgia by Marius R. Campbell describes Grassy as follows.
"One of the most pronounced summits, at least it so appears from the railroad is Grassy Mountain, lying east of Crandall . .. This mountain has an elevation of 3,682 feet above sea level . . . The slopes ... are ... steep . , . Views are numerous from the natural open spaces which are usually grassy or covered with low bushes . . Such names as Grassy Mountain and Big Bald Mountain are given on account of this feature . . ."
Today the mountain is generally simply called "Grassy." There's no need to add the "mountain" to it. It is part of the Chattahoochee National Forest established in 1936. Lake Conasauga covers 25 acres and is the highest body of water in Georgia. Conasauga comes from the Cherokee "Kahnasagah" which means "grass." in 1975 a portion of the National Forest was further designated as the Cohutta Wilderness Area. A "wilderness" is an area where the earth and its community of life are not dominated by man, where man himself is a visitor who does not remain. Cohutta was selected as a wilderness area due to "its natural beauty, the ecological uniqueness of its plant communities, its relatively unmolested condition, the large percentage of federal ownership (98%), and two quality native trout streams contained in its boundaries "according to U.S. Forest Service publications. The Area, part of the Cohutta Wildlife Management Area, boasts numerous rare or uncommon species of plants, many hiking trails, excellent fishing, controlled hunting, and backpacking and camping opportunities. "The designation of this area as a National Forest Wilderness allows the Forest Service to protect its intrinsic values in an unmolested state."
Murray Countians have long been aware of the beauty of Grassy and the other mountains in McDonald's District. Even in the 1890's several cabins dotted the top of Grassy. Among the owners were Sam Trimmier, the Bartleys, Mr. Tibbs, and the Gudgers (near Richland Springs). A survey station was located on lot 252 (27th District. 2nd Section).
North of Grassy near Hickory Ridge is an old resort area known as Cohutta Springs. Known throughout the state for their medicinal powers, these springs brought many people to Murray including Alexander Stephens, Vice-President of the Confederacy and long-time Georgia statesman. In his Historical Collections of Georgia, published in 1855. George White commented about the many fine springs scattered over Murray County. Singled out for special mention were the "Cohutta Springs, ten miles from Spring Place on Sumac Creek." which had "medicinal properties" and were "beginning to attract public attention" less than 20 years after Murray was settled. White also said: "Arrangements are being made to accommodate visitors. "W.P. Swanson was a minister in the area by 1850. Fifty years later another Georgia historian described Cohutta Springs as a "postvillage" with a population of 66. Actually the first post office in the area was Fancy Hill. This community was south of present-day Fairy Valley at the point where McDonald's adjoins Cisco District. Postmasters at Fancy Hill were Michael E. Murphy (1850-1854), John R. Cain (1854-1858), James F. Haley (1858-1860). and Franklin Summerhour (1860-1866).
Resort areas like Cohutta Springs suffered after the Civil War as southerners tned to rebuild their fortunes. However, by the I880's things had improved and a new post office named Loughridge was established. The reason the post office was not named Cohutta Springs was that another Murray County community, located in the Tenth District (near Colvard's) had used the name since the 830s. William D. Gregory was the first Loughridge postal official. He was succeeded by Mrs. Sarah Douglass (1891-92), Charles T. Owens (1892-95), and Mat tie S. Gregory. In 1901, since the other Cohutta Springs office had closed, Loughridge was renamed Cohutta Springs. Mattie Gregory continued to serve as Postmistress until 1905. Her successors were Jathan R. Gregory (1905-07) 30(1 John A. Owens who was postmaster when the office closed in 1910.
By this time Cohutta Springs was a bustling community. Three mills operated in the area, one on the north prong of Sumach Creek of which no signs remain, and two on the south prong of the creek. One of these was owned by Smith Treadwell. The Owens store was on the north side of the Cohutta Springs Road at 411, Across 411 was the Cohutta Springs School and a lodge hall. The Woodmen of the World had a lodge there in 1911 and the Odd Fellows had 72 members that year. Mrs. Mattie Gregory was a teacher at the school in 1899.
Three physicians had Loughridge or Cohutta Springs addresses at various times-M.P. Bates (1894). John H. Randle (1901), and P.M. Jones (1887). Dr. Jones was a colorful man who practiced medicine in Murray County for many years. He later moved to Eton. Another well-known area resident was Sam Trimmier. His farm is now owned by Colquitt Holcomb. and the grave of D.M. Keith, marked with a hand-carved stone, is located there.
Another prominent family near Cohutta Springs was the Summerour clan. The Summerours were early settlers in Murray and their home was located south of the Cohutta Springs Road on 411. Built possibly as early as the 1830's, the house was a landmark for almost 150 years. During the Civil War. "Yankees" rode horses through the long, wide central hall of the house. A 1932 Chattanooga Times reporter described the home as follows:
. . . From the "floor" the wainscoting extends upward for more than three feet in panels and this shows less ravages of time than any other par! of the house. It is of hardwood and has been worn to a satiny finish. . , . The main hall is ceiled with wood and there are high mantels and wide brick fireplaces in all of the downstairs rooms, which are large, with high ceilings and many windows.
There are two large rooms on either side of the great hall and several rooms on the second story.
In one corner of the former yard is a small family cemetery. Rachel Summerour and her 5-rnonth-old son. Sanford Guy, both of whom died in 18S3 are buried there along with Mary Emery, wife of D.N. Hayes, who died in 1894.
The Chip Owens family later owned and occupied the house. Used as rental property for many years, the once fine, colonial house was torn down in 1980. In early days a lanyard had operated at Summerour's.
The resort area at North Cohutta and Hampton Springs also enjoyed a rebirth in the I880's. The North Georgia Citizen of August 2, 1883 quoted The Spring Place Times as saying: "Cohutta Springs are overcrowded with visitors and accomodations have run out." Later that year the Citizen reported the following: "It is said that some Atlanta gentlemen will erect a commodius hotel at Cohutta Springs and otherwise improve the place."
The Pierce family operated the Cohutta Springs Hotel for a time and Miss Mamie Pierce, now of Eton, recalls a time in 1907 when Dalton poet Robert Loveman and friends visited the Pierces. Mr, Pierce had worked in the old Loveman store in Dalton. According to "Miss Mamie," a storm drove Loveman, "Shep" Hall, Theron Shope, and Dennis Barrett from the outside to the upstairs front porch. They began a card game that lasted from after lunch until supper time. When Mr. Pierce went to call the gentlemen to supper, he found Mr. Loveman standing on a table, writing this verse on the ceiling: "We played the game, we played it well, and the rain came down, and it rained like . ,. well!" These men were just some of the many Daltonians who came to Cohutta Springs for picnics and parties.
In 1915 a new Cohutta Springs resort was planned for a location south of the older site. The leader of this ambitious undertaking was Jim Speer who, along with surveyor E.A. Hamilton of Dalton designed an elaborate plan. A plat on record at the courthouse reveals a resort with numerous cabin lots, camping Places, a club house, a Sunset Park (with Lover's Leap overlooking Sumach j-reek). Lake Clamera (on the east) formed by a couple of springs, a playground, bath houses, and streets named Prado Drive. Lake Drive. Cherokee Drive. Donaldson Road. Spring Street. Speer Street. Woodrow Street, North Cohutta, and Murray Avenue.
While all of Mr. Speer's dreams did not come true for Cohutta Springs (Lot 320, 27th District, 2nd Section) many of the ideas did become realities. Several springs were brought together and joined Cohutta Creek on the south side of the complex while Sumach Creek was on the north. A hotel with about 10 rooms was built over Cohutta Creek and opened in 1916. A reservoir was built on the side of the mountain to provide water for the various cabins. There was a lake with a swimming area and fishing spots. A mill was constructed on the north side and while some corn was ground there, the building's other use was as a dance hall {located on the second floor). The mill was powered by water though a turbine was installed later. It is still standing though it's in poor condition.
Several families from Dalton along with a few from Murray County and other places had cottages near the hotel. Mr. E.G. Coffey purchased the hotel in the 1930's and successfully operated it for several years. The Coffeys served Sunday dinner to many visitors to the Springs. Mr, Coffey's daughter, Leah Halm, remembers that Tom Lambert. Frank Percy, Pleas Smith. Joe McCamy, John Hill, Grace McCamy, George Horan.the Woods, Rose and Kate Freeman, Wright Mitchell. Mr. Speers, Fred Brown, the Farrars, and Mrs. Wilson Calhoun were among those who owned cabins. She also reports that square dances were held on Saturday nights with the Coffey brothers furnishing the music.
Dot Seaton described Cohutta Springs as follows in her Dalton newspaper column.
"The natural beauty of the section combined with the attractive hotel make it an ideal place to stay or camp. In the surrounding hills are echoes of the days when hillbilly bands played their Saturday night tunes for square dancing. There is a lake and a stream and a mountain and some wonderfully cool night to attract people to Cohutta Springs."
The old hotel was torn down after the Coffeys moved "down the road" to a two-story house formerly owned by the Ramseys, Following World War II Cohutta Springs had fewer visitors. As the years passed some owners sold cabins while other collages were dismantled. The Kemp sisters and then the Springfield girls later owned cabins there. A few are still is use.
Many thought that Cohutta Springs was a thing of the past, but in 1977 the Georgia-Cumberland Conference of Seventh-Day Adventists purchased the original North Cohutta Springs property from owner Albert Ledford, Two years later ground-breaking ceremonies were held for a S5 million lake, recreational, and convention center project.
The first phase of the new Cohutta Springs project was completed by 1983 and features a 50-acre lake for water skiing, boating, and fishing. There is horseback riding as well as a gymnasium for basketball and badminton. Hiking trails, cabins, a motel, and a cafeteria and an auditorium complete the center. As the brochure for the new Cohutta Springs says "The legacy of beautiful Cohutta Springs traces its beginning to the resort and health facilities . . . whose pride was the famous mineral springs. A new chapter in the Cohutta Springs story began with the development of the current complex."
South of Cohutta Springs, east of 411. was the Methodist church which bore the Summerour name. Stella Baxter and Emily Cogbum have compiled the allowing information about this "Methodist Episcopal Church, South."
Prior to the establishment of the Methodist Episcopal Church South, there was a Mill Creek S.S.W.S. in this vicinity. Out of this, we believe, grew the church. We suppose, and have reports to the effect, that the Mill Creek Sunday School was first established years earlier near Mill Creek about one mile east of Crandall at the place known today as Beardtown. The Sunday school was later moved to the site of the first Summerrour meeting house, still carrying the Mill Creek Sunday School title which was later dropped. This first Mill Creek Sunday School would date back to the early 1800's.
Land was granted to the Summerour Methodist Episcopal Church South by Franklin Summerour on March 10.1869. Trustees were Robert McCamy, Charles Adair. James McCamy, R.R. Bates, and Mr. Summerour. This was on the easl side of the old turnpike road which went by the already existing church. The railroad was later built on the west side of this building and cemetery.
There was a second deed granted to the Summerour Methodist Episcopal Church South in 1895. for land on which the present church building now stands. The deed in 1895 was granted by C.T. and Cohutta L. Owens and S.L. Trimmier, trustees of the church and heirs of Franklin Summerour. The address of the church in 1895 was Loughridge. Ga.
All of the above mentioned transactions are for Land Lot 268 which is north of the road that the church is on. The land for the cemetery across from the church was never deeded to the church but members and their families have always been allowed to bury there. The cemetery is in Land Lot 273.
The present church building was started in August 1893 and completed in November 1895. The building committee consisted of J.A. Gregory. C.T. Owens, W.D. Gregory and S.L. Trimmier. The working committee for the building consisted of Thomas Stafford. Joe Stanfield. Jesse Westmoreland, Harry Westmore-land. J.M. Plemons. N.W. Harris. J.M. Harris. Henry Whittle. John Whittle, and William Mackey.
Public school and church services were continued in the old building until the new or present building was completed. Public or day school was held but for a very short time at the present church site. In the early 1920's the membership and interest waned in Summerour Church and the doors were closed. In 1935, with Mrs. Morris (Frances) Phillips spearheading the effort, the church was reactivated. For a time Sunday school was held on Sunday afternoons with guest teachers such as Dorothy Jackson Barksdale and Margaret Milam. The church was admitted to the Dalton District of Methodist Churches and Rev. J.B. Godfrey was the first pastor assigned after the church was reopened. Mrs. Charlie (Mattie) Howell and Mrs. Harrison (Etta) Phillips made the rounds of houses in a buggy soliciting donations for the purchase of the organ for the church. Mr. Ed Coffey donated the proceeds from a Saturday night dance at Cohutta Springs to buy the piano. This organ and piano are still in the church and in use today.
On November 18, 1957 a storm struck the Crandall area and the church was moved off its foundation. The building originally faced south but when it was repaired after the storm it was turned to face the west. Where it originally had two front doors (one larger than the other in order to accomodate the width of caskets) it had one double door after the repairs.
Interesting information found in gathering the church history:
A letter written by General August (Gus) McDonald to his wife during the Civil War requesting five dozen pair of woolen socks knitted for his troops and ready for the army dispatch carrier on his next trip to pick up supplies. He reported his men had not been hungry but had suffered from frost-bitten feet.
A letter written by Miss McCarny to the Adair girls from the Fayetteville Girls Academy where she was attending school during the 1860's. She reported that her studies were hard and that she would be very happy to be home for the summer parties.
Found in the debris of the storm-damaged building in 1957 by D.O. Baxter was a wooden corner plaque 12" square. On careful examination it was revealed to be a corner plaque placed in the church tower. It contained the names of each of the members of the building committee and was signed in lead pencil in their own handwriting. (These names have been mentioned earlier in this history.) It also contained this name and inscription: "Frank Gregory, the little boy who carried water." Frank Gregory was 7 years old at the beginning of the building program in 1893 and 9 years old at the date of completion of the church building. He died in 1910 at the age of 24.
Outstanding Members of the Church
Robert McCamy a district trustee of the Methodist Church and a leading promoter of churches and education throughout the North Georgia area and a one-time clerk of county court.
General Gus McDonald, a Civil War General.
C.D. Adair. tax commissioner.
W.D. Gregory, Murray County School Commissioner and tax collector in the early 1800's.
D.C. Trimmier, recorded in History of Murray County by Charles Shriner as one of the outstanding teachers in the early public school system.
C.T. Owens, state senator.
R.E. Wilson, state senator.
J.A. McCamy, state senator.
From the Gregory and Summerhour descendants are a number of doctors and teachers. In the McCamy and McDonald descendants there are also a number of teachers and lawyers.
Mr. J.P. Tarpley was a long-time officer in the church.
The Summerour Methodist Church disbanded in the 1970's and today the Amazing Grace Baptist Church meets in the old Summerour building. The Summerour name survives only in identification of the various cemeteries connected with the church. Across the railroad near the original church site is the oldest cemetery plot which contains many old graves, some dating to the 1860's. Also buried here is Mary Dennis McCamish who was born in 1776 and lived to be 101. South of the last church is the largest section of the Summerour cemetery and in recent years another addition was begun east of the church on the north side of the road.
As mentioned earlier, school was held in the old Surnmerour church for some time. The schol was then moved to a house on the Summerour farm near what was later the site of the D.C. Harris home and Payne's Store. The Summerour School was operating in 1880 and the next year found Mrs. Adelia Dickey employed as teacher. In 1884 Nannie Dunlap taught at Plemmons, east of Summerour. and in 1890 Summerour students were sent to Hall's Chapel. The next year W.D. Gregory had 18 students enrolled at Summerour's. Other teachers recorded for the school were Jennie Gilbert (1892-93). W.L. Henry (1893), John Gregory (1894). Houston Terry. Jennie Terry, and J.F. Cox. all in 1895-96, and J.M. Gregory (1900). Later, the school was discontinued and part of Summerour's pupils enrolled at Hall's Chapel School while others went to Dewberry or Crandall School.
Dewberry Baptist Church, founded in 1890, was the first Baptist church in the area. Located east of 411, the first building, though damaged by storms, stood until 1953 when plans were made for a new building. This buiiding was completed in 1956.
Rev. McAfee Bates was the first pastor and some of the names found in early minutes include James Moreland. D.R. Dunn, N.F. Wilson, Mariam Jones, J.P. Ash, C.C. Howell. and J. Speers. Pastors of the church have been N.S. Osbom, Oscar Davis, T.M. Davis, S.L. Gann, John Vineyard, R.L. Ellioti, J.N. Holcomb, W.E. Self. Mark Baxter, S.A. Crumbley, Milas Winkler, Ed Payne, Johnny Payne, Fred Winkler, and Raymond Beavers.
In 1973 attendance at Dewberry was about 120. Officers at that time were Sunday school superintendent Arnold Manis, music director Jack Weaver, pianist Jackie Weaver, clerk Denton Keener, and treasurer Linda Payne. The Dewberry Cemetery is located on 411. Nearby is the former Otis Hudson, now Greg Beavers store, across the road from the new Jackie Gallman Store.
The short-lived school at Dewberry had a Frisbee as teacher in 1896 and Miss Georgia Holland in 1897.
East of Crandall was a place called Beardtown where logs were floated down the creek to be picked up by trains.
The town of Crandall was founded after the L&N Railroad was constructed. Built in 1904, the Crandall Depot was sold to Jim Beavers in the 1940's. Lumber from the building was used to build two houses. Some of the telegraph operators at the Crandall station were O.M. Rice, W.A. West, Elmer Chambers, Paul Leverette, and Mr. Sullivan. The old water tank was sold to Morris Phillips who used the timbers to build a bam.
The railroad was an important part of life in Crandall for many years and residents remember at least two wrecks which occurred there. One train accident was in 1911 while another took place in August. 1920. James A. Howard (1874-1973) was a long-time section foreman for L&N in Murray County and left 'behind this account of the 1920 wreck:
"One train had taken the siding to let another train pass, but pulled out from the siding directly in front of [the passing train's] second section. The engineer, fireman, and brakeman on one train were killed. Engineer Gulley jumped off the train, but his fireman and brakeman were killed. Engineer Gulley went crazy one night and died soon after from shock of the wreck."
Crandall post office was established in 1904 with William Burton Foote as postmaster. After a brief existence the office was discontinued until 1908. Four members of the Phillips family then held the postal position--Charles S. Phillips (1908-14), Nellie Phillips Warmack (1914-24). Amelia E. Phillips (1924-56) and Mrs- Frances Phillips (1956-58). Julia Willene Bowers has been postmistress since then. Jeff Wood was probably the first rural carrier for Crandall and many residents remember the 27 years that Nelson Harris was their mailman (1946-73). Benny Hawkins and Dale Sluder have succeeded Mr. Harris whose wife. Oma Lee, also worked at the post office.
The post office itself has been at several locations in the last 80 years. In 1908 the G.W. Phillips store (commissary) was the mail center and next the post office moved about 200 yards north to a house now owned by Julia Bowers. The old L&N Depot was the next home for the post office and then the office moved across the railroad to a spot across the street from Dunn's Store. A new building adjacent to Dunn's Store next became the post office before it moved to its present location, east of the railroad.
The Crandall city charter was approved August 22. 1907 but was repealed in July, 1914. At that time J.H. Plernons was mayor while C.S. Phillips. D.B-McCollum. N.B, Bates, and M.C. Cloer were councilmen. Sometime in the 1920s or 30's the charter was reactivated but city government again lagged after 1936 when the last elections were held. According to old-timer Charlie Howell. the mayor and councilmen either "moved out or died off" and left him with the town's problems. So Charlie, the city clerk, declared the town's books closed, did away with city taxes, and went out of office. In 1971 there was talk of reactivating the charter or repealing it and obtaining a new one so that Crandall would be eligible for state and federal grants. However the government remains inactive.
N.H. Henry was Crandall's justice of the peace in 1928. Fulton Loughridge was the city's tax collector in 1919. According to census records Crandall's population has been around 200 since 1940.
Some organizations and churches have called Crandall their home. A Woodmen of the World Lodge (No. 1431) existed briefly in 1936. W.P. Hayes deeded property in lot 272 (10th District. 3rd Section) to a Church of God near town. S.L. Cantrell and J.S. Arthur were the trustees. This church met in the 1920's and 30's near where Richard Patterson now lives. Recently a Methodist church has been organized in Crandall.
Of course in any railroad town several businesses have existed. An important firm in early Crandall was the Crandall Lumber Company. Though it surrendered its charter in 3929. the company was operating in 1937. George H. Gearheart and W.B. Townsend of Cleveland were associated with the business. Tom Whitson had a sawmill on the Crandall-Ellijay Road in 1909 and several members of the Hickey family worked at this mill, one of many located in the area over the years.
Medical services were rendered by Dentist Isaac R. Stone (1912). along with Doctors R.C. Kemp (1913). Furr and F.C. Bentley. Other Crandall businesses included a Western Union station. J.C. Plemons Garage and Blacksmith Shop, grist mills, and barber shops. McCollums had a store at one time, as did "Pole" Bates (on the west side of the railroad near C.S. Phillips' house). A store on the west side was operated by Felton Loughridge. Max Greeson. Jeff Wilson, Buford Wilson. Noble Dunn, Theron Quarles, Gene Mullinax and last by Chris Wilbanks. Mrs. A.C. Wilson's Store, east of the railroad, was previously owned by George Gregory, Ed Payne, Dave Vaughn. and A.C, Wilson. Tom Ledford ran a barber shop.
D.R. Dunn gave land for a school in 1913. The building was constructed in 1914 on the east side of the railroad near Charlie Howell's. Until 1929 two teachers taught grades 1-7 at Crandall, After that only grades 1-3 went to Crandall which had only one teacher. Early teachers were Jim Steed, Harris Richards. Marie Kelly, Mattie Lou Walls (1916). Jessie M. Fain, Beatrice Hemphill, Agnes Kemp. Remma Belle Anderson, Price Bracket! and J.H. Wood (1917), Marie Stephens (1918), Minnie Foster (1919), Julia Groves, Inez Redmond, Macie Jackson, Ella C. Baxter, Estelle Gregory, Alfred Puckett, Thelma Wilson, H.W. Cordle, Elva Hicks, George Colvard, Lois Trussell (1931), Minnie Dunn, William Colvard, Rossie O'Neal, and Walter Richards were Crandall teachers in the 1930's. Other teachers were Frances Phillips. Will Dee Baxter. Stella Baxter, and Lyndall Bonds.
Crandall School was consolidated with Eton in 1951-52. The only trustees recorded for the school were C.S. Phillips, Paul Leverette. and M.P. Bates, all in the 1930's.
From Pleasant Valley to Boatwrights. from Hassler's Mill to Cohutta Springs, and from Eton to Crandall, McDonald's District has a long and fascinating heritage.
Murray County Heritage