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Shelbyville Mills SchoolPosted Friday, August 13, 2010, at 2:54 PM
Just as caligal mentioned while responding to David Melson's most recent picturing the past blog, I'd like to see a lot of memories from those in lived at Shelbyville Mills.
I'd been considering writing a blog about the Shelbyville Mills School basketball teams. I attended what was known as just Junior High School in Shelbyville. We played the SMS teams in regular season and in what was than known as the Bedford County Tournament.
The SMS treams were much stronger in the basics such as blocking out around the baskets, shooting free throws, passing the ball to open teammates, etc.
But we all came together once we reached Centrasl High School.
Does anyone remember when the SMS gym was used for roller skating on certain nights?
I had a lot of school friends from Shelbyville Mills School. Great bunch of young people.
Showing comments in chronological order
[Show most recent comments first]
The Shelbyville Mills baseball team was a joy
to watch on a Sunday afternoon. I can still
picture Ann Gregory and Bill Troup skating the two step on the gym floor. They were magnificant.
I'm reminded of a story my uncle told about
the cricket league at Lowe's cotton mill in Massachuettes, where he worked before the mill
was moved to Georgia.
He talked about when the cricket team played it's last matches in the 1890s and gave way to the new craze for the silly game of baseball.
He immediately predicted that baseball would only last a few years.
He said most agreed that the last year was the
most boring season in the 40 year history of the cricket league. Family members were dispatched to awaken fans who were still sleeping in their lawn chairs hours after the match ended.
The most excitement of the last season was when rampaging bulls trampled three players, two sleeping fans, a red pony wagon and humped on the the team mascot wearing his cow costume.
The farmer sued because he said the once vigorous bulls became mediocre breeders, due to lusting after our cow mascot that was an attractive nuisance.
A bull expert said the problem was post-rampage stress syndrome and lack of attractive cows. The defense claimed the farmer intentional sent his
most beautiful cows to market. The defense also claimed the bulls were mercifully coming to the defense and aide of Billy Bobo. Billy broke his leg and an ambulance came to take him to the hospital. The town's eldely lawyer began chasing Billy's ambulance. The site of the elderly
lawyer running behind the ambulance swinging his bright red briefcase was the last straw for the frustrated bulls.
All this ludicrous legal bull-babble was just about the end for the floundering league.
I don't know how much of this story comes from my uncle's imagination, he loved to tell stories and we loved to listen.
-- Posted by Grits on Fri, Aug 13, 2010, at 4:55 PM
Bo, I enjoyed your article about the Shelbyville Mills School, BUT you are much too formal. People of that era knew it as the "Rubber Mill" school. I thought my friends who lived at the Rubber Mill were so lucky to have a gym, club house and baseball field within walking distance of their home. Since my girl friend lived at the Rubber Mill, I skated every week at the gym. I think "Pinky" Davis ran the gym. There were some good baskerball games between Bill Troup and his group and our J.H.S. We did have Bo Melson, Dan Smith, and Bobby Sanders but I think they won most of the time.
The Rubber Mill gym was a great place to spend the afternoon playing bball with Billy Lovorn and Franklin McKamey and anyone else who was there.
Bo you always were smarter than me but I did not understand the word "caligal."
-- Posted by jsutton on Sat, Aug 14, 2010, at 9:17 AM
I would like to see a blog on SMS.
I attended and graduated from the fine old school.
My memories of the great teachers,and basketball coaches could fill a book,but I am no writer.
Several of the SMS girls went on to be on the Centeral High's state championship team,under Bobby Locke.
-- Posted by Gus on Sat, Aug 14, 2010, at 1:59 PM
does any one have pictures of the village i grew up their and like to see and have some pictures to show children and grandchildren
-- Posted by aprince29 on Sun, Aug 15, 2010, at 12:00 AM
I am so pleased to some responses to my blog about Shelbyville Mills School. They gym was such an important place there. It was indeed a roller rink and I too remember Bobby Troup skating the two step! They also showed movies, had talent shows and, of course, the basketball games. The gym served as a playground on rainy days for the school. I think one of the reasons they had such good teams is that from the first grade, kids were taught to dribble the basketball up and down the floor. More memories and pictures, please!!
-- Posted by caligal on Mon, Aug 16, 2010, at 7:49 AM
Such great memories! I PLAYED BASKETBALL FOUR YRS. AT THAT GREAT SCHOOL. I REMEMBER GETTING FOULED AT ONE OF OUR FAMOUS TOURNAMENTS,ROLLED HEAD OVER FEET THREE TIMES AND LANDED WITH MY FEET UP AGAINST THE WALL UNDER THE GOAL.SURE WOULD LIKE TO REUNITE THE LADIES ON THAT TEAM. I'M SURE WE COULD STILL PLAY A SLOW BUT GREAT GAME.
-- Posted by silver on Mon, Aug 16, 2010, at 8:31 AM
I have a cloudy memory of Eddy Arnold and Tammy Wynette(? or another singer) performing a concert in the SMS gym in the early 40's. The fancy roquet(pronounced rokay) court out front of the gym was a wonderful meeting place for workers to compete and discuss the news of the day. After playing for years, some players were real experts with the mallets and balls. I've seen many backyard croquet layouts on grass, but I've never seen another court like the one at the old gym. I may be mistaken, but I think Austin(Pinkie) Davis's grandfather operated the concession stand in the gym. He would often let a youngster have a dime candy bar, if the youngster only had a nickle. If the youngster's friend had no money, he would give him a bar free. At times the gym provided badminton, basketball, pingpong, skating and outside rokay and tennis. If all that became boring, there was always skinny dipping in the duck river across the railroad tracks nearby.
-- Posted by Grits on Mon, Aug 16, 2010, at 12:40 PM
Thanks Bo, that sure brings back a lot of memories. I was raised in the mill village and went to school at Shelbyville Mills for my first eight years. I've heard my late mother talk about a lot of the things they did at the gym when she was growing up. I remember the sales room (U. S. Rubber Co. store) being in the gym which was operated by Hixson Pugh and Woody Thompson. Honna Clay played basketball for Shelbyville Mills and I know I am missing a lot of other names. The school had a successful sports program. I would enjoy reading what you have to say about the school. I had a lot of great memories from there. One of the things I have carried over in life is a lot of good people worked and lived in the Shelbyville Mills area.
-- Posted by redddj on Mon, Aug 16, 2010, at 1:01 PM
I have found some old stories we did when I worked at UniRoyal about the school and community and will share with each of you that is interested. I will make seperate post for each I scan and save to photobucket. Hope you enjoy, the first will be 1953 Shelbyville Mills Basketball League
-- Posted by redddj on Mon, Aug 16, 2010, at 1:12 PM
Shelbyville Mills School Football Team
-- Posted by redddj on Mon, Aug 16, 2010, at 1:17 PM
U. S. Rubber Company Mill Village
-- Posted by redddj on Mon, Aug 16, 2010, at 1:20 PM
Thanks redddj, that sure helps to bring back a lot of good memories. A lot of those people you named have been good friends through the years. And thanks for sharing a little bit of the history of the village. Helen Carroll is another name that was on the 1964 Girl's State Champions. She was the sister of "Duck" Carroll.
-- Posted by leeiii on Mon, Aug 16, 2010, at 2:17 PM
redddj: Enjoyed the photos and articles. The names sure brought back a lot of memories.
-- Posted by Grits on Mon, Aug 16, 2010, at 2:28 PM
You're welcome I have some more information. My grandfather (Oscar Skinner) moved here in 1936 to work for U. S. Rubber Company. My late mother was three years old when they moved to Shelbyville. I've always been proud that I went to the same school as my Mom. She told me many times over how special it was back in her childhood. I think being raised in that area of town, working at UniRoyal around good people made me realize what life is all about. As I mentioned before, the people who grew up in that area was very good people.
-- Posted by redddj on Mon, Aug 16, 2010, at 2:57 PM
Thanks for sharing your memories! Brought a tear to my eye. The picture of the village was wonderful! Like many others, I spent a wonderful childhood there. You couldn't get into much trouble because everyone knew your parents and where you lived. SHARE MORE MEMORIES, VILLAGERS!
-- Posted by caligal on Mon, Aug 16, 2010, at 7:56 PM
My roommate at Tenn Tech was Dr. Glenn Moore(Recently Deceased) who carried the Nashville Tennessean and Banner to the Mill Village in an "A Model" Ford during the early 1950's...I remember working with someone at The Shelbyville Mills Baptist Church "to cue-up" for the Sunday Nite Broadcast on WHAL...
-- Posted by FlaDon on Mon, Aug 16, 2010, at 8:23 PM
FlaDon, that was probably Pinky Davis. He did that for as long as I could remember.
-- Posted by leeiii on Mon, Aug 16, 2010, at 8:45 PM
I've just gotten around to reading all the comments written and looking at the pictures regarding the "rubber mill" area. I have known my husband for 45+ years and during all that time, I've heard about the experiences he and his brothers had growing up as part of that scene. I thought it was just HIS memories, but I now believe most kids from that era have the same pleasant memories. Randy, Don and Jimmy can keep our families entertained for hours talking about sports teams that existed in the "mill village". Too bad most kids of today won't have that.
-- Posted by reilly on Tue, Aug 17, 2010, at 7:39 AM
Since the Faulk brothers were mentioned I remembered the Gray brothers and Carlton had a brother named Jerry. And then there was Mickey Baker. There were a lot of good athletes that came out of Shelbyville Mills.
-- Posted by leeiii on Tue, Aug 17, 2010, at 9:08 AM
What wonderful memories. I didn't live in the Village but attended SMS. I even played a little basketball. Being a little shorty, I always played second string guard. But I remember the first team from 52/53. Adele Hudson was a lefthanded center, she helped take us to many victories. There was Justine, Sylvia one or two of the Adgent girls, Nettie Mae , Peggy and Polly. Chapel Hill used to scare us but we took a few from them. Sure would like to know where all the great pictures are that hung on the gym balcony wall.
My favorite teacher was Mr. Shelton, he was so kind. Ms. Hope was tough, Ms.Floyd TOUGHER !!
I learned many good old hymns when Mr. Mills called us together for chapel. Too bad our children and grandchildren don't have a Mr. Mills in their life.
-- Posted by marwi on Tue, Aug 17, 2010, at 11:22 AM
I have been told Garland King may have some of the old pictures,and they are in his museum,however I have yet to find out for sure.
-- Posted by Gus on Tue, Aug 17, 2010, at 6:21 PM
Redddj, thanks for the picture and write up on the Shelbyville Mills 1953 basketball league. I played on the "Greenies" team and we won the first league championship. But my name was left off the rooster listed with the picture. Life is not fair.
-- Posted by jsutton on Wed, Aug 18, 2010, at 9:08 AM
Regarding the photos and trophies from the gym..
I remember reading a David Melson's blog that someone had seen all those photos and trophies being thrown in a dumpster when they were razing the gym. What a shame. I am sure that many people have photos of the mill village residents in shoe boxes in the back of closets somewhere. It seems, from this blog, that we all would love to see them. All of my childhood memories were destroyed in a fire many years ago. Would love to have other people share theirs....
-- Posted by caligal on Wed, Aug 18, 2010, at 12:19 PM
I just today was thinking that very thing caligal. I recall many names in the mill village. I will name some last names see if anyone can share some memories.
McCoy, Curtis, Hutto, Dale, Segroves, McKamey, Elliott, Bailiff, Derting, Watley, Lovvorn, Skinner, Bonds, Ledbetter, Lentz, Oldfield, Finley, Marsh, Williams, Hurt, Sloop, Calahan, Statum, Moore and the list can go on and on.
My next door neighbor today is Dave Crawford and he was in management of UniRoyal. My mother use to talk about Mr. Crawford's sister Bell who was the company nurse when she was a child.
-- Posted by redddj on Wed, Aug 18, 2010, at 3:21 PM
I went to SMS in the mid 60s after any athletic teams were disbanded. But I have a picture of my older cousins in basketball team pictures, and it includes Sondra Locke in the late 50's.
Also some teachers I remember from the 60s: Mrs. Prince, Mrs Shelton, Mrs Cathey, and principal Mr. Stonecipher.
-- Posted by cfder on Wed, Aug 18, 2010, at 10:17 PM
The teacher Mrs Cathey has a son that I talk to often when I see him come through the flea market at Monteagle.
-- Posted by AmericanWoman on Thu, Aug 19, 2010, at 9:10 AM
Here is a link to a photo of the first shift workers, at the mill, dated 1935. The photo, and web site, belong to Gary Waters. His grandfather is in the photo.
-- Posted by threedogfamily on Thu, Aug 19, 2010, at 1:37 PM
My mother grew up in the mill village. I showed her the 1935 photo and she was able to identify Clyde Waters, Boss Waters, Rena Hoover Walters, Carlos Bailiff, Ira Pittman, Lester Curtis, Marshall Lundy, Geneva Hoover Curtis, J.L. Baker, and her father, Wilson Curtis.
Can you add to the list?
-- Posted by threedogfamily on Thu, Aug 19, 2010, at 1:59 PM
This picture is a little before my time, but a lot of names are very familiar. The Moore family had one of the first TV's in the village and they would invite all the neighbor kids in to sit on the floor and watch Howdy Doody and the kid shows.
Not a spare inch on the floor for someone to sit.
They had three generations in that household and it was a very religious, loving home. They had a housekeeper who lived with them as well. I think her name was Beulah. The "Moore" name triggered a lot of good memories. The children were Sue and James Moore.
-- Posted by caligal on Thu, Aug 19, 2010, at 2:22 PM
The Moores were my aunt and uncle and Sue and Buck my first cousins, the housekeeper was Sally Bomar and she raised us all. athe Moores, Bullions ans several segroves. The rubber mill was a wonderful place for families and our children and grandchildren have really missed out. I remember summer nights playing kick the can and hide and seek with all the kids at the mill village. I remember Halloween nights when Bulldog Tucker and marvin putting neighbors lawn furniture on top of Floyds Grocery which was run by Mr. Phillips and Buddy. I also remember my dad playing crochet when I was a kid' We had big summer cookouts and picnics with greased poles and pig catching with the whole village involved. What wonderful memories. So glad this was brought up and Reggie Cunningham used to have lots of the old pictures.
-- Posted by avaandsylviesmimi on Thu, Aug 19, 2010, at 9:10 PM
avaandsyliviesmimi, This is so great! Those are my memories as well! Summer was wonderful in the village. We left our homes as soon as we could get out the door in the morning and went home when it got dark. Everyone ate at each others homes and your parents were never worried about where you were. What a concept! Our kids and grandkids really did miss out. This is like attending a Village Reunion!
-- Posted by caligal on Thu, Aug 19, 2010, at 10:28 PM
This is great. Even though I did not live in the Mill Village, a lot of the names mentioned here were friends, or at the least acquaintances. I am really enjoying it as all of you take a stroll down memory lane.
-- Posted by leeiii on Fri, Aug 20, 2010, at 7:57 AM
I will always remember Shorty Campbell standing at the door of his classroom as we filed in for class. This was just after WW2. His bulldog, which I think was named Satan, sat at his feet with a menacing expression as it stared up at each student. Teacher Miss Helen Womack was an inspiration for everyone. It was a wonderful place for children and now that I'm old, I realize that it was also a great place for the elderly. The only place like that in these times is Heaven.
-- Posted by Grits on Fri, Aug 20, 2010, at 8:44 AM
I remember my grandmother telling me ghost stories, except she used the word hant. The stories that I clearly remember involve the sighting of a hant during the night in the mill village. She would follow the hant throughout the village in darkness. It would eventually disappear at the door to a neighbor's home. Soon after, a child in that family would die. Play outside after dark? No way, after listening to her ghost stories during the day. She frightened the crap out of me!
-- Posted by threedogfamily on Fri, Aug 20, 2010, at 11:52 AM
My father, Bob Overall, is the 13th from the right in the second row (kneeling). He wasn't employed in the mill, but he and Mr. Bob Holland built many of those houses in the village. Daddy did the carpenter work and Mr. Holland did the painting, I think.
-- Posted by luckylu on Fri, Aug 20, 2010, at 11:53 AM
avaandsylviesmimi - I remember the Moore family and Mrs. Segroves real well. We lived next door to them on Shelbyville Mills Road in front of Floyd & Huffman Grocery. Mrs. Segroves made me a shirt when I started to school in the first grade. I use to ride to church with Mrs. Hutto and remember riding the church bus some too. I worked at Floyd & Huffman for Mr. Phillips & Buddy. I can remember when Wayne Cartwright owned the farm up from the store and was called Royal Acres. Claude Statum, Artie Bell, lived up across from the Statum's. It is great to see so many come in here and share old memories. My first grade teacher was Mrs. Shelton, I remember Mrs. Wiggins, Ms. Floyd and of course Mr. Stonecipher.
-- Posted by redddj on Fri, Aug 20, 2010, at 12:42 PM
Teachers during the 60's:
1st grade- Mrs. Cobb
2nd grade-Mrs. Cathey
3rd, 4th, 5th grade- Miss Prince
6th grade- Mr. Stonecipher
A Miss Cunningham took over 1st grade after Mrs. Cobb. She also taught band. I really enjoyed that time. She was a very special, kind lady. She gave me private music lessons, and even used her own money to pay for lessons from other teachers in the area. She would drive me to the session, sit and watch, pay, then return me back to the school. Eventually the poor lady realized that I possessed no natural talent, declared me tone deaf, and moved on. Miss Cunningham was 100% correct in her analysis, but I still, to this day, appreciate her efforts.
-- Posted by threedogfamily on Fri, Aug 20, 2010, at 12:48 PM
And thanks to everyone who has contributed.
Bo, instead of writing a book about the athletic
teams, you should write a book about this blog.
There will never be another place like it, except, as GRITS said, HEAVEN....
-- Posted by caligal on Fri, Aug 20, 2010, at 1:55 PM
Was Miss Floyd and Ms. Prince one and the same?
I remember a tragic accident. Will someone please let me know if my memory is right.
-- Posted by marwi on Fri, Aug 20, 2010, at 4:11 PM
Who remembers Cedar Town. This was just beyond the SM Church. In my childhood memory, Cedar Town was the elite. If you had a friend there, you felt you were special.
Of course, if you had friends on Baker Street or Central Ave. that was ok too.
Many times we would miss the bus, and walk across the golf course to get to Baker Town.
We thought the old Moose Lodge was 'hainted.'
Only when we would get to Sam Moore's little store, with a couple of pennies, we were home.
-- Posted by marwi on Fri, Aug 20, 2010, at 4:29 PM
redddj I know your family well even though we haven't seen each other in years but don't you love to remember all the great times. School plays were great, as were basketball games, skating at the gym, movies after. Just good clean fun with responsible chaperones looking after us. Playing in the big field below the grocery store. Riding bikes all the way down to the reservoir behind the Rubber Plant (Remember That) even though our parents said off limits as well climbing the water tank behind the post office (I never did but several of the bigger guys did). Going to the dope wagon in the mill at night to get cokes and snacks. memories keep popping up that have long been forgotten.
-- Posted by avaandsylviesmimi on Fri, Aug 20, 2010, at 7:29 PM
marwi, I remember the "cedars". All the mill houses there were duplexes and it was a beautiful cluster. We used to cut through the cedars to the golf course where we caddied. Most of the golfers were nice, except when we got to the 2nd hole. The green was out of site and on top of a high hill. Golfers would hope for the best, but most of the time the ball was lost, rolling back down the hill into a small creek or in a ditch next to a highway. Many clubs were tortured, bent and mutilated at the top of the hill. I learned many 4 letter words and evern some 9 lettered words on that hole. The "greens" were filled with sand(no grass) and made putting a real challenge. But when a ball landed on the sand it staided right there.
One of the ladies who made our youthful days so pleasant was Mrs.Cunningham. She was in charge of the Club House. It was a small building away from the gym where we played checkers, card games and listened to her read thrilling stories. She was a lady with a good conscience, a magnetic warmth of manners, decency and a heart full of kindness. My sisters emulated her and grew up from wild cotton mill girls to become modest cotton mill ladies.
-- Posted by Grits on Fri, Aug 20, 2010, at 7:46 PM
See if this brings up some old memories. How many remember Mr. Elijah Floyd? He lived on the Huffman farm and then later moved into a trailer beside Floyd & Huffman Grocery.
-- Posted by redddj on Sat, Aug 21, 2010, at 10:12 AM
Mr. Floyd lived right behind us. He was a wonderful man. I remember his sweet wife before she died. We used to spend the night with them and sleep in big soft feather beds. After his wife died "Aunt Sharp" came to live with him, and man could she cook! One day a bunch of us kids were playing in the barn and we were going to walk across the rafters...well, I froze and they had to go get Mr. Floyd to help me across with a broom handle. We used to wake up in the morning and find fresh corn, and vegetables laying on our back porch from his garden.
-- Posted by pbd on Sat, Aug 21, 2010, at 12:10 PM
Yes, the barn was a favorite place to play. It was a source of daredevil climbs and jumps from the hayloft into the hay below. The beam across the barn was indeed a challenge for many. For others it was a "stage" to dance and perform songs on.
-- Posted by caligal on Sat, Aug 21, 2010, at 3:41 PM
I played against some of those SMS basketball teams. Brother and John Allisons' names were omitted above, Sonny Gray, as well. We played in the Bedford County finals at Junior High School on Bryant Street in 1950 and the final score was 16-15 (don't even remember who won).
I coached Honna Clay, Pat and Helen Carroll and Bonnie Graham, a great shooter, who was coached in the "Rubber Mill" tradition.
-- Posted by 1luckyluke on Sat, Aug 21, 2010, at 8:09 PM
All this talk about the Shelbyville Mills School has gotten me to thinking about some of the great nicknames of athletes from the past. What about Bo, Luke, Coke, Big Jim, Pork Chop, Chuck, June Bug, Ace, Bugs, Birdseed, Thorpe, Hap, Eyeball, Willie Pete, Fireball, Pootie, Pinky, Duck, Que Ball, Dickie, Pete, Big Don, Coon, Satchel, Sonny, Dum-Dum, Brer Rabbit, Tex, Little Tex, Popcorn, Hen House, Woody, Cowboy, Racehorse, Goose, Peewee. Those are just some off the top of my head. I am sure that many of you could add more.
-- Posted by leeiii on Sun, Aug 22, 2010, at 7:45 AM
No,they were different people. Miss Fanny Floyd,died in an auto wreck. I had her in 7th grade.Miss Prince lived in Flatcreek,with her father. I had her in 4th grade. Both ladies were were single,and good,very strick teachers.I can't remember exactly,but I seem to remember Miss Floyd was also known as Fanny Westbrooks.If someone can,please help me on this one.
My memories are many of the great old school,and the mill village.
I remember some more of the great basketball players.Sheila Reed,Barbara Jean Cook,Belita Nelson,Linda Pigg,Loraine Dodson,Barbara Baker,Connie Locke,and myself who never played in any games,but I was a great 3rd string bench warmer.The boys I remember,Vance Clay,Gussie Wright,Buddy Dodson,Donald Caroll,Donald Locke,Sandra's brother,and some that have already been mentioned.
-- Posted by Gus on Sun, Aug 22, 2010, at 5:02 PM
I remember Miss Floyd had a sign on her door which read Mrs. Fannie Westbrooks. She died in an auto accident in the mid 60's. I googled Shelbyville Mills School and got this:
Williamson, Joe Toole,,81,May 29, ,1941,pg 2,Buried Flat Creek Cemetery Parents; Tom Williamson and Kate Toole Williamson. Married to Sally Hutson who died in 1937. 2 daughters; Mary Ruth Williamson of Singleton and Mrs. W. E. Snellof Haley. 2 sons; Kenneth Williamson, principal of Shelbyville Mills School and E. H. Williamson of Monroe, LA
Does anyone recall Kenneth Williamson who was principal of the school in 1941? I heard my mother talk about Prof. Mills and James K. Cortner. I remember Odell Winfree, Walter Stonecipher and after I was long gone Wallace Redd.
-- Posted by redddj on Sun, Aug 22, 2010, at 5:42 PM
This link has some information about United States Rubber Company and Shelbyville Mills.
-- Posted by redddj on Sun, Aug 22, 2010, at 5:48 PM
David Melson had a blog in February 2007 mentioning a Royal address. I remember our mailing address was Royal Station, Shelbyville, TN. The first postmaster I recall was Dot Pinkston. Mrs. Rollin Altman was the postmaster for years and the last postmaster was Gladys Reid Marsh.
-- Posted by redddj on Sun, Aug 22, 2010, at 5:57 PM
Bo, did you expect this great response. I did, and I am sure there is more to come.
What special memories.
-- Posted by marwi on Sun, Aug 22, 2010, at 6:04 PM
I found some more stories from the UniRoyal Flash and wanted to share with those who find them of interest. I am also including the link to the history of Shelbyville Mills Baptist Church.
Shelbyville Mills Baptist Church
A. B. Alexander
Shelbyville Mills Church of Christ
1981 UniRoyal Softball Team
-- Posted by redddj on Sun, Aug 22, 2010, at 6:31 PM
Is the old school building still standing?
Some time ago, I met a man in Las Vegas that said he was building game machines in that old building. If memory serves, he was a friend of Bobby Sanders.
Another rumor, Sondra Locke wanted to buy the light that hung outside the front door.
Me, I would never trade my memories for that light. For the most part that thing never worked anyway!!
-- Posted by marwi on Sun, Aug 22, 2010, at 9:58 PM
Are there any pictures of the school around anywhere? There must be some historical records somewhere. Maybe we just didn't stand still long enough to take pictures!
-- Posted by caligal on Mon, Aug 23, 2010, at 2:04 AM
I grew up at the Rubber Mill and even though people keep saying all the homes were duplexes, they are wrong. We lived right across from the school and were known as the "Thompson Kids". Our home was a single dwelling and next to us was the Davis family (Pinky was the son as you all know and was my coach and Hixson Pugh coached the guards). Next to them were the Grays, Browns, and the Pinkstons. There were also single homes that led to the old golf course and of course high on a hill was Mr. Riddle's farm and in the winter we could go there and sled in the snow. About Miss Westbrooks who was killed in an auto accident was also Mrs. Floyd. I have some old Mill newspapers and it has a picture of the teachers at that time. Doesn't anyone remember Mr. Mills and later on Mr. Cortner as the principals? I would like to mention that since my family played basketball for the Royals some people remember my brother Woody, does anyone remember when he shot the ball before halftime and was on the other end of the court and made it? Back then you didn't get 3 points for that. I could go on about other people, but will save that for another time
-- Posted by Number25 on Mon, Aug 23, 2010, at 9:00 AM
Charlie Payne was very instrumental in the success of the Shelbyville Mills area. He is the father of Tren Payne. I remember Norman Hasty who was the industrial relations director for the plant for many years.
You're correct "number25" the village was not all duplexes. The houses that was by the plant was a mixture of single dwelling and duplexes. My mother had told me that they lived behind the plant and that was torn down when the plant was expanded. She said her brother was born in March 1941 at the house they lived.
When I started to school at Shelbyville Mills the teachers:
1st grade - Mrs. Shelton
2nd grade - Mrs. Cathey
3rd grade - Mrs. Wiggins
4th grade - Miss Prince
5th grade - Mrs. Shofner
6th grade - Mr. Winfree (principal)
7th grade - Miss Floyd
8th grade - Mr. Shelton
Special Education - Mr. Enos
-- Posted by redddj on Mon, Aug 23, 2010, at 9:29 AM
I remember Mr. Mills. His name has been mentioned in an earlier note in this blog. I
remember that when I started 1st grade, my teacher was Mrs. Hale. I think her family owned Hale's Dept. Store.
-- Posted by caligal on Mon, Aug 23, 2010, at 11:13 AM
Just a sneak preview here:
Watch the print version of the T-G on Wednesday for a large photo (actually two large photos now -- it was so large we had to scan it in two parts) of the first shift of the "Rubber Mill" from May 1935, with several hundred people pictured.
It may or may not go on my Picturing the Past blog because, even in two parts, it's probably too large for a web page.
-- Posted by David Melson on Mon, Aug 23, 2010, at 1:34 PM
I mentioned that mill houses in the cedars were duplexs. That was because most of the kids I knew and played with lived in a duplex in the cedars. I remember the Thompson's house across from the front of the school. And the houses along that line were single houses. All the cedar houses had a mailbox down on the road to Shelbyville. A lot of mailboxs in a row. We were all facinated during WW2 when German POWs lived in tents in a field next to the Riddle house. Mr Riddle's son Albert Riddle lived there and he was a much admired person by all who knew him. I believe the German POWs were more than happy to be living the life of Riley out in the sun and fresh air and from the smells very tasty food 3 times each day.
-- Posted by Grits on Mon, Aug 23, 2010, at 2:32 PM
I only went to 2nd grade at Shelbyville Mills, but it is well remembered! My teacher was Mrs. Cartwright. How about the lunchroom,going down the stairs, standing in line for morning juice, and the ladies Mrs. Lovvorn and Mrs.Carroll,plus I'm sure others. Luden's cough drops were always a good choice to buy at the gym.!!
-- Posted by nanato5 on Tue, Aug 24, 2010, at 11:02 AM
I posted above that I thought the 1935 photo might be too large for a blog. I split it into six parts, it looks fine and it's now in this week's Picturing the Past (PTP #75) blog.
-- Posted by David Melson on Tue, Aug 24, 2010, at 11:29 AM
And after I posted the above I noticed the link to that photo further up in the comments. Anyway, it'll be in the paper Wednesday.
-- Posted by David Melson on Tue, Aug 24, 2010, at 11:31 AM
Speaking of the stairs in the school.....When I started school in the first grade, I did not want to go to school, so, I walked into the front door and continued down the stairs, out the back door and went home!!! I was escorted back to school by my mother. Sometimes I would swing on the swingsets near the gym before I went home..Fond
-- Posted by caligal on Tue, Aug 24, 2010, at 12:37 PM
No onementioned the 4th grade teacher, Miss Buchaun; later Mrs. Hall. One of my favorite teachers. although they were ALL good teachers. In my opinion much better than we have today. As someone mentioned earlier, our kids could sure use a Mr. Mills in their lives. I remember when We went for assembly in the auditorium; his first words were, "In the beginning, God." and he would say a prayer. And you, Thompson girl I remember you and Woody, You were in all my classes best I remember.
-- Posted by toad on Tue, Aug 24, 2010, at 6:39 PM
i also went to school at shelbyville mill and would love some pictures of the village i had
Mrs Shelton, Mrs Cathy, Ms Prince,Ms.Westbrooks
Mr.Stoneciper, Mrs, Wiggens,Mr Shelton
and just saw Mr& Mrs Phillips that ran the store in the Village at the Glen oaks Nursing home
MR Buddy Phillips is their recovering from a illness Mrs philips also worked at Guys market on Cannon BLV. Was nice talking with him about the village when i was a little girl he remember my parents and grand parents I am hooked on all the info about the Rubber Mill and the Village keep send photos and info
-- Posted by aprince29 on Tue, Aug 24, 2010, at 10:15 PM
I too went to the Rubber Mill School and on the first day, I went in the front door and out the back. Of course, my Mother took me back after a good spanking. We shopped at the Rubber Mill store on the upper floor of the gym. I remember getting a pair of US Keds. We played a lot of basketball in that gym. It could really get rough at times. I loved the swings outside and could really go high in those things. I had to escort a classmate to the company nurse once because he had been jabbed by a pencil and the lead stuck very deep. Guess who did the jabbing. We walked down the railroad tracks and at that age, a third grader, it was a long walk. When I come to Shelbville, I always take a drive through that area. Great place to grow up.
-- Posted by henrys on Tue, Aug 24, 2010, at 10:50 PM
Love all the blogs about old memories, I know thr Thompsons well, where is older brother, Denzil,. I loved Mr. mills, he was probably my favorite teacher even though when I was much younger I was scared of him. I fell out of the swings at the gym and broke my arm once. I remember how much fun we had skating at the gym.
-- Posted by avaandsylviesmimi on Wed, Aug 25, 2010, at 11:05 AM
While on a visit to Shelbyville many years ago,
I drove through the village. At that time they had torn down all the houses. All that was left was the cement foundations. Weeds were all grown up around the houses and even in the streets. It was really a sad sight. All I could think about was the people who had lived there and I could just see us all playing in the yards, turning flips and playing games. It was a very traumatic experience to see that. All of you sharing the happy times really is a joy. Thanks to all of you.
-- Posted by caligal on Wed, Aug 25, 2010, at 11:31 AM
Oh what a wonderful Blog! I happened upon it while doing some family history research. My name is Reggina (Gina) and my daddy is the Reggie Cunningham you speak of "avaandsylviesmimi" in your post on Thu, Aug 19, 2010, at 9:10 PM. Not sure you are aware that he is in very ill health, having had both legs amputated in last year due to dibeties complications. Also having dialysis 3 times a week. My dad as well as my both of my grandfathers worked at the Rubber Mill for years. My maternal grandfather Ivy M. Bush (16th Model Rd, Manchester) retired from the rubber mill (weaving looms) he always worked night shift & farmed during the daytime. My dad Reggie last worked at the Pencil Mill, before having to retire due to his health. I am doing research on my Cunningham side of the Family, so if anyone can help me with any info it would be greatly appreciated, please email me @ email@example.com Thanks!
-- Posted by ArtistEyesBlue on Wed, Aug 25, 2010, at 1:26 PM
ArtistEyesBlue, I am sorry to hear about your Father. In my lifetime I knew both Reggie and Tim in our ball playing days.
-- Posted by leeiii on Wed, Aug 25, 2010, at 4:39 PM
ArtistEyesBlue, I am so very sorry to hear about Reggie. I was a classmate of his. I am sure everyone in "the village" sends our very best wishes to him and your family. God bless you all.
-- Posted by caligal on Wed, Aug 25, 2010, at 5:57 PM
Oh artisteyesblue, you touched a sweet place in my heart. I had such puppy love for Reggie's older brother Tim. I am so sorry to learn of your dad's ill health. I remember Reggie and one of my brothers being close. As I mentioned in an earlier post, we were Baker Street and Central Ave., but we held a place in the history of SMS and the mill. All the kids in Bakertown went to SMS until they went on to high school. Many, many of their parents worked at the Rubber Mill.
Now and then on the www, I will look for videos of Law And Order, just to catch a quick look at the son of my first love~~~~~~I was twelve years old !!
-- Posted by marwi on Wed, Aug 25, 2010, at 6:45 PM
Artisteyesblue, we are all praying for your father and your family. As far as I know back in those days your father and all of us lived a wonderful life. I am older than Reggie, but I remember Tim and Reggie as very gregarious youngsters with big smiles.
marwi: I rode my bycicle so many times up to Bakertown to visit Tony & Skemp Statum and Dorris Pilkington. If only I could walk down that street one more time as it was in the 40s. I would be filled with all the happiness that I had back then, but never realized it until that special place was gone.
-- Posted by Grits on Wed, Aug 25, 2010, at 7:27 PM
Grits you lost me with the 40s. I was the early 50s.
One of my memories of Bakertown was Mr.Baker and that little beer stand.
Benny Dean's mom was so nice, she would let Doris Fuston and I use the phone to call our 'pretend boy friends'.
Who remembers the phone prefix or was it, operater, give me 362.....
-- Posted by marwi on Wed, Aug 25, 2010, at 8:16 PM
marwi: Yes, it's too bad, but now I am 80 and so many of the memories and people during my days in SMS are fading away. I quess most of the commenters never knew my acquintances and school mates. But, I sure enjoy it when I am reminded of persons and places I knew. I lived in the mill village from 1940-1951. And years 55-62 in town. Almost all of my school mates are gone. I am trying to locate a phone book from about 1939or40 which I saw in 1987, and at that time the phones were operator calls. We used to laugh that the operators knew everything about everybody in Shelbyville. I used to ask the operator to ring my girlfriend by name and she would say "OK sweetie I'll ring her". Much more sophisticated system to contact another person than our iphones/cell phones of today.
-- Posted by Grits on Wed, Aug 25, 2010, at 9:07 PM
When someone was on a party phone line, you ask for 356, ring 1, 2 or 3! Some things we haven't touched on are the floods that hit the houses behind the reservoir. I remember when the floods came our house was higher up and we had so many people sleeping on pallets on our floors that we had to step over people in the morning. Everyone helped out then; no one thought of going to a hotel or shelter--you went to a neighbor. That was the soul and character of the village.
-- Posted by caligal on Wed, Aug 25, 2010, at 10:14 PM
Grits, You mentioned Dorris Pilkington. My wife and I have been working on our geneology for some time now. Dorris is on my wife's side of the family and we have stayed in contact with him and his wife.
-- Posted by leeiii on Thu, Aug 26, 2010, at 6:38 AM
I just read the blogs again today and someone mentioned my brother, Denzol and I would like for them to know that sadly he passed away in 2000. He was a wonderful brother as were all the others in my family. And about Reggie Cunningham, I'm truly sorry for what you're going through and my prayers are with all of you.
-- Posted by Number25 on Thu, Aug 26, 2010, at 8:52 AM
Another sad note. In today's newspaper is the obituary of Shirlene Ledbetter Harris. She was
a village girl and I remember all the good times we had together as kids. As the village residents age, it is time to share all the good memories.
-- Posted by caligal on Thu, Aug 26, 2010, at 9:35 AM
leeiii, thanks for the info about Dorris Pilkington. last I heard he lived in Seattle??
He was a super person to know in my early years. I never heard a bad comment about him. The last I heard he was living in Seattle?? Somehow I know he has had a very happy life.
A family that lived across the street from Dorris had the meanest dog I've ever heard of or seen. He stood at the fence and growled visciously, while slobbering, and desperate to get out of that fence, to kill everybody on Baker street. I went by the house 14 years later and without thinking looked to see if he was still there.
-- Posted by Grits on Thu, Aug 26, 2010, at 11:42 AM
Grits, they are retired now and living in Sonora, California. That is in the extreme northern part of California in the high mountains.
-- Posted by leeiii on Thu, Aug 26, 2010, at 11:56 AM
Grits: I have a pretty good collection of old Shelbyville telephone books. I don't have 1939 or 1940, but I do have 1930 and 1949 and the city directory for 1936. If there is something specific you're looking for that might be in those, I'd be glad to help.
-- Posted by marnold1118 on Thu, Aug 26, 2010, at 12:18 PM
leeiii: Thanks for info about Dorris. Sounds like a beautiful place to retire.
-- Posted by Grits on Thu, Aug 26, 2010, at 4:35 PM
marnold1118: Thanks for info on phone books. What a treasure of information. If you ever decide to sell the 1940 or copies of, please let me know. My sisters and I talk about the old times a lot and we have forgotten where a lot of people lived. It's been about 54 years and the memoory gets blurry. Meanwhile if I have an important question I'll comment. Thanks again.
-- Posted by Grits on Thu, Aug 26, 2010, at 4:40 PM
My daddy Reggie Cunningham wanted me to tell you all thank you for your prayers. I just got off the phone with him after reading pretty much this whole blog to him. HE LOVED IT!! He remembers almost every name listed on here. He wanted me to let you know that HE has all of the old pictures from the Mill Papers. They were just throw in a box down in the boiler room & he found them & brought them home. Daddy paid to have them all lamanated to preserve them & he has put them into books. He was NOT going to just let them get tossed out. So Mr Melton, my daddy has ALL of old photos & old Mill Papers. You can contact him if you want. I think it would be wonderful if they could all be scanned & put on a website for historical reference. Seemed the MILL didn't want them & was just tossing them away.... but those contain alot of history, & they hold the memories & beloved family members so my daddy was making sure they were preserved! :-)
About the pictures from the School Gym, he says the thinks he MIGHT know who has those, but he is not sure.
About the Trophey's from the school.... my daddy (Reggie) took all of the trophey's. He used the old pictures from the sports teams found someone that played that year & gave them their trophey. He successfuly gave out every single trophy.
MARWI: Daddy said to tell you that Tim is doing well & still lives right there in Shelbyville! LOL! My daddy is now living out on Hwy 80, (2 miles past the Moose Lodge) his address is still Shelbyville, but he is much closer to Lynchburg.
I thank you all for your kind comments & I am so happy I got to share this blog with my daddy! I know it absolutely made his day!
-- Posted by ArtistEyesBlue on Thu, Aug 26, 2010, at 7:36 PM
Please let Reggie know that he is in thoughts and prayers. The Cunningham name was long a part of the community.
I moved some of the stories related to the blog and they are not showing up. If anyone would like to have a copy sent to them send me an email at: email@example.com and I will send the information to you.
-- Posted by redddj on Fri, Aug 27, 2010, at 7:30 AM
Reggie and Tim were good athletes. As I often saw while covering sports Reggie did a great job of teaching a lot of young people the good, solid basics of baseball. And, I'm sure some of those Reggie taught have grown up to pass those lessons on to other young players.
-- Posted by bomelson on Fri, Aug 27, 2010, at 7:59 AM
I was so pleased to find out that many of the people who grew up and went to the Shelbyville Mills School still had the same memories as I do about a special place and a special time. I have so many memories of growing up first in Shelbyville Mills and then Bakertown and on Baker Street. I started school at the Rubber Mill School in 1936. I remember the good times that so many of you have spoken of, Bo Thanks so very much for bringing a lot of old friends together again. Dorris Pilkington
-- Posted by Dorris on Fri, Aug 27, 2010, at 3:11 PM
Thank you Dorris. I would not have guessed that this blog would have brought so much to each of us.
The memories are profound and buried just beneath the surface. All we ever need is for someone to tweet the goodness there.
Once again I will say, Our children , grandchildren and greats have missed something.
Thanks again Bo, well done.
-- Posted by marwi on Fri, Aug 27, 2010, at 6:14 PM
Some of the village names that I have recalled that haven't been mentioned are the Bullions,
Holmans, Sipsey, Sloup, Dale, Williams, Redding,
Jones, Mitchum, Nash. If you are out there, share a memory or two. I hate to see this end....there are so many memories. Bo, you need to write that book!!!!Thank you for providing us all a "sounding board" to share.
-- Posted by caligal on Fri, Aug 27, 2010, at 8:47 PM
My mother was a Bullion,
Leddie Ann Pilkington her brother Booker Bullion and my Aunt Earline lived in the Ceaders, my Uncle Leonard Bullion and Aunt Ivy lived across the street from us in Baker Town. They all worked at the Rubber Mill early 40's, also my Aunt Nettie Bell
-- Posted by Dorris on Sat, Aug 28, 2010, at 1:13 AM
Dorris, The Bullion family that I remember lived in the Rubber Mill. I don't remember the parents' names, but the girls were Sylvia, Connie and Pam.
-- Posted by caligal on Sat, Aug 28, 2010, at 7:29 AM
One name and place I remember was Ed Agent's barber shop. Some men were usually on the porch or inside killing time and talking. Some even brought a coon dog along. It must have been a boring conversation for the dogs, because they were always sleeping. Ed had a daughter named Edna and I think she married Joe Nash. I went to school with Tom Nash who was tougher than anyone else.
-- Posted by Grits on Sat, Aug 28, 2010, at 10:23 AM
I had never heard of the German POWs in the Shelbyville Mills area as mentioned in one response. Does anyone else have any information on this and anything on the crop being grown there?
-- Posted by bomelson on Sat, Aug 28, 2010, at 3:33 PM
Caligal, As far as I can remember the only Bullions that lived in the Rubber Mill as far as I can remember were my Uncle Booker Bullion and Aunt Earline. They are the ones You have in mind
-- Posted by Dorris on Sat, Aug 28, 2010, at 4:14 PM
Dorris, if they had 3 daughters, then your Uncle Booker and Aunt Earline are indeed the ones!
-- Posted by caligal on Sat, Aug 28, 2010, at 4:24 PM
Bo, There were German POWs In that area, in fact some of them worked on Baker St. in Baker Town just across the road from us. I remember my grandmother taking food to them. They had a gaurd watching them with a rifle.
-- Posted by Dorris on Sat, Aug 28, 2010, at 4:26 PM
ArtistEyesBlue, I have been doing a little bit of work on my family tree. Is it possible that your paternal Grandfather would have been named James Gene, and is it possible that your paternal Grandmother would have been named Blanch Gladys?
Dorris, is it possible that Booker would have been a nickname, and his real name Earl, and also besides the three girls would there have been a boy named Gary in the family?
-- Posted by leeiii on Sat, Aug 28, 2010, at 5:05 PM
BoMelson: The field where POWs camped; travel west on W. Lane St. turn left on Mill Road and proceed south. The Riddle house is on top of the hill across from the end of the golf course and the beginning of mill houses on your left. The field is on your right down the hill from the house. The POWs were in tents and I quess about 100 POWs. It seems like I heard they were overflow from Camp Forrest at Tullahoma? Previously the field was used for grazing as best I remember. It was about 1942 and the POWS were not there very long. Don't know where they went. You might ask Auston Davis if he remembers them, because he lived not far from the field.
-- Posted by Grits on Sat, Aug 28, 2010, at 5:10 PM
Dorris, I remember how kind the community was to the POWs giving them food, pillows, blankets, etc. We kids thought the sound of them speaking German was the funniest thing we ever heard. We would laugh and the POWs would laugh with us. They were very hard workers just like our parents who worked in the mill. Seems like Earl was Booker Bullion's younger brother and if I could see a picture I would probably remember both of them better, but my mind is getting cloudy.
-- Posted by Grits on Sat, Aug 28, 2010, at 5:21 PM
The three Bullion girls were children of Earl and Ethel Bullion; grandchildren of Leonard and Iva Bullion. Leonard and Iva also had a daughter, Marie. Marie was the mother of Don, Jimmy, Randy, and Carol Faulk. As Randy and I have been reading these blogs, he says "Oh, I remember him; I remember her", so this has been a trip down memory lane for him as well.
-- Posted by reilly on Sat, Aug 28, 2010, at 6:06 PM
Grits, Leonard Bullion and his wife Iva lived across the street from Dorris Pilkington on Baker Street.
Booker Bullion was Leonard's younger brother, and he and his wife Earline had two children, a daughter named Betty and a son named Gary.
Earl Bullion was Leonard's son and Booker's nephew. Earl and his wife Ethel had three daughters: Sylvia, Connie, and Pam, and they lived in the Mill Village.
-- Posted by tnsouthernbelle22 on Sat, Aug 28, 2010, at 6:18 PM
I got several emails for the pictures and sent them to those who asked. I got an email from Edgar Shelnutt who is the son of the late Bruce Shelnutt. It is great to come across so many families from the Shelbyville Mills days and reconnect.
We got to keep this blog going so here is a couple of names to recall: Shorty Buntley & Willie Baker. I remember both of them real well.
I do a lot of posting on the Fairgrounds Speedway Nashville facebook site and one of the post today had a connection to Shelbyville. Diane Bledsoe-Green who had a lot of family who was from the mill village: Her grandmother was Sadie Posey Bledsoe. We talked about Flossie Posey, Elmer Posey, Buck Posey and Wilson and Ruth Curtis.
-- Posted by redddj on Sat, Aug 28, 2010, at 9:49 PM
Thanks to all for getting me strait about the Bullions For some reason Earl and Ethyl had completely slipped my mind. You are correct about them beieng the parents of Sylvia, Connie and Pam. Dorris
-- Posted by Dorris on Sun, Aug 29, 2010, at 12:24 AM
Good to see that Tren Payne is still going strong. He mentions his father Charlie in this article. Charlie Payne was very instrumental in the progress of U. S. Rubber Company.
-- Posted by redddj on Sun, Aug 29, 2010, at 9:32 AM
To: All who have posted comments on this blog.
-- Posted by tnsouthernbelle22 on Sun, Aug 29, 2010, at 11:15 AM
leeiii: I don't have your email so I have to post here.
My paternal grandfather was Albert Lee (Monk) Cunningham My paternal grandmother was Mildred Martin Cunningham
My paternal G-Grandfather was James (Jim) M. Cunningham Born Dec 12, 1877 Died Sept 24, 1942 My paternal G-Grandmother was Alice Leslie Ethridge Cunningham They had 4 girls & 8 boys: Argie C. Welch,Lucille C. Granger, Nelle & Belle, Hubert, Raymond (1/2 brothers to rest, mother unknown) Harold,Fred, Robert, Marvin, Douglas (Duck) Cunningham
My GG grandparents were: John (William?) & (Sara?) Elizabeth Helton Cunningham Their Children were: Mattie Helton, Joe, Will, Bert, Dick.
My email is firstname.lastname@example.com if you have any info on James (Jim) & Alice or John & Elizabeth Helton that would be wonderful because this is where I am stuck. :-)
-- Posted by ArtistEyesBlue on Sun, Aug 29, 2010, at 12:32 PM
Computers, you gotta love em, previous comment posted before I was finished, to all who have posted comments on this blog, we cannot let this very emotional and life touching blog end without commenting more about the "U.S. Royal Ballpark".
The United States Rubber Company sponsored several baseball and fast pitch softball teams during this era and all home games were played at Royal Park.
They also sponsored teams in Little League baseball which was started in Shelbyville in 1951 and the Babe Ruth League which started in Shelbyville in 1952.
As Number 25 and Artist Eyes of Blue have stated, they have copies of the official U. S. Rubber Company newspaper which was called the "Volunteer".
Although our family collection of articles from the "Volunteer" aren't nearly as extensive as Number 25, and Reggie's, we do have several.
Some of the names of the members of the men's baseball team and the fast pitch softball teams will renew your memories. Names like Shorty Campbell, Bill Pack, John Dooley, Hugh Searcy, Amos Rainwater, Charles Rainwater, Hixon Pugh, Ray Coffey, Herman Coffey, Grant Smelcer, Carlton McCarty, June Carrolol, Rastus Arnold and Danny Willingham.
As all of you who attended ballgames during this era know, there was a field of high grass behind the grandstand and beyond the fence on the left side of the field line.
Many foul balls went over the grandstand or beyond the left field fence and landed in the high grass. Foul ball retrievers or chasers were supposed to find the balls and toss them back inside the park to the umpires. However, many of the balls got "accidentally trampled" during the game and were not recovered.
Come sunrise the next morning, many young boys in Bakertown would get up early and head to the grassy fields at the park and walk right up to the "lost" balls.
The boys of Bakertown played a lot of sandlot baseball and softball games. Either at a vacant field between Wayne Clanton's house and the West End Methodist Church or at Arnold's field which was down the hill on Baker Street across the railroad tracks and across the road.
We always had plenty of participants to choose from; boys like Calvin Blackman, the Bakers, the Bailiffs, Wayne Clanton, the Cunninghams, the Faulks, the Nelsons, and the Statums.
We used flat rocks and wood for bases, but we had an ample supply of "slightly used" baseballs and softballs.
-- Posted by tnsouthernbelle22 on Sun, Aug 29, 2010, at 2:08 PM
I'm Sylvia, one of the Bullion girls from the Rubber Mill, our parents were Earl and Ethel Segroves Bullion, Dorris, we are double cousins because Uncle J.C. was my Grandmother Segroves brother and Aunt Leddie Ann was my Grandfather Bullion's sister. Glad to hear you are doing good. You might remember Sue (another cousin) and I used to carry you to the airport when you came home. Reggie we pray for you and your family daily, love you. Keep the blogs coming. We're loving this.
-- Posted by avaandsylviesmimi on Sun, Aug 29, 2010, at 3:19 PM
tnsouthernbelle22 many of those names that you mentioned played fast pitch softball in the late 40s and early 50s with the Royals in a league that included Empire, the Practical Trade School, and maybe a team from Musgrave (not sure about that one).
Also when I started playing slo-pitch softball in the early 60s with Southside Baptist Church the Royals also had a team.
-- Posted by leeiii on Sun, Aug 29, 2010, at 3:27 PM
Thanks so much tnsouthernbelle22. I remembered all the people named, but I had forgotten their names from so long ago.
Olie olson was a great fast softball pitcher for the Royals. Bead Cook(Crawford Henson) was a fantastic left fielder for the Royals baseball team. He had a great arm and very accurate. June Carroll threw a mind boggling knuckle ball which seemed to defy physics by dancing up & down and suddnely right to left on it's way to the plate. Shorty Campbell was a great coach and Bill Pack make a big target at first base.
A lot of the players were in WW2 and when they came back after the war it turned the village and Shelbyville into a different place suddenly. Most of the area's 19-30 yr olds were gone for 3-4 years. Old men and young boys had to do their chores and obligations.
-- Posted by Grits on Sun, Aug 29, 2010, at 5:39 PM
Hey Sylvia, I remember you on that basketball court, you had leggss!!. You and your sisters gave all new meaning to blonde; made us little brunettes 'green'. How is Mr.WN?
-- Posted by marwi on Sun, Aug 29, 2010, at 7:04 PM
Thanks Bo for this great blog. I sure am enjoying it.
Do any of you remember,Terri Reeves,and what a great little basketball player she was?
-- Posted by Gus on Sun, Aug 29, 2010, at 7:20 PM
So many names still missing. Betty Ruth Wells, Sue Bridges, Jamie Wagner, Doug and Ruth Armstrong, Judy Lentz, Rena and Joann Agent. I remember Joann planning to work in Washington, DC. I hope she realized her dream. These wonderful people are also the history of the early to mid 50s.
-- Posted by marwi on Sun, Aug 29, 2010, at 8:32 PM
Sylvia, I do remember you and Sue taking me to the airport. I hope you and Sue and all are fine. Many Thanks for what you guys did for me. I shall never forget it.
-- Posted by Dorris on Sun, Aug 29, 2010, at 10:47 PM
Grits, Thanks so much for helping me to remember some of the times and places from what seems like so long ago. I see young kids today That can't get beyond a sidewalk or out of sight of someone to watch them for fear of being snatched off the street and it seems so sad when I compare their childhood with the one we experienced. Dorris
-- Posted by Dorris on Sun, Aug 29, 2010, at 11:01 PM
Some other names that I have remembered are Alene Pinkston, and Teresa Waggoner. Also someone mentioned that a Brown family lived across from the school. It seems to me that I remember a Bobby Brown and his sister Betty Brown. It also seems to me that there was an older sister named ? (maybe Barbara but I am not sure).
-- Posted by leeiii on Mon, Aug 30, 2010, at 6:54 AM
The playground for the school with the swings was neat. Remember the monkey bars which was behind the church?
-- Posted by redddj on Mon, Aug 30, 2010, at 9:29 AM
We lived at The Village too. The Sadlers, Oldfields,and Sipseys. Living first at the lower end and then we moved to the upper end. Dad was a young teenage boy when he went to the river bank and dug up a sycamore tree. He planted it in the back yard of his mother and dad's house. Years later some visiting cousins would throw the spiney sycamore balls at us. Whew, that hurt. I worked at National Pen in the 80's and would park under Dad's tree. It was one of the largest trees down there. Grandma always had flowers too and a backyard full of butterflies. What wonderful memories have been stirred up. Thanks.
-- Posted by shemac on Mon, Aug 30, 2010, at 9:42 AM
I bought my first boot skates from Dorris Pilkington, a really great guy. At that time I seem to recall Dorris was living somewhere off Madison Street. Later I was a classmate of his wife at Central High School.
-- Posted by bomelson on Mon, Aug 30, 2010, at 10:41 AM
Bo, he was probably living on King Avenue at that time.
-- Posted by leeiii on Mon, Aug 30, 2010, at 12:10 PM
Dorris, we sure had a lot of freedom in those days. No one ever told me to come in at night and noone ever warned me not to go someplace. We were free to ride our bycycles anywhere and eveywhere. How sad, like you said, children are like prisoners and must be watched every minute. Today one is born into a prison and when old is put away in a nursing home. Since we can't reverse our glass of sands; we'll sit drugged all day with folded hands; in a government approved nursing home; because the streets where we grew up are gone.
-- Posted by Grits on Mon, Aug 30, 2010, at 1:29 PM
Dorris, good to hear from you, Sue passed away about 9 years ago, everyone else doing great, Aunt Blanche will be 91 in February, I have 2 great-grandchildren, who are a joy. We owe our co. so I still work some but work-out at the gym mostly. Keep in touch.
-- Posted by avaandsylviesmimi on Mon, Aug 30, 2010, at 1:45 PM
Marwi. thanks for remembering what a great place we grew up, wn is doing great, still as much fun as ever
-- Posted by avaandsylviesmimi on Mon, Aug 30, 2010, at 1:53 PM
Bo, I hope the boot skates were not in too bad a shape when you got them. I still have the boot skates that I bought after those. They are in a trunk. Just couldn't bear to get rid of them.
-- Posted by Dorris on Mon, Aug 30, 2010, at 3:33 PM
Avaandsylvesmimi, I'm so sorry to hear about Sue. My condolences to the family. The last Time I remember, they were living in Pulaski, Tn.
-- Posted by Dorris on Mon, Aug 30, 2010, at 3:41 PM
Dorris, Our relatives who lived in Pulaski were Blanch Pilkington Jordan and Uncle Brantley Jordan, Aunt Blanch was Uncle J.C. and my Grandmother Segroves sister. The Aunt Blanche I was referring to is My Grandmother segroves daughter, Blanche Cunningham. Do you remember Aunt Lorene Moore, they were sisters.
-- Posted by avaandsylviesmimi on Mon, Aug 30, 2010, at 5:27 PM
Avaandsylviesmimi, I was thinking of Blanche and the first name that came to mind was Aunt Blanche in Pulaski, but now I remember Blanche that I'm sure you must be talking of. Give her my best and many more happy years to all of you.
-- Posted by Dorris on Mon, Aug 30, 2010, at 5:28 PM
Avaandsylviesmimi, I am very sorry to hear about Sue. I was of her friends (a muskateer) I always thought your Aunt Blanche was very "exotic"...
I am not surprised that she has lived for 91 years! And you're a great grandmother! Impossible.
-- Posted by caligal on Mon, Aug 30, 2010, at 9:18 PM
My Dad was J.L.Baker he did so much for the S,M.S. & church. Most people called him Gabby.
Pat Caroll, Pat Donegan, Connie Locke, Helen Carroll, Myself and Shelia Reed all played on a team together.
Pat & I were talking the other day about the great times we had at S.M.S.
-- Posted by silver on Tue, Aug 31, 2010, at 11:02 AM
silver, I have fond memories of Gabby. He and I were at Shelbyville Mills Baptist Church at the same time in the early 70s.
If there was a ball game going on anywhere you could count on Gabby being there just behind the screen at home plate.
Also, Mickey and I were schoolmates and team mates at one time or another.
-- Posted by leeiii on Tue, Aug 31, 2010, at 11:12 AM
Wish I had time to write more and find out who all these people are that remember me and my family. Those were great times in the Rubber Mill as well as sad. Some more families not mentioned were the Amos Rainwater family (his daughter Wanda and I were classmates for 12 years),Mark and Dot Bearden( children were Gale and Barbara),The Fults (forgive me I spelled any names wrong)and the Calahans. Also, the Adgents had a daughter named Deannie who was my classmate. Booker Bullion and his wife were said to have lived in the Cedars, but I remember them living in one of the houses back of the Church of Christ and the school. Some Saturdays, Mrs. Bullion would drive Betty, my sister and others uptown in their new Studebaker.Everyone mentions the barn,etc. but doesn't anyone recall the croquet and tennis courts? Redddj, I can't load any of the pictures of the Volunteer, but would be willing to scan them and email you copies of what I have. They are old and worn and may not turn out good but let me know who you are and your email address please. Another mention, I'd like to know if you, Bo Melson, is the one and the same that took a picture of my daughter and her first grade teacher (can't remember her name now but know she passed away not long ago)with her holding her German birth certificate? We were stationed there 4 years where she was born.
-- Posted by Number25 on Tue, Aug 31, 2010, at 3:28 PM
Number25 please send to email@example.com I moved some of the files and can send to you via email. I sent several the other day to those that replied to a prior post. I would really appreciate you sending those and will then post and share all of the information on this blog.
-- Posted by redddj on Tue, Aug 31, 2010, at 6:52 PM
Number 25, you came up with some very familiar names. Amos Rainwater was killed in a car crash in Shelbyville in the 50's I think. Deannie Adgent died many years ago also. The Bullions you mentioned are not the ones that lived in the village. They had the 3 daughters, Sylvia, Connie and Pam. Sylvia is contributing to this blog. Tha Holman family also lived in the village; they had 5 children--Martha, Dorothy, Robbie, Walter and another son. I remember the tennis courts. I think that at one time it was an outdoor basketball court before the gym was built. They actually played games outside. Does anyone remember the pool hall and beauty shop?
The pool hall had pinball machines and there was a juke box and dance floor. There was always a line for the pinball machines.
-- Posted by caligal on Tue, Aug 31, 2010, at 8:20 PM
I also grew up in the Rubber Mill, what wonderful memories.I have enjoyed reading everyones comments. Reggie so sorry to hear about your illness, will keep you in my prayers played with you Jimmy,Randy,Don & Donald in Grandmothers yard many times
-- Posted by cbb on Tue, Aug 31, 2010, at 8:36 PM
Number25: Made me so sad to see the name Amos Rainwater. I was talking to him one night in front of a beer joint on the Tullahoma highway. We played baseball together and the next morning my sister told us that he had a wreck and died. I found he wrecked just a short time after I talked with him. It did'nt seem fair to me then or now.
-- Posted by Grits on Tue, Aug 31, 2010, at 9:31 PM
BoMelson: You may have google advance searched "POWS Camp Forest Tennessee" for info on POWs. I did and can not believe the info there. I always thoght the ones in Riddle field were the only ones, but it seems about 3,000 came through Camp Forrest.
-- Posted by Grits on Tue, Aug 31, 2010, at 9:55 PM
Ricky is the other son you mentioned of the Holman family. I don't recall Mr. Holman's name. Beulah was the mothers name.
-- Posted by redddj on Wed, Sep 1, 2010, at 8:11 AM
could some of you use real names so some of us will know who you are? number 25 has to be one of my classmates too. i think one of the writers is donna thompson.
the bullions did live in the cedars, then moved over on bosses row. they lived between the callahans & fultses. they were the first to have a tv & would put it the window so we could sit on the guard rail & watch. gary was killed in car wreck too.
-- Posted by jepigg on Wed, Sep 1, 2010, at 2:22 PM
What areas, if any, of Sehlbyville Mills flooded when Duck River was on a rampage?
-- Posted by bomelson on Wed, Sep 1, 2010, at 2:42 PM
Bo, The lower area near the reservoir always flooded during heavy rains. The side of the village that the mill was on was backed by
cliffs and embankment that held the water back on that side.
-- Posted by caligal on Wed, Sep 1, 2010, at 4:25 PM
there was a spring branch that ran between the baptist church & the cedars that would cross the road. the river would cross the road in front of the ball park & joe reed's house.jerry
-- Posted by jepigg on Wed, Sep 1, 2010, at 4:52 PM
Yes, jepigg I am the one you know. Number25 was my basketball number.Hope you're well and wondering if I heard right about your sister, Linda. Someone told me she had passed away. and to Redddj, I'm working on the pictures and since they're old, the condition is not the best and I should have kept them better than I did
-- Posted by Number25 on Wed, Sep 1, 2010, at 4:55 PM
Mr Holman's name was Robert and Dorothy was killed by a car in front of the skating rink on Cannon Blvd. when she was 15 or 16.
-- Posted by cbb on Wed, Sep 1, 2010, at 6:14 PM
I will put the links on here now that I have relocated the links.
1953 Shelbyville Mills School Basketball League
1955 Shelbyville Mills School Football Team
U. S. Rubber Company Mill Village
A. B. Alexander (plant manager)
Shelbyville Mills Church of Christ
1981 UniRoyal Softball Team
-- Posted by redddj on Wed, Sep 1, 2010, at 7:59 PM
number25, Linda passed away in Jan 2003. Sorry, jepigg, didn't mean to answer for you. ;)
-- Posted by gottago on Wed, Sep 1, 2010, at 11:02 PM
linda died from radition treatment.killed the tumor & the patient. laura died before her from chemo at age 39. mary sue is a nurse in savanah, ga. who is number25 & gottago?
-- Posted by jepigg on Wed, Sep 1, 2010, at 11:16 PM
I remember one flood, Bo and we were cut off from town. The water flooded part of the SMBaptistChurch in the basement area. I recall my mother telling us when we were small about one flood that went all the way into the village area close to the mill. She had some pictures but I don't know where they are now. I don't think I was born during that one though. Sorry I couldn't be of more help.
-- Posted by Number25 on Thu, Sep 2, 2010, at 9:42 AM
1956 Shelbyville Mills School Basketball Teams
Photo courtesy: Number25
-- Posted by redddj on Thu, Sep 2, 2010, at 10:00 AM
This is the funeral arrangements for Charles Rainwater. Prayers to the family.
Mr. Charles E. Rainwater, Sr., and 90, of Shelbyville, died Wednesday, September 1, 2010, at Glen Oaks Convalescent Center.
Funeral services will be 10 AM Saturday, September 4, 2010, at Feldhaus Memorial Chapel. Reverend Bobby McGee will officiate. Burial, with full military honors will follow in Hillcrest Memorial Gardens.
Visitation will be 4-7 PM Friday at Feldhaus Memorial Chapel.
He was born April 4, 1920, in Bedford County, to the late Buford and Frances Atkins Rainwater. He was retired form Uniroyal Corporation after 46 years of service, and also from Wal Mart.
He was a veteran of the United States Army and served in World War II.
He was preceded in death by his wife, Corinne Rainwater in 1979, daughter in law, Dianne Spence Rainwater, in 2008, and a brother, Amos Rainwater.
He is survived by a son, Charles Rainwater, Jr., of Shelbyville; three sisters, Juanita Herrin, and Rose Clanton, and her husband, George, all of Shelbyville, and Norma Jean Kruger, of Wisconsin; two grandchildren, Jennifer Naron and Emily Collins; four great grandchildren, Dylan Collins, Amber Collins, Josh Naron, and Jordan Naron.
Feldhaus Memorial Chapel is assisting the family with the arrangements.
-- Posted by redddj on Thu, Sep 2, 2010, at 10:14 AM
I can remember the basement of Shelbyville Mills Baptist Church being flooded. I can not remember what year it was, but it was between 1970 and 1976.
-- Posted by leeiii on Thu, Sep 2, 2010, at 11:00 AM
No one you would know. I was just being nosy but I happened to remember her death. I'm too far removed in age from the generation this blog features.
-- Posted by gottago on Thu, Sep 2, 2010, at 11:01 AM
Number25 & redddj thanks for the picture(wish it had names) and the Charles Rainwater Obit. I can still picture Charles amazing speed when he was doffing a machine at the cotton mill. When a bobbin was filled the "doffer" came along to take it off and place an empty replacement. I heard that in the 1900s, when 12-13 year olds were doffers, that a lot of them were killed when caught in the machine. Back in those days of boys and girl child labor, 12-13 year olds were used because they had small hands, and were able to reach into the machines to tie broken strings. The cotton mills were originally in the northeast, but were moved to the south were child labor wss legal. Wonder if child labor is legal in China? Bet it is.
-- Posted by Grits on Thu, Sep 2, 2010, at 11:54 AM
It's hard to remember everyone so please forgive me if your name isn't mentioned. On the girls team starting with the bottom row is: Robbie Holman, Vivian Cook, Wanda Rainwater, Barbara (I think)Cook, not sure who this is,Baarbara Bearden,not sure of her either, and Terri Reeves.Top row is: Mary Ann Vandagriff, Lamarr Neese, me, Louise Bailiff, Pam Bullion, Nancy Wright,another one I can't remember, and Gladys Gibbs. If anyone can help please let me know. The boys are bottom row: Scooter Granger,not sure, Alvin Jones,and Donald Carroll.Top row: not sure, Thomas Gray,Kenneth Couser,Buck Moore,George Waters, Gene Hudson,I think Phillip Waggoner, and Terry Gray.
-- Posted by Number25 on Thu, Sep 2, 2010, at 4:35 PM
1956 SMS Boys' Basketball Team - Bottom Row
Scooter Granger, Kenneth Wells, Alvin Jones and Donald Carroll. Top Row - Randy Faulk, Thomas Gray, Kenneth Couser, Buck Moore, George Waters, Gene Hudson, Phillip Waggoner, Terry Gray.
-- Posted by reilly on Fri, Sep 3, 2010, at 7:00 AM
Great memories! I attended Shelbyville Mills School in the first grade. I remember the great parades we used to have. I was the Grand Marshal! My dad worked at the Times Gazette as a printer.
-- Posted by gfischer13 on Sat, Sep 4, 2010, at 12:20 PM
this really is great. i enjoyed the reunions we had at the vfw. i think reggie, linda, & shella did the planning.
we need to do it again.
-- Posted by jepigg on Sat, Sep 4, 2010, at 2:13 PM
I found some pictures of MS.FANNIE FLOYD, MISS OASIE, AND MANY OF THE OLD S.M.C. MY Dad J.L.BAKER AND SOME OTHER MEN WERE DIGGING OUT THE BASEMENT IN THE S.M.C. FOR NEW SUNDAY SCHOOL ROOMS. THEY HAD JACK HAMMERS BREAKING UP THOSE LARGE ROCKS UNDER THE CHURCH. THERE MANY MORE PICTURES. I WOULD LOVE TO GO BACK TO THOSE TIMES! THANKS BO FOR ALL THE MEMORIES YOU HAVE BROUGHT BACK TO THE "SHELBYVILLE MILLS GANG"!
-- Posted by silver on Sat, Sep 4, 2010, at 7:57 PM
I remember a little girl, Mary Alice, she was about 5'2, played 3rd string.
-- Posted by marwi on Sat, Sep 4, 2010, at 10:47 PM
i remember you & mickey & jl. i remember when mickey was a city policeman.
-- Posted by jepigg on Sat, Sep 4, 2010, at 10:48 PM
-- Posted by aprince29 on Sat, Sep 4, 2010, at 10:49 PM
Amos Rainwater
Photo courtesy: Number25
-- Posted by redddj on Sun, Sep 5, 2010, at 7:40 AM
David Armstrong & Donald Smith
Photo courtesy: Number25
-- Posted by redddj on Sun, Sep 5, 2010, at 7:41 AM
Hixson Pugh - Shelbyville Mills School
Photo courtesy: Number25
-- Posted by redddj on Sun, Sep 5, 2010, at 7:43 AM
1956 - Kenneth Couser
Photo courtesy: Number25
-- Posted by redddj on Sun, Sep 5, 2010, at 7:44 AM
Shelbyville Mills vs Normandy (girls)
Courtesy: Number25
-- Posted by redddj on Sun, Sep 5, 2010, at 7:46 AM
Shelbyville Mills School pasttime - playing Rook
-- Posted by redddj on Sun, Sep 5, 2010, at 7:47 AM
Shelbyville Mills School Girls Basketball
Photo courtesy: Number25
-- Posted by redddj on Sun, Sep 5, 2010, at 7:48 AM
Mrs. Capley's 2nd grade Shelbyville Mills School class
Photo courtesy: Number25
-- Posted by redddj on Sun, Sep 5, 2010, at 7:50 AM
Shelbyville Mills vs Normandy (boys)
Courtesy: Number25
-- Posted by redddj on Sun, Sep 5, 2010, at 7:51 AM
I just read a comment from someone and it mentioned their family names. Are you referring to Mrs. Edith Sipsy, her daughter Rosemary and husband Preston Sadler? Also, are you talking about Willa Dean Oldfield? May have spelled her name wrong.They were older than me, but remember them well from my older brothers and sisters.
-- Posted by Number25 on Mon, Sep 6, 2010, at 8:44 AM
I remember Rosemary Sipsy so well. She was older than a lot of our "gang" but for several years she would have a birthday party for the Dionne quints, who were an oddity then, and make cake, small sandwiches and pink lemonade. We would all make crepe paper party hats and have have a party around their picnic table in the back yard. They moved to a nearby town (don't remember name) and she would sometimes come and pick us all up and take us to their house for weekend stays. What a nice memory her name brought up!
-- Posted by caligal on Mon, Sep 6, 2010, at 2:45 PM
I was so pleased to find this blog. To Grits, my grandfather is Shorty Campbell. He is 95 and living in Chattanooga with our family. His wife, my grandmother Sue, is 92. Papa (Shorty) suffers from the early stages of dementia, but still tells tales of time spent at the Mill School, and for all my 30 years I have been regaled with stories of his days there.
Mr. Melson... my mother, Marlene Campbell Foster, remembers you taking her pictures. She also remembers the dog, Satan, whom "Grits" mentioned. She remembers Satan pulling her diapers!
Such lovely memories. Thanks so much!
-- Posted by JennJones on Mon, Sep 6, 2010, at 8:31 PM
JennJones: Thank you so much for the info about Mr. (Shorty) Campbell and Sue. He was a wonderful guiding light in the lives of all the young, during our days in the village. Mrs Sue was a LADY with admirable manners, modesty and grace. I talked with him back in 1992? as they were coming out of Shelbyville Walmart and I going in. He said his days at the village were the happiest time of his life, and I said "me too!". The words in your comment brought back images of those days of contentment that will not fade away like so many other memories of my past .
God bless Bo Melson for this blog that revealed the status of Mr. Campbell.
-- Posted by Grits on Tue, Sep 7, 2010, at 9:30 AM
Edith Sipsy was my great aunt. Rosemary was my aunt and Willa Dean was mama. We rode our bikes on the sidewalks, played in the 'park', climbed the Maple trees and made necklaces out of the clover. We played red rover, kick the can, and jumped rope from daylight till dark and then sat on the curb, under the street lights and told ghost stories. We were blessed and didn't even know it. I know it now.
-- Posted by shemac on Tue, Sep 7, 2010, at 9:24 PM
You're welcome, Grits. And ditto on the kudos to Mr. Melson. Excuse my being sentimental, but this is a really hard time in our family, as my Papa Shorty is not himself anymore. It's so sad to see him not know any of us or most of what's going on, but by reading this blog I am reminded that he should be remembered by what he was then, and not what dementia has made him now. It gives me great pride, and great peace. I sincerely thank you.
-- Posted by JennJones on Tue, Sep 7, 2010, at 10:01 PM
sonny jones used to say that his mother always told him to pray for the poor and that he didn't know that we were the poor until he got in the navy. we weren't poor, we had everything.
-- Posted by jepigg on Tue, Sep 7, 2010, at 11:48 PM
It would be great if all of you who attended Shelbyville Mills School could get together for a reunion at some place that still remains essentially as it was when you were in school. How many would be interested in a reunion and have some suggestion to offer as to where it could be held?
-- Posted by bomelson on Wed, Sep 8, 2010, at 2:24 PM
While memories are still there, I think a reunion would be great. It would be incredible if a "verbal history" could be made at the reunion.
Shelbyville Mills Village exists today only in the memories of those still alive. This history should be captured for all those grandchildren and great-grandchildren to come. They should know that "once there was a spot, called Shelbyville Mills Village." And it was the nearest thing to heaven there was.
-- Posted by caligal on Wed, Sep 8, 2010, at 3:54 PM
Shelbyville Mills School Teachers
Photo courtesy: Number25
-- Posted by redddj on Thu, Sep 9, 2010, at 3:07 PM
Shelbyville Mills 1951 Recreation
Courtesy: Number 25
-- Posted by redddj on Thu, Sep 9, 2010, at 3:10 PM
Jerry Pigg & Glen Rainey (Boxing)
Photo courtesy: Number25
-- Posted by redddj on Thu, Sep 9, 2010, at 3:11 PM
Shuffle Board & Ping Pong
Shelbyville Mills School Gym
Photo courtesy: Number25
-- Posted by redddj on Thu, Sep 9, 2010, at 3:13 PM
Shelbyville Mills School playground (Touch Football)
Photo courtesy: Number25
-- Posted by redddj on Thu, Sep 9, 2010, at 3:15 PM
REMEMBER CARLTON McCARTY, MARGARET AND THEIR DAUGHTER JUDY. JUDY MARRIED A POPE, HE PASTORED IN ROVER. JUDY, MARGET. AND CARLTON OUR WITH THE LORD NOW.
-- Posted by silver on Fri, Sep 10, 2010, at 9:45 AM
This blog started on August 13 and the memories are still coming! This must be a record of some kind. Anyone remember the Rutledge family? I think they lived next door to the Ledbetter family. Shirlene Ledbetter passed away recently.
I wonder what happened to the Rutledges. There was a man in the village who handmade banjos and had them hanging all over his house. I can't recall his name. Anyone remember him?
-- Posted by caligal on Fri, Sep 10, 2010, at 11:51 AM
Buck Carroll & Jerry Bell
1947 Shelbyville Central High School
Photo courtesy: Bob Weldon
-- Posted by redddj on Fri, Sep 10, 2010, at 5:13 PM
shemac, I knew all of your family and I remember doing all the things you mentioned and what fun we had growing up
-- Posted by avaandsylviesmimi on Sat, Sep 11, 2010, at 4:52 PM
Charlie Lynn
Photo courtesy: Number25
-- Posted by redddj on Mon, Sep 13, 2010, at 10:37 AM
Eris Rogers
Photo courtesy: Number25
-- Posted by redddj on Mon, Sep 13, 2010, at 10:38 AM
Frank Carroll
Photo courtesy: Number25
-- Posted by redddj on Mon, Sep 13, 2010, at 10:39 AM
Frank Martin
Photo courtesy: Number25
-- Posted by redddj on Mon, Sep 13, 2010, at 10:40 AM
Jane & June Tune with unknown girl
Photo courtesy: Number25
-- Posted by redddj on Mon, Sep 13, 2010, at 10:40 AM
Shelbyville Mills Baptist Church (Harold Kilpatrick) & Shelbyville Mills Church of Christ (David Mosley)
Photo courtesy: Number25
-- Posted by redddj on Mon, Sep 13, 2010, at 10:42 AM
U. S. Rubber Company Old Timers
Photo courtesy: Number25
-- Posted by redddj on Mon, Sep 13, 2010, at 10:44 AM
U. S. Rubber Company plant expansion
Photo courtesy: Number25
-- Posted by redddj on Mon, Sep 13, 2010, at 10:45 AM
Mr. G. W. Tuck retires
Photo courtesy: Number25
-- Posted by redddj on Mon, Sep 13, 2010, at 10:46 AM
i called woody yesterday. he had never heard of this blog. he was going to get right on it
-- Posted by jepigg on Mon, Sep 13, 2010, at 2:45 PM
NUMBERS THANKS FOR ALL THE PICTURES, CHARLIE LYNN AND WILFORD LYNN WERE MY MOMS BROTHERS NEXT MONTH MY DAD WILL BE IN HEAVEN 13yrs.I KNOW HE AND MOM WOULD HAVE ENJOYED THIS STROLL DOWN MEMORY LANE SO MUCH. I HAVE HEARD THEM MANY TIMES TALK OF YOUR FAMILY AND SOME OF THE FUNNY THINGS THEY DID WHILE WORKING "AT THE MILL".
-- Posted by silver on Mon, Sep 13, 2010, at 3:31 PM
number25: Sure do appreciate the pictures. My sisters and I are having a great time discussing the people in them. It's been so l0ng since we saw these people in person, it is a thrill to see them as they were. We did'nt know how much we forgot over so many years. Thanks from all of us.
-- Posted by Grits on Mon, Sep 13, 2010, at 7:18 PM
Don't remember being extremely hot or cold in the village. Maybe you forget those things as you....age, but I do remember that the sidewalk would burn your feet. Also, remember seeing the tar in the street bubble up and poking it with a stick. One favorite memory is going to the village store and getting a bag of candy for 10 to 15 cents.
Glad to see all the pictures. I might not know the faces but have heard the names spoken. ~Thanks~
-- Posted by shemac on Mon, Sep 13, 2010, at 11:29 PM
Anyone remember fire drills and that old iron fire escape... woo hoo just like recess.
Another memory, being in Mr. Shelton's 7th grade class across from the lunchroom, man it was hard to study with all those aromas drifting across the room.
One more, remember Ms. Shofner the Truint Offer. Once faked some severe illness, by 9:oo A M I was being escorted to school. Oh the shame. That was something you didn't want to do TWICE !!
-- Posted by marwi on Tue, Sep 14, 2010, at 6:37 AM
Maybe that trauma is the reason I can't spell TRUANT OFFICER !!! ;)
-- Posted by marwi on Tue, Sep 14, 2010, at 6:42 AM
Shemac, on those hot days, Phillips store weathered concrete cool porch was the coolest seat for drinking RC cola (because it was the biggest bottle) and eating ice cream. I remember cracking eggs on the side walk to see if it was hot enough to cook. So, apparently it did get pretty hot. We did have cold days also. I remember long icicles hanging from the eaves and we did have snow. We made snow ice cream out of the snow (being careful to avoid yellow snow) and we didn't go to school on very snowy days. No one had air conditioning, but those linoleum floors sure were cool!
-- Posted by caligal on Tue, Sep 14, 2010, at 11:51 AM
I remember a big snow storm when I was about 6 years old. My cousin Buck Carroll took the hood off his car and we slid down the golf course hill making sure we stopped before the creek at the bottom. Would you try that with your car hood today?
-- Posted by henrys on Tue, Sep 14, 2010, at 3:58 PM
Shelbyville Mills School Royalettes coached by Auston Davis
Courtesy: Number25
-- Posted by redddj on Wed, Sep 15, 2010, at 8:40 AM
1956 Shelbyville Mills School (Nancy Wright)
Courtesy: Number25
-- Posted by redddj on Wed, Sep 15, 2010, at 8:41 AM
Cunningham Boys
Courtesy: Number25
-- Posted by redddj on Wed, Sep 15, 2010, at 8:42 AM
Bobby Massey (Shelbyville Mills School)
-- Posted by redddj on Wed, Sep 15, 2010, at 8:43 AM
To Grits and Silver: I don't know who you all are, but would love to know Grits's name. I do know from what you said Silver, you're part of the Lynn family and have sent a picture to Redddj that has some of your family in it. And to jepigg, thanks for mentioning the pictures and wish I had more of us in our school year. I'm still looking though! Redddj, I really appreciate your putting them online for everyone to see.
-- Posted by Number25 on Thu, Sep 16, 2010, at 8:44 AM
Woody Thompson with Shelbyville Mills School in the background
Photo courtesy: Number25
-- Posted by redddj on Thu, Sep 16, 2010, at 9:12 AM
Mr. Lloyd Thompson
Photo courtesy: Number25
-- Posted by redddj on Thu, Sep 16, 2010, at 9:14 AM
Early 50's - Shelbyville Central High Golden Eaglettes (many from Shelbyville Mills School on the team)
Photo courtesy: Number25
-- Posted by redddj on Thu, Sep 16, 2010, at 9:15 AM
Number25, thanks for emailing the photos and information. I will continue to post as long as something is available. The memories of Shelbyville Mills School and all the good people of the village is something you had to be a part of to appreciate. It is good to see so many of the village families viewing this blog. Thanks again and know everyone appreciates all the photos. Go SMS!
Donnie Redd
-- Posted by redddj on Thu, Sep 16, 2010, at 9:19 AM
One of the photos from Number 25 posted by Donnie Redd on 9/13 has an unknown girl with the Tune twins. She is Betty Phillips, sister of Jerry, Annette, and Ted.
-- Posted by fanofthecats on Thu, Sep 16, 2010, at 2:17 PM
I made a mistake in the picture of the Central High Basketball girls team. That had to be in the late 40's based on my sister's age (and mine) who is in the picture. Also, thanks for letting me know who the girl in the picture is with the Tune twins fanofthe cats.
-- Posted by Number25 on Thu, Sep 16, 2010, at 3:00 PM
Can someone post a picture of what Shelbyville Mills Village area looks like today? Those of us who no longer live in the area would probably like to see just what is there now. Thanks, Bo, for accommodating this incredible journey down memory lane.
-- Posted by caligal on Fri, Sep 17, 2010, at 12:34 PM
For those of you who might be wondering why I had the pictures of my Dad and Woody posted, it's because some of you wanted to see a picture of the school which you can see, and if you look hard enough to the right of my Dad you can see part of the old "barn" or gym as we sometimes called it.
-- Posted by Number25 on Fri, Sep 17, 2010, at 2:55 PM
caligal if you are familiar with Google Earth you can get a pretty good picture of what it looked like in June of 2007. Possibly an even better view could be had by using Bing Maps.
-- Posted by leeiii on Fri, Sep 17, 2010, at 3:31 PM
leeii, thanks for the tip. I did look at it on
Bing. They have maintained the name for Maple
Street, so that is a good orientation point.
What is the large factory or building where the mill was? Thanks again.
-- Posted by caligal on Fri, Sep 17, 2010, at 7:41 PM
caligal, I am not sure what is there now. I live in East Tennessee now and I have not been down to the old Rubber Mill site in a long time.
-- Posted by leeiii on Fri, Sep 17, 2010, at 7:56 PM
The old plant is now National Pen & Pencil Company
-- Posted by redddj on Fri, Sep 17, 2010, at 8:59 PM
Wouldn't it be nice if someone could find a
good picture of the outside of the gym? Maybe
in the "Volunteer" newspapers? It has been
great reading all of those memories. It really makes me want to go out and take pictures of all the places where I now live so my kids and grandkids can retain some memories. Maybe we should all do this. Just look at how hard it has been to find pictures now of our past! Well, it has been great. Thanks to everyone for sharing.
-- Posted by caligal on Fri, Sep 17, 2010, at 10:34 PM
We've been talking about different people and I totally forgot the Halls. Lorraine was on the CHS team photo I sent to Redddj and her brother Billy Joe played on the basketball team of older players that were out of school and would go different places to play. Shows what age will do to you (LOL).
-- Posted by Number25 on Sun, Sep 19, 2010, at 8:03 AM
Yes, many are left out. Just to name a few; ~~ Justine Watley, Rena Adgent, Nettie Mae Barlow, Sara Mae Waters, Henretta Nelson and all the Nelson family. Wanda Hallmark, Gail Helton, Kenneth Segroves, Migra Masters, Nancy Baker, Jack Armstrong, Peggy and Polly Frame, and the list goes on and on. Some of these wonderful people have gone on to be with their Lord. It makes them no less a memory of SMS.
-- Posted by marwi on Sun, Sep 19, 2010, at 7:34 PM
U. S. Rubber Company Cotton Mill Community House
Photo courtesy: gusg6t1
-- Posted by redddj on Tue, Sep 21, 2010, at 1:07 AM
Cotton Mills Cemetery located on Shelbyville Mills Road
-- Posted by redddj on Tue, Sep 21, 2010, at 4:42 AM
It's nice to find out who you are, but wondering if you're a Baker now by marriage or the daughter of J.L.Baker. I knew a lot of Barbaras and one was the daughter of Mark & Dot Bearden.Please let me know.
-- Posted by Number25 on Tue, Sep 21, 2010, at 8:51 AM
My Dad was J.L.Baker he did so much for the S,M.S. & church. Most people called him Gabby.
Posted by silver on Tue, Aug 31, 2010, at 11:02 AM
Don't mean to intrude,Number25 and silver. Just trying to be helpful, and promote continued conversation on this subject, as I have thoroughly enjoyed this blog to this point, and hope it continues for many more posts.
-- Posted by ilikeoldsongs on Tue, Sep 21, 2010, at 11:43 AM
Anyone remember Nancy Jane Baker. We were about the same age, I remember a Christmas play @ the SM Baptist Church, we played the angels. The following week she hit me in the gut with a medicine ball. Remember those, 'pinky' Davis took great pleasure in those med. balls. When you are in the 8th grade, they feel like 150##
Was Nancy a twin...
-- Posted by marwi on Tue, Sep 21, 2010, at 1:11 PM
Not a problem ilikeoldsongs! I remember your Dad well and even though I don't remember you right now, I do remember Mickey. He was in one of the pictures I sent to Redddj to post. He and others were playing rook. Let me know who you are too.
-- Posted by Number25 on Tue, Sep 21, 2010, at 4:15 PM
I started reading all the comments and it really took me back to my childhood. My family and I lived
at the Rubber Mill - below Huffman's grocery, and
adjacent to Mr. Floyd's farm. Used to pitch hay
bales for a penny a bail. All the names everyone
mentions: Cunninghams, Bullions (they did live in
the last house (duplex) before Huffman's grocery.
All the boys waited for Sylvia to come home from
high school with her Gold majorette uniform on!
Truly was the good ole days. I lived between Shorty Buntley and Sam Bridges, across the street from the Bonds, Skinners, Braziers. Up the street a few houses, the Dertings, Holmans (Martha married my brother), Owen Prince, Newsom Head, Tommy Curtis, Margaret and Clarence Dye a few houses up. We used to spend many long hours sitting on the water tank and waiting for the
"dote wagon" (sic) to get back so we could get
a candy bar. Cunningham, Rainwater, Beardon,
Reed, Locke, Donegan, two-way cafe, petty's hill,
the Whatleys, Terri Reed, just too many people
and memories of the rubber mill. Standing at the
fence with a slice of corn bread and a mason jar
with pinto beans and fatback, dinner for my brother during his shift at the mill. Thanks to
all who put forth their thoughts and memories, it
is great reading and stirs many memories. Sheila
Reed's red hair - who can forget that! Not me.
I left Shelbyville when I was 18, spent a career
(28 years) in the Air Force, moved to Seattle and
am winding down second job as manager of high-rise
building at First Hill in Seattle. My name is
Newton Smelcer, Newt to all my family/friends in
Tennessee and Bill to everyone else since I was
18. I will read this blog on a regular basis, it
is good for the mind.
-- Posted by email@example.com on Wed, Sep 22, 2010, at 11:17 AM
RIP: Mr. Clarence "Shorty" Campbell
July 11, 1985 - September 18, 2010
-- Posted by redddj on Wed, Sep 22, 2010, at 12:02 PM
The obit should be for Mr. Campbell, July 11, 1915 instead of 1985 should have proof read before I submitted.
-- Posted by redddj on Wed, Sep 22, 2010, at 12:07 PM
Newt, I remember you and your whole family!
How great that you found this blog! Bo Melson
gave all of us "villagers" to connect in our
sunset years. I don't think any of us will ever
forget our village and what a great place it was
in which to grow up. The memories are emotional
for me too. I left Shelbyville at an early age
have only gone back one time since I was 19.
The village was no longer there; just concrete
slabs where the houses had been, but as I drove
through, all I could see were the neatly kept houses and heard the echoes of our voices, laughs,
and shadows of all that had been there. I am
so happy that you shared your memories.
-- Posted by caligal on Wed, Sep 22, 2010, at 10:32 PM
Hi Newton and I do remember you even though you're a couple of years younger than me! I think this blog is great and trying to remember things I thought forgotten are brought back by people like you. Don't know if you remember one of my older brothers, Denzol but I think he and your brother, Grant were good friends. Or is this a cousin of yours. It's good to remember though. Take care and hope you write on the blog again.
-- Posted by Number25 on Thu, Sep 23, 2010, at 8:07 AM
For those of you who have reviewed this blog I have started a page on Facebook related to Shelbyville Mills School. It is the plan to share some of the pictures from this blog about the school and area. I hope that each of you can join and continue to discuss and share our many memories. Please continue to support this blog and thanks to Bo Melson for bringing us all together.
The link to the Facebook page is:
-- Posted by redddj on Thu, Sep 23, 2010, at 9:53 AM
Photos courtesy of: Number25
Herman Statum
Bill Palmer & Hixson Pugh
Kennedy Maupin & Hixson Pugh
A. B. Alexander, plant manager, U. S. Rubber Company http://i339.photobucket.com/albums/n452/...
Rev. P. B. Kinsolving, Shelbyville Mills Baptist Church
-- Posted by redddj on Thu, Sep 23, 2010, at 12:12 PM
redddj thanks for posting all of the pictures and please continue to do so as you get them. Also thanks for the Facebook page.
-- Posted by leeiii on Thu, Sep 23, 2010, at 1:20 PM
Just read LaJeune Waggoner's obit. He was such a 'hottie', he came home from the service, bought a new Pontiac, and we all fell in love. He and his friend Andrew Jackson Davis were the Rebel Maid best.
I remember LaJuene's sister Jaimie was married to J D Stovall.
I don't do facebook. So have fun.
-- Posted by marwi on Thu, Sep 23, 2010, at 8:49 PM
For those of you who don't have Facebook, I do plan to continue to put any photos I receive on this blog. Two places to keep the great stories and memories of Shelbyville Mills School and all the other activities that was a part of the mill village.
-- Posted by redddj on Fri, Sep 24, 2010, at 10:54 AM
Hi number25, I visit my family each year and always
make a point to drive down thru the cedars, boss
road, the old two-way cafe, and the rubber mill.
What always struck me was looking at the "footprint"
of the houses, we lived two houses from the very
end on the right side of the street, I could not
remember how small the homes actually were. When I lived there with five others I always thought it
quite large. It is really great to visit this blog and all the childhood memories it brings back. If anyone has any info on Susan Brown, Pat Armstrong, or anyone living/going to school at the rubber mill in the 50s, would like to hear about them. Also, at times I think about Pastor Lemay and his family - had a daughter named Nan I believe. Thank you again for this
-- Posted by email@example.com on Fri, Sep 24, 2010, at 1:46 PM
Thanks Bo. I was raised in Baker Town and went to Jr High in order to play football. I was blessed to have memories from two groups. Willard Baker, Richard Williams and myself carried what we learned in the sandlot football games into Central High. I wonder how many can recall playing basketball at my granddaddy' barn with the bottom cut out of bushel basket for a goal. I have spent many a happy hour in the old mill gym. Every name that has been mentioned brings back memories. Reggie if you read this know that I will be holding you up in prayer.
(remember the cottage prayers meetings?) I found my jewel at the old mill village and she has been with me for 58 yrs. As for the Shelbyville Mills Baptist Church, it was there that my life was changed and there I found my life's calling. I left when I was 19 years old but I have never left the memories of 19 years of being blessed with all the wonderful people that I grew up with.
Again, thanks Bo for giving all of us a chance to reunite in memories.
-- Posted by bobbymoore on Fri, Sep 24, 2010, at 1:48 PM
Bobby, I'm so glad to see you write on this. I'm Donna, Woody's sister. And yes, I remember the prayer meetings and visitation at the church. I also remember a time when he said you two went to Nashville and started pointing up and had people looking up at the sky for the fun of it. He may have just told us that. I would like to write also to b.the gun. Pastor LeMay has gone on to be with the Lord. Do you remeber Brother Bull, Brother McCall, and Brother Ledlow. The last I heard about him, they lived outside Birmingham, AL but don't know about now.
-- Posted by Number25 on Sat, Sep 25, 2010, at 1:18 PM
Number25 yes and I also want to remember Bro. Shelton L. Smith who is now living in Murfreesboro.
-- Posted by leeiii on Sat, Sep 25, 2010, at 4:03 PM
Bobby, the memory of your mom and dad, Sam and Ruth brings to my heart things that can never change. They were always there to help those in need.
In my mind I can see that wonderful little store. How about that 'woodie' the delivery wagon.
-- Posted by marwi on Sat, Sep 25, 2010, at 6:40 PM
Bobby,I was raised in Bakertown,and remember you,and your mother and father well. In fact I remember your grandparents,and Miss Elizabeth.
I sat with your granny for Mr.Sam and Mrs.Ruth, when I was a teen ager,and after I was grown up,married and had children of my own,I rented the old mobil home behind the store.
I remember the old bench outside the store,and all us kids hanging out there,for an RC filled with peanuts.
My grandmother had an account with the store,and she would call,and your dad would deliver. I remember the phone number to the store was 574.
-- Posted by Gus on Sat, Sep 25, 2010, at 8:48 PM
Gus... you one upped me on that ph#. But oh the memories. The sweet smells in that wonderful store.
Remember the five cent ice cream , the wooden spoon and movie stars under the lid.
Over the years my mom must have bought a ton of coffee, pinto beans and thick sliced 'bolonie'.
-- Posted by marwi on Sun, Sep 26, 2010, at 3:10 PM
Marwi, I can smell the smells also!!! Especially
in the winter when there was a fire in the stove.
I wish I had allthe ice cream lids I threw away. I am sure they sell for a pretty penny on e-bay!
Does anyone remember sliding around on the pond
on Mr. Floyd's farm when it froze over? Seems
no one has mentioned the rock quarry either. When
it filled up with water it was a pretty good swimming place. Of course, you had to chase off the snakes first! This blog is like an onion. Every piece of the onion reveals another memory.
-- Posted by caligal on Sun, Sep 26, 2010, at 6:00 PM
Number25, Yes I recall Brother McCall and thanks for
the info on Brother Lemay. I recall the 5 cent ice
cream as well - also, ice skating on Mr. Floyd's
pond as well as swimming and fishing there for the
smallest mud cats you would ever see.
-- Posted by email@example.com on Mon, Sep 27, 2010, at 5:38 PM
I really made a big mistake and wanted you to know that I did. When I wrote about Brother LeMay, I should have said his wife had gone on to be with the Lord and not him. Should have read my comment better than I did before I posted it. So sorry about that information.
-- Posted by Number25 on Wed, Sep 29, 2010, at 8:19 AM
i talked to austin a few hours ago about some guitar parts & mentioned this blog. he didn't know about it. i had to call him back in about 20 minutes & he was busy reading.
anybody want to say hello to him he is watching.
p.s. austin is also known as pinkey
-- Posted by jepigg on Fri, Oct 1, 2010, at 12:50 AM
austin asked where you live. he thinks you moved away.
-- Posted by jepigg on Fri, Oct 1, 2010, at 8:30 AM
Hello, Austin(Pinkey). Sure nice to know you are well and doing OK. This is your old friend, whom you named Jazz, about the same time you became Pinkey. Those were the happiest days of my life and you were admired by everybody then and now.
-- Posted by Grits on Fri, Oct 1, 2010, at 3:23 PM
Hey Pinkey, Billy Joe Hall here, who is Grits. We played in Mr. Floyd's barn, had corn cob battles in there, of course they were soaked with cow urine. Stung like heck when you got hit. We, Marvin Nash, Billy Rodgers, Charles (Bulldog) Tucker, (Rooster) James Pendergras, Grant Smelcer, (my cousin) Ronald Watley and me played all over those fields and the river. Mr. Floyd was a very nice man, but he hated dogs. His daughter was bitten by a mad dog and she died. Mrs. Floyd worked for Mr. Phillips in the store. Sonny Gray lived in the villages but mover across from the school. Billy Mc Coy, Charles and Butch Lee, Richadr Williams, Buddy Victory, Billy Altman, Buck Bridges, the Saddler brothers, Henry, Preston and Willie, Frnklin McKamey moved in latter and we became great friends. Some of the girls were Sylvia and Connie Bullion, Muriel Williams, (my cousin)Justine Watley Watleley Juanita Smelcer and Mary Lee Sadler, all lived near the mill. May have left some out.
-- Posted by Billy Hall on Sun, Oct 3, 2010, at 8:27 PM
Hey jepigg,
Yes, I did move away a long time ago but keep up with the news there by the Times Gazette and of course Woody and his wife. Our 50th high school reunion is this month, but I won't be able to attend it as I have before. Hope you're doing well and Pinkey too! Glad Billy Joe Hall posted on here--I had emailed him about the blog and he listed a lot of names that I had forgotten.
-- Posted by Number25 on Mon, Oct 4, 2010, at 8:21 AM
How I wish I could relive those days in the village around this time of year (October-fall)
with all the leaves falling off those maple trees and the fireplaces smoking. And Halloween fun time beginning. If only I had walked and run a little slower so I could remember every detail of those days. Bo, you have accommodated all of us villagers to relive some of those days with these memories. A "Thank You" seems hardly enough.
Thank you, from Caligal......
-- Posted by caligal on Tue, Oct 5, 2010, at 8:35 PM
caligal, I read your post and felt the same way.
But then I looked out to my front yard. There, a sugar maple is dropping leaves as she has done for many years. I watch my grandson and his sweet child tossing the colors into the air.
SMS is a memory, a beautiful one. Today is the day we make memories for others.
Thank you Bo, what a trip.
-- Posted by marwi on Wed, Oct 6, 2010, at 10:55 PM
The thanks should go to all of you who responded to this blog. Although I lived in Shelbyville this has stirred a lot of memories for me as you've mentioned a lot of my friends and reminded me of a few more people I always admired during my school years. One of many things that has amazed me is the number of great role models you had while growing up and attending Shelbyville Mills School.
-- Posted by bomelson on Thu, Oct 7, 2010, at 2:51 PM
I'd like to ask Bo Melson if remembers another sports writer for the Times Gazette and am not sure of his name. He was the one who took basketball pictures of us at the time and I remember him being the one when we won the county championship back in 1956. I thought his nickname was "Red" but may be wrong. Also, who is Caligal, Gus, and Grits? I barely remember but do recall the nickname of Gus. I've heard a lot of people saying you should never look back, but looking back and with this blog now has stirred a lot of memories and finding people I had long ago put in the back of my mind and never dreaming I'd hear about and from them again. Thanks Bo for doing this for us.
-- Posted by Number25 on Tue, Oct 12, 2010, at 8:40 AM
Well Bo you have started something here. I have about 25 pages on growing up in the village for my children and grandchildren to read after I leave this world in about 30 years. I am still adding to it and I want to thank you for this blog, it is a big help.
We lived in the lower village (close to the mill) across the street from aunt Mittie and uncle Herman Watley and Ronaald, Justine and Wanda Fay. They had a large Mulberry tree with branches hanging over the porch roof. We would climb the tree and sit on the roof and eat the berries. Mr. and Mrs Olive and their daughter Betty lived next door on one side. She married Buddy Phillips. On the other side lived the Sloop's, son John Harold and daughter Frances. The Sadlers lived on one side of the Watley's and the Dirtings on the other. The Smelcer's lived a few houses down as did the Bridges. Up the street was the Waters, Bill. The Bakers lived on the corner. Billy Altman lived on the corner toward the water tank. On toward the store lived the Hutto's, William's Bullion's Lee's and Mccoy's. Across from the store were the Nash's (Marvin, Joe, Bertha) and Seagrove's (Kenneth). Then Edd Agents cafe, barber shop and his house. Edd had daughters Edna, Rena and Ann. Not sure about Ann. Billy Rodgers lived up the street on the right and a Frank, avery nice black man with several children lived across the street from Billy on a large farm. On toward te school lived the Bells, Carlton and Jerry. I forget who lived in the house at the corner turning toward the school and across the street. In front of the school were the Pinkstons, Jewell, Grays, Millie Joe and Sonny, Browns, Bobby Betty and Barbra, the Davis, Austin and Joyce and the Thompsons, Darrel, Woody, Betty Donna and etc. Every year they got recognized as having the largest family in church. The Rittenberries lived on the main road that the plant manager lived on as did the Carrols, Buck, Bud and Ben, the Reeves Carolyn, the Cousers Carolyn and the Rainwaters I can picture a tall dark complexion girl and a boy who han polio, but can't remember their names. I think the girl lived there but attended school elswhere.
The Cedars was blessed with the Troops, Bill, the Jones, Freda, the Fults, Ruth, The Lavvorns, Billy.
Need help with other names.
Then there were the pencil mills with john and Paul Allison, Charles and Bonnie Wells and Monk Harris. Baker street people have been named not sure about Bobby Moore. Also have not mentioned my brother Earnest, Eddie and sister Lorraine
-- Posted by Billy Hall on Tue, Oct 12, 2010, at 11:47 AM
Billy Hall, thanks for a lot names I had forgotten. I can add Mary Elizabeth Rogers(Billy's sister). If not mistaken, I think she married David Dickerson of the Photography buisness at one time. I'll try to remember others.
-- Posted by Grits on Tue, Oct 12, 2010, at 12:57 PM
you forgot terry gray. they lived in the first house on the right as you turn into the cedars for a while. they also had a mulberry tree & we would climb on the garage & eat them. i believe they had the only garage.
the lentz's were next door to bells & ledbetters on the corner. on the other corner were the kirks,
linda rodney & bobby.
the stamps boy with polio was called punkin but i don't remember his name.
there was a deannie adgent but that might not be her real name.
jacky moore, james(buck)& sue lived next to adgents across from the store. james was my age & was killed in a car wreck shortly after returning from the miltary. deenie adjent was my age too. so were terry gray, rodney kirk,& kenneth couser.thats enough for now. i'll do some more next time
-- Posted by jepigg on Tue, Oct 12, 2010, at 11:14 PM
The Stamps boy was William Waymond Stamps, Jr. He went by William.
-- Posted by leeiii on Wed, Oct 13, 2010, at 6:34 AM
The only other girls I remember on that street were Helen Alexander who had a brother and then there was Janice Orr. She was a cheerleader in high school and her parents passed away awhile back. There was another girl and maybe one day I can remember her name. I know she had a "fancy" sled when we all went up Riddle's Hill in the winter to slide down. The Thrasher family wasn't mentioned either. Deannie Adgent was my age and she passed away some time back.
-- Posted by Number25 on Wed, Oct 13, 2010, at 12:31 PM
there was karen thrasher. she was same age as us.
in the cedars mary ann vadergriff was too & maybe wanda rainwater but i'm not sure. i think kenneth couser had an older sister. are you thinking of terry reeves?
-- Posted by jepigg on Wed, Oct 13, 2010, at 1:46 PM
there was karen thrasher. she was same age as us.
in the cedars mary ann vadergriff was too & maybe wanda rainwater but i'm not sure. i think kenneth couser had an older sister. are you thinking of terry reeves?
-- Posted by jepigg on Wed, Oct 13, 2010, at 1:47 PM
My name is Sheila Sanders Allen. I am Gus.
I am one of the Bakertown girls,who attended SMS.I have several brothers,and sisters who also attended SMS.The are Marvin(Buddy)Gary,Perry,Terry,Mary Ann,and Doris.
Some of the people in my class are,Barbara Baker,Helen Carroll,Pat Carroll,Donald Cathy,Joel Buntley,Jimmy Stamps,Rodney Altman,Linda Young,Donald Locke,Kenneth Cunningham,Judy McConnell,Judy McCardy,Danny Allison,Gussie Wright,and several more fine folks.
My Email address is email@example.com if you care to keep in touch.
Mr.Bo,I have yet to thank you for this blog,it has brought back so many happy memories of a time when life was so simple,and the people of the mill,and Bakertown were all like family.
Thank you and God bless you.You are a wonderful person.
-- Posted by Gus on Thu, Oct 14, 2010, at 12:32 PM
Hi, Billy Joe I can't believe you remembered all the neighbors but you forgot Pat, Narvie and Jean Moore who lived next to the Altmans if I think of more I'll post.
-- Posted by avaandsylviesmimi on Thu, Oct 14, 2010, at 1:41 PM
were alvin jones & kenneth housch in your class?
what about linda pigg?
-- Posted by jepigg on Thu, Oct 14, 2010, at 1:54 PM
Number 25, the person you asked about who wrote sports and took pictures was Red Bean. That's the only way he was listed. Getting back to some more good folks who attended Shelbyville Mills School, do any of you remember Charles Corneiliaon? Not sure of my spelling of his last name.
-- Posted by bomelson on Thu, Oct 14, 2010, at 3:45 PM
Dear Gus,
I remember your family! My older brothers, Newsom Head, Terry and Tony Prince, were friends with your older brothers. Your siblings, Terry and Doris, were in classes with me (Lisa) at SMS. I have some class photos with Terry and Doris in them, taken in the 1960's. Also have some class photos that belonged to my older brothers, so must be from the 1950's. Did you attend school with them?
Also have Uniroyal materials belonging to my grandfather Bill Curtis. Included were pay check stubs,showing the amount of wages, and the amount of rent. Sorry but I can't remember the figures off the top of my head.
All of my SMS materials are in storage. Will dig them out during my next visit to TN and pass on to Donnie for posting.
Best Regards,
aka threedogfamily
-- Posted by threedogfamily on Fri, Oct 15, 2010, at 9:12 AM
when we moved to the cedars in 52 the rent was $3.25 a week. if it ever went up it was never mentioned. that included water & lawn work
-- Posted by jepigg on Fri, Oct 15, 2010, at 3:19 PM
I was not in any of your bro.classes. Newsome was a little older,and the others were a little younger.
I would like to have some of those pictures,and other treasures you have from the school,and the mill.
Good to hear from you.
I was a little younger than Alvin,Kenneth,and Linda,however,I was a third string bench warmer on the basketball team with Linda. I think her sister's name was Laura.
Does anyone remember Georgia,and Nettie Ann Massey,The Butler girls,and their bro.Frank(Buddy)?And what about the Armstrong boys,Roy,Ray, Jack,and Doug.
-- Posted by Gus on Fri, Oct 15, 2010, at 4:02 PM
i remember the armstong boys. they were from baker town.they are all younger than me. there was a josephine butler who was my age. i think she lived in baker town too.
-- Posted by jepigg on Fri, Oct 15, 2010, at 5:22 PM
Lisa and Gus (Sheila), I went to school with most
all you mentioned and it is really great to think
and remember all the really great and fun times we
had growing up at the rubber mill. Lisa, Newsom and
I left together and joined the Air Force in Nov 62.
We grew up together and I will always have fond
memories of those times. I recall when Owen Prince
had the car lot and Newsom used to drive us all
around in an Edsel. This blog is a great way to
revive great memories. Thanks to all for those
memories. I'm Newton Smelcer and by email is
published with my comments.
-- Posted by firstname.lastname@example.com on Fri, Oct 15, 2010, at 5:24 PM
connie bullion's daughter just died from cancer. i don't know any details.
-- Posted by jepigg on Sat, Oct 16, 2010, at 4:40 PM
Hello Bo and thanks for the information on Red Bean! You asked if anyone remembered Charles Cornelison (I'm not sure if that if correct spelling either, but did know it ended in son if the same one I remember). If he's the one that went to school with my brother, Denzol, then I do remember a curly blond headed boy that was very good looking. I think he went in the Navy, but am not sure. Bo, by any chance did you go to school with Denzol? I wouldn't dare ask your age but he was ten years older than me. I remember the first year he played football, he broke his leg. So many memories come back when someone mentions something about someone. I thanked you once before but am doing so again for doing this. May God bless you always. And as an afterthought, I got out an old clipping of my daughter holding her German birth certificate with Mrs. Jackson and you were the one who took the picture.
-- Posted by Number25 on Sat, Oct 16, 2010, at 5:53 PM
I barely remember Charles Cornelison. I looked in an old telephone book(92-93) I have to see if a Cornelison was listed. It was'nt, but I noticed a bold print ad for "CRICKET BOX BEAUTY SHOP" East side shopping ctr. Made me laugh and made me sad becaue it has been so long since I drove by.
-- Posted by Grits on Sat, Oct 16, 2010, at 7:35 PM
Connie I am so sorry to hear about your daughter. My condolences to you and family. Dorris
-- Posted by Dorris on Sun, Oct 17, 2010, at 1:05 AM
In reply to Gus about the Butler children. There was Geraldine, Josephine, and Franklin (better known as "Bud" back in those days.) Geraldine has passed away and Franklin and Josephine are here in Shelbyville.
-- Posted by beenthinking on Sun, Oct 17, 2010, at 1:58 PM
Yes, I went to school with Denzol Thompson. I believe he was one year ahead of me and I certainly remember him breaking his leg in football. That led eventually to me coming back to high school basketball from an independent team, with a very good sponsor, with which I had been playing and really enjoyed playing for them. Pete Vires talked me into coming back to high school ball. I remember the TSSAA was told I had been playing in a church league, which wasn't true. Denzol was a good athlete, very much a team player.
-- Posted by bomelson on Sun, Oct 17, 2010, at 3:11 PM
Bo, I appreciate you taking the time to read our blogs and responding. It meant a lot to me to read what you said about Denzol! In case you didn't know he passed away on the 13th October in 2000. Our family was close and remembering him as we knew and now as you stated in your comment adds another memory to him.
I wanted you to know I did a search and found a Charles Cornelison who still lives in Tennessee and he's your age, but am not sure if he's the one we remember.
-- Posted by Number25 on Mon, Oct 18, 2010, at 9:08 AM
I appreciate Bo Melson's letting this out. I went to SMS. I remember alot of the Blogs. I worked at the TG from 1962- 1965. I worked for him, Mr. Yates, Ben Green , the editor at that time. I had so much respest for Ben Green and Mr. Yates. They both gave me so much self confidence . Mr Yates gave me a job. I also appreciate Tony Rice, he had a lot of patience with me. I also appreciste Joe Reed , We grew up together. I will always rembemer out trip to FL.
I was just out of HS, my parents did not have the funs to send me to college. I have alot to say, but won't. I don't have the room. KLH
-- Posted by firstname.lastname@example.com on Mon, Oct 18, 2010, at 2:44 PM
God bless you Connie. I remember when your
'Itty bitty' baby came into this world.
As Alan Jackson says...It is ok to be itty bitty.
-- Posted by marwi on Mon, Oct 18, 2010, at 2:56 PM
I am Kenneth Housch, I have so many fond memiores of SMS. Send me your emails. Dona Thompson said i had a pug nose in the kinergarden class at the club house. I remember her, Woody, and her sister. We lived next to her family in front of the SMc of Christ. We should get to gether and make some memories. Some we don't want to remember and some we do. Thank you Anne Norris for helping me with my home work.
Love, KLH
-- Posted by firstname.lastname@example.com on Mon, Oct 18, 2010, at 2:58 PM
Hi Kenneth!
It's good hearing from you after so long a time. If you've read all of this blog then you will know who I am. I talked about all of my neighbors and failed to mention that when the Davis family moved away you all as well as the Driver family lived next door. I hate to say it, but I don't remember saying you had a pug nose.
-- Posted by Number25 on Tue, Oct 19, 2010, at 10:03 AM
Connie, I read about your daughter's death and wanted you to know how I sorry I am to hear that she had passed away. If you're reading this and wondering who I am, I,played basketball with you and my blog name was my number. Again my sympathy and prayers are with you all.
-- Posted by Number25 on Tue, Oct 19, 2010, at 10:07 AM
Bottom row from left,Thelma Dyer,Judy McClardy,Georgia Massey,Connie Locke,Lorene Dotson,Connie Calahan,Sheila Sanders, Helen Carroll.Top from left,Patrica Donegan,Susan Brown,Barbara Baker,Sheila Reed,Barbara Cook,Linda Pigg,Sue Hutson & Pat Carroll
Photo courtesy: gusbt1
-- Posted by redddj on Tue, Oct 19, 2010, at 6:45 PM
The above basketball picture is for the 1958 - 1959 school year at Shelbyville Mills School.
-- Posted by redddj on Tue, Oct 19, 2010, at 6:48 PM
edgars sister are patrica & brenda. the vistor at the goldens was joyce. i had forgotten about you living next to woody, you must have moved while i was in the army.
-- Posted by jepigg on Wed, Oct 20, 2010, at 2:52 PM
Wow! What a goldmine of information. I grew up in Shelbyville Mills and our house was beside the school. My youngest sister was in the last class at SMS and she's 3 yrs younger than me.
I was very fond of Mr Stonecipher and a lot of the other names listed above from the early 70's. I'm back home visiting family and just got a couple photos that I'll scan in when I get back and post them. One was a band photo on the stage and me & my oldest sister were in the band. It was the start of my love for music (okay, I still don't play any instruments, but love singing). My grandmother kept some photos from that time and it's always fascinating to take a look back from time to time.
My Dad & grandfather worked at Uniroyal and my Dad got to buy the house we lived in when the plant sold off the houses. We had the big hill across the street in the front that had a big white house that was abandoned and we swore that it was haunted.
The swings, outside basketball court, monkey bars and the flag pole was considered our "back yard", when we were allowed to play there outside of school. I can't tell you how many miles me and my sisters rode on our bicycle going up and down the sidewalk in front of the houses on our street.
We used to get groceries from Mr Phillips store before it was shut down and later made into a union hall. It was across the street from the "store" that we used to go to buy Keds or clothes. It was such a big deal for us.
One time I remember going to a company picnic that was held across from the plant and several people would tell us that there used to be houses there, but at that age you don't really appreciate what that means. Reading these posts tells me that the area has a very rich history.
I went to the Shelbyville Mills Baptist Church where I was saved and baptized. I even remember helping on the bus ministry as a young teenager and I loved it. I still ride by there every time I'm back home visiting and even though it looks so different, my memories are the same. :-)
-- Posted by jdesunshine on Wed, Oct 20, 2010, at 7:10 PM
Also, just found this great list for the cemetery records mentioned earlier. It lists the name of the deceased, birth & death dates, parents and the name of the cemetery at the time since it changed names several times.
-- Posted by jdesunshine on Wed, Oct 20, 2010, at 8:13 PM
I'd love to know who you are as well as your Dad and grandfather! I know you seem to be a lot younger than me but I don't remember any houses next to the school. As for the white house you think was haunted and large yard I believe that's where I grew up until I married and moved away. It had sold at one time that I know of. I also went to SMBC, was saved there and I helped with the bus ministry. When we moved back for awhile, both my daughters worked the bus ministry as well. Hope you can tell me more on here.
-- Posted by Number25 on Fri, Oct 22, 2010, at 8:59 AM
Some things that i remember that may be corrected. JE Pigg was one of my best friends. His sister, Linda was my first girl friend. When she broke up with me, you cannot image how I felt.
When I started to HS and got a job at Day Brothers, I met a new girl. She approched me . Then my life, as i thought changed. Boy, was I wrong. She and her parents had other things in mine. Hey George MacDonald. What doyou think At that early age, what are we thinking.
What is our goals in life? puppy love, our carees.
This all about thinking about the past. I appreciate my memories and mistakes I made.Your prayers are welcome. No problems, I pray.
-- Posted by email@example.com on Wed, Oct 27, 2010, at 3:09 PM
I can remember most of this stuff, my memoriy is failing. At 66, what do you expect.My friend, JE Pigg knows what i am talking about. We see each other about 2 times a month. As we get older, our life changes.
I respect all of your comments.
-- Posted by email@example.com on Wed, Oct 27, 2010, at 3:24 PM
This is great stuff. I heard from Edgar Sheltnutt after his reading of the Blog. It is good to hear from older friends. The T_G and or Bo Melson should be commended for this. This had brought back so many good memiores.I spend so many years, not hearing from old friends.
-- Posted by firstname.lastname@example.com on Thu, Oct 28, 2010, at 4:03 PM
Well, I have a question for anyone who can answer me. Was talking with Woody this morning and we talked about a lot of old times and our upbringing by a wonderful Mother and Father. He mentioned two girls and couldn't remember their names and I hope any of you could help out. He said they lived in a log house towards the Mill and on the same side of the street as Huffman's. If anyone can tell me,I sure would appreciate it. And thanks ahead of time.
-- Posted by Number25 on Fri, Oct 29, 2010, at 1:11 PM
when we lived in the cedars a mr ruskin lived in the log house. i don't remember any kids. also jde sunshine must have lived in the house that kirks or bullions lived in. i don't believe there was ever any houses next to the school, only churches. the house on the hill would be where mr riddle lived.
-- Posted by jepigg on Sat, Oct 30, 2010, at 3:26 PM
Did Shorty Campbell or Tom Segroves live in this Log Cabin at one time?
-- Posted by email@example.com on Mon, Nov 1, 2010, at 11:32 AM
Who was the father of the Huffmans. I remember something about the Huffmans, but can't remember what. A bell rang.
-- Posted by firstname.lastname@example.com on Mon, Nov 1, 2010, at 11:38 AM
Number 25
You ask about the girls at the log house. The were the Mooninghams. The eldest was Dorothy, the middle was Mary Jane. I can't remember the youngest.
At one time Mr. Walter Massey(the insurance man) owned the farm.
Wolf Clan
-- Posted by Wolf Clan on Mon, Nov 1, 2010, at 7:03 PM
The store on the hill just shy of the plant was known as Floyd and Huffmans for a long time. Then it was just Huffmans. As long as I can remember the Phillips's owned the store. Mr. Ab and his son Buddy.
-- Posted by Wolf Clan on Mon, Nov 1, 2010, at 7:10 PM
Thanks for the kind words during the loss of my daughter.
-- Posted by cbb on Mon, Nov 1, 2010, at 9:15 PM
Connie, I have been following this blog. I am very sorry to hear about your daughter. I haven't seen you in decades (maybe half a century!) but I will always remember the fun we had as friends in the village. Peggy
-- Posted by caligal on Tue, Nov 2, 2010, at 3:48 PM
Thank you Peggy,we did have a fun back then,things sure have changed.
-- Posted by cbb on Wed, Nov 3, 2010, at 3:49 PM
I am simply amazed how wonderful it is to read this
blog and all the memories it brings back to life.
Just remembering Kenneth Housch and his remembrance of Linda Pigg as his first girl friend made me smile. I'm certain all who read this blog are
reminded of really how wonderful it was to grow up
in the mill village and think and wonder about all
their childhood friends.
-- Posted by firstname.lastname@example.com on Wed, Nov 3, 2010, at 5:42 PM
Does any one on this blog remember Mrs. Keeling. She was the principal before Mr. L.I. Mills.
-- Posted by Wolf Clan on Wed, Nov 3, 2010, at 9:03 PM
klh just called & said johnny donegan died today. no details. he was a good man!
-- Posted by jepigg on Thu, Nov 4, 2010, at 12:45 PM
-- Posted by caligal on Thu, Nov 4, 2010, at 8:35 PM
Caligal-- Out...........Thanks to all who
shared their memories and brought back
so many of my happy memories. Now, as
someone on this blog said, "it's time to
make more happy memories."
-- Posted by caligal on Fri, Nov 5, 2010, at 7:49 PM
cali/ Peggy... If one of your sisters was R.. Would you email me email@example.com
We became good friends long after SMS. Lost contact many years ago.
-- Posted by marwi on Sat, Nov 6, 2010, at 8:45 PM
Charles Cornelison lived in or near Jackson , Tn and came to the SMS reunions several times. Sonny Gray and Calvin Blackman orginized the reunions. If he is still living (Charles) he will be located there.
The large farm with the log cabbin and a long drive way to the house was occupied by a black family with several children during the late 40's and early 50's. There could have been two houses up there. His name was Frank, he worked the farm and worked in the mill in the ware house and cardroom. He walked with a limp and it was said he was a baseball player in the Negro Leagues until he got hurt. The Nash's lived in the house across the street from Phillips store and Tom Segroves lived next door. Then up the hill was Agents caffey, Agents barber shop and Agents home, with at lesat three daughters. Edna who married Tom Nash, Rena and Ann. Then Billy Rodgers lived in the next house with his mother and sister Mary Elzabeth. It was my understanding that Mr. Floyd was a tennent farmer and the property the store was on belong to the same person. Mrs Floyd worked for Mr. Phillips. Mr. Plillips son Buddy narried a very beautiful girl, (my next door neighbor) Betty Sue Olive. Not sure about the spelling of her last name.
-- Posted by Billy Hall on Sun, Nov 7, 2010, at 7:43 PM
The Black fellow was Frank Bailey. He was a very nice person. His wife was very nice also. He had a lot of children, who had to walk all the way to Harris School every morning, and back home at night. I couldn't understand that when I was a child. Still don't. But know why it was done that way now.
-- Posted by Wolf Clan on Mon, Nov 8, 2010, at 1:05 AM
Ref: Billy Hall - I asked around and Frank Bailey and his family lived in the tenant home on the grounds that the log cabin was on which was called "Royal Acres". I first recall Wayne Cartwright living in the log cabin. I remember Frank Bailey real well as I worked at UniRoyal myself. I later worked with Bill Bailey at Nissan in Smyrna who was the son of Frank.
I am not sure what year you are talking about with the Nash family and Segroves in front of the store. We lived in the house directly in front of the store for many years. I know we lived there when I started first grade at Shelbyville Mills. We moved from that house in 1973 when they made the house the salesroom. Jackie Moore and his family lived next to us when we lived there. Mrs. Segroves the mother of Tom Segroves lived with the Moore family. The family was wonderful neighbors and I remember them with a lot of happiness. Mrs. Segroves made me a shirt when I started to school. The house was torn down by my father and I when Bob Holland bought it around the late 60's.
The time period you're talking about I am sure that I was not born. It is great to see so many come on here and discuss the mill village. A lot of good people worked and lived at U. S. Rubber/UniRoyal.
-- Posted by redddj on Wed, Nov 10, 2010, at 8:58 AM
There were a couple of houses down in the valley from the Nash house. One was the home of Graham Sharp, his sister Irene, and their mother Granny Sharp. Up under the water tower were a couple of more houses. We lived in one one those houses when Pattons Troops were on Maneuvers in Shelbyville and the surrounding County. They would take rests in the park across the street.
-- Posted by Wolf Clan on Wed, Nov 10, 2010, at 2:46 PM
Photo courtesy: Number25
John Tune
U. S. Rubber Company
Shelbyville Mills
-- Posted by redddj on Thu, Nov 11, 2010, at 9:28 AM
Photo courtesy: Number25
John Tune
U. S. Rubber Company
Shelbyville Mills
-- Posted by redddj on Thu, Nov 11, 2010, at 9:30 AM
Is this the same John Tune who was the first black man to be hired by the Shelbyville Police Department? Sure looks like him.
-- Posted by bomelson on Sat, Nov 13, 2010, at 11:13 AM
The Nash's lived in the house next to the Moore
house some time right before/and for a while after Korean War. The Sipsy's (Rosemary Sipsy's family) lived there after the Nash's. I don't know who lived there before or after that.
-- Posted by caligal on Sun, Nov 14, 2010, at 12:45 PM
At one time there were two stores at the Mill. One was in the deep curve below the office building. The other of course was Phillips'. The one in the curve had the Post Office in it, before it moved up under the water tower. The store was gone when the addition was built.
-- Posted by Wolf Clan on Mon, Nov 15, 2010, at 11:13 PM
Anyone have any info on the Sipsy family? Thanks
in advance - really enjoy this blog.
-- Posted by firstname.lastname@example.com on Wed, Nov 17, 2010, at 12:42 PM
Re the Sipsy family. They lived in the former
Nash's home after the Nash's moved. Rosemary
Sipsy was the only child, I believe. They moved
to Wartrace in the early 50's. I have seen their
name on a list of Shelbyville Mills cemetary
headstones on line recently. Their house was
a great gathering place for kids in the neighborhood. Canasta and tea parties at their
house were highlights. After they moved to Wartrace, Rosemary would come load up her car with a group of us girls and take us to Wartrace
for the day or weekend.
-- Posted by caligal on Wed, Nov 17, 2010, at 1:47 PM
Does anyone remember when James Pinkston had the wreck on his motorcycle in front of the mill?
Was his brother with him?
-- Posted by firstname.lastname@example.com on Wed, Nov 17, 2010, at 2:38 PM
Bo, I haven't heard any comments from you on this blog. I would like to hear some. Although we have lost contact over the years. I still think alot of you and my friends at T-G.
-- Posted by firstname.lastname@example.com on Wed, Nov 17, 2010, at 2:42 PM
Rosemary Sipsy was my aunt, Dad's sister-in-law. She was also my mother's first cousin. After moving from The Village they moved to Lewisburg Hwy. near Wheel and then to Whitaker Rd. in Wheel, for several years. Lastly, moving to Wartrace, in the 1970's.
Rosemary, Preston, Robert and Edith have all passed on but I have great memories of these good people.
-- Posted by shemac on Wed, Nov 17, 2010, at 8:43 PM
I really enjoy reading the blog. The Lord has blessed me more than I can never pray enough. I have a wonderful family.
I got a job at AEDC. I got OJT there and have worked there for 45 years.
-- Posted by email@example.com on Thu, Nov 18, 2010, at 6:58 PM
Just wanted to say that I'm in the process of sending pictures to Redddj to post for me, but these were sent to me from Woody in the mail. I asked that he use Woody's name for the credit.He has more than I did if I'm not mistaken but I'm sure you all will enjoy them. Happy Thanksgiving to all.
-- Posted by Number25 on Tue, Nov 23, 2010, at 12:34 PM
Number25: Thank you very much for the pictures that you and Woody have contributed. I'm 80 now and we did'nt have a camera at home and depended on pictures in the Gazette or those made at our school. I went into the Navy in 1951 and was on the battleship Missouri when it went into Cherbourg, France. I signed up for a week trip down to Paris, but it cost $30 and I only had $7. I sold my camera for $30,and went: but I have always regreted that I don't have pictures to look at now of the trip, most of which has faded from my aging mind.
-- Posted by Grits on Tue, Nov 23, 2010, at 4:00 PM
Shelbyville Mills School Gym during Christmas
Photo courtesy: Woody Thompson
-- Posted by redddj on Wed, Nov 24, 2010, at 9:24 AM
Shelbyville Mills School 1949 Graduation Class
Photo courtesy: Woody Thompson
-- Posted by redddj on Wed, Nov 24, 2010, at 9:26 AM
Professor Mills present Charles Corneilson with his basketball letter (Shelbyville Mills School)
Photo courtesy: Woody Thompson
-- Posted by redddj on Wed, Nov 24, 2010, at 9:27 AM
Shelbyville Mills Baptist Church early 1940's with Rev. Buford Bull
Photo courtesy: Woody Thompson
-- Posted by redddj on Wed, Nov 24, 2010, at 9:28 AM
Shelbyville Mills Baptist Church mid 1940's with Rev. Harold Kilpatrick
Photo courtesy: Woody Thompson
-- Posted by redddj on Wed, Nov 24, 2010, at 9:30 AM
For those of you who have FACEBOOK all of the pictures on this blog are on the FB page listed as Shelbyville Mills School
-- Posted by redddj on Wed, Nov 24, 2010, at 9:32 AM
Grits, you're more than welcome and thanks for saying so. Mother saved these and I'm glad I had the ones I did. I wish I knew who you were as you're somewhere in age between Billie and Denzol and I may have some of you in them. There's a lot to go through as I try to scan the items separately so it will be better to see the pictures. Take care and if you wish to do so, let me know who you are. With Thanksgiving tomorrow, I may not get any more to Redddj until after the holiday. But there are more.
-- Posted by Number25 on Wed, Nov 24, 2010, at 2:03 PM
Thank you to Mr. Woodrow Thompson and his Baby sister Donna for all the pictures and memories. You have stirred memories I didn't remember. Runing wild up and down the river and the woods in the "cedars" and the ball park the club house, and most pleasant those of Mrs. Ruth Cunningham.
-- Posted by Wolf Clan on Wed, Nov 24, 2010, at 7:05 PM
Hi, I just found this website and am enjoying it very much. I grew up in the village and saw a lot of names here that I recall. Some of my friends were Ronnie Seagroves, Walter Holman, etc. I will write more after the holidays.
-- Posted by sparkie46 on Wed, Nov 24, 2010, at 7:59 PM
In response to the first entry about the basketball teams, I too remember the games between Shelbyville Mills School (SMS) teams and the JR High teams. Even though I did not play on the basketball team they were a lot of fun to attend. There was a big rivalry between us and the JR High at least to us Mill kids it was. To me it was like (Tennessee vs Vanderbilt), (Auburn vs Alabama), (Texas vs Texas A&M), etc. It there was one game you did not want to lose that was the one. We also played Wartrace, Bell Buckle, etc but the Jr High team was the one we always wanted to beat. I remember one year we were playing the JR High team on a Saturday night and Jerry Bell was one of the referees and he made a call against us which most of us Mill kids did not like. I think it cost us the game. Any way Jerry attended Shelbyville Mills Baptist Church, so that Sunday morning I am sure it was tough on him going to church.
Anyway it was a great rivalry and like the writer said we all merge together once we got to high school. Remember the girls teams were you had 3 guards and 3 forward and they stayed on their half of the court. They won the state championship in '64 my senior year.
-- Posted by sparkie46 on Thu, Nov 25, 2010, at 12:29 PM
I remember Shirley Morgan from JH, she could shoot from center court, and made it look easy.
-- Posted by marwi on Thu, Nov 25, 2010, at 6:22 PM
Bo, good to see you at the Rec. center. Ben Green was the editor in June 1965 when I left. Gerald Tenny was Editor when I started to work at the T-G in 1962. I remember all the airplane trips Mr. Yates carried us in his private plane. I was 18 and never been in an airplane. I still have a photo with Virgina Tenny, myself and Mr Yates with the airplane. Do you remember when had we Southern Airlines in Shelbyville? Joe Reed and I flew back from Union City Tn. with Southern Airlines to Shelbyville. These are great memiores..Hey the Sports Editor in 1962 was a very important person.Shelbyville girls basketball team won the state title in 1964.
JFK was killed in 1963, I saw it on AP.
-- Posted by firstname.lastname@example.com on Fri, Nov 26, 2010, at 4:02 PM
Sorry about my last reply on this blog. I wast'nt thinking right.
I should only state info. about SMS.
-- Posted by email@example.com on Mon, Nov 29, 2010, at 4:02 PM
Does anyone remember a restaurant in the village? It was close to the Floyd & Huffman Grocery store and I think next to the Moore's house. I must been around 4 yrs old when my parents took me there on a Friday night. I remember getting a hamburger. I do not know how long it was there but it I do not remember it after I started 1st grade which was about 1952.
-- Posted by sparkie46 on Mon, Nov 29, 2010, at 5:17 PM
The cafe near the Huffman grocery was the Adgent's
-- Posted by caligal on Tue, Nov 30, 2010, at 7:52 AM
Thanks for the info caligal.. I was to young to remember the name but I defintely remember one being around there. Again thanks for the info
-- Posted by sparkie46 on Tue, Nov 30, 2010, at 6:06 PM
I was delighted to finally see a picture of
the Shelbyville Mills Gym from the outside.
The picture of the gym decorated for Christmas
brought back a lot of good memories. That gym
was such an important part of all our lives!
Thanks for the photo!
-- Posted by caligal on Tue, Nov 30, 2010, at 9:46 PM
Caligal, you're more than welcome. Am in the process of sending more pictures to Redddj to post for me. If I knew who you were, I could check to see if you're in any of them. The way you speak here, we must be close in age. Take care and am glad you wanted to see this blog as I have many memories that were forgotten, but not now with others sharing theirs.
-- Posted by Number25 on Thu, Dec 2, 2010, at 1:58 PM
Seven more photos sent to me by Number25 to post. I have seen several people around town who is not aware of this blog. Hopefully many more can enjoy the sharing on here.
(Donnie Redd)
Sonny Gray (left) and Woody Thompson (right) local Shelbyville Mills School Boy Scout Troup
Scenes around the mill village (1949)
Royal Wildcat Basketball Team
First half Junior league champions
George Carroll, Jr. (left) and Bobby Brown (right) baseball players (graduates of Shelbyville Mills School)
Bobby Brown with 10 foot glider
From left to right: Nellie Mae Lynn, Millie Jo Gray, Cherry Ann Day, Eliza Shearin & Rosa Lee Lynn
-- Posted by redddj on Sat, Dec 4, 2010, at 4:14 PM
Miss Helen Womack was the principal at SMS when I was in the seventh grade (47-48) and Mr. Mills became principal the next school year when she left to teach at SCHS.
-- Posted by Billy Hall on Sat, Dec 4, 2010, at 10:18 PM
Many and many thanks to Number25 for your efforts to bring pictures reflecting the spring time of our lives. Also, thanks to Donnie Redd for posting the pictures, that are precious, because they appear out of nowhere, to brighten our imagination from 65 years ago, when the world was old and we were young.
-- Posted by Grits on Tue, Dec 7, 2010, at 2:45 PM
grits, not only did you leave the past behind 65 years ago, some of us left it behind 55 years back. The memories of the Mill Village are so great for those who lived there, but this blog started about Shelbyville Mills School.
Give it up for those on Central Ave., Baker Street, Fishingford Pike, Sims Road, for each and everyone, find a memory.
-- Posted by marwi on Wed, Dec 8, 2010, at 4:46 PM
Number25: You are right about the surrounding places to the mill village. All of Bedford county was like a home place for every one who lived there. It was a place were every person was accepted and treated the same. Like Bo, said earlier, we had sports contests between the city teams and the mill teams, but when we went on to SCHS we all linked up and played as one. It was a different place with a different culture than exists today.
-- Posted by Grits on Wed, Dec 8, 2010, at 7:01 PM
I was just in grammar school when Dorothy Hollman (not sure of the spelling) was hit by a car at the skating rink (I was friends with her brother Walter and there was a younger brother Ricky). I think I was in high school when Jackie Moore passed away in a car accident. Just wondering if any of you knew Dorothy. Base on some of the comment I have seen Jackie name mention but nothing about Dorothy.
-- Posted by sparkie46 on Sat, Dec 11, 2010, at 5:18 PM
i was in the same class as robbie holman, dorothy was probably 2 yrs older. i'm not sure of the spelling either. both were pretty girls.
james howard moore was in a car wreck shortly after returning from the service. he was about 20. we called him buck & jackie was his dad. he had an older sister named sue.
i think walter died pretty young too but not sure. i lost touch with him
-- Posted by jepigg on Sat, Dec 11, 2010, at 11:12 PM
Shelbyville Mills School Royalettes (1952 - 1953)
Photo courtesy: Number25
-- Posted by redddj on Sun, Dec 12, 2010, at 9:09 AM
Juanita Thompson & Sue Moore - Shelbyville Mills School girls basketball team
Photo courtesy: Number25
-- Posted by redddj on Sun, Dec 12, 2010, at 9:10 AM
Cedar Tigers Basketball Team
"Remp" Bledsoe, Gene Howell, Paul Rittenberry, Bill Lovvorn, Buddy Victory, Calvin Blackman, Marvin Lovvorn & Coach Bobby Brown
Photo courtesy: Number25
-- Posted by redddj on Sun, Dec 12, 2010, at 9:12 AM
Rat Row Gophers Basketball Team
Tommy Wright, Charles Allison, Paul Allison, Monk Harris, Bill Goss & Coach Cliburn
Photo courtesy: Number 25
RIP: Paul Allison passed away Sunday, 12/5/2010
-- Posted by redddj on Sun, Dec 12, 2010, at 9:17 AM
Royal Wildcats Basketball Team
Bud Carroll, Sonny Gray, Jewell Pinkston, Charles Corneilson, Ben Carroll & Coach Austin Davis
Photo courtesy: Number25
-- Posted by redddj on Sun, Dec 12, 2010, at 9:20 AM
Village Panthers Basketball Team
Coach Ernie Hall, Henry Sadler, Billy Rogers, Marvin Nash, Billy Jo Hall & Woody Thompson
Photo courtesy: Number25
-- Posted by redddj on Sun, Dec 12, 2010, at 9:22 AM
Thanks jepigg for the info, I heard Walter took his on life (not sure if that true), I think he was in Flordia at the time. Thanks for reminding me about Robbie and I am not sure what every happen to Rickie. Yea Buck Moore that right I can recall listening to the high school football games when I was in grammar school and I think he played end for them. I graduated from SMS in 1960 but recall a lot of the older kids mention here. The Grays (I think I am a cousin to them), the Carrols, Austin Davis, Hixon Pugh, etc.. I went to school with Helen Carrol
-- Posted by sparkie46 on Sun, Dec 12, 2010, at 5:04 PM
you must have been in the same class as my sister linda.
-- Posted by jepigg on Mon, Dec 13, 2010, at 11:15 AM
Dorothy and Robbie Holman were dear friends and playmates of mine. Their house was always a
buzz of activity. We would get together and cook
and do acrobatics in their yard. Robbie was
especially talented at this. I moved away from
the village after the 6th grade and lost contact
with them until high school. Dorothy's death was
hard to take. I was at the skating rink when she
was hit by the car and it was heartbreaking. She
was indeed a beautiful girl with a beautiful soul
and heart.
-- Posted by caligal on Tue, Dec 14, 2010, at 11:07 AM
Correction to names on this photo: left out Bill Nelson on previous post.
Royal Wildcats Basketball Team - Bud Carroll, Sonny Gray, Jewell Pinkston, Charles Corneilson, Bill Nelson, Ben Carroll & Coach Austin Davis
-- Posted by redddj on Wed, Dec 15, 2010, at 7:18 AM
Yes redddj, I think I was in Linda class it been along time and sometime I forget some of the name because we had a good size class of around 30 kids. Thank caligal for the information on the Holman, they were the older girls us young kids always looked up to. I am not sure what ever happened to Robbie or Ricky.
-- Posted by sparkie46 on Wed, Dec 15, 2010, at 2:11 PM
Martha Holman, the oldest of the three Holman sisters was my sister-in-law. Dorothy's death
was truly a tragedy, a beautiful person and soul
lost so young. Robbie married (Johnny Boyce?)and moved to Kentucky for a long period - believe she divorced and might have rtn'd to Tenn. Ricky played drums in a band for a time but can't recall what happened later in his life but I think he had health problems. Walter and I grew up together - there were two different views of his death, the suicide one and the other that it was a domestic situation. He and his wife had been having issues as I recall. Martha died on
Cancer many years ago. Hope this helps for info
on the Holmans.
-- Posted by firstname.lastname@example.com on Wed, Dec 15, 2010, at 8:12 PM
I remember boxing Buck Moore at the SMS gym. He knocked me foolish in the first round. I remember his girl friend back then. Mary Ruth Walker. She married Ernest Shelton, Jerry Shelton's older brother.
This is the way I remember. Correct me if I am wrong.
-- Posted by email@example.com on Thu, Dec 16, 2010, at 11:44 AM
Alvis Lynn, Wayne Clanton & John Sloop
Photo courtesy: Number25
-- Posted by redddj on Thu, Dec 16, 2010, at 3:28 PM
Billy Lovvorn & Carlton McCarty
Photo courtesy: Number25
-- Posted by redddj on Thu, Dec 16, 2010, at 3:30 PM
Buford Clanton
Photo courtesy: Number25
I recall Mr. Clanton living next to the U. S. Royal Ball Park
-- Posted by redddj on Thu, Dec 16, 2010, at 3:32 PM
Not sure of the year and those in the picture. Perhaps those who are viewing the Shelbyville Mills School blog can help out.
Photo courtesy: Number25
-- Posted by redddj on Thu, Dec 16, 2010, at 3:34 PM
All of these pictures of the kids in the village shows kids in what appears to be excellent physical shape compared to the kids in schools today. I don't think it was because of all the vegetables/fruits we ate. I think we all had our share of sweets and cokes. Just more exercise and outdoor living. We all walked to school, rain, snow or sleet, and we were outside sun up to sun down. Just an observation.....
-- Posted by caligal on Thu, Dec 16, 2010, at 3:36 PM
I have several pictures related to racing. Hart Hastings, Brooks & George Tune a big part of the mill area. I am going to share some of the photos.
Donnie Redd
1957 Nashville 100 at Legion Bowl Nashville, TN (the last race ran on this speedway won by the car owned by Hart Hastings, Brooks & George Tune.
Photo (left to right): Hart Hastings, Freddy Fryar (driver), Brooks Tune, George Tune & Bennie Goodman
-- Posted by redddj on Thu, Dec 16, 2010, at 3:39 PM
Charlie Griffin of Chattanooga, TN won the first race ever held on asphalt (July 19, 1958) at Fairground Speedways, Tennessee State Fairgrounds. Hart Hastings, Brooks & George Tune owned the car.
-- Posted by redddj on Thu, Dec 16, 2010, at 3:41 PM
Charlie Griffin driver of #14 owned by Hart Hastings, Brooks & George Tune
-- Posted by redddj on Thu, Dec 16, 2010, at 3:43 PM
Herb Lewis once drove for Hart Hastings, Brooks & George Tune
-- Posted by redddj on Thu, Dec 16, 2010, at 3:44 PM
1961 - Hart Hastings at Fairgrounds Speedway, Nashville
-- Posted by redddj on Thu, Dec 16, 2010, at 3:45 PM
Thanks B.thegun for the updates on the Holman, I had forgotten all about Martha until you mention her. I think I was a year older than Walter. Walter, Ronnie Seagrove and I were good buddies in the village. Martha, Dorothy and Robbie were some of the older girls in the village. Just want you to know I appreciate the info. Also REDDDDJ thanks for posting the pictures. It was good to see them. Yes caligal, I remember those walks to school. Does anyone remember a pear tree a little passed Huffman grocery store at the top of a little hill. I can recall picking up pears on the way to school in the fall. Thanks to all for the memories of a wonderful time.
-- Posted by sparkie46 on Thu, Dec 16, 2010, at 3:48 PM
Charlie Griffin, Chattanooga, TN driver of Hastings & Tune modified racer
-- Posted by redddj on Thu, Dec 16, 2010, at 4:37 PM
Hart Hastings & driver L. J. Hampton feature winner at Fairgrounds Speedway, Nashville, TN
-- Posted by redddj on Thu, Dec 16, 2010, at 4:40 PM
Freddy Fryar of Chattanooga, TN wheels the #14 around the dirt facility called the Legion Bowl located in Nashville in 1957
-- Posted by redddj on Thu, Dec 16, 2010, at 4:41 PM
George Bonee, driver of the Hart Hastings Chevelle
-- Posted by redddj on Thu, Dec 16, 2010, at 4:43 PM
My maiden name was Victory. Buddy in the photo posted on 12/12/10 was my uncle. Even though our house was on SM Rd, I considered it "beside the school". :-)
We lived in the 3rd house on SM Rd from the corner of Jackson St & SM Road (Crouse's lived on the corner) from '66-'92 when my parents had the house moved to land they bought a few miles south of town. The Fults (then later Brantley's) lived between the Crouse's and us, the Grangers lived on the other side till they both passed away, then Mr & Mrs Thurman Seagroves' moved in (John & Bonnie Baskins & their baby moved in after the Seagroves passed away - I think it became a rental after the Seagroves passed away). I think the Troupes lived next door, then Billy Rogers moved next to them.
I went back down to check the neighborhood out during my visit home in Oct and took some photos that I hope to post soon. I left home after I graduated in '81 and boy it's changed a lot. Right now I'm back in Delaware and in the process of moving, so it'll be a little bit.
-- Posted by jdesunshine on Thu, Dec 16, 2010, at 8:50 PM
To Sparkie: We had a small orchard next to our house. We had pear, apple and cherry trees. Glad you enjoyed them.
-- Posted by caligal on Thu, Dec 16, 2010, at 9:20 PM
Road named in honor of Mary Pepper Fort. Mrs. Fort's husband was an employee of U. S. Rubber Company.
-- Posted by redddj on Fri, Dec 17, 2010, at 1:05 PM
Merry Christmas to everyone and especially to Bo Melson for making this "memory lane" possible. Make this Christmas special to all of your children that they will remember and recall 50 years from now!
-- Posted by caligal on Fri, Dec 17, 2010, at 1:19 PM
I've always liked the greeting a cashier gave me on a Dec 24 day in New Zealand. "Merry Christ Day" she said with a smile as I checked out.
To number25, Caligal, Bo Melson and all the wonderful commenters that have graced this site; where I found heart warming visions of persons and places etched in my memory. At this time of year I always like to thank God for giving me the nourshing warmth of summer. In spite of the cutting, slicing and chopping I've done to kill and gather the 60 years of harvest I've stolen from her.
-- Posted by Grits on Fri, Dec 17, 2010, at 5:25 PM
Shelbyville Mills Basketball League Play
Shelbyville Mills Gym
February 1953
Photo courtesy: Number25
-- Posted by redddj on Fri, Dec 17, 2010, at 6:57 PM
Remember when Photo http://i339.photobucket.com/albums/n452/...
Posted by redddj on Thu, Dec 16, 2010PM
I have the Times Gazette clipping with the info at the bottom of the picture:
This submitted photo features Shelbyville Mills School's eight grade graduation of May 17, 1945. Left front: Eliza shearin, Edna Lee Adgent, Mary E. Rogers, Rosie Lee Lynn, Cherry Ann Day, Billie Jean Helton, Robert Lemay (Sadler, my father's 'brother'), Mable Oldfield (my mother's sister), LaJune Waggoner: second row, school offical Helen Womack, Katherine Gray Keeling, Dudly Delffs, Lorraine Hall, Millie Jo Gray, Emma Jean Moore, Nellie Mai Lynn, Faye Russell, Billie Jean Thompson and Nolin Harris.
-- Posted by shemac on Sun, Dec 19, 2010, at 9:20 AM
Thanks for the information shemac. I knew my sister Billie was in it as well as a couple of other ones. I would like to thank those who thanked me for the pictures I sent to Redddj to post and I do have some other ones as well. If it wasn't for my mother who kept these, I wouldn't have them. I wish I knew who a lot of you are on this blog and to Grits, you say you know all of us in my family, but I still can't think of who you are. To jdesunshine, are you Jackie's daughter by the name of Dawn? Oh, and Merry Christmas to all.
-- Posted by Number25 on Sun, Dec 19, 2010, at 3:50 PM
Look @ that # 400, fantastic.
Merry Christmas everyone, may 2011 bring you more great memories.
-- Posted by marwi on Sun, Dec 19, 2010, at 6:39 PM
number25: My name is Bobby Brown and I lived a few houses from you. I had sisters Sarah, Margaret, Betty and Barbara. We lived next door to the Pinkstons. I'm not sure, but I think my sister Betty cut one of the Thompson girl's hair for her. Sure appreciate the pictures and I send them to my sisters Betty and Barbara. Sarah married Clyde Statum, Jr and Margaret married Jimmy Richardson. Sarah, Clyde, Jr and Margaret have passed away. God bless you and your mother for the pictures. I can still picture your mother standing on her front porch watching the kids coming home from school, and those playing in your yard.
She always threw her hand up and waved.
-- Posted by Grits on Sun, Dec 19, 2010, at 7:12 PM
Grits, I had always thought it was you but wasn't sure so I just had to ask. As others have noted, I'm the youngest, Donna, and remember all of you. Just as a refresher, the Grays lived next door to you all, then the Davis family. I have an article about Margaret when she was first married. I'll try to find it and send it to Redddj to post for your benefit. I have some more things that he knows about and then that will be it. I'm glad I found this blog and being able to share. Take care and God bless you as well.
-- Posted by Number25 on Mon, Dec 20, 2010, at 8:44 AM
Grits was an outstanding baseball catcher. There is no doubt in my mind he could have played at the professional level. Merry Christmas to everyone who has responded to this blog. It has brought back a load of good memories for me just recalling all the great friends I had and still have who attended Shelbyville Mills School.
-- Posted by bomelson on Mon, Dec 20, 2010, at 2:38 PM
I am the granddaughter of Ed & Willie Bell Thomas Adgent. My mom is Edna Lee Adgent McCarty Nash. I Lived in the village for about 5 years , the beginning of my life, but I visited my mom's family throught my life. I really don't remember my dad, Robert Lewis McCarty, because he died in an automobile accident when I was 18 months old then my mom married Tom Nash, I was about 5. We moved to "town" but I still called Shelbyville Mills home & I am proud of it. I read all the names in this blog and I know or remember just about all of them. My great grandmother was Lena Thomas, but we called her mammy, she was a pistol. Another lady Josie Cunningham lived next to my mom's family. She was like my grandmother, I don't believe she ever married, but I remember she wore a bonnet & walked to the store with me. She also had a bucket on her porch that caught rain water & I drank from it with a dipper. Cold & good! She also had a Cherry tree in her side yard that I climbed & ate the cherries. I love reading everyone's memories. I didn't go to school in the village but I went to basketball games & the store that sold tennis shoes behind the gym. Thanks I feel happy & sad Bye
-- Posted by gsanders on Tue, Dec 21, 2010, at 1:53 AM
1949 U. S. Royals Baseball
Photo courtesy: Number25
-- Posted by redddj on Wed, Dec 29, 2010, at 5:33 PM
Shelbyville Mills School classes present plays featuring Barbara Ann Brown tap dancing.
Photo courtesy: Number25
-- Posted by redddj on Wed, Dec 29, 2010, at 5:35 PM
Shelbyville Mills Brownie Troop
Photo courtesy: Number25
-- Posted by redddj on Wed, Dec 29, 2010, at 5:36 PM
Announcements related to Sonny Gray & Bobby Charles
Photo courtesy: Number25
-- Posted by redddj on Wed, Dec 29, 2010, at 5:38 PM
Harold Reed - U. S. Rubber Company Laboratory employee
Photo courtesy: Number25
-- Posted by redddj on Wed, Dec 29, 2010, at 5:39 PM
Junior League Baseball - May 1949
Photo courtesy: Number25
-- Posted by redddj on Wed, Dec 29, 2010, at 5:41 PM
Shelbyville City League Basketball
Photo courtesy: Number25
-- Posted by redddj on Wed, Dec 29, 2010, at 5:42 PM
Photo courtesy: Number25
-- Posted by redddj on Wed, Dec 29, 2010, at 5:43 PM
Shelbyville Mills Junior Boys League Standings
Photo courtesy: Number25
-- Posted by redddj on Wed, Dec 29, 2010, at 5:44 PM
U. S. Royal Bowling Team - May 1949
Front Row (left to right)- Fred Phillips & Hugh Searcy, Center Row - John Dooley, Back Row (left to right) J. C. Pilkington (standing), Norman Hasty (seated), Carlton McCarty (seated), Bob Fort (standing)
Photo courtesy: Number25
-- Posted by redddj on Wed, Dec 29, 2010, at 5:50 PM
redddj and number25 thanks again for the work you two have done to bring so much happiness, and excitement to all of us. Especially, when we see pictures and articles we did not see back then, or never knew it existed. Time goes by and our world and the persons in it change and fade away, but pictures and articles remain the same forever.
-- Posted by Grits on Wed, Dec 29, 2010, at 6:41 PM
Thanks redddj for the photos and stories. I hope everyone had a great Christmas and Happy New Year to all.
-- Posted by sparkie46 on Wed, Dec 29, 2010, at 7:23 PM
Answer to question about Rodney Kirk's whereabouts.
He is in Bentonville AR. Linda died several years ago.
-- Posted by firstmost on Sat, Jan 1, 2011, at 10:09 PM
I am a little late jumping into this exchange. I lived on Pencil Street which was fondly known as "Rat Row". Although our parents worked at Musgrave, we were still part of the rubber mill gang. In the late 40's, we fielded our own basketball team - the "Rat Row Gophers". Players I remember include Paul Allison Jr. (recently deceased. Jim McBride (deceased), John Allison (deceased) and Monk Harris (?). I had a paper route in the mill area and will post stories as time permits.
-- Posted by firstmost on Sat, Jan 1, 2011, at 10:26 PM
firstmost, this was posted earlier related to "Rat Row"
-- Posted by redddj on Sun, Jan 2, 2011, at 8:34 AM
firstmost... welcome to this blog. I too feel like moving on from 'the village'.
I remember Betty Ruth Wells, she lived in the shadow of Musgrave & Empire, yet she and her siblings were a part of SMS.
I lived in Bakertown, I can still smell the cedar from those pencil mills.
-- Posted by marwi on Sun, Jan 2, 2011, at 7:42 PM
Grits, I have some more items for Redddj and maybe you might know some of the people. I'm going to try to get part of them to him this week. Hope you had a good Christmas and New Year to come. You mentioned Momma on your blog and she loved Christmas. It always brings back good memories of her. I appreciate your mentioning her too.
Also, it was good to see Firstmost on this blog I'm looking forward to reading your postings.
Until another time!
-- Posted by Number25 on Tue, Jan 4, 2011, at 4:10 PM
Number25: Thanks again and I hope I can identify some of the people, although at 80 yrs I am forgetting names I should remember. But, maybe my sister Barbara or Betty will remember. We sure had wonderful neighbors on our street. From the Clays, then Pinkstons, then Browns, then Brahsheirs, then Grays, then Davis and the Thompsons. Your mother was a great lady and all the mothers on the street worked so hard and for so many hours and all of it devoted to their children and family. I do remember many of those ladies working in the Mill during the summer when it was 96 deg outside and no air conditioning, just bans to cool them down some. If you google the "child labor in Georgia cotton mills" you can see the little 13 yr old girls that worked in the mills before they outlawed child labor. That is why the mills were moved to the south; for child labor.
-- Posted by Grits on Tue, Jan 4, 2011, at 8:12 PM
Hopefully Redddj will get the pictures and articles today to post. You talk about your age and I'm "pushing" 69 myself. This blog has helped me to remember lots that I had forgotten too. Take care.
-- Posted by Number25 on Thu, Jan 6, 2011, at 1:41 PM
Edward Johnson, Jr. - United States Rubber Company
Photo courtesy: Number25
-- Posted by redddj on Thu, Jan 6, 2011, at 4:05 PM
Shelbyville Mills Girl Scout Troop 33
Courtesy: Number25
-- Posted by redddj on Thu, Jan 6, 2011, at 4:06 PM
H. A. Pinkston retires from United States Rubber Company - February 1953
Photo courtesy: Number25
-- Posted by redddj on Thu, Jan 6, 2011, at 4:07 PM
Harvey Sanders - United States Rubber Company
Photo courtesy: Number25
-- Posted by redddj on Thu, Jan 6, 2011, at 4:09 PM
Howard Leverette - United State Rubber Company
Photo courtesy: Number25
-- Posted by redddj on Thu, Jan 6, 2011, at 4:10 PM
Mrs. Ruth Stallings
Courtesy: Number25
-- Posted by redddj on Thu, Jan 6, 2011, at 4:11 PM
Norman Hasty presents badges to Shelbyville Mills School Boy Scout members. (December 1952)
Photo courtesy: Number25
-- Posted by redddj on Thu, Jan 6, 2011, at 4:13 PM
Shelbyville Mills Baptist Church news related to building of educational building.
Photo courtesy: Number25 http://i1195.photobucket.com/albums/aa38...
-- Posted by redddj on Thu, Jan 6, 2011, at 4:15 PM
Shelbyville Mills Sick Bay Report
Courtesy: Number25
-- Posted by redddj on Thu, Jan 6, 2011, at 4:16 PM
Tommy Smith - United States Rubber Company
Photo courtesy: Number25
-- Posted by redddj on Thu, Jan 6, 2011, at 4:17 PM
A couple of the people who have made comments made remarks related to Empire and Musgrave Pencil Company. I googled and found this interesting link related to Musgrave Pencil Company.
-- Posted by redddj on Thu, Jan 6, 2011, at 4:19 PM
Thanks rdddj, that Musgrave link was great. The site took me to Stones River near Murfreesboro. I lived in that area and walked my five year son in that the battlefield. He is now 55 years old. What a memory.
-- Posted by marwi on Fri, Jan 7, 2011, at 6:51 PM
Number25 and redddj, thanks a million for the pictures and articles. Lot's of memories of happy days, and very sad days, in the lives of Heaven bound souls, I used to know and see. The world has turned so many times passing by Decembers, and now only a few will remember , the faces in the pictures of those dearly departed members.
-- Posted by Grits on Fri, Jan 7, 2011, at 7:00 PM
gsanders, the picture Redddj posted for me of the bowling team had a McCarty in it. Is he a relative of yours? I remember your Mom but she was older than me.
Grits, I have a few more things to send to be posted and one of them has your sister, Barbara becoming a memeber of the church in the article.
-- Posted by Number25 on Sun, Jan 9, 2011, at 9:05 AM
Shelbyville Mills Baptist & Shelbyville Mills Church of Christ News
Courtesy: Number25
Part (1)
Part (2)
-- Posted by redddj on Mon, Jan 10, 2011, at 2:33 PM
Intermediate Sunday School Class of Shelbyville Mills Church of Christ
Courtesy: Number25
-- Posted by redddj on Mon, Jan 10, 2011, at 2:35 PM
Mrs. Thompson hostess to brush party
Courtesy: Number25
-- Posted by redddj on Mon, Jan 10, 2011, at 2:36 PM
Kindergarten Christmas Party
Courtesy: Number25
-- Posted by redddj on Mon, Jan 10, 2011, at 2:38 PM
Doll Party hosted by Mrs. June Carroll
Courtesy: Number25
-- Posted by redddj on Mon, Jan 10, 2011, at 2:39 PM
Cowboy Party
Courtesy: Number25
-- Posted by redddj on Mon, Jan 10, 2011, at 2:40 PM
Household shower for Billie Carol Fults - February 1953
Courtesy: Number25
-- Posted by redddj on Mon, Jan 10, 2011, at 2:41 PM
U. S. Rubber Company "Old Timers"
Retired "Old Timers"
Photo courtesy: Number25
-- Posted by redddj on Mon, Jan 10, 2011, at 2:43 PM
Grady (Butch) Milholen presents award to Frank Martin - United States Rubber Company
Photo courtesy: Number25
-- Posted by redddj on Mon, Jan 10, 2011, at 2:45 PM
Shelbyville Mills Boy Scout Troop 125
Courtesy: Number25
-- Posted by redddj on Fri, Jan 14, 2011, at 1:46 PM
United States Rubber Company Old Timers Banquet
Photo courtesy: Number25
-- Posted by redddj on Fri, Jan 14, 2011, at 1:47 PM
Old Timers Club Annual Meeting
Courtesy: Number25
-- Posted by redddj on Fri, Jan 14, 2011, at 1:49 PM
Old Timers Meeting at Holland Camp
Photo courtesy: Number25
-- Posted by redddj on Fri, Jan 14, 2011, at 1:50 PM
From the desk of: A. B. Alexander, Plant Manager of United States Rubber Company, Shelbyville Mills
Courtesy: Number25
-- Posted by redddj on Fri, Jan 14, 2011, at 1:51 PM
Eddy Arnold with Lonzo & Oscar from WSM Grand Ole Opry peform at Shelbyville Mills School Gym
Courtesy: Number25
-- Posted by redddj on Fri, Jan 14, 2011, at 1:59 PM
City of Shelbyville letter thanking United States Rubber Company
Courtesy: Number25
-- Posted by redddj on Fri, Jan 14, 2011, at 2:00 PM
Bales of tire cord at the plant
Photo courtesy: Number25
-- Posted by redddj on Fri, Jan 14, 2011, at 2:01 PM
Shelbyville Mills School News
Courtesy: Number25
-- Posted by redddj on Fri, Jan 14, 2011, at 2:07 PM
Thanks number25 and redddj for the pics. Enjoy all of them. number25, I did'nt see the article where Barbara joined church. Maybe my eyes, which are not very clear these days, missed it.
-- Posted by Grits on Fri, Jan 14, 2011, at 2:57 PM
It was in the article of SMBC and the Church of Christ. Redddj put both together and it was on the continuing (spelling may be wrong) of the church news. It started out telling of the new building and continued on the next article which he listed as part 2. It listed her and the Knox Holleys. Hope you can find it. As I told him, these were the last that I have unless I can find more somewhere. Glad you enjoyed them too. Please let me know if you find it, OK?
-- Posted by Number25 on Fri, Jan 14, 2011, at 4:29 PM
number25, I found Barbara's name at the top of pt2. I sent it to her in email. She will be excited to see it, I know.
-- Posted by Grits on Fri, Jan 14, 2011, at 6:06 PM
Does anyone remember the Landers brothers racing team? Their car was IP2 at the Nashville raceway.
Correct me if i am wrong.
-- Posted by email@example.com on Mon, Jan 17, 2011, at 5:00 PM
It sure sounds like something I should remember, but if anyone could really remember it would be Redddj.
And Grits, I told Redddj that was all I had, but am glad I relooked at my items. I found the article of Margaret's wedding shower and when I get it scanned, he'll post it for me and you can pass it along.
Thanks a lot to him for doing the posting online for me and I did send him my thanks in an email as well.
-- Posted by Number25 on Mon, Jan 17, 2011, at 6:00 PM
Shower for Mrs. Jimmy Richardson
Courtesy: Number25
-- Posted by redddj on Sun, Jan 23, 2011, at 5:52 PM
Number25 and redddj: Thanks a million. I sent the article about our dearly departed sister Margaret on to my sisters Barbara and Betty. They are going to be very surprised and delighted by the memories of a very special time in their lives. Also thanks to Bo Melson for originating the blog of SMS. It has been a joy for so many to see and remember some of the happiest times of our lives.
So many times, for so many years, I have wished I could relive some special times in my past, and thanks to you 3, a lot of those wishes came true.
-- Posted by Grits on Sun, Jan 23, 2011, at 6:35 PM
GRITS, when you see this message please email me at:
I have some information to pass on to you.
-- Posted by redddj on Tue, Jan 25, 2011, at 8:48 AM
Early 1960's - Hart Hastings owned modified racer at Fairgrounds Speedway, Tennessee State Fairgrounds.
-- Posted by redddj on Tue, Jan 25, 2011, at 9:33 PM
Re: IP2
At one time, it was driven by Jerry "Bird" Williams who worked for Landers Tires.
-- Posted by firstmost on Wed, Jan 26, 2011, at 1:55 PM
If Norman Rockwell had been asked to design an idyllic community, he couldn't have done a better job than Shelbyville Mills. We had everything within walking distance: church, school, grocery store, rec center, and swimming hole.
In 1957, Mr. Cortner was both the 8th grade teacher and principal. Jerry Cunningham sat by the door and ran across the hall to answer the phone. Compare that to the huge administrative staff the schools have now.
Members of that class as best as I can remember:
Kenneth Couser, Thomas Gray, Buck Moore, Gayle Bearden, Brent Lokey, Glen Rainey, Jimmy Clanton, Robert Bonds, Dwight Graham, Buster Waters, Gary Hitson, Terry Gray, Gene Hudson, Ralph Moulder, Jerry Pigg, ? Skinner, Bobby Allison, Jerry Cunningham, Lamarr Neese, Robbie Holman, Donna Rae Thompson, Helen Young, Linda Nowlin, Mary Ann Vandergriff, Vivian Cook, Anna Auberry, Sara Cook, Geraldine Adgent, Wilma Jo Dycus, Edward Gibbs,Wanda Rainwater,Josephine Butler. If anyone has any corrections, please post them. Your memory is the second thing to go. I've forgotten what the first one is.
-- Posted by firstmost on Wed, Jan 26, 2011, at 2:44 PM
That would be Clarence Skinner. His uncle, Redddj is the one who posted all the pictures for me. He told me Clarence had passed away. He was a nice boy and quiet compared to a lot of us.
-- Posted by Number25 on Wed, Jan 26, 2011, at 7:38 PM
Clarence Skinner passed away eight years ago today.
-- Posted by redddj on Wed, Jan 26, 2011, at 8:43 PM
I agree firstmost, Norman Rockwell would have loved that place. I watched Obama's speech and viewing him, and the members of the audience, I was reminded of Lord Byron, who wrote: "Society is now one polished horde, formed of two mighty tribes, the Bores and Bored." Back in days at the mill I was never bored and we were all of one tribe.
-- Posted by Grits on Wed, Jan 26, 2011, at 8:59 PM
If I remember correctly I think that the iP2 race car was also driven at one time by Freddie Prosser. I do know that before iP2 found fame as a race car that old Plymouth was our "Service Car" at Landers Service Station at the corner of Depot and Derry streets beside the present day T-G building.
-- Posted by leeiii on Thu, Jan 27, 2011, at 6:25 AM
I believe Gene Hudson and Terry Gray was in our class as well.
-- Posted by Number25 on Fri, Jan 28, 2011, at 12:25 PM
I have a newspaper picture of Dorothy Holman. I was going through a lot of all stuff and came across it. I think my mother may have cut it out of the paper. It look like it may be the picture they put in the paper for her obituary. But I am not sure all I have is have is the picture. I would be glad to send it to someone to post if they would let me know who to send it to.
-- Posted by sparkie46 on Fri, Jan 28, 2011, at 1:57 PM
My mind did leave as you mentioned the ones I said. What about Harvey Cook and Linda Rollins?
-- Posted by Number25 on Fri, Jan 28, 2011, at 2:43 PM
sparkie46 you can send to me and will be glad to post.
-- Posted by redddj on Fri, Jan 28, 2011, at 8:22 PM
I thought of a couple of other classmates. There was a girl whose last name was Doster and all through our twelve years together was Summers Pass. I know there's more and maybe I'll remember them later on.
-- Posted by Number25 on Sat, Jan 29, 2011, at 3:00 PM
Number 25
You are right about Harvey Cook, but Summers Pass went to Wheel. I remember tackling him when we had an 8 man football team. We wore leather helmuts.
I think Linda Rollins went to Wheel.
-- Posted by firstmost on Sat, Jan 29, 2011, at 6:12 PM
Dorothy Holman
Photo courtesy: Joel Buntley
-- Posted by redddj on Sat, Jan 29, 2011, at 8:25 PM
I stand corrected! Summers did go to S.Mills for awhile and I was using that as my basis for what I wrote. I'll try to do better from now on.
And Sparkie46, thanks for the picture of Dorothy. I remember her well and she was very beautiful.
-- Posted by Number25 on Sun, Jan 30, 2011, at 1:18 PM
I may be assuming a lot here. However, I assume the houses in the area known as the Village were built first and the Cedars were built later. If this is the case, when were the homes in the Cedars built? Was there anything that determined which familes lived in either the Village or the Cedars such as the shifts they worked?
-- Posted by bomelson on Sun, Jan 30, 2011, at 4:05 PM
The cedars were built later. They actually just
ran out of houses in the village. Some people owned their homes, such as the Moore's and the Adgents. I believe some privately owned homes were rented to the mill workers.
-- Posted by caligal on Sun, Jan 30, 2011, at 7:08 PM
brenda davis name just came up at my dinner table. i think she was in our class too. i think harvey cook quit- i remember him in seventh with miss floyd but not in eighth. marie lynn too.
brenda is some kin to the little davis girl that died.
-- Posted by jepigg on Wed, Feb 2, 2011, at 12:47 PM
My mother tells me that the rent for us when we lived in the Cedars was $3.25 per month or maybe a week.
-- Posted by firstname.lastname@example.com on Wed, Feb 2, 2011, at 1:12 PM
To: JEPIGG
You are right about Brenda Davis being in our class. I'm pretty sure Harvey Cook was too, but he didn't go on to high school. NUMBER25 mentioned someone named Doster. The closest name I could think of was Melba Sue Dodson and she was a year ahead of us.
Another interesting story about Mr. Cortner's class was the world series. Back then the games were played in the day time. Gayle Bearden and Terry Grey lived across the street from SMS. Mr. Cortner let the Dodger fans go to Gayle's house to watch the games and the Yankee fans went Terry's house. The girls went to the playground. Can you imagine what the Board of Education would say now? Back then, we didn't let education get in the way of learning.
-- Posted by firstmost on Thu, Feb 3, 2011, at 8:05 PM
As has been said before, "The Village was heaven on earth for all the kids who were lucky to have lived---as thrived--there."
-- Posted by caligal on Thu, Feb 3, 2011, at 9:28 PM
I noticed this today in the obits and some might remember him:
Mr. Clarence Edward Ewing, age 83, of Shelbyville, died Wednesday, February 2, 2011, at Glen Oaks Convalescent Center.
Funeral services will be 1 Pm Saturday, February 5, 2011, at Feldhaus Memorial Chapel. Brother Ora Walls will officiate, with burial to follow in Cedar Grove Cemetery in Marshall County.
Visitation will be one hour prior to service Saturday.
He was born January 23, 1928, in Bedford County, to the late John A. and Leara Gant Ewing. He was retired from Uniroyal and a retired security guard from Calsonic.
He is survived by his wife Mary Ewing, of Shelbyville, and two sisters, Mary Rippy and Lettie Garner, both of Shelbyville. He was a Father To All.
Feldhaus Memorial Chapel is assisting the family with the arrangements.
-- Posted by Number25 on Fri, Feb 4, 2011, at 12:49 PM
Hart Hastings Chevelle #14 driven by George Bonee at Fairgrounds Speedway located in Nashville. Buck Carroll assisted Hastings in working on the car for many years.
-- Posted by redddj on Tue, Feb 8, 2011, at 12:31 PM
An earlier post alluded to Austin "Pinky" Davis. In case you are wondering how he got his nickname, here is one version. In the late 1940's, the Central High basketball coach was George Swing. He had two red headed players: James Gregory and Austin Davis. He decided there couldn't be two Red's on the team. Since James had the darkest red, Coach Swing said you will be "Red" Gregory. Austin had a lighter red so he became Pinky". I hope that clears things up.
Speaking of Austin Davis, he probably had more influence on the boys who came from Shelbyville Mills than anyone. As a Christian, he taught the Juniors at Shelbyville Mills Baptist Church. Not only did he talk the talk, but he walked the walk. In sports, he not only taught us the basics, but instilled the desire to win. We never gave up even if we were way behind. As a scoutleader, he was always prepared. Troop 125 always walked away with most of the Scout awards.
When I left home to join the Air Force, I didn't have much more than the clothes I wore to Basic. However, I left with confidence, the will to be a winner, and a well worn New Testament that "Pinky" had taught me to use. I know now that I was a "rich" teenager and a great deal I owe to Austin "Pinky" Davis.
-- Posted by firstmost on Sat, Feb 12, 2011, at 4:58 PM
About Auston Davis nickname "pinky". We sere the same age and grew up together. I may be mistaken, but the "pinky" came from a movie we saw where the actors referred to a gangster's ittle finger as his pinky. We used to ride our bycycles uptown on Saturday to the cheaper afternoon movie. I just remember calling Auston "pinky" and he nicknamed me "jazz" from another movie(Iquess).
He was without a doubt the finest person I ever knew. From the first time I ever saw him in the 5th grade(1941) until the last time in 1988, he was always the same person.
-- Posted by Grits on Sat, Feb 12, 2011, at 6:12 PM
The reference to Auston "Pinky" Davis is so true.
Auston has been my brother-in-law for 59 years this August. I am the preacher and he has been my inspiration. Truly one of the finest men I know.
-- Posted by bobbymoore on Sun, Feb 13, 2011, at 7:08 AM
Mr. Davis is one of the best, if not the best to not only be from the "Mill Village" but from Shelbyville. He is the person every kid looked up to. Every kid bar none.
-- Posted by Wolf Clan on Mon, Feb 14, 2011, at 3:36 AM
SMS beat Junior High School 26 to 25 in the 1956-57 county basketball tournament. Jimmy Faulk had 25 points and Reggie Cunningham added 1 point. Way to go Reg.
-- Posted by firstmost on Tue, Feb 15, 2011, at 8:59 PM
Reddj, Don't know who you are but,I graduate from SMS in 1949 and CHS 1953. The Nashes lived during that time. Kenneth Segrows next door and then the cafe. Facing the house from the road there was a large empty space then a house where Charles Sanders lived. Marvin Nash did not go to highh school and I lost contact with him, so he could have moved out in after 1952, but I don't think so.
-- Posted by Billy Hall on Thu, Feb 17, 2011, at 8:07 PM
Gsanders, I can't remember your name, but I know who you are. Tom and Edna were very good friends of ours. We lived in Nashville and when we visited my mother we would also visit Tom and Edna. While visiting your parents we would play cards. You would stand around and watch, Edna would ask about your home work and send you of to study. Once while studing we heard this jumping up and down noise. When Edne went to see what was going on, she came back laughing. You explained to her that your teacher told you to study your spelling words and skip around and thats exactlly what you were doing. Skipping round the table. We still tell that story and always get a good laugh. Tom and my brother were great friends. Hope you are doing well. BJH
-- Posted by Billy Hall on Thu, Feb 17, 2011, at 8:37 PM
Bobby Brown, I have a copy of the VOLUNTEER with pictures of the 1948 SMS graduates from high school. Not sure I know how to scan it and get it on the blog, but will try. Pictured are, Velma Pinkston, Bobby Brown, Jane Carrol, Earnest Hall,(my brother) Ruby Mae Lentz, Auston Davis,Nell Marie Lockey, Dorris Pilkington and Rebecca Keller
-- Posted by Billy Hall on Thu, Feb 17, 2011, at 8:53 PM
Hi Billy Hall. Nice to hear from you. Your brother Ernest and sister Loraine(?) were like family for so many years. Thanks for trying to scan the picture of us that I and my sisters will sure enjoy seeing. Bobby Brown
-- Posted by Grits on Fri, Feb 18, 2011, at 8:38 AM
I can send them by email, but this want let me copy and paste. email@example.com
-- Posted by Billy Hall on Fri, Feb 18, 2011, at 3:36 PM
This is the photo that Billy Hall mentioned in the previous entry.
Photo courtesy: Billy Hall
-- Posted by redddj on Sat, Feb 19, 2011, at 9:34 AM
NUMBER 25 Was reading through the blogs again and saw your question about Mr. Mills. Miss Womack was principal for several years and I was in her sixth grade class. Mr Shelton's fifth and seventh grade. The next year Miss Womack went to teach at CHS. Mr. Mills had been the Princal at CHS and was moved to SMS as principal. He was my eight grade teacher. He was a very nice guy as long as you stayed out of trouble. I remember Charles Edward (Bulldog) Tucker, one of my good friends in the villege had moved to Nashville. One day during recess I saw him coming into the building and I yelled out Bulldog and started toward him and Mr. Mills grabed me and ask did you say that and by then Bulldog was there and he realized who I was talking to and let me go. Later I was told that Bulldog was the nick name the students called him at CHS, behind his back of course.
-- Posted by Billy Hall on Sat, Feb 19, 2011, at 10:24 AM
The best compliment I have ever heard about villages was while living in Cincinnati and taking care of my mother, I arranged meals on wheels to bring her lunch on week days. One day while I was working in front of the house, the gentleman who delivered her lunch stopped on his way to his car and commented that your mother is dreaming. From what she said you would think you grew up in Mayberry USA. I actually held back tears and said she is right, but it was better. Most of you know me as Billy Joe
-- Posted by Billy Hall on Sat, Feb 19, 2011, at 11:18 AM
Shemac Your father has to be Willie, He lived next door to my aunt and uncle. My cousins Ronald, Justine and Wanda Faye Watley and I lived across the street from my cousins. Henry, Preston and Willie were great friends. Robert was older and I think he moved away. Mary Lee and Justine were great friends.
Billy Joe
-- Posted by Billy Hall on Sat, Feb 19, 2011, at 7:22 PM
1945 Shelbyville Mills School 8th grade graduation class
Photo courtesy: Billy Joe Hall
From left, front row Eliza Shearin, Edna Agent, Mary E. Rodgers, Rosie Lee Lynn, Cherry Ann Day, Billie Jean Helton, Robert Leman, Mable Oldfield and LaJune Waggoner; second row, school offical Helen Womack, and students Katherine Gray, Gary Keeling, Dudley Delffs, Lorraine Hall, Millie Jo Gray, Emma Jean Moore, Nellie Mai Lynn, Faye Russell, Billie Jean Thompson and Nolin Harris.
-- Posted by redddj on Sun, Feb 20, 2011, at 2:45 PM
Bo, During the late 90's and early 2000's we had SMS reunions yearly in a building (forgot the name of the roads) going out past the T G the road forks and you stayed left and the meetings were on the right. Could have been the American Legion building. Sonny Gray and Calvin Blackman were active in organizing the meetings. Four or five years ago Bead Cook was involved in setting up the reunion. This time we met at a restaurant on the Tullahoma Highway just past the railroad tracks on the left. That is the last one I heard about. Mr. Campbell came to some of the early reunions. Billy Joe
-- Posted by Billy Hall on Sun, Feb 20, 2011, at 6:56 PM
Billy Joe, yes, my dad is Willie. Uncle Bobby did move away to Michigan and only came back on vacations. Bobby, Preston and Mary Lee have passed away. I was babysitted by the Watley girls a time or two.
-- Posted by shemac on Sun, Feb 20, 2011, at 8:17 PM
shemac, Ask your dad if this is true. When he first started dating Willa Dean, Wille ask his dad to use his car. Mr. Saddler said if he wanted to see that girl he could walk across the fields to her house. Well Willie climed the fence behind our house and headed to Sims road through the fields. Then Marriage and you. Billy Joe
-- Posted by Billy Hall on Mon, Feb 21, 2011, at 11:32 AM
Shelbyville Mills School graduates at Shelbyville Central High School
Photo courtesy: Billy Joe Hall
-- Posted by redddj on Mon, Feb 21, 2011, at 2:06 PM
shemac, Did you see your uncle Bobby's picture in the photobucket above. My sister is also in the photh.
-- Posted by Billy Hall on Tue, Feb 22, 2011, at 10:56 AM
Billy Joe, Yes, I will have to ask Dad about that.
It was a long walk but glad he made it. ha.....
I saved the picture you mentioned from the paper when it came out. Uncle Bobby was a little fella in the picture but grew into a tall man. My Aunt Mabel is also in the picture. Love those old pictures.
-- Posted by shemac on Tue, Feb 22, 2011, at 6:03 PM
I read your comment about Mom, Ann (Gregory) Halmontaller and Bill Troup skating across the Shelbyville Mills gym floor.
I will have to agree, Mom was a magnificient skater! She continued to skate until knee surgeries prevented her from doing so. She and I spent many hours at the rinks. She actually taught me how to skate backwards and also how to do the two step.
Having lost Mom in May 2010, these memories are helping me to get through the most difficult time of my life. Thanks for the memories!
Donna H. Cartwright
-- Posted by cody 1 on Wed, Feb 23, 2011, at 12:22 PM
The response about your mother was posted by someone else, Grits I think. But I also remember Ann as a great skater both at Shelbyville Mills Gym and Richardson's Roller Rink. She was also an outstanding cheerleader. We're all so pleased this blog has been a help to you.
-- Posted by bomelson on Wed, Feb 23, 2011, at 3:36 PM
cody 1 and bo, I also remember Ann when she worked at the T-G in the little brick building behind the Gunter Building. Ann ran the Address-O-Graph machine that imprinted the addresses on papers that were to be mailed.
-- Posted by leeiii on Wed, Feb 23, 2011, at 4:32 PM
My family moved to work at the mill around 1850 and in the 1870s moved between Normandy and Tullahoma to work on the railroad. I am related to Bell, Troup, and Sipsy. My GGGreat Grandmother Elizabeth Bell is buried in the cemetery there.
-- Posted by bell92 on Sun, Feb 27, 2011, at 9:15 PM
Duke Snider, Hall of Fame center fielder for the Dodgers during the 50's passed away today at the age of 84.It seems that part of our life keeps slipping into history. I know that's part of life, but it's still sad.
-- Posted by firstmost on Sun, Feb 27, 2011, at 10:06 PM
You may be interested in this I heard recently. A lady called and said an effort is being made clean a cemetery at Shelbyville Mills located back of the former Bell home. An improved road leading into the cemetery and a marker at the entrance were among the things she mentioned.
Maybe some others can offer more information about this project.
-- Posted by bomelson on Mon, Feb 28, 2011, at 3:12 PM
Speaking of Shelbyville Mills School, there is a good article in this weeks Baptist and Reflector about Kayla Bryant. Kayla is the daughter of Dawn West Bryant and Mark Bryant, and the Grandaughter of Edna West and Aaron West.
-- Posted by leeiii on Thu, Mar 3, 2011, at 8:31 AM
bell92,thanks for the input on your family,and the cemetary in the mill village.
I would very much like to ask you some questions about your family history,especially the Sipsy.If you would be willing to discuss with me you can email me at email@example.com.
Thank you
Hope to hear from you.
-- Posted by Gus on Thu, Mar 3, 2011, at 5:33 PM
Dear Grits,
I made a mistake and thanked Bo for writing about my Mom, (Ann Gregory Halmontaller) skating across the Shelbyville Mills floor.
I should thank you for the comment about her. Like I told Bo, she was a great skater. We skated at Tullahoma, Winchester, the old tent rink set up at Chapel Hill and as far away as Huntsville, Alabama. Of all the times we skated together, I can only recall her falling twice.
There was a hairline crack in the floor at Tullahoma, and she went down. Also, someone must have lost a bolt or screw on the floor which caused her to fall. Not a bad record of those mishaps for so many times at the rink!
Luckily, there were no broken bones or injuries that resulted from the falls.
I know Mom would have been proud that someone had remembered her skating and cheerleading days. I think she is probably smiling down at you and the others for those memories. Thanks again!
Donna H. Cartwright
-- Posted by cody 1 on Sat, Mar 5, 2011, at 12:19 PM
Donna Cartwright: OK about mistake: me/BO. I'm sure we both remember your mother Ann. I told my sisters about her passing and both remembered what a beautiful girl she was and very kind to them. I remember being so lucky to tie her skates a few times and looking up at her memorable face. Once, or maybe more, I tied her shoes too tight and had to loosen the skates, and tie again. I don't know if I did it on purpose(so I could tie again), or was so mesmerized by her smile that I was very nervous. Everyone loved her and everyone who knew her share in sorrow with you.
-- Posted by Grits on Sat, Mar 5, 2011, at 3:08 PM
Barbara, I don't really remember you mom. But I do remember Dickerson's Studio placing portraits of some the prettiest girls of Shelbyville in the display window. Seems I remember a pretty Ann Gregory being there at one time.
I remember he took great pride in showing off The Horse Show Queens.
There was always something wonderful about Dickerson's photography. I often wonder whatever happened to all that art.
My all time favorite was a portrait of Uncle Billy Alexander from Bell Buckle.
I know this is a bit off subject, but memories are memories, we take them as they come.
-- Posted by marwi on Sat, Mar 5, 2011, at 5:03 PM
There are two obituaries of note in today's T-G.
Barbara Jean Bearden Brown passes away Fri March 4th at the age of 67. She was the daughter of Mark and Dorothy Bearden who lived across from the SMS School.
Rosa Mae Smith Statum passed away Mar 4th at the age of 95. "Employed by Shelbyville Mills Rubber Co. during WW11, due to her petite size she inspected the interior of emergency rafts used by all the Armed Services and Merchant Marine."
-- Posted by firstmost on Sun, Mar 6, 2011, at 9:07 AM
Been awhile since I wrote anything here but I just read about Barbara in the newspaper online.She was the sister of Gale, but firstmost, they didn't live across from the school as that was my family and a few others mentioned on here before. Perhaps you're mistaking where they lived with another area of the Rubber Mill. Anyway, she will be missed by all who knew and loved her.
-- Posted by Number25 on Sun, Mar 6, 2011, at 10:52 AM
they lived in the cedars on top of the hill next to the Babtist parsonage
-- Posted by jepigg on Mon, Mar 7, 2011, at 12:08 AM
that's Baptist parsonage. later mark went to work for the funeral home & they moved to town on fairfield pike.
-- Posted by jepigg on Mon, Mar 7, 2011, at 1:10 PM
RIP: Barbara Bearden Brown
#3 Shelbyville Mills School
Photo courtesy: Number25
-- Posted by redddj on Mon, Mar 7, 2011, at 3:22 PM
NUMBER 25, Do you remember the players who played on the team that traveled to near by towns to play. I remembr Sonny Gray and maybe Calvin Blackman got me on the team and I believe Woody was also on the team,
-- Posted by Billy Hall on Wed, Mar 9, 2011, at 8:42 PM
jdesunshine, I knew Buddy Victoy while growing up in the village. I talked to him some time ago, maybe in the late 90's. he was with Baptist Hospital then.
-- Posted by Billy Hall on Wed, Mar 9, 2011, at 8:56 PM
avaandsylviesmim, Sylvia, you Muriel, Justine and Mary Lee were a really something. Peggy and Jaunita may have in your group. I know Justine and Muriel have passed on, sometimes I would see Jaunita when I visited Justine and have wandered about the rest of the group. Billy Joe
-- Posted by Billy Hall on Wed, Mar 9, 2011, at 9:18 PM
Grits, I mentioned something to you and it's about a Bodie Troup. Do you or anone else remember him? I may have his name wrong and wouldn't mind being corrected. I do know my family and I visited him at Bob Jones University in South Carolina when we visited my brother at the Air Force Base there.
And Billy Joe, I remember Billy Lovvorn, Hixson Pugh, Carlton McCarthy, and Bobby Spence (or Spencer). I know there's more and perhaps will remember them soon.
-- Posted by Number25 on Fri, Mar 11, 2011, at 5:32 PM
Number25, the only Troup I remember was Bill Troup. He lived in the cedars and was an only child. He was a very likable person. I was very sad when I read his Obit some months ago.
-- Posted by Grits on Fri, Mar 11, 2011, at 6:06 PM
Just a few my many memories of the mill village.
* Royal Station post office
* Shelbyville Mills Baptist Church bus coming thru the village
* I think it was called "Freddie Freeze" - use to come thru the village selling ice cream, hamburgers, etc.
* Mr. Elijah Floyd seated on the bench at Floyd & Huffman store talking with others.
-- Posted by redddj on Sat, Mar 12, 2011, at 7:15 AM
Billy, I left out John (Brother) Allison. The one I mentioned before had the last name of Spence. I'm still trying to figure out the Bodie I mentioned. Bob Jones University was where students went to study for the ministry. I also remember there was a small store next to the Bells home but no one has mentioned it. One of my sisters worked there for awhile.
-- Posted by Number25 on Sat, Mar 12, 2011, at 8:44 AM
Number 25
The store was Mr. Pap Bell's Store. He was Mr. Artie's Dad. He walk with the aid of Crutches. When he died, Jerry(Mr. Artie's Son) ran it for a while. Mr. Pap lived in a house next door. His house was torn down to make room for Mr. Artie's and His wife's house.
-- Posted by Wolf Clan on Sat, Mar 12, 2011, at 12:57 PM
Wolf Clan,
Thanks for the info. Wish I knew who you are as you seem to know about me and my family. Perhaps we went to school together but right now I can't place who you would be.
-- Posted by Number25 on Sun, Mar 13, 2011, at 5:53 PM
I am just a mist in the wind. I remember a lot of people from the old SMS, and the Mill Village. spent a lot of my life there. Not many remember me.
Lot of good memories there. Life was grand. You could wander from Baker Town to the Cow Ford, and no one had to worry about you. O well, time changes everything. God Bless you and Woody and all your family and families.
-- Posted by Wolf Clan on Tue, Mar 15, 2011, at 4:12 PM
Are you related to the Bells who lived at the Mill. I am a Bell. Like to talk about our family tree.
My email is email@example.com.
-- Posted by bell92 on Wed, Mar 16, 2011, at 8:02 PM
Wolf Clan, Waded across Duck River many times at the Cow Ford. Up stream I learned to swim at the Rock and droped from the cable up stream from there. The cable or rope broke while my brother was swing on it. He fell on the slanted rocks and broke his arm in three places. They had to get a boat to get him back across the river. Have many memories of playing in that part of the river and the bluffs. Also enjoyed the grand daddy hole.
-- Posted by Billy Hall on Wed, Mar 16, 2011, at 9:43 PM
Wolf Clan,
I respect your wishes and won't ask again, but I think people would remember you as the Shelbyville Mills area was like a large family.
Also, to bell_c! Sorry but I wasn't a Bell but knew them and went to church with them as well.I grew up there so if I could give you any info I know and you want to ask me, I'll try to answer you.
-- Posted by Number25 on Thu, Mar 17, 2011, at 8:51 AM
# 25
I was reading some October blogs and saw where you located a Charles Cornelison but was not sure it was the same person we knew. When Sonny and Calvin were orginizing SMS reunions. Charles attended one and he lived in Jackson, TN. Charles was did very well in the insurance business as he did not go to high school but got his GED and climed the latter. He lived on top of the hill across from A, B. Alexander and close to Fay and Tressa Waggoner.
-- Posted by Billy Hall on Fri, Mar 18, 2011, at 5:18 PM
Dear Bo, You initiated this epilogue on August 13, 2010 and it is still going in March 2011! How wonderful it has been to see so many people joining in and sharing their memories and pictures. Every entry by someone evokes another memory from someone else. How wide your arms have been, Bo! Thank you for making this ol' lady very happy....very happy indeed!
-- Posted by caligal on Fri, Mar 18, 2011, at 6:00 PM
Billy Joe,
This is in response to you and I'm adding something for Grits as well.
I'm not sure about Charles and will have to go back to my sources to see if he is one and the same. I know I mentioned him being in the Navy and since you wrote what you did, I'm beginning to think it was Grits that I remember being in a Navy uniform. (I'm getting older and forget sometimes.)
But I reread something Grits said about going to Paris while on shore leave. I wanted him to know (this is a funny too) that we went there on a trip while stationed in Germany but we had a Polaroid(sp) camera to take along with us. Trouble was, we left the film home so we didn't get any pictures especially from the E.Tower.
-- Posted by Number25 on Sat, Mar 19, 2011, at 9:32 AM
Number 25: I was in the Navy and sold my camera for $30 to buy a 7 day trip to Paris. It was the summer of 53, aboard the battle ship Missouri, taking Navy midshipmen on their summer cruise to Lisbon, Portugal and Cherbourg France. Rode the train to Paris. My friend and I met 6 young girls on their way to Paris where they danced at the Foiles Begere. We let them stay in our fancy hotel room and we slept in the lobby. They usually stayed in a very rough and cheap hotel. Sure wish I could have kept my camera, and had pictures of Lisbon, Cherbourg, Paris and especially those 6 dancers. I did get very friendly with one of them, but a diamond salesmen from Rhodesia showed us a large bag of large, fresh cut diamonds he was taking to London. She dumped me for the salesman faster than I could say "nice diamonds".
-- Posted by Grits on Sun, Mar 20, 2011, at 6:44 PM
Billy Joe,
I think we have the same Charles in mind. Don't know his home address though.
Wanted you to know I did a lot of searching before I found that website. Was worth every bit of it too.
-- Posted by Number25 on Tue, Mar 29, 2011, at 11:18 AM
If there is enough interest, Gene Williams and I plan to organize an SMS Reunion in early fall. You SMS Royals please post if you are interested.
-- Posted by firstmost on Sat, Apr 2, 2011, at 7:24 AM
Does anyone know anything about the black man who worked in the mill office and made the Nativity sceen that he also painted and installed on the front of the gym.
-- Posted by Billy Hall on Sat, Apr 2, 2011, at 4:59 PM
The Black Fellow was Carlos Baliff. He was a fantastic artist.
-- Posted by Wolf Clan on Sat, Apr 2, 2011, at 8:30 PM
Thanks Wolf Clan! That brought back another memory for me. He also painted the back of the baptism pool at Shelbyville Mills Baptist Church. It had totally slipped my mind.
Memories are wonderful and still alive for all of us.
Bless you Wolf Clan.
-- Posted by Number25 on Sun, Apr 3, 2011, at 8:23 AM
Wolf Clan,
It's later in the day and I realized he painted the background on the stage at SMSchool also.
-- Posted by Number25 on Sun, Apr 3, 2011, at 4:40 PM
Carlos also painted the scene behind the Baptism Pool at the Church of Christ. The scene on the stage at the school was painted for a play about Gypsies. The girl that I remember as the main Character(I think)was a short blond girl. Her name is right on the tip of my tongue, as they say. But I can't spit it out right now. Maybe it was Mary Lee, not sure though.
-- Posted by Wolf Clan on Sun, Apr 3, 2011, at 7:34 PM
I don't believe the person doing the painting was Carlos Bailiff. His first name may have been Carlos, but Carlos Bailiff was my father-in-law. He did work at the Rubber Mill, but was not an artist, nor was he black. I'll ask around and see if I can find out. Yes, yes to a reunion!!!!
-- Posted by nanato5 on Sun, Apr 3, 2011, at 8:22 PM
Thanks for the info. The Carlos that painted the sceen work in the Rubber Mill office. I don't know what he did, but he dressed in a suit and tie for work.
-- Posted by Billy Hall on Tue, Apr 5, 2011, at 11:30 AM
I just wanted to say to everyone there in Shelbyville that my prayers are with you all after the storm last night. Where we live was also "in the line of fire" that was involved but we made it through all right. Take care everyone and may God bless all of you.
-- Posted by Number25 on Tue, Apr 5, 2011, at 4:02 PM
It just dawned on me about the painter. Redddj posted a picture for me that was the Christmas scene on here and it has his name. It wasn't Carlos at all. It was Carles and his last name was Pritchett. If you can read underneath it, it has his name as well as others. Hope this helps to clarify his name.
-- Posted by Number25 on Tue, Apr 5, 2011, at 4:14 PM
Sorry for the wrong information. I apologize.
-- Posted by Wolf Clan on Tue, Apr 5, 2011, at 6:13 PM
Well, I had a senior moment to the above statement. I did send the picture to Redddj to post but I had asked him to use Woody's name as he sent me the picture and he was grateful enough to do so. Please forgive all.
-- Posted by Number25 on Wed, Apr 6, 2011, at 8:07 AM
The golf course has been mentioned, but nothing said about it. I caddied there a few times and was paid one dollar except once a man gave me $1.20. Most money I ever had. At the corner of West Lane and Shelbyville Mills Road was a very small building, today it would be called the pro shop. Two people inside would have been a crowd. There was a door and next to the door was a hinged door that let down and proped up become a shelf. I believe it was a nine hole golf course. The area that we call the green today was sand. The green was elevated and the players had to chip over a mound that sorrounded the green. Once on the green, the players would place their ball on top on the smooth area and put out. Once they finished the caddies would take time about dragging the green. There was a galvinzed pole with a piece welded to one end making a T bar. Hooks were on the T part and burlap was attached. The caddie would dip the sand out of the cup with his hand then, starting at the cup with the T bar walking circles until the green was completely dragged.
-- Posted by Billy Hall on Sat, Apr 9, 2011, at 8:57 PM
I just saw this in the obits today and know some of you will remember her as I did. I attended church with her. She was a wondeful woman and may she rest in peace.
Mrs. Frances Ruth Arney, age 84, of Shelbyville, died Saturday, April 9, 2011, at Heritage Medical Center.
Funeral services will be 2 PM Tuesday, April 12, 2011, at Feldhaus Memorial Chapel. Reverend Charles Williams, will officiate, with burial to follow in Willow Mount Cemetery.
Visitation will be 4-7 PM Monday at Feldhaus Memorial Chapel.
She was preceded in death by her husband, Gene Arney in 2008.
She was born June 27, 1926, in Dekalb County, to the late John Luther and Minnie Susan Cantrell Lowery. She was retired from Uniroyal Corporation and a member of Shelbyville Mills Baptist Church.
She is survived by two sons, Carl Quenton Arney, and his wife Darlene, of Manchester, and James L. Arney, of Shelbyville; a daughter, Patricia Blevins, of LaVergne, Tennessee; four grandchildren and five great grandchildren.
Memorials may be made to the Activities Fund at Christian Care of Bedford County.
Feldhaus Memorial Chapel is assisting the family with the arrangements.
-- Posted by Number25 on Mon, Apr 11, 2011, at 8:22 AM
To everyone who reads this:
I just got an email from Redddj (who posted my pictures for me on here) and his father, Billy was admitted to the hospital last night. Please say prayers for him and for all the family. I know they will be appreciated. Thanks to all.
-- Posted by Number25 on Wed, Apr 13, 2011, at 11:51 AM
You and your family are in my prayers. It is in God's hands. He knows best. Prayers from us all will not hurt. May God Bless and Comfort you and your family.
-- Posted by Wolf Clan on Wed, Apr 13, 2011, at 9:07 PM
Gene i woould love to help with a reunion we were talking about this at shelbyville mills baptist church.
some one ask about bodie troup, he and his lovely wife passed away a few yrs. ago
-- Posted by silver on Fri, Apr 22, 2011, at 8:08 AM
Thanks for the information! It was I who asked about him and since no one had answered me, I thought it was a senior moment I was having. I'm sorry to hear about their passing away. Do you know if he was a minister as I had thought he was in school for? Thanks ahead of time.
-- Posted by Number25 on Fri, Apr 22, 2011, at 3:52 PM
I haven't heard anything from you silver, but you mentioned Shelbyville Mills Baptist Church before and I was wondering if I knew you. I went there when I was young and went back when I was in town. Could you possibly tell me who you are in case I know you.
-- Posted by Number25 on Sun, Apr 24, 2011, at 1:40 PM
To Silver do you have any contact info.
you can find me on facebook
-- Posted by RGeneW on Tue, Apr 26, 2011, at 11:11 AM
-- Posted by silver on Sat, Apr 30, 2011, at 9:57 AM
I don't know if this was your daughter that I just heard about that passed away but want you to know that if it is, I'm so deeply sorry for your loss. My prayers are with you.
-- Posted by Number25 on Wed, May 4, 2011, at 7:55 AM
yes. she was only 35. 3 kids. woody knows.thanks
-- Posted by jepigg on Wed, May 4, 2011, at 9:49 AM
Billy Joe It is so good to hear from you, sorry it took me so long, I haven't looked at the blog in a long time. Juanita lives in Murfreesboro near her son and daughter.
a reunion would be fun.
-- Posted by avaandsylviesmimi on Tue, Jun 7, 2011, at 11:11 AM
Hello to everyone who atttended Shelbyville Mills School in 50, 51, 52, 53. My teaching career has taken me to Nashville, Baltimore and NYC. I now live in Charleston, SC. Donald Smith
-- Posted by drs29401 on Fri, Jun 17, 2011, at 4:05 PM
Jimmy Clanton ,age 70, passed away June 9 at Heritage Medical Center. He had been a pt at Glen Oaks Nursing Home suffering from cancer.
In the 50's, he lived on Earnheart St with his mother, sister, and two brothers. Jimmy's dad never came home from World War 2. He was sent to the VA Hospital in Murfreesboro suffering from "shell shock". Jimmy's mother went to see him every Sunday. May Jimmy rest in peace.
-- Posted by firstmost on Wed, Jun 22, 2011, at 2:24 AM
Hello Donald Smith,
I went to SMills and I remember your name and think you probably were in the same grade as one of my siblings as I finished up there in 1956. Did you play one of the sports while there? It's good to see new people on here too and perhaps you'll write more about yourself when we were younger.
-- Posted by Number25 on Thu, Jun 23, 2011, at 9:46 AM
Dear Number 25,
My late brother, Carl, and I played on the basketball teams. He was a much better player than I. What is your name and the name of your sibling who attended SMS?
-- Posted by drsmith1939 on Sun, Jun 26, 2011, at 11:26 AM
To drsmith1939,
If you go back up the blog you will see that I was one of the Thompson kids. Also Redddj posted some pictures I had and one of them is (I believe) you boxing with someone. Perhaps you can find it. Talk to you later on.
-- Posted by Number25 on Thu, Jun 30, 2011, at 8:00 PM
To David Armstrong,
I keep looking to see if you answered my comment of who I was and about the picture of you boxing that was put on here. I guess I failed to mention my brother, Woody, as he would probably be closer to your age. Guess everyone knows him. Take care.
-- Posted by Number25 on Sat, Jul 23, 2011, at 8:36 AM
A reader requested that we post a photo on the Shelbyville Mills blog of one of the old ip2 race cars.
Here's a link:
-- Posted by David Melson on Wed, Oct 12, 2011, at 11:20 AM
I want to thank you for the picture and it really does bring back some more old memories. I've "found" lots of people I grew up with and am now in touch with them by email. Sorry to see that there hasn't been much on here lately though.
I guess lots of people knew about George Tittsworth passing away. He was the husband of Jane Carroll who grew up at the "Rubber Mill".
-- Posted by Number25 on Sat, Oct 15, 2011, at 1:36 PM
I saw in today's paper, November 8, 2011, that Grant Smelcer, Jr. died. Wasn't he the eldest
Smelcer boy from the Rubber Mill?
-- Posted by caligal on Tue, Nov 8, 2011, at 6:06 PM
I never figured out who you were, but wanted you to know that I think you're right about Grant being the eldest. I remember my brother, Denzol, and he being good friends and they were the same age. He had a brother named Newt and I believe he wrote some on this blog and had his email address. Will check it out later and if so, perhaps people could email him. If not, I apologize for my mistake ahead of time.
-- Posted by Number25 on Fri, Nov 11, 2011, at 2:56 PM
I found Grant's brother on here and his email address in case anyone would care to send him a sympathy card or email. It's:
Hope people will respond.
-- Posted by Number25 on Wed, Nov 16, 2011, at 5:28 PM
In order of oldest Grant, Juanita, Helen and Nute
-- Posted by Billy Hall on Thu, Nov 24, 2011, at 3:20 PM
If anyone is still checking in on this blog, I want to wish everyone a Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year!
-- Posted by caligal on Mon, Dec 19, 2011, at 12:42 PM
Although I was an outsider I suppose who attended Junior High School, I had some really great friends who attended SMS and I want to wish all of them Merry Christmas and Happy New Year. Thanks for some fantastic memories.
-- Posted by bomelson on Tue, Dec 20, 2011, at 2:22 PM
I do keep up with the blog and sometimes wonder why there are not more comments. I wish everyone a blessed Christmas as well. And Bo, it's thanks to you that we all found each other, so to me, you're not an "outsider". God bless all of you!
-- Posted by Number25 on Wed, Dec 21, 2011, at 2:27 PM
RIP: Mr. Lon Shelton
-- Posted by redddj on Thu, Jan 12, 2012, at 8:50 AM
A reader asked me today what schools the Shelbyville Mills basketball teams played in regular season games other than Junior High School in Shelbyville.
I couldn't answer the question.
One thing is certain. Shelbyville Mills had the best gym to play home games of any other junior high school in the county.
Do any frormer SMS players recll the worst gym they had to go to on away games?
-- Posted by bomelson on Tue, Jan 31, 2012, at 3:23 PM
I played for three years and can recall just about every place we played, but must say that Pleasant Grove was among the worst. It was cold with only a wood heater. We beat them a lot but hate to say in 1955 they outplayed us and won the county tournament.
-- Posted by Number25 on Wed, Feb 1, 2012, at 8:05 AM
Well Bo,
I remember the schools but forgot to mention them when I wrote about Pleasant Grove. My last year of playing we also played: Bell Buckle, Petersburg, Lewisburg, Winchester, and Cowan. That year (1956) we won the county tournament. Guess that was a senior moment on my part!
-- Posted by Number25 on Thu, Feb 2, 2012, at 7:37 PM
The Junior High School gym was pretty bad. It was a big box, with seats only on one side and very small, smelly dressing rooms...I hit those walls pretty hard....
-- Posted by caligal on Mon, Feb 6, 2012, at 2:31 PM
You are correct about that old gym at JHS caligal. Anytime a player drove under the basket for a layup there was no choice but to crash into those flimsy 1x6 boards forming the lower part of the wall. Some crashed through the boards and have scars to prove it.
Did anyone ever crash through the door leading outside at one end of the gym at Pleasant Grove?
-- Posted by bomelson on Tue, Feb 7, 2012, at 3:09 PM
I was just reading about JHS and Pleasant Grove. I guess I was one of the fortunate ones as I played under the basket and never ran into the end or slammed into the back door. However, it brings to mind that we had something similar to mattresses attached to the walls that were on both ends of the floor and I guess they saved a many from being hurt.
-- Posted by Number25 on Sat, Feb 11, 2012, at 4:13 PM
I was wondering if anyone could tell me if the Mrs. Hall that passed away this week is the same Mrs. Hall that was my fourth grade teacher at Shelbyville Mills. Thanks for any information ahead of time.
-- Posted by Number25 on Sun, Feb 19, 2012, at 9:01 AM
pretty sure she was. i didn't have her though, went to east side.
also i think the harold hudson was gene that was a classmate. i think he was kin to the cooks.don't believe he went to high school.
our blog is almost dead
-- Posted by jepigg on Sun, Feb 26, 2012, at 4:51 AM
Thanks Jerry,
I believe you're right about the blog and I hate to see that. Looked at the obits and I saw the death of Harold Hudson and I think that was Gene too as we knew him. Perhaps some more people can remember things and get this up some more. I have lots of memories too and sometimes think I write too much. Any way, I hope you're doing well and take care.
-- Posted by Number25 on Sun, Feb 26, 2012, at 11:57 AM
Ha.....Just everyone chime in once in a while when they have a vivid memory or something to share.
-- Posted by caligal on Sun, Feb 26, 2012, at 7:25 PM
Normandy was the worst place to play. They had a pot belly stove on each end of the court just out from the goal. You did not drive in under the goal unless you wanted to chance getting driven into the stove. We had to change clothes in the restroom and after the game our clothes would be scrattered all over the floor
-- Posted by Billy Hall on Mon, Feb 27, 2012, at 1:44 PM
This would have been before my time, but I heard stories that basketball at SMS was played outside at one time. There was a concrete pad behind the school that I heard people refer to it as "the old basketball court." Anyone know about this?
-- Posted by caligal on Mon, Feb 27, 2012, at 2:07 PM
Mrs. Hall was the one.(Buchanan when I was there)She married a Mr. Lindsay Hall.
Gene Hudson was our school mate.
-- Posted by Wolf Clan on Fri, Mar 2, 2012, at 1:52 PM
I remember the old croquet court, but can't remember a basketball court.
By the way, how in the world did you wind up so far from home?
I remember you and your four sisters. Nice people, all.
The croquet court was just after the big tree at the swings.
-- Posted by Wolf Clan on Sat, Mar 3, 2012, at 9:13 PM
i don't remember a basket ball court either. i was there in 1952 so it could have been earlier. every thing was old then except the tennis court.
i flew model airplanes on the croquet court with gary bullion.
-- Posted by jepigg on Sun, Mar 4, 2012, at 3:12 AM
Wolf Clan, Having lived on several continents and several states here, I'm surprised I'm this close to home! I was delighted when I found that I could "look in" on some old friends through the newspaper online. It has been great....
-- Posted by caligal on Mon, Mar 5, 2012, at 2:49 PM
A while back people were asking about the Kirks. I noticed in the paper today that Bobby had passed away and his brother, a former classmate at CHS, Rodney would be holding his service. May you rest in peace Bobby.
-- Posted by Number25 on Fri, Mar 9, 2012, at 10:44 AM
Edwin R Cunningham might be reggie.
i know he has been sick a long time.
i never heard the name edwin though.
we called him mugget at one time.
-- Posted by jepigg on Sun, Mar 18, 2012, at 3:55 AM
When I saw that obit, my heart sank. I wish the obit notices were a little bit more informative.
-- Posted by caligal on Sun, Mar 18, 2012, at 8:23 AM
Just wanted you to know that you can go to the funeral home webpages and it has all the information on them. If you can't find the websites I'll be more than glad to put them on here the next time I get on.
-- Posted by Number25 on Sun, Mar 18, 2012, at 8:42 AM
I did check the funeral home website and discovered that this R. Cunningham is not "our" Reggie!!! Thanks!
-- Posted by caligal on Sun, Mar 18, 2012, at 11:36 AM
I hope the blog keeps going I have enjoyed reading the comments by others even though I probably went to school there before most of those who post on here. Many of you have rekindled many memories of the place where I grew up and will never forget. Dorris
-- Posted by Dorris on Tue, Mar 20, 2012, at 12:51 PM
Did you have kin on the Police Force a long time ago, and a Sister (C. F.).
-- Posted by Wolf Clan on Tue, Mar 20, 2012, at 4:23 PM
I think Buddy Phillips' obit was in the paper. He was Mr. Phillips' son who worked with his dad at the grocery store. Too many, too soon....
-- Posted by caligal on Tue, Mar 20, 2012, at 5:31 PM
I had an uncle who was a deputy sherrif,I beleive. his name was Buford Clanton. I had no sister
-- Posted by Dorris on Wed, Mar 21, 2012, at 4:17 PM
Mr. Clanton was well known at the "Rubber Mill". He had Buster trained to ride with him every where he went. You aren't who I was thinking of, but I still may know you. Did your last name begin with a K.
-- Posted by Wolf Clan on Wed, Mar 21, 2012, at 9:31 PM
Dorris, you're wrong about being older than some. Redddj posted some pictures for me and one was of your uncle.Billy Joe Hall sent in a picture of some of your graduation class and you're in it. You might remember "Grits" from your class as well as others and he's posted a lot on here. You were a couple of years older than my brother, Denzol and you might remember him. Take care
-- Posted by Number25 on Fri, Mar 23, 2012, at 10:41 AM
So sorry to hear about Buddy Phillips. I remember him so well. He and his father would give me a ride to the gym so I could watch our basketball teams play once the store closed. But I had to walk home. I always stop at the store on the way to school. They were both always nice to me. I assume the obit is in the Shebyville Time gazette. I will go look for it.
-- Posted by sparkie46 on Fri, Mar 23, 2012, at 1:43 PM
Just recently found this blog and really enjoyed all the friends and pleasant memories many of you brought to mind. I lived in the "cedars"(born in this house as I entered the world rather quick) in the last duplex toward the golf course beside the Bullions. Later moved to Shelbyville Mills Road between the Kirks and Shelnutts. Attended SMS 1953-1961 and as many of you played on the basketball team coached by Mr. Pugh. One thing I don't believe anyone has mentioned is the big invitational tournament that was held every year at SMS gym. Teams would come from all around middle Tennessee and maybe some from toward east Tennessee. The last year the tournament was held the SMS girls won it.
-- Posted by df on Tue, Mar 27, 2012, at 9:54 PM
DF, SO GLAD YOU FOUND US!!! This blog has meant so much to all of us who have participated. I do remember the big tournaments. It was very exciting to meet people from all over the place. There was some great basketball played in those tournaments. A really good memory....
-- Posted by caligal on Wed, Mar 28, 2012, at 12:00 AM
When I started writing on the blog, I thought it was about Shelbyville Mills School etc. The latest blog I read concerned the tournaments of teams from different places. Since it has come up, do any of you remember the team from Forbus? I remember it was a small town and school and I think they didn't believe they would go as far as they did. I mentioned the mats on the wall and since they didn't have much money they were allowed to sleep on those mats at night. I also remember my mother making a big pot of chili and they all came to our house and she fed the whole team. I don't remember any of their names but their coach was Buster Canably (may have spelled that wrong) and later in life I worked with a sister of one of those players and she was surprised that I even knew of the team. Well, to make this long shorter than it is, they won the tournament that year which I believe was in 1955. As an afterthought, I remember keeping the score pad during those games and do any of you remember that the cafeteria at school cooked hamburgers and such for a small price at the concession stand?
-- Posted by Number25 on Wed, Mar 28, 2012, at 12:41 PM
Basketball played a very big role in the lives of SMS students. I think they started us dribbling the ball around the floor in the first grade and we played very agressive games during recess. The coaches knew what they were doing; they passed on some great players to the high school teams.
-- Posted by caligal on Wed, Mar 28, 2012, at 1:40 PM
If you will go to David Melson's Blog, archives. Looking back: Where was it. 04/09/09 You will see a lot of info about Shelbyville that will cause you to recall a lot of memories.
-- Posted by Wolf Clan on Thu, Mar 29, 2012, at 8:32 PM
Some of the basketball players I can recall: 1957-58 team Kenneth Wells, Robert Posey, Johnny Donegan, Junior Donegan, & Donald Carroll.
1958-61 Gussie Wright, Danny Allison, Jimmy Stamps, Logan Derting, Bobby Morgan,Danny Wagner
Carl Arney, Jerry Lentz, Steve Lemay and David Fults.
Recently attended Bobby Kirk's funeral service and his brother Rodney conducted the services. I talked with Rodney some and he is living in Benton, Arkansas.
-- Posted by df on Wed, Apr 4, 2012, at 10:43 PM
-- Posted by silver on Thu, Apr 5, 2012, at 9:52 AM
Silver, I know what you mean! I was recently talking to someone my age recently about this blog and they said they longed for those days also. I think people are so weary of the things that are going on in this country now, that people are retreating from news/media and watching old movies and longing for the "good old days." I wonder what the courts would have said about our assemblies during Mr. Mills's days. A Bible passage and a hymn! Remember "This Little Light of Mine.".....? And we said the pledge and sang patriotic songs? I'm afraid we would be in the news everyday under today's scrutiny!
-- Posted by caligal on Fri, Apr 6, 2012, at 8:05 AM
Well, I guess the time has come for me to quit writing on this blog. I would like to thank Redddj for posting the pictures and articles for me and also helping me find friends from a long time ago and helping me in search of email addresses where we now write and remember more to each other. Caligal, I think it was you who wondered about some of the Opry stars performing at the gym and that cleared up the picture I had of Eddy Arnold but didn't know when he was there. Also, one last memory of when I was very young, was Roy Rogers and Dale Evans at the school auditorium and all I can recall is her dress sparkling so much! Funny how you can remember some things and not others. So to all of you, I thank you for the memories you shared.
-- Posted by Number25 on Mon, Apr 16, 2012, at 8:48 AM
Thank you, Number 25! Thanks for the memories....
I have not been in Shelbyville for about 46 years but I felt like I had a wonderful reunion and some lost memories refound....It is nice to know that it is still a wonderful place to live and that some very wonderful people are still around.
-- Posted by caligal on Mon, Apr 16, 2012, at 8:46 PM
I got this e-mail from Reggie Cunningham's daughter and she said I could share it.
I wanted to let you know about my dad, Reggie Cunningham in Shelbyville, he is not doing well. I don't remember if I told you that he has had to have both of his legs amputated due to the diabetes & has been wheelchair bound for the last 2 yrs. Lost one leg 4" above knee 2 yrs ago, then other one last year. He has had to be on dialysis 3 times a week. He has progressively gotten weaker and has developed pneumonia and been in ICU twice now in the last 2 weeks. He is still in Shelbyville Hospital but got out of ICU 2 days ago. However, they are now looking into permanent stay in nursing home, as he needs 24 hour nursing care. It is so very hard to see my daddy like this. He was always such a strong athletic man who loved hunting, fishing, and sports. It is now in God's Hands and I know he will take care of him always! Please feel free to let others who may know him about his condition.
Take care & say a prayer for daddy,
Reggina (Cunningham) Richey
-- Posted by leeiii on Sun, Apr 22, 2012, at 12:04 PM
I went to school with Reggie and hate to hear about his problems. He was always around sporting events as a player or coach or umpire. May God Bless him at this time in his life and take care of him.
-- Posted by Wolf Clan on Sun, Apr 22, 2012, at 8:10 PM
I am sorry to hear about Reggie. I grew up with him and he always chased me on the playground in elementary school. (where did that memory come from?!) This blog really get the memories out there! Please let him know that all of his old friends are thinking about him and praying for him and your family.
-- Posted by caligal on Wed, Apr 25, 2012, at 4:43 PM
From 1990 t0 1995 I was the care taker for my mother in Cincinnati. I would pay meals on wheels to bring her lunch weekdays. They would always spend a few minutes talking to her. Once a man who was a regular came out while I was working in the front yard and said your mother is out of it or she can make up a good story. I ask how is that and he said "the way she tells it you grew up in Mayberry USA". I looked at him and said "you know it was better" Billy Joe
-- Posted by Billy Hall on Tue, May 1, 2012, at 3:54 PM
I recently saw an old rerun of 'Law & Order. I was amazed at how much Scott resembled his dad Tim. I was about 13 years old when I had my crush on his dad. I tell my friends this and their reply is, "yeah right"........
-- Posted by moonwalker on Sun, May 6, 2012, at 4:16 PM
I know I said earlier that I wasn't going to write anymore on the blog, but I had to put this on it. Barbara was a couple of years younger than me,( her sister, Vivian, and I played on the basketball team together) and I had lost contact with all the family when I went to Germany in 1962. I was so sorry to hear of her passing and her brothers who were mentioned in the obit. I'm sure a lot of people knew the family from our school days at Shelbyville Mills.
May she rest in peace!
Barbara Jean Cook Westmoreland
Thursday, June 14, 2012
Shelbyville Times-Gazette
Mrs. Barbara Jean Cook Westmoreland, 68, of Shelbyville died Wednesday, June 13th, at her home after an extended illness. She was a native of Bedford County; a retired employee of Sanford Corporation and a member of the Baptist Church.
She was the daughter of the late George W. and Julia Ann Blackmon Cook. She was preceded in death by five brothers, Floyd, Earl, Fred, Bead Cook and Herman Morgan.
She is survived by two daughters, Anna (Mary) Raby of Shelbyville, Susan (Johnny) Thomas of Tullahoma; three sons, Frankie (Michelle) Raby, Jimmy (Elaine) Raby of Shelbyville, Dewayne (Toni) Raby of Unionville; four sisters, Sylvia Ray, Margaret McKamey, Vivian Thorpe, Yvonne Adcock of Shelbyville; a brother, Harvey Cook of Michigan; seven grandchildren and fourteen great-grandchildren.
Funeral Services will be held 11:00 A.M. Saturday, June 16th, at Hillcrest Funeral Home, Rev. Kevin Minchey officiating. Burial will follow at Hillcrest Memorial Gardens.
Visitation will be Friday evening from 4:00 P.M. to 8:00 P.M.
-- Posted by Number25 on Fri, Jun 15, 2012, at 8:11 AM
Sara was a sister to Shirley Faye and Paul.
-- Posted by Wolf Clan on Wed, Jun 20, 2012, at 9:43 PM
Sara was a sister to Shirley Faye and Paul. Cousins of Barbara and her clan.
-- Posted by Wolf Clan on Wed, Jun 20, 2012, at 9:45 PM
A person asked me recently about a wagon that went among employees at their work stations in mill that sold various items to eat. She wanted to known such a wagon really existed, what foods were sold and what the cost was for some of the items back then. can anyone help?
-- Posted by bomelson on Wed, Aug 15, 2012, at 2:20 PM
Yes,there was such a "wagon" that sold snack foods, colas and such. My Dad worked there in the early 1040's, and he referred to it as "the dope wagon".
-- Posted by ilikeoldsongs on Wed, Aug 15, 2012, at 9:00 PM
Yes, there was a "dope wagon" still going in the early 1950. It was filled with sugar-filled goodies to keep the workers awake and on the job.
Candy, cookies, and sodas of all kinds. I didn't work in the mill, but I saw the wagon many times being loaded up for the runs.
-- Posted by caligal on Thu, Aug 16, 2012, at 6:29 PM
I never worked at the mill like my daddy did and a brother and sister, but I remember them talking about the dope wagon. It brought back a memory when we were allowed to take Daddy his lunch and had to go through a gate that was posted by a guard. Daddy's office was upstairs with windows all around and you could everything going on. But on the subject of remembering the dope wagon, does anyone remember all around the mill floor there were machines with salt tablets in them and we also had them at the gym when we played basketball.
-- Posted by Number25 on Fri, Aug 17, 2012, at 6:28 PM
Found out through Redddj that Reggie Cunningham passed away during the night. Other than that, I can't find out when or where his funeral will be. Does anyone know?
-- Posted by Number25 on Mon, Sep 3, 2012, at 11:16 AM
I know Reggie. If you find out more please post it. Thanks Number25
-- Posted by sparkie46 on Mon, Sep 3, 2012, at 4:54 PM
I am so sorry to hear about Reggie. My prayers for his family and friends.
-- Posted by caligal on Wed, Sep 5, 2012, at 6:37 AM
It is with deep saddness that I must inform you of the passing of my daddy Reggie W. Cunningham, age 71. He passed Sept. 2, 2012 at Lynchburg Nursing Facility. Services will be held Thursday Sept. 6th at Gowen Smith Chapel, 850 Union St. Shelbyville, Tn Visitation 4-6pm with service following at 6 pm.
-- Posted by ArtistEyesBlue on Wed, Sep 5, 2012, at 6:57 AM
Thank you ArtistEyesBlue! Been trying to find out the details for sparkie46 and myself. Reggie was such a nice guy and I'll always remember him. Rest in Peace my friend.
-- Posted by Number25 on Wed, Sep 5, 2012, at 1:26 PM
Reggie had a great impact on a lot of young people in the days he coached in the youth baseball leagues. He taught sound basics to start them out the right way. As I think back, this seems to be an SMS legacy. All the young athletes there in baseball, basketball or whatever had to learn the basics first. Safe to say Reggie had a lot of kids laying sports who could have been doing things much worse.
-- Posted by bomelson on Wed, Sep 5, 2012, at 3:03 PM
If any of you are on facebook, it would be nice for you to check out the Shelbyville Mills School page and possibly download pictures you might have for everyone to see. Thanks ahead of time.
-- Posted by Number25 on Wed, Sep 12, 2012, at 9:25 AM
The Dope Wagon,
There were two stores in the village, one as you entered it and the other was almost to the end of the village. There were several houses on one side of the street past the store For a time Franklin McKame "s family and mine lived in these houses. They were not the same as the other houses, much older. There was also three of these houses all the way behind the mill. Those of you who remember "The Rock" or "The Swing" will know this because you had to walk or bike past our house to get there.
I can remember seeing stacks of coca cola cases stacked behind the store. They seemed to be stacked two or three times higher than I could reach. In the back of the store was a small kitchen. They made cold sandwiches and cooked hamburgers and hot dogs. Maybe other things but I never saw hem cook any thing else. The Dope Wagon was stocked from this store and kitchen. There was a ramp from the kitchen to the mill and the wagon was kept on the ramp under a shed. It was stocked with all sorts of soft drinks and milk along with all of the snacks that were available in that day. Which also included sweets such as Little Debbie snacks. My older brother pushed the wagon as a part time job while in high school.
I worked in the mill for one year after high school and I can assure the workers did not get on sweet highs. Most brought their lunches and supplemented them with purchases from the dope wagon.
Thats all for now
-- Posted by Billy Hall on Sun, Sep 23, 2012, at 3:47 PM
Billy, Why do you think they called it "THE DOPE WAGON"?
-- Posted by caligal on Sun, Oct 14, 2012, at 1:46 PM
I would have thought it was because they sold soft drinks which were called dopes in some parts of the country.
-- Posted by leeiii on Mon, Oct 15, 2012, at 2:16 PM
They still call them dope in Sharps Chapel and Maynardsville (North East of Where you live).
-- Posted by Wolf Clan on Tue, Oct 16, 2012, at 8:44 PM
They chased the aspirin and B C down with soft drinks mostly coca cola. See my remarks about the stacks of coca cola cases. They had to sell a lot of colas to make those stacks. Some times they would send an empty truck out just to pick up the cases of empty bottles. Without ever hearing about being green, these bottles were returned to the Coca Cola plant to be cleaned and reused. Milk bottles were also reused, in fact the residents would place their used bottles on their porch and someone, sometimes me, would collect them and return them to the store. The bottles were returned to the store paying the most or the one nearest. Of course for pay, not much. A cola cost a nickel and then a dime. My favorite was R C Cola. You got twice as much for the same price. We were in hog heaven when we had enough money to get the cola and a box of peanuts to pour into the drink. The peanuts were boxed and a prize of one cent or a nickel may be wrapped in waxed paper inside.
-- Posted by Billy Hall on Sun, Oct 21, 2012, at 4:32 PM
does everyone know about the reunion coming real soon?
-- Posted by jepigg on Fri, Nov 23, 2012, at 9:49 AM
Heard the reunion is at Fellowship for Christ church on Richdale Lane off Fairfield Pike a short distance out of town. Potluck about 11:30 or so on Saturday December 1.
-- Posted by df on Fri, Nov 23, 2012, at 11:36 PM
I hope there will be lots of pictures posted for those of us who won't be able to attend!
-- Posted by caligal on Tue, Nov 27, 2012, at 4:19 PM
The SMS reunion was a rousing success. With a reunion committee of one and the help of Fellowship for Christ Church we had about 40 attendees. Great to see them although I was surprised how much they had aged.
Kudos to Gene Williams and I hope this becomes a tradition.
-- Posted by firstmost on Sun, Dec 2, 2012, at 8:34 AM
Sorry, I could not make it but it a long way from Texas. Can not wait to see the pictures.
-- Posted by sparkie46 on Sun, Dec 2, 2012, at 12:59 PM
There are some pictures on Facebook if any of you are on it. It's been so long since I attended Shelbyville Mills I didn't recognize some of the people there in the pictures. I'm sorry to say but I couldn't attend the reunion :(
-- Posted by Number25 on Mon, Dec 3, 2012, at 8:43 AM
-- Posted by silver on Mon, Dec 10, 2012, at 1:19 PM
John CarneyIt was publicized in advance in the Community Calendar section of our print edition -- just another reason to subscribe to the T-G.
Mr. Melson, and all who have contributed to this Blog, I would like to wish you all a Very Merry Christmas. I hope you have a wonderful rest of your life.
-- Posted by Wolf Clan on Tue, Dec 18, 2012, at 12:11 PM
I have just heard that my first cousin Logan Derting passed away. He attended SMS in the mid to late 50's and was the center for the basketball team. I thought that maybe some poster here may have known him. Visitation is this Saturday from 6- 8 pm and the funeral Sunday at 1:00 at Doaks and Howell Funeral home. Thatis Saturday Dec 22 and Sunday Dec 2rd.
-- Posted by sparkie46 on Thu, Dec 20, 2012, at 7:42 PM
i knew logan. thats the only name we had for him.i would hav missed it in the gazette if they u
sed only his real name.
i also knew patsy. wife sees her often at walmart
reunion was real good.
silver: i did put a little notice on the blog but got no response
-- Posted by jepigg on Sun, Dec 23, 2012, at 5:50 AM
Merry Christmas and Happy New Year! I have enjoyed this blog so much and loved sharing it with my family who, I think, doubted a lot of the stories I have shared over the years, but have totally been vendicated by others recollections of the outdoor furniture on top of Huffman's store and the sports at the school. Thanks for the memories!
-- Posted by caligal on Sun, Dec 23, 2012, at 11:07 AM
I lived across the street from the Watleys, who lived between The Dirtings and Sadlers. Patsy was a beautiful girl Logan must have been around 8 to 10 years old back then. Sorry about Logan and trust Patsy is doing well.
-- Posted by Billy Hall on Wed, Dec 26, 2012, at 2:30 PM
To Sparkie46:
Did you get to see the pictures? Everyone has gotten so much "older" including me.
To JePigg:
Are you in any of the pictures? Been so long I couldn't recognize the people but knew who they were.
Hope everyone has a great New Year coming up too :)
-- Posted by Number25 on Sun, Dec 30, 2012, at 8:37 AM
Do any of you recall Doug Moore? I recall he was a really fine athlete Who played on some of the men'a teams and also coached one of the school teams for a brief time. Anyone ever play on the team he coached?
-- Posted by bomelson on Tue, Jan 8, 2013, at 3:09 PM
Mr. Melson, Mr. Moore was hired by U.S. Rubber to run the Gym and coach for the school. He coach Little League also. He played Fast Pitch in the semi-pro league in the area. He lived in, what was called then, The Cedars, in the first duplex on the right as you entered the community. His wife was Millie and they had two little girls.
That is about all I remember. I was very small at the time.
-- Posted by Wolf Clan on Thu, Jan 10, 2013, at 11:45 AM
Sorry to hear about the passing of Logan Derting, we
were great childhood friends at the Rubber Mill. I
haven't checked this blog in quite a while so I do
offer my belated condolences to Logan's family. We
spent almost all our free time growing up just going
fishing, swimming and exploring around the river and
bluffs. Logan, Newsom Head and myself spent almost all our youth together at the village growing up, a
lot of great memories.
Warmest Regards to all who lived that wonderful time
at the Rubber Mill.
Newton Smelcer, Seattle, WA
-- Posted by firstname.lastname@example.com on Tue, Jan 15, 2013, at 5:19 PM
Bo, Mr. (Shorty) Campbell was the coach of all sports (and you might sat the AD) at SMS and the men teams. Basketball, baseball and softball. He was also the photographer. Danny Willingham was latter hired to to coach boys basket ball and assist Mr. Campbell in other sports. Then Hixon Pugh was added to the coaching and took over the girls basketball. Auston Davis was added to the coaching staff to take the girls basketball. Doug More worked in the Rubber Mill Office full time and was a high ranking official. He did assist Mr. Campbell with coaching. Mr Campbell had an office up stairs in the new addition to the gym overlooking the playing floor. Mr Moore was also the scout master of our troupe. Your best info would be from Auston Davis. I was a 1948 graduate of SMS
-- Posted by Billy Hall on Sun, Jan 20, 2013, at 1:14 PM
Doug Moore was a very good all-round athlete. Left out of previous blog.
-- Posted by Billy Hall on Sun, Jan 20, 2013, at 1:17 PM
Woke up at 2:00 am and realized I made a mistake. In the previous blog I should have said Norman Hasting not Doug Moore. Doug Moore was not coaching during my years at SMS.
-- Posted by Billy Hall on Mon, Jan 21, 2013, at 1:29 PM
A person who read some responses about the German POWs who worked in the fields off Shelbyville Mills Road asked how everyone reacted to them after they had been there a fews day. Can anyone help him?
-- Posted by bomelson on Fri, Feb 22, 2013, at 2:11 PM
I lived in the village close to the mill and did not know about the POWs until I read it on this blog. I remember the soldiers in the woods and Ed's cafe. Auston, Davis, the Browns, Reeves, Rittenberrys, Hollands and Carols lived in that area. I would also like to know more about them. The soldiers were stationed in Tullahoma so it doesn't make much sense that the POWs would be in Shelbyville. Maneuvers is a war game where you divide your people up and practice movements against each other. The POWs could have been prisoners captured by one of the teams.
-- Posted by Billy Hall on Sat, Feb 23, 2013, at 9:12 AM
Been awhile since I've posted but wanted to put on here that today is the birthday of Grits! I wish him a happy one and perhaps some of you would like to do so as well!
-- Posted by Number25 on Tue, Apr 2, 2013, at 8:55 AM
Happy Birthday to Grits, Hope it is a good one.
Thanks to D R for posting.
-- Posted by Wolf Clan on Tue, Apr 2, 2013, at 9:21 AM
Happy Birthday Grits! Thanks for all the memories you've shared.
-- Posted by bomelson on Tue, Apr 2, 2013, at 2:35 PM
Happy Birthday, Grits! You have no idea how much all of these memories from everyone has brightened the days of this old gal! Did pictures of the reunion get published somewhere?
I would love to see them.
-- Posted by caligal on Wed, Apr 3, 2013, at 4:40 PM
You probably wouldn't want to give out your email, but I have the pictures saved! If you're on facebook there is a page about Shelbyville Mills and from there is a link to the person who was the one who got the reunion started and the pictures are posted there. I hope they are still there and hope you can find them as I don't know how to put them here on the blog and redddj did the ones I sent him from the Volunteer. I'll also check later on see if I can find them and you might can go from that. Good luck!
-- Posted by Number25 on Thu, Apr 4, 2013, at 8:27 AM
The pictures are on the Shelbyville Mills School page on facebook.
-- Posted by Number25 on Thu, Apr 4, 2013, at 9:37 AM
Shelbyville Mills School reunion * December 1, 2012
-- Posted by redddj on Sun, Apr 7, 2013, at 7:23 AM
Shelbyville Mills School reunion * December 1, 2012
-- Posted by redddj on Sun, Apr 7, 2013, at 7:24 AM
Shelbyville Mills School reunion * December 1, 2012
-- Posted by redddj on Sun, Apr 7, 2013, at 7:25 AM
Shelbyville Mills School reunion * December 1, 2012
-- Posted by redddj on Sun, Apr 7, 2013, at 7:26 AM
Dear Redddj and Number 25, Thank you so much for the pictures of the reunion. There were no names to identify who they were, but I saw my face in everyone in the picture. What at treat. Thank you both so much. Caligal
-- Posted by caligal on Sun, Apr 7, 2013, at 7:06 PM
Caligal, I can't take any credit for the pictures but thank you for saying what you did! I'm not sure of the names of people there (I wasn't able to attend) but I do know the first picture Redddj posted had been commented on as a "Carroll family reunion" and I did recogonize Ben in back of his sisters on the front row. And thank you for all your comments that I enjoyed reading about! Take care and hope to read more from you as you post!
-- Posted by Number25 on Mon, Apr 8, 2013, at 4:06 PM
I would like to know whatever happened to Nancy Baker. She was at SMS about 6th or 7th grade.
-- Posted by moonwalker on Mon, May 6, 2013, at 4:11 PM
The name sounds familiar! What year are you talking about moonwalker?
-- Posted by Number25 on Tue, May 7, 2013, at 9:12 AM
This has probably already been answered somewhere. Does anyone remember a Mrs. Hale who taught at Shelbyvillec Mills School? Her son, Tommy, was a member of the Junior High School basketball team. He often said she was always nervous when the two schools played and would sit with the SMS fans be very quiet. As I recall JHS seldom had much to cheer about during Tommy's era. What grade did she teach?
-- Posted by bomelson on Thu, Jul 18, 2013, at 2:25 PM
Mrs. Hale taught 1st grade, I think. She may have taught other grades also. I am very sorry to read about Mr. Jimmy Richardson dying. He was the organist at the Richardson family skating rink. He provided so much fun for all us skaters by playing requests and providing the music as we skated. He played at the Walking Horse Celebration as well. He was such a nice man and had a wonderful family. They owned the "Tourist Home" next to the skating rink as well. Good memories.
-- Posted by caligal on Thu, Jul 18, 2013, at 7:48 PM
Jimmy was married to Margaret Brown who passed away awhile back. Her sister's (Betty) husband passed away a few weeks ago. This has been such a tragedy in the Brown family and a lot of memories on here came from their brother, known as "Grits".
-- Posted by Number25 on Fri, Jul 19, 2013, at 1:46 PM
Number 25...Thanks for the info. I am happy to know that people are still checking on this blog.
I know you and a lot of other SM people skated to his music as well. I know I was at that rink almost everytime they opened the doors! My thoughts are with the Brown and Richardson families. With the Walking Horse Celebration coming up soon, I hope they remember Jimmy's organ music.
-- Posted by caligal on Fri, Jul 19, 2013, at 3:34 PM
I get on here ever so often to keep up with new things being added! And I do too about the Celebration and hope they remember Jimmy! We used to go skating on Saturday nights but the one night we didn't go was a sad time when Dorothy was killed! I don't know who you are but you had to be around the age of my older sister, Juanita and sometimes I wish I knew who you are but I accept your privacy on that. I did notice on another blog you celebrated an anniversary and may I send my congratulations to you! Again, thank you for all your comments on here and reliving old memories!
-- Posted by Number25 on Sat, Jul 20, 2013, at 9:38 AM
I'm in the process of getting Redddj to post a picture of Jimmy Richardson. He's quite busy on weekends but when I hear from him I'll send the picture to him to put up. "Grits" sent it to me today in an email.
-- Posted by Number25 on Sat, Jul 20, 2013, at 4:23 PM
Thank you for the pictures of Jimmy. I played basketball with your sister Juanita at SMS. SM was a small place..... I was at the rink when Dorothy got hit by the car. We were all in shock.She just had turned to speak to someone as she was crossing the street and it was over so quickly. She was a good friend and I loved her family. We spent a lot of time together. I will look forward to the picture of Jimmy...Thanks...
-- Posted by caligal on Sat, Jul 20, 2013, at 8:19 PM
Jimmy Richardson
Photo courtesy: Grits/Number25
-- Posted by redddj on Sun, Jul 21, 2013, at 3:05 PM
Dear Number 25,Grits and redddj....You just made an old lady very happy. What wonderful memories that smile of Jimmy's gave me. I love it!!!!!Thank all of you for the wonderful pictures you have posted on this blog. Our family home was burned many years ago and almost all of our family and childhood pictures were destroyed so these have really meant a lot to me. I can't thank you enough.
-- Posted by caligal on Sun, Jul 21, 2013, at 4:23 PM
I can take no credit for this picture! Grits and I have emailed each other since we found out who each of us was. He sent me an email when I wrote him about the funeral and he had the picture in it (wish I had the album) and Redddj was and is so wonderful to post the pictures for me and him.
It's heartwarming to know you enjoyed it!
-- Posted by Number25 on Sun, Jul 21, 2013, at 5:02 PM
Hi -- It so good to see this blog still going. The comment about Dorothy brings back sad memories. Those I was younger than her about a year older than her brother Walter (who was a close childhood friend). I lived down the street from them and can remember how sad a time it was. Thanks to all who keep this blog going.
-- Posted by sparkie46 on Mon, Jul 29, 2013, at 2:40 PM
Just read where some one ask about a basketball court behind the school. I was there 1944 -1949 and never saw a court there nor heard of one. The gym had been there several years at that time.
-- Posted by Billy Hall on Mon, Jul 29, 2013, at 5:20 PM
1961 Shelbyville Mills School, special thanks to Gene Williams for the photograph
-- Posted by redddj on Thu, Aug 1, 2013, at 11:28 AM
What a treasure! Thank you Gene Williams and redddj!
-- Posted by caligal on Fri, Aug 2, 2013, at 4:23 PM
I know of the basketball/tennis court behind the
gym, Coach Pugh tried to teach us how to play
tennis, tough job for him! I recall more the time
during one of our boxing bouts on the court when
Johnny donnegan hit he in the throat-thought I was
going to die!! Johnny and I were really close friends as I was with Walter Holman, My brother
married Dorothy's sister Martha. I truly enjoy
reading this blog and happy that it still continues.
Best wishes to all of you, our common denominator
is SMS. A great place to grow up.
-- Posted by email@example.com on Sat, Aug 3, 2013, at 2:48 PM
I have an 8 page paper from US Rubber Company dated December 18, 1957 title season greeting. Does any one know if we can post this or a reason we can not. I will scan it in and send it to someone if it ok to post and they can post it. Page 2 and 3 are about the community center and the two churches The Baptist and Church of Christ. Pages 4 and 5 are about the football and basketball teams. Page 6 and 7 have a picture of Ms Schofner 5th grade class and SMS school news. Page 8 is about a talent show and people buying stuff from the company store. skirts were $3 and sweaters were $2.60 to $3.65
-- Posted by sparkie46 on Sun, Aug 11, 2013, at 12:07 PM
Redddj puts all the pictures on here for me and I'm sure he would do the same for you! I'll email him and tell him what you have and he could possibly get in touch with you. Most of my pictures were from the company newspaper such as what you talking about.
-- Posted by Number25 on Sun, Aug 11, 2013, at 5:47 PM
Send to: email@example.com
-- Posted by redddj on Mon, Aug 12, 2013, at 5:33 PM
Thanks Redddj I will get them to you today or tomorrow.
-- Posted by sparkie46 on Sun, Aug 18, 2013, at 11:47 AM
Shelbyville Mills
The Volunteer
December 18, 1957
Photo courtesy: Sparkie46
-- Posted by redddj on Mon, Aug 19, 2013, at 9:00 PM
Shelbyville Mills
The Volunteer
December 18, 1957
Photo courtesy: Sparkie46
-- Posted by redddj on Mon, Aug 19, 2013, at 9:03 PM
Hi -- If you save these to your computer and then open them in paint you can make them bigger so that they can be read more easily. There are probably other ways to do it but that is the way I have done it. Sparkie
-- Posted by sparkie46 on Tue, Aug 20, 2013, at 12:34 PM
Thanks Sparkie46 for the pictures! I really did enjoy looking at and saving them.
-- Posted by Number25 on Tue, Aug 20, 2013, at 2:29 PM
Thank you for the pictures and memories. Keep them coming!!
-- Posted by caligal on Wed, Aug 21, 2013, at 9:38 AM
Another way to see the photographs larger is once you open the link use the CTRL + keys. To return to your original size use CTRL - keys.
CTRL + to increase
CTRL - to decrease
-- Posted by redddj on Thu, Aug 22, 2013, at 2:15 PM
I just read of the death of Jane Housch! She and her family lived next door to us (the former Davis home) and I wanted to share my sympathy with the family. Kenneth has posted on the blog here and if I'm not mistaken his email address here as well in case some of you might want to write him!
-- Posted by Number25 on Tue, Sep 3, 2013, at 4:41 PM
I cannot believe I found this blog! I lived in the Cedars from 1945-1955 and we moved to Atlanta when I was 12. My Dad pastored the Shelbyville Mills Baptist Church for those 10 years -- the last day being when Harold Seagroves was born, and named for my Dad. I remember Miss Cunningham's little house, how we walked down the hill and across the little creek there for Brownies to make taffy. I remember the gym where we cheered for the basketball teams and cried when they lost. I remember the field out beside the school where Mr. Carroll sat beside me and sang "I'm Forever Blowing Bubbles." I remember the plays and dressing up in frilly little costumes and coming up the back stairs to the stage. I remember Miss Osie Brinkley -- and my hiding in the girls restroom beside her class, and locking the door, and then crawling under -- and her finding out -- and putting me in the cloakroom! I remember Mrs Cartwright's 2nd grade -- and she said at Christmas I could move to the third grade when we came back -- so I graduated a year early! I remember the big revival we had and the people kept getting saved and we had to move to the gym for two more weeks. I remember people like Scooter Granger, Rod Russell, Barbara and Dale Bearden, David and Norma Zae Seagroves -- so many -- but has been 57 years ago! Wow! How did that happen?! I still live in Atlanta, my husband of 34 years went home to heaven 18 years ago, but our four children have given us 15 grands and 8 great grandkids! My life is good. But I love the memories yall brought back in reading the blog. I am working on a family tree and googled Harold Kilpatrick Shelbyville Tennessee -- and this blog came up! Yeah! What a treasure! So does anyone remember my name? Now I guess I'm going to have to figure out how to get the Shelbyville paper or get it online to keep up with yall! Thanks for the sweet memories!
-- Posted by jbarge143 on Tue, Oct 1, 2013, at 4:02 PM
I think your name is Jeannie (may have spelled it wrong and apologize if I did). I was the youngest of the Thompson children and my sister, Bettie, used to baby sit you and your brothers. If you can read this blog, then to to: www.t-g.com and click onto Bo Melson's blogs and you will find "us" there. Us being all who grew up at Shelbyville Mills. May I also say I'm sorry for your loss but know he's in God's care now. Will look for more of your memories too and perhaps you'll remember your brother sitting in Jackie Moore's lap during Sunday services. And in case you didn't know, Barbara Bearden passed away a few years back :'(
-- Posted by Number25 on Tue, Oct 1, 2013, at 5:04 PM
You are right! I remember the Thompsons -- and Paul was Mr. Moore's buddy! Bobby and his wife live in this area and I see him from time to time. Has been so long since I saw people from SMS I wonder if I would know them. Yes, I heard Barbara died -- saw her a few years ago when I was back for a funeral of my cousin - knew her folks passed away too. Seems more are over there than are here now. I did go to Bo's blog but didn't see 'us'! My son Tim and I put together a web site for my Dad's last church if you'd like to see some photos there, and many, many audio sermons. We had music, but the annual 'rights' were too expensive to maintain. Go to bufordhwybaptist.com to view that. Thanks for responding!
-- Posted by jbarge143 on Thu, Oct 3, 2013, at 12:22 PM
I'm going to check the church out just as soon as I post this to you. I goofed when I wrote to check "us" out. I was referring to all the people who have responded to this blog. Did you by any chance see the pictures of the church and the one with members and your Dad when he was pastor? I still don't know how to do pictures and a good friend was the one who put them up for me. If you're on facebook, my friend I mentioned, Redddj,has a page on there about Shelbyville Mills School you might be interested in too. I also have the original picture of your Dad and church members. Wish there were some way I could send you a copy of it. I'm glad you wrote back and will look for more news from you.
-- Posted by Number25 on Thu, Oct 3, 2013, at 4:46 PM
Has anyone heard about a Shelbyville Mills reunion scheduled for Saturday October 12? Also it is good to hear from jbarge143 on this blog. You may not remember me but my sisters are Billie Fults Carroll and Ruth F. Cartwright. Your brothers, Sam and Jimmy,are closer to my age and Paul is younger.
-- Posted by df on Thu, Oct 3, 2013, at 11:55 PM
DearJbarge143, you are in for a real treat!. We have all loved sharing memories of "The Village."
and SMS. My children never visited Shelbyville and I was not sure they really believed I lived in the real "Mayberry." I printed out this blog for them to read and they couldn't believe it. I am happy to say that I have been vendicated about my memories I shared with them. Thanks to Bo Melson for all the memories! Caligal
-- Posted by caligal on Fri, Oct 4, 2013, at 4:21 PM
Oh this is so much fun! Yall have made my week in finding this blog! I did correspond with Number 25 when she went to the web site I mentioned for my Dad -- and I've sent her some pictures -- I don't know how to add them or if they should be with names scribbled on them! IF yall do a reunion this year, I'd love to know. I sure hope everyone wears name tags!! I noticed at the beginning of the blog someone said they didn't know what caligal was -- and obviously it is you! I look forward to more sharing of these precious memories! By the way, I am 69 (could that be true!) so you know where I am in the school group!
-- Posted by jbarge143 on Fri, Oct 4, 2013, at 4:38 PM
For those who do not know, the reunion is set for October 12th at 10:30 at the Christ Church in Shelbyville. And I do have the pictures Jeannie mentioned but like always, have Redddj to put them up when he has time. I just now emailed him about doing it and am waiting for his answer.
-- Posted by Number25 on Fri, Oct 4, 2013, at 5:40 PM
The reunion is today and I sure wish I could attend but it's not possible. If any of you read this before it starts, please take a lot of pictures and post them for not only me but all of those who can't attend either.
-- Posted by Number25 on Sat, Oct 12, 2013, at 8:26 AM
I'm still waiting too Caligal :'( Gene Williams said it was a great one! Maybe someone will post them soon!
-- Posted by Number25 on Wed, Oct 23, 2013, at 3:29 PM
I just read in the Times Gazette that Mr. Omar Lane has passed away! He was retired from UniRoyal like so many of our parents. Rest in Peace "Rocky" and may God watch over your family always.
-- Posted by Number25 on Mon, Oct 28, 2013, at 1:08 PM
-- Posted by caligal on Sat, Nov 23, 2013, at 5:38 PM
Happy Thanksgiving. Thanks Caligal for reminding me of Jam cakes. My mother used to make one right around Thanksgiving and put in a big tin ( maybe flour or something came in), surround it would cut apples and seal it till around Christmas. The cake was about 7 layers. I am not sure what came in the tin but it was big to hold a seven layer cake. Does anyone know what may have come in the tin and does anyone have a jam cake recipe? Enjoy the holidays
-- Posted by sparkie46 on Tue, Nov 26, 2013, at 9:41 AM
Sounds good. Happy Thanksgiving to you all and a Merry Christmas and Happy New Year. It sounds like a canned Phrase, but is heartfelt to all the Mill Village Folks. Mr. Melson thank you for this Blog, and the same Blessings to you and your Family.
-- Posted by Wolf Clan on Wed, Nov 27, 2013, at 11:32 AM
Good ol' LARD came in those cans. My mother kept one in the kitchen under her "mixing" table. She made everything with lard. She was a great cook.
I will post the recipe. She would put a penny in the cake and whoever got the penny, got their Christmas wish. Of course, you have to warn the diners that there is a penny and to look through their piece before eating! We always had this on Thanksgiving.
-- Posted by caligal on Sat, Nov 30, 2013, at 2:05 PM
Thank you caligal. I shall look forward to the recipe.
-- Posted by sparkie46 on Sun, Dec 1, 2013, at 3:19 PM
1 cup margarine
3 cups flour
1 cup sugar
5 egg whites, beaten stiff
1 tsp. baking soda
1 tsp. allspice
1 tsp. cinnamon
1 cup pecans, chopped
1 cup buttermilk
2 cups blackberry jam
1 cup strawberry preserves
Cream marg and sugar. Add jam and preserves. Mix well. Add egg yolks and mix. Add flour, cinnamon and allspice alternatively with buttermilk to which baking soda has been added. Add nuts, then fold in the stiffly beaten egg whites. Bake in three (3) 9 inch cake pans for 35 - 40 minues. Check for doneness. Frost with chocolate or caramel frosting. If you want 6 layers, double the recipe and bake in six (6) 9-inch cake pans.
Hope you enjoy it!!!!!
-- Posted by caligal on Sun, Dec 1, 2013, at 7:27 PM
Thanks for the recipe! I was going to post the one Momma used when I saw someone asking for one yesterday and now this morning you've already done it! So thanks ever so much and may you and your family have a blessed Christmas this month.
-- Posted by Number25 on Mon, Dec 2, 2013, at 8:04 AM
Number 25, Print yours also. Maybe it is a little different. I think every cook revised the recipe....Thank you for all of your contributions to this blog. I have loved it!
-- Posted by caligal on Mon, Dec 2, 2013, at 10:21 AM
Thanks to D. R. and P. A.(as I new her). You both have been very informative. Thanks!
-- Posted by Wolf Clan on Mon, Dec 2, 2013, at 8:22 PM
Caligal,I didn't forget the recipe but there's been so much going on I didn't get it printed out to post. The only difference I noticed was you using two jars of jam to Momma's one.She also used raisins and figs both chopped up good. The 25th is almost here so I would like to wish you and yours and all the folks on the blog "A Very Merry ChristDay". In case you're wondering, ever since I started corresponding with "Grits" that is how he sends his wishes to me and mine in an email every year. After all, that's the reason for the season. God Bless and thanks again for all your posts. I never really asked your name, but I think you had a younger sister that was my age of 71 but is no longer here with us but only in our hearts.
-- Posted by Number25 on Thu, Dec 19, 2013, at 5:30 PM
If you read this I hope and pray you have a wonderful ChristDay! Miss the old days back home and the wonderful scenes put on the side of the gym etc.
-- Posted by Number25 on Fri, Dec 20, 2013, at 10:57 AM
Merry Christmas Everyone! Have a wonderful New Year and here's hoping for good health for everyone and thanks for the memories......
-- Posted by caligal on Tue, Dec 24, 2013, at 5:20 PM
Haven't been on here for a while. Nice to catch up. Here is wishing everyone a Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year.
-- Posted by Billy Hall on Wed, Dec 25, 2013, at 1:55 PM
What year was the last classes held at Shelbyville Mills School?
-- Posted by redddj on Fri, Dec 27, 2013, at 11:33 AM
Yesterday Redddj informed me of the death of Mr. George Clanton who was a longtime employee (and retired) at the "Rubber Mill". I want to send my sympathies to the family at this time. He will be missed :'(
-- Posted by Number25 on Sun, Jan 26, 2014, at 8:28 AM
Sad to learn of Edna Adgent's passing. So many times I think of Rena, JoAnn and their sisters. Heard years ago that Rena had passed.
Also, Bobby Moore's sweet mom Ruth, went to be with Sam.
-- Posted by moonwalker on Sun, Feb 9, 2014, at 5:24 PM
I just read about the death of Faye in the paper today.She was my Sunday School teacher at Shelbyville Mills Baptist Church. Faye Waggoner Cooper made a lasting impression on me.She will be missed :'(
-- Posted by Number25 on Tue, Feb 11, 2014, at 1:48 PM
Does anyone recall whether Hank Williams ever appeared at 41-Drive In? Some say yes. Others say no. Maybe Grits or Doris Pilkington can give us a definite answer.
-- Posted by bomelson on Wed, Feb 26, 2014, at 3:36 PM
I'm not sure of an answer to your question bomelson but the next time I email Grits or his sister I'll ask and see what he or she says! On another aspect here, was reading some of the older posts and saw where someone was asking about Robbie Holman. I think it's been a couple of weeks now, and don't have her email answer to me at hand, but her husband passed away. They were and she still is living in Kentucky!
-- Posted by Number25 on Thu, Feb 27, 2014, at 10:36 AM
Very sorry to hear about Robbie's husband. My prayers go out to her and her family.
-- Posted by caligal on Fri, Feb 28, 2014, at 1:39 AM
I am sorry to hear about Robbie's husband. I remember her a very cute young girl. I was a few year younger. I was around her brother - Walter's age with whom I hung around with. I think Robbie hung around with another girl across the street and one house up but I can not remember her name. My prayer are with her and her family. It must have been tough on her as a young woman losing her sister Dorothy and her Brother Walter at such young ages. I know she had another brother Ricky but I am not sure what happen to him.
-- Posted by sparkie46 on Sat, Mar 1, 2014, at 4:46 PM
Well Bo,
Sorry but I've been late in getting an answer to your question on here. Grits sent me an email in answer to your question and he said that he didn't recall Hank Williams playing there but if he did it would have been while he was away in the Korean war(51-54).
-- Posted by Number25 on Thu, Mar 6, 2014, at 7:34 AM
Billy Hall,
Been trying to find out about the old Sylvan Mills (before it was Shelbyville Mills) photo I put on face book. Would this be the area where you all would swimg from a rope into the water (and yes, I asked the same thing of you on face book) as that picture has me confused as to whether it was a factual picture or not! Seems like the water going over the dam is going the wrong way!
-- Posted by Number25 on Mon, Apr 7, 2014, at 5:17 PM
I just heard yesterday about the death of Mary Jane Rittenberry a long time "Rubber Mill" friend! I pray she rests in peace as we who knew her will miss her greatly :'(
-- Posted by Number25 on Tue, May 20, 2014, at 9:02 AM
If any of you are on face book, Shelbyville Mills School is on a page there and someone is asking who the #25 is (boys basketball now) from the years 1963 to 1967(?) so if anyone happens to know please share so we'll all know. Thanks ahead of time.
-- Posted by Number25 on Thu, Jun 12, 2014, at 5:15 PM
I so much enjoy reading stories and comments from so many people I grew up with and those I did not.
Caligal, I would appreciate know ing your name and years you went to SMS. I went from 1950 thru 1957 (I believe), my name is Newton Smelcer and I
currently live in Seattle. I left Shelbyville in 1962 with Newsom Head and we joined the Air Force. Newson left the service after 4 years and
I stayed almost 30 years. I visit Tennessee each
year as I have many, many family members there. I
am just trying to place you in all these SMS alumni I read about in this blog. Have a great day and good health.
-- Posted by email@example.com on Wed, Jun 25, 2014, at 10:07 PM
Does anyone remember the playing days of the late Ernie Bledsoe, who passed away recently, with the U.S. Royals before the company name was changed to Uniroyal?
-- Posted by bomelson on Tue, Jul 29, 2014, at 2:12 PM
Bo,Even though I remember Ernie well as he married a neighbor of mine,I would have to look at some of my old papers from The Volunteer to see if he's in any of them. If you should ever run into my "old" coach at Shelbyville Mills, Austin Davis he might could remember more as he's his brother-in-law.
-- Posted by Number25 on Tue, Jul 29, 2014, at 5:22 PM
Caligal was one of five sisters. Their Father was a barber. They lived on the hill above the F&H store. PA was her int.
-- Posted by Wolf Clan on Sat, Aug 9, 2014, at 1:06 PM
Wolf Clan, you know so much about everyone there where we grew up and I can think of three of the sisters names but not the other two. You also mentioned them living on the hill above F&H store, but for some reason I thought they lived across the road where the barber shop was located in a big house. Any info you can give me on that. Thanks for posting like you do too!
-- Posted by Number25 on Thu, Aug 14, 2014, at 12:09 PM
Number 25,
Their House was across the street, but up the rise past Jack Moore's house and the barber shop.
Oldest was married to Tom Nash, can't remember her name. Next was Rena, JoAnn, Peggy And Deanie.
-- Posted by Wolf Clan on Sat, Aug 16, 2014, at 10:31 PM
Drive past the lower store ( mill store) to the end of the mill and turn right and go to the river. You will see a gravel bar. swim toward the opposite side and you will come to a huge rock sobered by several inches of water. We played and fished in this area often. Up stream on the same side of the river about 200 yards was a huge rock laying slanted down the bluff at the end of the rock was a large tree, could have been keeping the rock from sliding into the water. A attached to a large limb over the rock was cable. We would climb to the top of the rock with the cable and swing out over the water and drop or try to flip and come down head first. My brother, Earnest, was the unlucky one as the cable broke as he swung down and landed on the rock breaking his right arm in several places. I do not know who put the cable up nor do I know if it was ever put back up after it broke.
Now you know the story of the ROCK and the SWING
I will not attempt to correct errors.
-- Posted by Billy Hall on Sun, Aug 17, 2014, at 3:11 PM
Never heard Hank Williams being there. Eddie Arnold Was there at 4 of July celebration.
-- Posted by Billy Hall on Sun, Aug 17, 2014, at 3:23 PM
Wolf Clan,Deanie was my age and someone told me she had passed away but do not know when! Also I think Edna passed away a few months ago as well! So many of our friends are passing away but this blog will keep all of them and the memories in our hearts!
-- Posted by Number25 on Mon, Aug 18, 2014, at 3:23 PM
I was at Grant's funeral, saw juanita, Grant's nick name was Cody. We had lots of fun fishing, camping and making up other games to play.
-- Posted by Billy Hall on Mon, Aug 18, 2014, at 7:48 PM
Another member of the Shelbyville Mills group, Jimmy Faulk, passed away on September 19. He lived near Cartersville, GA.
-- Posted by reilly on Thu, Sep 25, 2014, at 2:51 PM
I am very sorry to read about Jimmy. My prayers go out to his family. He was a good friend.
-- Posted by caligal on Sun, Sep 28, 2014, at 11:04 AM
Jimmy was the second of four children born to Marie Faulk. Donald the first, then Jimmy, then Randy, then Carole.
They were all athletic,if it was a sport Jimmy played it and really well.Don was a college Footballer and great slow pitch player.
Jimmy was in the class with Reggie Cunningham, Randy Lee, Peggy Adgent, Connie Bullion,(also his Cousin)To name a few.
He will be missed by family and friends who knew him.
-- Posted by Wolf Clan on Mon, Sep 29, 2014, at 12:58 AM
I'm also deeply sorry about this happening and when I first heard about it from a friend last week I tried to find his obituary as it was not posted in the Times Gazette and could only find out where he lived. Wondering if he was still married and any children he might have left behind!
-- Posted by Number25 on Mon, Sep 29, 2014, at 9:10 AM
Jimmy left behind a wife and four children. He found out he had cancer approximately two weeks after he was in Shelbyville for his class reunion in early May. By that time, his doctors told him he had 3-6 months to live without treatment and "maybe" a year with treatment. He did not want the chemo and lived for 3 months and 9 days. We will miss him as he was a great brother, brother-in-law and friend.
-- Posted by reilly on Mon, Sep 29, 2014, at 9:58 AM
Does anyone remember or have any information on a Karen Woods who attended SMS in the late 1940s?
-- Posted by bomelson on Thu, Oct 30, 2014, at 2:25 PM
Bo, I was in the 1949 class at SMS, but I don't remember anyone name Woods.
-- Posted by Billy Hall on Fri, Nov 14, 2014, at 8:23 PM
Bo,I pray you're looking down on all of us you brought back together from our childhood years at Shelbyville Mills and that you are resting in peace my friend! You will be missed by everyone who knew you! May God watch over Harriet and
David during this sad time :'(
-- Posted by Number25 on Sat, Nov 15, 2014, at 2:44 PM
I am so sad to read this about Bo. He has brought such joy, happiness and wonderful memories to all of the SMS and villagers who have shared on this blog. I don't have the words to express my feelings of loss. I just hope that this blog will continue to share memories. Bo would like that I
think. Here's to Bo...and prayers for his family.
-- Posted by caligal on Sat, Nov 15, 2014, at 7:43 PM
Bo Melson
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Bo Melson is a retired sports and police beat editor of the Times-Gazette. He passed away November 15, 2014, at age 81.
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