It’s been 100 years since a county-wide meeting of “every one interested in the History of Baldwin County and its glorious past” gathered at the historic location of Blakeley. Attendees arrived by boat, cars and horse drawn vehicles from places throughout the county, Bay Minette and Fairhope being especially well represented.

Following a large gathering of the newly organized Baldwin County Historical Society (featuring presentations by several dignitaries) on the hillside just above the spring that had once served as the chief source of water supply for the town, the attendees enjoyed their picnic lunches in the shade of the nearby woods, toured the old town site and  the old cemetery. Photographer Max McGill of Fairhope then secured a good picture of the group attending the meeting (later available to purchase for 35 cents each).

The call for membership and attendance, and to spark interest stated: “Let us get together, before any of the thrilling episodes of the past are beyond recall, and formulate plans to preserve the details that will thrill the hearts of those that are to take our places in dear old Baldwin, so rich in promise of the future.” Mrs. Lydia Comings, President, stressed the need for funds for properly marking spots of historical importance, collecting historical matter and articles of value, and eventually to publish a history of the county. Annual membership fee was $1.00.  We should be proud of the fact that ours is the first county in the state to formally organize a historical society.

A hundred years later, the Baldwin County Historical Society has designated the afternoon of Sunday, October 22, 2023, to commemorate its 100th anniversary. It seems quite appropriate to celebrate the centennial of the Inaugural Annual Meeting at the site of Blakeley.

 

On the agenda for the Centennial Celebration:

  • Dedication of a commemorative monument at Historic Blakeley State Park; appreciation to all sponsors
  • Presentation of plaque to Historic Blakeley State Park
  • Brief presentations by representatives from Baldwin County Commission, Alabama Legislature, Baldwin County Sheriff Department, and Alabama District Representative will participate in the ceremonies.
  • A commemorative booklet and souvenirs will be available at event
  • Local authors have been invited to offer their books for sale

Membership is not required for attendance. All quarterly meetings are open to the public and locations are announced, as they vary.

 

SUBMITTED BY:  Susan Stein, The Quarterly Newsletter Editor – Baldwin County Historical Society.  Inquiries:  bchistsoc.gmail.com