USA > Georgia > Dodge County > History of Dodge County > Part 15
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They have plans under way to erect a log cabin club house in the near future. An Auxiliary was organized about a year ago, with a good membership. Mrs. LeSesns Bush was elected as the leader of this organization.
THE W. C. T. U.
THE WOMAN'S CHRISTIAN TEMPERANCE UNION was organized April, 1903, with seventy-five active and twenty-five honorary members, by
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THE W. C. T. U.
Mrs. Ada Wallace Unruh, of Portland, Oregon. Officers elected were: President, Mrs. M. H. Edwards; Vice-President, Mrs. J. F. DeLacey ; Recording Secretary, Mrs. J. M. Bohannon; Treasurer, Mrs. Mather Wynne.
The first social meeting of the Union, held at the Uplands Hotel in the winter of 1904, was a pronounced success. Every family in the town of Eastman received a written invitation to this affair.
From the day of organization the Union flourished and progressed. The organization was so virile and effective from the very first that wise heads predicted state prohibition would be the result, and so it proved. From this union came the State president, Mrs. Mary Harris Armor, and State corresponding secretary, Mrs. M. H. Ed- wards. who instigated and led the victorious fight for state-wide prohibition in 1908.
For the children a flourishing Loyal Temperance Legion led by Mrs. E. H. Bacon, Mrs. W. A. Burks, Mrs. W. B. Daniel and others was organized. The membership of this Legion numbered over a hundred children, some of whom appeared on State convention pro- grams as delegates and participants in declamation contests. One hundred dollars was contributed annually by the Union for promo- tion of the temperance cause in the State and Nation. The depart- mental work was stressed, especially the educational feature, and the work of the department of Flower Mission and Relief.
In the fall of 1903 Eastman entertained the State convention. Mrs. Jennie Hart Sibley, of Union Point, was at this time the State president. For many years Eastman Union was the honor Union of the State. The following ladies served as State departmental super- intendents: Mrs. E. H. Bacon, Mrs. J. F. DeLacey, Mrs. T. H. Ed- wards. Mrs. James Bishop, Mrs. M. H. Edwards.
Due to the work and influence of members of this Union the town and county were spared the erection of that monstrosity known as a dispensary. As a constructive measure in the field of education Dr. E. O. Taylor, of Boston, Mass., was invited to visit the town and de- livered his five famous lectures on Scientific Temperance Instruction in the spring of 1904.
The Union has always had the benefit of the moral support and encouragement of the churches, and in turn it has co-operated with civic and patriotic organizations in advancing, not only community
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HISTORY OF DODGE COUNTY
interests but even those of a national and world-wide nature. Red Cross work, the purchase of Liberty Bonds, the support of a French war orphan, and contributions to Near East Relief Fund are some of the Union's outstanding contributions. This Union's greatest gift to the temperance cause has been that intrepid, flaming evangel for sobriety and righteousness, Mary Harris Armor. One of the most forward steps for civic improvement has been the promotion of shrubbery planting, flower growing, and general cultural improve- ment of home grounds, city parks and cemetery lots. The Union, through its departmental work, seeks to emphasize educational work showing the evil effects of alcohol and narcotics upon body, brain and morals, and stresses relief work, child welfare, health, peace and international relations as well as other features. The work for the children continues through the Loyal Temperance Legion.
Since organization the following have served as presidents: Mrs. M. H. Edwards, Mrs. J. M. Bohannon, Mrs. Dudley Smith, Mrs. Alice P. Harrell and Mrs. Roy Pennington.
At some later date a Union was organized at Chauncey, Dodge County. Mrs. Jack Willis is at this time President of that Union; Mrs. D. B. Phillips, Treasurer.
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MARKER ERECTED BY THE U. D. C., IN 1918,
On spot, 4 miles from Eastman, where President Jefferson Davis, his family and a small force of cavalry, camped on the night of May 8, 1865, two days before his capture in Irwin County. The old darkey holding Confederate flag is John Davis, carriage driver for Mrs. Davis. Others in the picture are Rev. W. M. Blitch, Martha Edwards and Mrs. W. P. Cobb, President of the U. D. C. The oak tree is one to which President Davis' horse was tied all night.
PHYSICIANS.
THE following physicians have practiced in Eastman: Dr. J. R. Mood, Dr. Ike Mitchell, Dr. Joe Estes, Dr. J. H. Teasley, Dr. Montgomery, Dr. J. T. Rose, Dr. W. E. Miller, Dr. J. H. Lasher, Dr. D. M. Buchan, Dr. J. M. Buchan, Dr. T. J. Buchan, Dr. J. W. Buchan, Dr. Weaver. The above were pioneer physicians who prac- ticed in Eastman during its infancy. The following have resided here in more recent years:
DR. J. D. HERRMAN.
Dr. Herrman was one of the most prominent physicians who ever practiced here. He was a son of Henry Herrman, a pioneer settler in Eastman. Dr. Herrman began the practice of medicine when Eastman was only a small hamlet. He was an enterprising citizen as well as an eminent physician, having served the town of Eastman in various official capacities. He served several terms as mayor, as councilman, and as a member of the school board. No one citizen ever did more for the town's civic upbuilding than did Dr. Herrman. He served as High Priest of Ivanhoe Chapter No. 5 in Eastman Lodge F. & A. M. No. 279 for several consecutive terms. He mar- ried Miss Nettie Hirsch, and they were the parents of two children, Ferdinand Hirsch, who also became a prominent physician, and Hortense, who married Ben Morris, of New York City. Dr. Herrman moved to Far Rockaway, N. Y., about ten years ago where he con- tinued in the practice of his profession until the time of his death about a year ago.
DR. FERDINAND H. HERRMAN.
Dr. Ferdinand Hirsch Herrman, son of Dr. J. D. Herrman, grad- uated in medicine at Tulane University just before the World War. He was one of the first to volunteer his services to his country, and was sent over seas as Captain of the 2nd Division U. S. Army Med- ical Corps, and was Acting Regimental Surgeon of the 2nd Engi- neers. He was cited for bravery in action in the Soissons offensive and received the Croix de Guerre. After his return from France in 1919 he and his father formed a partnership in the practice of med- icine and surgery.
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PHYSICIANS
DR. J. B. CLARK.
Dr. J. B. Clark was another outstanding physician, having been born and reared in Dodge County. He had a large and lucrative practice in this and adjoining counties. He contributed largely to the upbuilding of Eastman. He was High Priest of Ivanhoe Chapter No. 5, and was also Worshipful Master of the Eastman Masonic Lodge, No. 279, for twelve years. Dr. Clark was married to Miss Annie Harwell of Virginia, and they were the parents of one son, Fred H., who graduated in medicine in Baltimore, and is practicing his profession in that city, where he is connected with Johns Hop- kins as an instructor; two daughters, Misses Alma and Mary, who reside in Virginia. Dr. Clark married second Mrs. Georgia Johnson, daughter of W. S. Coody, of Rhine.
DR. J. Cox WALL.
Dr. Wall began the practice of medicine here about twenty-five years ago. He now enjoys a large practice, not only in Dodge, but in the surrounding counties. He is an enterprising citizen, being at present chairman of the City School Board. He and Dr. B. W. Yawn are the owners of the Eastman Clinic. Dr. Wall married Miss Maude Allen, and they are the parents of two children, a son, Jack, who married Marietta Fitzgerald, and a daughter, Miss Mary Allen Wall.
DR. WARREN A. COLEMAN.
Dr. Coleman is one of the younger physicians who has built up a remarkable practice through this section. He is the owner of Cole- man's Sanatorium. Dr. Coleman served for quite a while as chair- man of the City School Board, and has also been county physician for the past twelve years. He married Miss Christine Edwards, and they are the parents of two little girls, Emily Carr and Bootee.
DR. C. T. LATIMER.
Dr. C. T. Latimer was a pioneer physician in Eastman, having come here when the town was in its infancy. Dr. Latimer was a Confederate Veteran and served as surgeon in the army. He was quite prominent in the affairs of Dodge County. He married a Miss Knowles, and they were the parents of two daughters, Mamie, who married Olin Pharr, and Clara.
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DR. HARRIS FISHER.
Dr. Harris Fisher was a pioneer physician in Eastman. He was a Confederate Veteran, and served as surgeon in the Confederate Army. He enjoyed a large practice in Eastman and Dodge County, and was also one of the leaders in civic improvements. Dr. Fisher sponsored the first Dodge County Fair ever held, which proved quite successful from every standpoint. He was the father of Guyton, who became one of the most prominent ministers in the South Georgia Conference; Ina, who married W. R. Hall; Maude and Louise.
DR. B. W. YAWN.
Dr. Yawn came to Eastman a few years ago from Milan, Ga., and since coming to Eastman has built up for himself an enviable record in the practice of his profession. He is associated with Dr. Wall in the operation of the Eastman Clinic, and is recognized as one of the leading physicians of this section.
DR. A. L. WILKINS.
Another prominent physician who practiced his profession in Eastman for several years was Dr. A. L. Wilkins. He came here from Jesup, Ga., about twenty-seven years ago and soon built up a large practice. He passed away a few years ago just in the prime of life. Dr. Wilkins was beloved by our entire citizenship. He was first married to Miss Nina Little, and after her death married Miss Bessie Peacock, daughter of Mr. L. M. Peacock, Sr.
DR. I. J. PARKERSON.
Dr. Parkerson is a son of Mr. W. L. Parkerson of near this city. He is one of the outstanding physicians of this section, and enjoys a large and lucrative practice. He is also one of the younger physi- cians of the town, and has a bright future in his chosen profession. His wife was Miss Annie Smith, and they have two small children.
DR. E. L. SMITH.
Dr. Smith moved to Eastman from Plainfield a few years ago, and has a large practice in this section. He is a man of good busi- ness judgment and has accumulated considerable real estate.
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PHYSICIANS
DR. JOHN BURCH.
Dr. John Burch was one of the most popular and beloved citizens who ever practiced medicine in this section. His only thought was to relieve suffering regardless of the financial consequence, and he never refused to go when called to either rich or poor. He died when still a young man. He was the son of Hon. M. L. Burch, who for years was County School Superintendent of this county.
DR. W. W. PUETT.
Dr. Puett was another physician who practiced here a short time only. having moved here from Rhine, Ga. After a short sojourn here he moved to Duluth, Ga. He had a splendid practice while here, and he and his wife were both very much beloved by a large circle of acquaintances.
DR. HARLOW PEACOCK.
Dr. Peacock is the youngest physician of this city, having grad- uated at a medical college in Chicago only a few years ago. He has a promising future in his chosen profession. He is a son of Mr. Richard Peacock of this city.
Colored Physicians.
The following colored physicians have practiced their profession in Eastman:
Dr. J. H. Thurber, Dr. W. L. Jenkins, Dr. F. M. Hill, and Dr. W. L. Whitehead, all of whom have made good citizens and enjoyed a large practice among the colored people.
DENTISTS.
THE FOLLOWING DENTISTS have practiced their profession in East- man:
Dr. T. J. Key, Dr. McGhee, Dr. Betts, Dr. E. Hill, Dr. Hicks, Dr. W. J. Wilkins, Dr. J. D. Williams, Dr. J. H. McDonald, Dr. A. Luther Wilkins, Dr. M. K. Sharp.
VETERINARIANS.
THE FOLLOWING VETERINARY SURGEONS have practiced their profes- sion in Eastman:
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HISTORY OF DODGE COUNTY
Dr. Parrish, Dr. Joe Vara, Dr. Bagwell, and Dr. R. S. Duffell.
Dr. Duffell, who at present resides here, is considered one of the best veterinarians in the State, and not only has a large practice in Dodge County, but also in several of the adjoining counties. He has a handsome brick hospital on Oak Street where horses, mules, dogs and other animals are brought for treatment.
OLD TRAILS.
IT IS SAID that the Indians had a trail leading from near the forks of the Ocmulgee and Oconee Rivers, following closely the Ocmulgee Swamp to Hartford, and remains or signs of this trail may still be seen in places.
The Indians had no permanent settlements in this section. Their towns and villages were located where they could find more fertile soil. It is said that the Indian women cultivated the land, and were wise enough not to waste their labor on unproductive soil.
But their hunting parties made distant expeditions and roamed everywhere, having certain convenient places for locating their camps where they could cure and secure their meat until they were ready to return with it to their settlements, where the women and children cultivated the little patches.
The white side of the river continued so thinly settled after the Indians had sold and abandoned it to the whites, that small hunt- ing parties of Indians would occasionally cross over the river to hunt on this side. Sometimes from two or three to half a dozen in a party would visit some of the white settlers, and it is related that the visiting Indians would approach so silently and stalking-like that they would never be seen until they were at you. Their first greeting or salutation would be a sort of grunt.
The Chicken Road.
There is a road through the county known as the "Chicken Road." This road extends from the Oconee River, near Dublin, to Hartford. It has borne the name of the "Chicken Road" since the oldest in- habitants can remember, and the supposition or general belief is that it was an Indian trail which was made by a tribe of Chickasaw Indians who roamed from the Oconee to the Ocmulgee River. It is a public road now and traverses one of the best sections in the county.
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OLD TRAILS
passing through Chester and Empire and thence to Hartford and Hawkinsville.
The Old River Road.
The public road from Hawkinsville, or Hartford, to Darien along the Ocmulgee and Altamaha Rivers was made by General Black- shear. The portion of the road through this section was probably opened in 1812 or 1813, when the forts and blockhouses were built in the country to protect the settlers from Indian attacks. In Janu- ary. 1815, General Blackshear marched his army over the road when he was ordered from Hartford to Darien to protect the coast from the British who had landed in that vicinity. He posted the road, placing the mile posts one and a quarter miles apart; the posts re- mained so for many years and are so remembered by many of the older residents of the county.
On his march to Darien Gen. Blackshear camped at Soldiers Branch between Jacksonville and China Hill where some members of his company died and were buried near the road. He arrived at the Little Ocmulgee River, near Lumber City, on January 25 or 26, 1815, remaining until the 27th, arranging to cross the river with his army.
Much of the interesting history of this county occurred in the immediate territory traversed by this road along the Ocmulgee River. It is generally referred to as "the old River Road," and it passes near Daniel's Mill Pond, one of the most picturesque spots in the county. It also passes Rocky Springs and River Bend, two more beautiful sites, continuing on by Temperance, China Hill, Jackson- ville, (formerly the capital of Telfair County), Clayville and Lum- ber City.
Prior to the War Between the States there was considerable wealth and culture along this road, in fact it was principally settled by the aristocracy of this section. The slave holders settled along the river where the lands were more fertile than the interior, and on account of transportation facilities on the river. There were planters of wealth and high social standing and men of note who resided along this road, among whom were Gen. Mark Willcox, Indian fighter and member of the legislature in whose honor Wilcox County was named, Gen. John Coffee who fought under Gen. Jackson in the British and Indian Wars and who served two terms in Congress, dying just as he
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HISTORY OF DODGE COUNTY
was elected for the third term. He died in 1836. There were other men along this road who served the State well in peace and war. among whom were Ica Adkins, Revolutionary soldier, John Daniel, Revolutionary soldier, the Bryants, Hamiltons, Humphreys, R. D. Mitchell. George M. Willcox, Kaynor Lowery, Alec Ragan, Simeon Bishop, and others.
This old road is one of the most beautiful driveways in this sec- tion. In many places it is bordered with giant oaks and cedars mark- ing the remains of the beautiful old colonial homes, most of which have passed into decay at this time. Some few of the old mansions are still standing, and it is with a feeling of sacredness to travel along this route and in fancy see the beautiful homes, with the belles and beaus of yesterday passing in and out and down the cedar bordered walks, the girls dressed in their crinolines and hoop skirts and the young men in their quaint costumes of the long ago. In the quietude, with only the rustling of the leaves and the singing of the birds, methinks I hear the sound of the harp and the tripping of dainty feet, intermingled with the heavier tread, in the dance of the minuet. But gone are these maidens fair and lovers bold, dust to dust have they returned, and their descendants are scattered like the leaves in autumn.
"The harp that once through Tara's halls The soul of music shed, Now hangs as mute on Tara's walls. As if that soul were fled. So sleeps the pride of former days, So glory's thrill is o'er, And hearts, that once beat high for praise, Now feel that pulse no more."
DODGE COUNTY'S RECREATION GROUNDS, PAST AND PRESENT.
AMONG THE MOST popular of Dodge County's recreation grounds of the past were what was known as Bishop's Grove and Horne's Mill.
The first named was located within the corporate limits of East- man, and was a beautiful pine grove where the Sunday Schools of Eastman gathered once a year for their annual picnic. This popu-
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lar place was also used by the boys and girls of Eastman whenever they wanted to spend a pleasant day close to nature and were bent on a picnic excursion. It was convenient on account of its accessa- bility. being located just in the rear of where Mr. and Mrs. J. J. Harrell now reside. The stately pines have within the past few years been removed, and it is now only a cherished thought in the mem- ory of those who spent many pleasant hours on this beautiful spot.
Horne's Mill, located six miles east of Eastman, is another popu- lar resort that has long since passed away. Here, too, the Sunday Schools of Eastman held some of their picnics. This spot was reached in two ways by the picnic crowds, namely: by private con- veyance, and through the courtesy of the Amoskeag Lumber Com- pany, which was located where Amoskeag now stands. This company, through the kindness of their manager, Mr. J. T. Colcord, would place at the disposal of the Sunday Schools the log trains of the company, and transport free of charge nearly the entire population of Eastman to this ideal picnic ground for a day of pleasure and recreation. Horne's Mill, through the breaking of its dam, has passed into history, only to be remembered most pleasantly by those who were fortunate enough to have the privilege of visiting this spot.
Another popular recreation ground was Aucheehatchie, located two and a half miles east of Eastman on the banks of Gum Swamp. This was a very popular picnic ground for Eastmanites. It was close to town and easily reached by private conveyance, and quite a num- ber of citizens of Eastman have passed many pleasant hours at this popular resort attending Sunday School, private and moonlight pic- nics. It, too, is numbered among the recreation grounds of the past, due to the fact that a sawmill was located on it and destroyed all of its beauty.
One of the oldest and most popular resorts within the boundaries of Dodge County is Daniel's Mill. This is one of the most beau- tiful picnic grounds in the State of Georgia, located on a large pond whose water is as clear as crystal, and making it possible for the "picnickers" to enjoy boating, and while thus engaged watch the finny tribes sporting through its waters, or leisurely drifting only a few inches from the bottom of the pond. It is only a mile from the Ocmulgee River, and the usual custom of the "picnickers" is to
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HISTORY OF DODGE COUNTY
stroll down to the river bank after dinner and engage in target shooting or boating on the beautiful stream.
Jay Bird Springs.
Jay Bird Springs is at the present time about the most popular resort in the county. This place is destined to become not only a popular resort to Dodge County citizens, but to citizens of the United States, due to the health-giving waters at this place and the wonder- ful cures that have already been made. The owner of this popular resort, Mrs. T. A. McMillan, has bent every energy to make it rank with any in the State. A large swimming pool has been built. the water for which is furnished by an artesian well, dug especially for this purpose. A handsome hotel was erected a few years ago, and a number of cottages which are rented the entire summer to those seeking health and pleasure there.
The waters of Jay Bird Springs have already made a reputation for the number of cures that have been made. People who are un- fortunate enough to be afflicted with eczema, and other skin diseases and cancerous sores go there perfect wrecks and after bathing in these waters and drinking freely of it, leave there entirely cured, only to "sing the praises" of this wonderful place.
It is not an uncommon sight to go there and find people from the Carolinas, Florida, Alabama and other States, some bringing with them camping outfits, stretching their tents and spending weeks there, their purpose being in search of health, and their efforts are always rewarded for they not only have their health restored. but find a spot where the hours and days can be whiled away most pleasantly.
THE EASTMAN BAPTIST CHURCH.
Copied from article written by the late Walter M. Lee., A.M., Th.D. THE EASTMAN BAPTIST CHURCH was constituted June 1, 1878. the presbytery having been composed of Rev. W. S. Ramsay and Rev. F. C. Waite. The following members entered the organization: Rev. F. C. Waite, from Bethel Church, Bibb County; Deacon M. L. Burch, Mrs. E. A. Burch, Laurens County; Mrs. Georgia Vining, Senoia Church, and the following from Sugar Creek Church, Dodge County: Noah and Elizabeth Powell, Anna P. Ashburn, Ella Ash- burn, George C. Culbreth, Margaret Culbreth and W. S. Waite.
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EASTMAN BAPTIST CHURCH
A decorum opposing traffic in liquor and participation in the dance was adopted. Rev. A. J. Battle of Mercer University, gave great satisfaction to the church and congregation by a sermon he preached soon after the organization. In September, 1878, Rev. James Wil- liamson was called to the pastorate, in which position he continued until October 23, 1880.
During the pastorate of Rev. Mr. Williamson, a lovable and pious old gentleman of excellent pastoral gifts, M. L. Burch was elected clerk, and G. W. Culbreth was licensed to preach. The services were held in the court house, except at times when court was being held, at which time the Saturday services were dispensed with.
During 1878 and the following years many of the members of old Sugar Creek Church gradually united with the Eastman Church. Rev. T. C. Boykin visited the church in February, 1879, in the in- terest of the Sunday School work. Rev. F. C. Waite was dismissed by letter to remove to other parts. Rev. P. A. Jessup and wife were received into the church by letter from South Macon August 16, 1870. Immediately Mr. Jessup became an active member of the body. He was among the first messengers to the New Ebenezer As- sociation from the Eastman Church, and led in the movement to erect the first building for the church. Out of courtesy to the Sugar Creek Church, Rev. P. A. Jessup, on the 25th of October, 1879, made a motion that the Eastman Baptist Church be called the Eastman Sugar Creek Baptist Church, for the sake of harmony with the mem- bers of Sugar Creek Church, who had a commendable pride in its history.
The Sugar Creek Baptist Church was established about the year 1811, in what was then Pulaski County, and was located about a mile above Eastman on the Cochran road, just across the railroad from the cotton mill. Stone Creek Church, Wilkinson County, into the fellowship of which the father of Rev. P. A. Jessup had been baptized, was established in 1809. The Sugar Creek Church was dis- missed from the Hepzibah Association in 1813 to unite in forming the Ebenezer Association. It came out of the Ebenezer with the churches that formed the New Ebenezer.
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