Night For The Museum With Dr. William Wilkins July 13th, 2009

“The Worst Day in the Life of an Eleven Year-Old Boy, Seventy-Six Years Later”
The Dorcheat Historical Association Museum, Inc announces the 7th “Night for the Museum” of 2009. The monthly events have been a huge success in 2009 with 10 speakers scheduled to speak this year. Each event has been recorded and made into a DVD. These DVDs are a part of the fundraising efforts of the always expanding and progressing new museum.
Monday July 13th, 2009, Dr. William Wilkins will be the seventh guest speaker for the 2009 season. Dr. Wilkins experiences in Minden will highlight the worst year of his young life. The year 1933 was especially devastating for many in the area with fire, tornado, drought, flooding and failed banks. Dr. Wilkins life was altered forever in the tornado with the loss of his mother as she struggled to protect him for the deadly wind. His family ties go back many generations and have many interesting connections to much of Minden’s history. Many early Minden residents remember Dr. Wilkins uncle longtime veterinarian, and his aunts’ one of whom was married to Minden’s oldest living Confederate soldier Mr. T.A. Glass.
Museum director Schelley Brown stated, “This museum is so important to our area. Historic venues drive tourism in a big way in the state of Louisiana and this is our way of not only preserving history but helping the city of Minden and Webster parish by creating history related events in our area. Last year with our June opening we wanted to get the word out about the museum and what better way to do that than to tell our parish history from people that have lived it or whose grandparents experienced it.” The events have included a wide range of subjects from the Civil War, WWII, the 1940’s and 50’s recreation at Hunter’s Playhouse, Black American history. Each event has been attended by 150-200 plus guests. Many of these people travel a great distance to attend the monthly events.
The museum has an exciting list of speakers lined up for its history filled 2009 schedule. The events will be held at Christopher’s located at 615 Main Street in Minden on the 2nd Monday of the month. Doors open around 5:30 refreshments are served at 6:00 p.m. with speakers to begin at 6:30. No admission is charged for the events but donations to the museum are welcomed. It is recommended that you bring a lawn chair due to the large crowds. Seating goes quickly. For more information on the museum you can visit the web site at http://www.museuminminden.blogspot.com/ or call Schelley Brown at 318-423-0192.

"Minden and Webster Parish Matters"

May is National Preservation Month. The theme for 2009's National Preservation Month is “This Place Matters”. Preservation Month raises awareness about the power historic preservation has to protect and enhance our communities and the places that really matter to us. They do this by celebrating the diverse and unique heritage of our country's cities and towns www.preservationnation.org . The Dorcheat Historical Association Museum along with Minden Main Street coordinator Pattie Odom did their part in the city of Minden, Louisiana with their contributions to history with the “Night for the Museum” May event.
On Monday May 11th, 2009, Mr. Richard Noles was the fifth guest speaker for the 2009 season to pack Christopher’s on Main. Noles a 5th generation citizen of the Heflin area is well known for his work in education. But many learned Monday night about his family and the history of what was known as Noles Landing along with some Heflin facts.
Noles brought along some priceless family heirlooms that went hand in hand with his story. One such artifact was a horn dating back over 150 years. This horn was an important part of the operation of Noles Landing after the Civil War and used to signal from one side of the lake to the other for passengers wanting to cross over to the landing.
The Noles family settled in the Heflin area in 1854. The family still lives on this same land acquired by a land grant. Noles learned much of his family history from a great aunt and other family members as he was growing up. Noles love of history was evident as he highlighted subjects ranging from Bayou Dorcheat, the steamboats at Noles Landing and his ancestors of the Civil War.
Museum director Schelley Brown stated, “I am very pleased at how these events are being received by the public. We now have over 750 names in our data base for the museum. Many of these have attended our monthly events at one time or another. These people are now traveling from Ruston, Arcadia, Shreveport, Haynesville and East Texas on a monthly basis to hear our speakers with a monthly attendance of 150-200. This kind of response is what we hoped for when we started this in 2008. We want to teach history in a fun and exciting way and I think we are doing that. We are also capturing these history lessons on DVD which is a valuable tool for learning as well as fundraising. The events have included a wide range of subjects from the Civil War, WWII, the 1940’s and 50’s recreation at Hunter’s Playhouse, Black American history and each is available for $10 each or the entire 2008 series for $75.
The museum has an exciting list of speakers lined up for its history filled 2009 schedule. The events will be held at Christopher’s located at 615 Main Street in Minden on the 2nd Monday of the month. Doors open around 5:30 refreshments are served at 6:00 p.m. with speakers to begin at 6:30. No admission is charged for the events but donations to the museum are welcomed. It is recommended that you bring a lawn chair due to the large crowds. Seating goes quickly. For more information on the museum you can visit the web site at http://www.museuminminden.blogspot.com/ or call Schelley Brown at 318-423-0192.

"A Night For The Museum" with Mrs. Joan Andress Williamson June 8th, 2009

Two Treebys’ Memories of Minden “Stories I Grew Up With” Presented by Joan Andress Williamson

Joan Andress Williamson of Sewannee, Tennessee will be the speaker for the Dorcheat Historical Association Museum’s June 8, 2009 “Night for the Museum” presentation. Her talk will be a presentation of the writings of the Two Treebys. Mrs. Williamson’s grandmother was Treeby Chaffe Miller (Mrs. R.H. Miller) and her mother, Treeby Miller Andress (Mrs. Harry Andress), both of whom have written very entertaining memoirs of their lives in Minden. Both were lifelong residents of Minden, Mrs. Miller, 1865-1953, Mrs. Andress, 1905-1976.

Mrs. Williamson is an honor graduate of Minden High School and Newcomb College of Tulane University. At Minden she was selected for Girls State, a trombonist in the Minden High Band, a Grig staff member, and a swim team participant. She was President of her class at Newcomb.

Marrying Samuel R. Williamson, Jr., of Springhill, she moved with him to the sites of his educational endeavors, the U.S. Military Academy, Harvard University, the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, and finally the University of the South at Sewanee, Tennessee. Assisting Dr. Williamson in many ways, the most lasting recognition of her contributions was at Sewanee. There, the Board of Regents dedicated a huge stained glass window at the University Chapel in her honor. All the other windows are recognition of deceased persons. Joan was recognized for her work with the foreign students at Sewanee, but even more for her hospitality that she provided for the Board of Regents, the faculty, the students, and the townspeople.

In addition, Joan has been very active in the Episcopal Church and has served in leadership positions in numerous civic organizations. Joan and Sam have three highly educated children, Dr. George Williamson, a history professor at Alabama, Dr. Thad Williamson, a political science professor at Richmond, and Treeby Brown who has Masters from Duke. Treeby is a consultant in maternal and child health policy. Joan and Sam are blessed with four grandchildren and the couple now resides in Sewanee, Tennessee.

This will be the 6th in the series of speakers for the museum for 2009. These popular events are held at Christopher’s located at 615 Main Street in historic downtown Minden, Louisiana. Admission is free with donations accepted to benefit the year old museum. Doors open at 5:30 with “first come, first serve seating.” Refreshments begin at 6:00 p.m. with program beginning at 6:30 p.m. For more information about the museum contact museum director Schelley Brown at 318-423-0192 or visit the museum located at 116 Pearl Street. Museum hours and information http://www.museuminminden.blogspot.com/

"A Night For The Museum" with Mr. Richard Noles May 11th, 2009

Click on picture to enlarge
When Steamboats traveled Dorcheat will be just one of the subjects for the next museum event!
The Dorcheat Historical Association Museum, Inc announces the 5th “Night for the Museum” of 2009. The monthly events have been a huge success in 2009 with 10 speakers scheduled to speak this year. Each event has been recorded and made into a DVD. These DVDs are a part of the fundraising efforts of the always expanding and progressing new museum.
Monday May 11th, 2009, Mr. Richard Noles will be the fifth guest speaker for the 2009 season. Noles a 5th generation citizen of the Heflin area is well known for his work in education. His many years of service with the education system of our area is extensive; Webster Parish school board from 1966-2003, teacher at Minden High, counselor, teacher at Sibley High, Principal at Cotton Valley, Dubberly elementary, Browning elementary and Heflin elementary, plus special education director, elementary director, and superintendent at Central office. Noles now serves on the Board of Directors of the Claiborne Electric Co-op and has been the Secretary-Treasurer since 2004. Museum director Schelley Brown’s comment, “Richard Noles has certainly made his mark in the history of education in our parish. We are very fortunate to have someone of his capabilities serving on our 2009 museum board.”
The Noles family settled in the Heflin area in 1854. The family still lives on this same land acquired by a land grant. Richard and wife Judy have raised 5 daughters on this longtime family property. Richard and Judy love cattle farming, gardening, travel and reading as hobbies. They are members of the Heflin Baptist church and serve on many other organizations that benefit their community.
Noles love of history will be highlighted at the May museum event with subjects ranging from Bayou Dorcheat, the steamboats at Noles Landing and his ancestors of the Civil War. This night will not only be fun and entertaining but should be highly educational for the people of our area. Don’t miss the 5th night for the museum!
Museum director Schelley Brown stated, “Last year with our June opening we wanted to get the word out about the museum and what better way to do that than to tell our parish history from people that have lived it or whose grandparents experienced it.” The events have included a wide range of subjects from the Civil War, WWII, the 1940’s and 50’s recreation at Hunter’s Playhouse, Black American history. Each event has been attended by 150-200 plus guests. Many of these people travel a great distance to attend the monthly events.
The museum has an exciting list of speakers lined up for its history filled 2009 schedule. The events will be held at Christopher’s located at 615 Main Street in Minden on the 2nd Monday of the month. Doors open around 5:30 refreshments are served at 6:00 p.m. with speakers to begin at 6:30. No admission is charged for the events but donations to the museum are welcomed. It is recommended that you bring a lawn chair due to the large crowds. Seating goes quickly. For more information on the museum you can visit the web site at http://www.museuminminden.blogspot.com/ or call Schelley Brown at 318-423-0192.

A Taste Of Minden "A Taste Of Yesterday and Today"

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Sunday, April 26th, 2009, come join the Minden – South Webster Chamber of Commerce and The Dorcheat Historical Association Museum for “The Taste Of Minden” “A Taste of Yesterday and Today”

The Minden Civic Center will be the place to be for a nice Sunday afternoon of tasting and sampling from all your favorite catering companies and restaurants from our area. Serving begins at 11 A.M. for those that go to early church services and last until 2 P.M. This year the Dorcheat Historical Association will be hosting Museum Tours from Noon-3 P.M. plus the “Taste of Yesterday cookbooks I & II” will be on sale inside the Civic Center. Tickets Available Now! $10 Adults / $5 Children through April 17th, 2009 and $12 Adults / $7 Children at the door. Contact the Chamber Office for more information at 318-377-4240. Don’t miss all the food & fun and a little history.

Jr. Service League To Host Event For Museum

The Jr. Service League Of Minden's 9th Annual Spring Spectacular Run/Walk will be held Saturday April 18, 2009.

This year the proceeds will benefit the Dorcheat Historical Association Museum. For more information on the Run/Walk or to register online you can visit http://www.sportspectrumusa.com/ and go to the events page and scroll down where you see the April 18th event listed. We hope all of you walkers and runners will show your support and help us preserve our past for our future. You can also go to the Minden Event page with this link http://www.sportspectrumusa.com/raceDetail.php?ID=32

"Night For The Museum" With Mr. T.C. Bloxom Jr. "The Chief"

April 13th, 2009 “The Chief” Talks To A Standing Room Only Crowd

When you are known by one name, it gives you a certain status symbol. That was evident on Monday April 13th at “The Dorcheat Historical Association Museum’s 4th “Night for the Museum”. Known to many as simply “The Chief”, Mr. T.C. Bloxom, Jr. a longtime Webster Parish citizen and public servant that grew up in Minden spoke to a standing room only crowd. “The Chief” only recently retired from his position as fire chief of Minden after being involved with the fire department since he was a volunteer fireman at the age of 15. As police chief of the Minden Police Department, Bloxom’s stories were just a fraction of what he has witnessed in Minden and our surrounding communities. He has saved several lives and influenced hundreds more. Museum director Schelley Brown stated, “I was so excited that he agreed to do this for us. The stories that he told were both humors and on the very serious side. The Chief has many wonderful stories and was only able to tap into a few of those in the short time Monday night at Christopher’s. Everyone thoroughly enjoyed listening to him as was apparent from the standing ovation. His unique way of telling stories was a real inspiration to everyone in attendance.”
An added treat for event attendees was a short presentation by movie director; Mr. Jeffrey Goodman. Goodman’s movie “The Last Lullaby” was filmed in Webster Parish and will be coming out in May. Goodman showed a movie trailer of the film to the audience and also talked a little about the film industry in our area. Afterward, Goodman attended the museum to answer more questions about production and filming in Webster Parish. He was also pleased at the way the museum has showcased films shot in the parish.
The monthly events have been a huge success in 2009 with 4 speakers having spoken. Each event has been recorded and made into a $10 DVD. These DVDs are a part of the fundraising efforts of the always expanding and progressing new museum. To purchase your DVD of “The Chief” just drop by the museum Tuesday-Friday 10a.m.-4 p.m. (closed from 1-2 for lunch) with Saturday hours 10a.m.- Noon.
Museum director Schelley Brown stated, “Last year with our June opening we wanted to get the word out about the museum and what better way to do that than to tell our parish history from people that have lived it or whose grandparents experienced it.” The events have included a wide range of subjects from the Civil War, WWII, the 1940’s and 50’s recreation at Hunter’s Playhouse, Black American history. Each event has been attended by 150-200 plus guests every month. Many of these people traveled a great distance to attend the monthly events. Museum board members are looking forward to the next 3 speakers that are lined up. May 11th, 2009 will feature Mr. Richard Noles, June 8th, 2009 will feature Mrs. Joan Andress Williamson and July 13th will highlight the life and a tragic event dealing with the tornado of 1933 and the life of Dr. W.C. Wilkins.
The events will be held at Christopher’s located at 615 Main Street in Minden on the 2nd Monday of the month. Doors open around 5:30 refreshments are served at 6:00 p.m. with speakers to begin at 6:30. No admission is charged for the events but donations to the museum are welcomed. It is recommended that you bring a lawn chair due to the large crowds. Seating goes quickly. For more information on the museum you can visit the web site at http://www.museuminminden.blogspot.com/ or call Schelley Brown at 318-423-0192.

4th “Night For The Museum” will feature a man know simply as “The Chief”

The Dorcheat Historical Association Museum, Inc announces the 4th “Night for the Museum” of 2009. The monthly events have been a huge success in 2009 with 10 speakers scheduled to speak this year. Each event has been recorded and made into a DVD. These DVDs are a part of the fundraising efforts of the always expanding and progressing new museum.
Monday April 13th, 2009, Mr. T.C. Bloxom Jr. will be the fourth guest speaker for the 2009 season. Known to many as simply “The Chief”, Mr. Bloxom is a longtime Webster Parish citizen and public servant that grew up in Minden. “The Chief” only recently retired from his position as fire chief of Minden after being involved with the fire department since he was a volunteer fireman at the age of 15. He still serves as police chief of the Minden Police Department. Bloxom has witnessed many changes in Minden in his years serving our community. He has also saved several lives and influenced hundreds more. Museum director Schelley Brown stated, “We are so excited that he has agreed to do this for us. He has wonderful stories and I know that everyone is going to enjoy listening to him. He has a unique way of telling stories and it will be a real inspiration to hear him tell about the things that he has been a witness to in our area.”
Museum director Schelley Brown stated, “Last year with our June opening we wanted to get the word out about the museum and what better way to do that than to tell our parish history from people that have lived it or whose grandparents experienced it.” The events have included a wide range of subjects from the Civil War, WWII, the 1940’s and 50’s recreation at Hunter’s Playhouse, Black American history. Each event has been attended by 150-200 plus guests. Many of these people traveled a great distance to attend the monthly events.
The museum has an exciting list of speakers lined up for its history filled 2009 schedule. The events will be held at Christopher’s located at 615 Main Street in Minden on the 2nd Monday of the month. Doors open around 5:30 refreshments are served at 6:00 p.m. with speakers to begin at 6:30. No admission is charged for the events but donations to the museum are welcomed. It is recommended that you bring a lawn chair due to the large crowds. Seating goes quickly. For more information on the museum you can visit the web site at http://www.museuminminden.blogspot.com/ or call Schelley Brown at 318-423-0192.

Sarepta, Louisiana and Trace Adkins Country Music Star

One of the Dorcheat Historical Association Museum's famous list of people, Country Music Star Trace Adkins features his home town of Sarepta, Louisiana located in Webster Parish in this Music Video "Your Gonna Miss This". To learn more about Trace Adkins you can visit his offical web site http://www.traceadkins.com/ or read his new book "Trace Adkins A Personal Stand" Observations and Opinions from a Freethinking Roughneck.

Webster Parish Gets World Wide Recognition

Webster Parish gets World Wide recognition during Super Bowl 2009

This is the "Year One" movie trailer comercial spot that was aired during Super Bowl 2009. This movie was filmed between Sibley and Doyline along Dorcheat. Movie features many local stand-in actors and actresses from our area. Major star Jack Black is the main character.

March 9, 2009 "Night For The Museum With Mr. Don Hinton"

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1950s Photo of Don Hinton and his Dairy Barn

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Monday, March 9th, 2009, the third in the 2009 “Night for the Museum” series will be a night you don’t want to miss. Mr. Don Hinton longtime businessman and dairyman will be the guest speaker. “I know that Mr. Hinton is as excited about speaking as we are at having him, for this special night of history.” stated Dorcheat Museum Director; Schelley Brown.
Born south of Ruston in 1912, ninety-six year old, Mr. Don Hinton first came to Minden in 1935. During this time he worked for the Soil Conservation Service dealing with erosion and flooding problems in our area. In the late 30s Mr. Hinton went into the Dairy business renting Ferndale Farm Dairy until he was able to purchase it ten years later. He would be influential in the local dairy business until the early 1980s. Mr. Hinton has lead a busy life being involved in many aspects of Minden and Webster Parish history. He is very active in the First Methodist Church of Minden, was past president of the Webster Parish Fair Association, longtime member of the Chamber of Commerce and is still one of the regular attending Minden Lions Club members. Don’t miss you chance to hear how our town unfolded and became what it is today from a very active and longtime citizen.
“Night for the Museum with Mr. Don Hinton” will be held at Christopher’s located at 615 Main Street in Minden, Louisiana. Doors open at 5:30 P.M. with refreshments served from 6 P.M.-6:30 P.M. program will begin promptly at 6:30 P.M. with museum tour following the end of the evening. These events have brought in 200 plus attendees on a regular basis so arrive early for good seating or bringing your own lawn chairs are recommended. For more information about this special evening or the Dorcheat Historical Association Museum, Inc. Contact Schelley Brown at 318-423-0192 or visit the Dorcheat Museum located at 116 Pearl Street. Make sure to visit the web site for all updates and current events at http://www.museuminminden.blogspot.com/

Another successful “Night for the Museum”
The place to be was Christopher’s on Main Street was held on Monday March 9th, 2009.
Mr. Don Hinton, longtime business man and Webster Parish citizens kept the packed house of over 200 entertained and informed about the way things were in and around our area back in the 1930, 40’s and 50’s. Mr. Hinton’s event was expected to draw a large crowd. People began arriving as soon as the doors opened at 5:30.
Museum director Schelley Brown stated, “Every month you wonder how much bigger can our crowds get and every month they grow. The Dorcheat Historical Association Museum board is thrilled with the turnout every month. We are making great strides in saving and preserving our history with these monthly speakers. The museum is always changing and we are going to be a work in progress for a longtime. We encourage everyone to come to the events put on by the museum. The museum needs your support and this is something that the people of our area can be proud of. We also need your support in items, artifacts and old photos that people may have tucked away in an attic or trunk.”
The next speakers on schedule are “Chief” T.C. Bloxom, Jr. Monday, April 13th, 2009 followed by Mr. Richard Noles in May. We know that both of these will be standing room only so we encourage everyone to get to Christopher’s early. Doors open at 5:30. Speakers begin at 6:30. Lawn chairs are welcome.
For more information on the Dorcheat Historical Association Museum, Inc you can call Schelley Brown at 318-423-0192 or visit the museum web site at http://www.museuminminden.blogspot.com/

Rick Rowe and KTBS 3

It's a new year and time for our first Community Caravan of 2009. You may not realize it, but Webster Parish is a place with a lot of history. Rick Rowe's hanging out in a log cabin, but he's not in the wilderness! He's checking out a new museum in Minden, Louisiana. Click here to see the coverage of the Dorcheat Museum and Bayou Dorcheat. http://www.ktbs.com/news/Rick-visits-Minden-23587/

February 9th, 2009 "Night For The Museum" with Dr. Roy G. Phillips PhD.

This program is funded under a grant form the Louisiana Endowment for the Humanities, the state affiate of the
National Endowment for the Humanities.

The opinions expressed in this program do not necessarily represent the views of either the Louisiana Endowment for
the Humanities or the National Endowment for the Humanities.

Click On Pictures To Enlarge Them
In Celebration of Black History Month the February “Night for the Museum” features local author and researcher Dr. Roy G. Phillips, PhD.
Monday, February 9th, 2009 will be the 2nd in the 2009 series of museum speakers. Held monthly at Christopher’s located at 615 Main Street in Downtown Minden, Louisiana. Doors open at 5:30 with speakers starting at 6:30. Admission is free of charge but donations are welcome. Get there early to get a good seat!
Don’t miss this exciting evening dealing with subjects from over 200 years ago through today. Hear about the struggles of one family from Africa through Slavery, Reconstruction, Jim Crow Segregation, World Wars, the Great Migration of black families out of the South and the tumultuous civil rights era of the 1960s, and beyond. Hear Dr. Roy G. Phillips tell of his travels to Africa and his exciting research on his own family. Hear how Dr. Phillips underwent DNA testing to find out what tribe his family came from. Find out about his remarkable close contact of the descendants of the plantation owners that had once owned his great grandfather and other relatives in the Shreveport and East Texas area. See a slideshow presentation of family and historical photos from the years of research done to complete his book “Exodus from the Door of No Return.”
This year marks a milestone year for African American citizens young and old, with the newly elected first black president in the United States. The Dorcheat Historical Association Museum is currently working on the Black History of Webster parish. The museum were recently awarded an Outreach Grant from Louisiana Endowment for the Humanities for up to $2,500 for research being done by help of Dr. Roy G. Phillips, PhD and Mr. James H. Smith entitled “The History of the African American in Webster Parish”.
Dr. Roy G. Phillips, PhD, is a retired campus president at Miami-Dade College, Homestead campus. After sixty years, he returned to his native home in rural Webster Parish outside of Minden. Encouraged by a conversation with renowned author Alex Haley, he researched his own family history back to their native land in Africa and published a book on his findings.
His co-researcher is James H. Smith, a well-known longtime educator, principal in the Webster Parish Schools system, advisor, and volunteer in many youth programs in the parish. Mr. Smith is quite knowledgeable about the Minden area where he has been a life-long resident. Historian John Agan will assist them in their work. Museum designer, Larry Milford will design exhibits based on their research.
Thad Andress; Dorcheat Historical Association President said, "Having read Dr. Phillips book, which includes Mr. Phillips personal history, I have complete confidence this research is in good hands."
Phillips and Smith are beginning research for the African-American exhibits at the Dorcheat Museum. They are contacting persons throughout the parish who have knowledge of this particular part of our history. Where practical and with the permissions of the persons involved, Phillips and Smith will make audio-video recordings of their interviews. This oral history will be valuable for future researchers as well as making interesting exhibits. All periods from 1800 to the present will be covered. Broad spectrums of topics of historical significance are covered including, slavery, reconstruction, occupations, churches, education, etc. In addition they will attempt to find printed information, manuscripts, pictures and artifacts that are of historical importance.
For more information about this and other museum functions visit the museum at 116 Pearl Street, contact Schelley Brown at 318-377-3002 or visit the museum site at http://www.museuminminden.blogspot.com/ .

Dr. Roy G. Phillips

Click on above album to see the museum event photos.
Understanding Slavery an Important Lesson to Learn
The 2nd in the 2009 series of “The Night for the Museum” was another big success. Schelley Brown; Dorcheat Museum Director commented, “This event in celebration of Black History month was a true learning experience for everyone that attended. Dr. Roy Phillips spoke about his research of his family, slavery and his roots back to Africa. Dr. Phillips became involved in his family research after speaking to Alex Haley of Roots fame many years ago and was later able to write his own family history in his book that will be available soon at the museum. I think everyone in attendance learned a lot about the origins of slavery and its effects.” Brown also commented that, “Both Dr. Phillips and Mr. James Smith have been a real asset to the museum, with their work on the Black History of Webster Parish. We are so lucky to have them doing this work for us. I am so pleased with the response from the community that the monthly events are creating. When history excites people that has a positive effect on what we are tying to do with the Dorcheat Historical Association Museum.”
One surprise for the evening was a $5,000 check that was presented to museum association President; Mr. Thad Andress from Cultural Crossroads President; Julie Vogel. Julie spoke of the importance in the community to support art and history projects. The evening was successful with donations from others at the end of the evening in support of preserving our parish history.
A tour of the museum was followed, with a look at the work being done on the Slavery and Reconstruction exhibit. This work is being done by local artist Larry Milford. Milford’s touch is seen throughout the museum with the layout and wonderful murals that are part of the overall look of the museum. The museum has 10 speakers scheduled for the 2009 series with Mr. Don Hinton in March, Mr. T.C. Bloxom Jr. in April and Richard Noles to speak in May. You will not want to miss these next three speakers. The events are held at 6:00 P.M. on the 2nd Monday of the month, at Christopher’s located on Main Street in Minden. If you haven’t been to 116 Pearl Street to see what Minden has to offer you need to make a point of dropping by and spending some time. Help the museum preserve our history for our future. For more information contact Schelley Brown at 318-423-0192 or go to the museum site at http://www.museuminminden.blogspot.com/

John Stillmon Willis, Jr. Draws One Of The Biggest Crowds Yet

Mr. John Stillmon Willis, Jr.

Click on album above to see all pictures.
Monday January 12th, 2009, was the evening for one of the biggest crowds yet for a “Night for the Museum.” They came to hear Mr. John S. Willis the first guest speaker for the 2009 museum season. Museum Director; Schelley Brown stated, “I knew Mr. Willis was going to draw a large crowd from the amount of calls we begin receiving early last week. You could have heard a pin drop as Mr. Willis told of his many missions in such detail with twist of humor and through a few tears shared by the crowd. It is amazing to see someone with that kind of memory for detail share those moments in their life. I am so pleased with the response to these historic events. We had a crowd tonight of over 200, we had to go next door to get more chairs! People waited in line to get a chance to talk to Mr. Willis and thank him for what he did in WWII. It was a very moving night for everyone.”
Mr. Willis a longtime Webster Parish citizen grew up in the Doyline area of the parish. John Stillmon Willis, Jr. was born on the Willis farm south of Doyline to Ada Kennon Willis and John Stillmon Willis, Sr. in June of 1919. Mr. Willis spoke of his amazing experiences. He spent four years in the service, the later three years in the Army Air Corps. His combat service was as a B-17 Pilot out of Deephen-Greene Airbase with the 452nd Bomb Group in England. The average casualty rate for the Bomb Groups was a staggering 77% with his unit having an 85% casualty rate. Willis flew amazingly 35 missions. Mr. Willis even had a humorous encounter with the famous Lieutenant Colonel James “Jimmy Doolittle (Doolittle’s Raiders) that resulted in a surprise brand new B-17 for Mr. Willis. Many remember Mr. Willis and his late wife Mrs. Lillian Life Willis as a part of the Webb Hardware family. These two played important parts in the fabric of our community. They retired in 1988. Lillian died in 2006.
Black History Month will bring a very special “Night for the Museum”. In February we have a very special speaker on schedule Mr. Roy G. Phillips will be sharing his research of his family roots all the way back to Africa. This is an extraordinary journey that you don’t want to miss with more information to follow soon.
Many speakers are already lined up for an exciting and history filled 2009 schedule. The events will be held at Christopher’s located at 615 Main Street in Minden on the 2nd Monday of the month. Doors open around 5:30 refreshments are served at 6:00 p.m. with speakers to begin at 6:30. No admission is charged for the events but donations to the museum are welcomed. DVDs are available for all of the museum speakers. The 2008 collection is now on sale for $75 for 9 speakers. Mr. Willis’s DVD will be available by the end of the week for $10 each. Contact the museum at 377-3002 for information. For more information on the museum you can visit the web site at http://www.museuminminden.blogspot.com/ or call Schelley Brown at 318-423-0192.

Dorcheat Historical Museum

Written by John Agan
Friday, 02 January 2009
Published in the Minden Press Herald
The past year was bittersweet for me in many ways; however, the highlight of the year was the opening of the Dorcheat Historical Museum. In the past I have written about the struggles that were endured over more than a half-century to bring this museum into existence.
This week’s Echo of Our Past will be more an Echo of Our Present and Our Future.
Although they didn’t know it, I am turning this space over to a couple of guest columnists this week – President Thad Andress and Executive Director Schelley Brown of the Dorcheat Museum.
Recently a newsletter was begun for members of the Association and it the first edition much of the story of the great things that took place this year was related.
So, today I am going to reprint some of the things from that newsletter, so that those of you who haven’t yet had the chance to participate in our museum will be brought up to date. My hope is that by the time the next quarterly newsletter is released, you will be a member and be able to read the news first hand.
To give credit in advance, most of what you read was written by Schelley Brown, as she composes the newsletter among the myriad of duties she has at the museum. I will also be including Thad’s President’s message from the issue.
The lead story of the newsletter is titled: “Museum Open For Business. The Dorcheat Historical Association Museum opened the doors officially on June 10, 2008. This was after a year-long construction and work phase that is still not complete. We now have the much-needed roof. Our volunteers and workers have been busy and have much more to do in the coming months and years.”
“Our first portion of the museum is nearly complete with minor tweaks along the way to take place. We still need items for the O’Bier Cabin exhibit. We need Civil War and Reconstruction items donated. Our Black History exhibit is in the works with the help of Dr. Roy Phillips and Mr. James Smith. Every day people come in with new items to add to our museum’s collection. This is how museums start, slow and steady. We are on the way!Never Completely Finished
“Soon we will begin working on our Children’s Learning Center. This room will have a seating capacity of over 100. A stage area and large screen monitor will be installed as well as a sound system. This area will have exhibits along the walls to enhance the museum experience for our visitors.
“A museum is never a completely finished project. New items are continuously found and donated. New Ideas always pop up to make things better. Please help us and take part. Remember, this is your museum, too!”In her Director’s Message, Schelley wrote the following:
“It has been a challenging, but very rewarding year at the museum. Thanks to our remarkable exhibit designer, Larry Milford, our museum is something we should all take great pride in. With the help of Webster Parish Convention and Visitors Bureau grant money we have made great progress in 2007 & 2008, and are looking forward to 2009 and all that it holds.
“Our monthly ‘Night for the Museum’ events at Christopher’s on Main Street are a huge success. Held the second Monday of every month except December, these have turned into a historic social gathering. These nights have brought people from all over the area and all walks of life to share their history and memories with us.
“One thing I think more people need to be aware of as we go forward is that amount of money this all costs. Without the help of a few very generous people, we would not be where we are today. My fear is, what happens these few can’t give anymore? It is up to all of us to join in this effort of financial support. It is so important that you support the museum in any way that you can. Financially as well as with volunteer hours are important and the lifeblood of a museum. Members are our most important and most treasured assets.
“Cora Lou Robinson is helping the museum with postcard invitations to our local schools. This important program will encourage our teachers to bring their students to the museum. We are very hopeful that this will take off in a big way all over the parish.
“Take time out and visit the museum or, better yet, plan your next meeting here. Let’s make history together in 2009.”President’s Message
This was Thad’s President’s Message:
“It’s been a great year for the museum. It’s truly wonderful that excitement that has been created in Minden. Can you imagine all those people talking about history? It wasn’t long ago that we were saying we had not history or at least not much. Then John Agan came along and let us know that we were almost the historical center of the world!”
“A new museum was a project waiting to happen. Several of us decided now was the time to do it and together, with a number of others, put up the money to begin the project. The opportunity to hire someone as talented as Larry Milford was a real Godsend. We hope you like what Larry has done. The exhibits are definitely his creations. We have a long way to go, but it will be done ‘right’.
“Our second Godsend was Schelley Brown. She is a workaholic with a new idea a day about how to raise money to support the museum. There are a lot of people with ideas for what other people should do. Schelley means to do them all herself.
“Our volunteer supporters are growing all the time. The same is true of those making donations to the museum. It takes a lot of money to keep going, around $60,000 a year. That doesn’t include new exhibits and renovations of our unfinished areas. We believe we are spending our donor’s money wisely. We hope that more will contribute and those that have will make additional and larger gifts.”An Asset
So now, you have had a little peak at what is going on at the museum. In case you didn’t know we are located at 116 Pearl Street in Downtown Minden, about one half block east of the Post Office, or, if you’ve been here a while, the old Major’s Office Supply building. Drop by and give the museum a look. We are open Tuesday through Friday from 10:00 a.m. until 1:00 p.m. and from 2:00 p.m. until 4:00 p.m. Saturday hours are from 10:00 a.m. until 12 Noon. Special tours can be arranged by calling the museum a 377-3002. I hope many of you will be calling that number to volunteer, or to provide those precious artifacts of local history we need to tell the story of our parish.I’m going to conclude this article with a long list, like the “begats” in the Bible. You know those lists in the Bible are lineages that help explain what made an individual or a people special Well, what follows in the “begat” list for the museum. These are those who have been listed as benefactors to the museum from 2006, through the end of October 2008. These good people have either helped financially or through donations of time and work. Now, if you’re name is missing, and you have given, chalk it up to me turning 50 this year and growing blind and forgetful. However, if your name is missing because you haven’t given, wont’ you consider joining these good folks in helping tell our story at the Dorcheat Historical Museum:Notes of ThanksWebster Parish Convention & Visitors Bureau, Mr. & Mrs. Thad Andress, Mr. & Mrs. Miller Andress, Coca Cola Bottling Company of Minden, Ann Mays Harlan, Mrs. Pat Stephens, Mr. & Mrs. Marcus Wren, Dr. Richard Campbell, City of Minden and Mayor Bill Robertson, Mr. & Mrs. Duane Cloud, Mr. & Mrs. Rick Cloud, Webster Parish Police Jury, Minden Main Street, Larry Milford, Claire Drake Moore, Mr. & Mrs. Charles Odom, Mrs. Cora Lou Robinson, Ronnie Sale, Mr. & Mrs. C. O. West, Joan Andress Williamson, Woodard Walker, LLC, John Agan, Dr. & Mrs. Richard Baker, Durwood Blake, Mr. & Mrs. D. B. H. Chaffe III, Phil Demaline, Mr. & Mrs. Ed LaBruyere, Charlotte Martin, Minden Historical Residential District Association, Ty Pendergrass, Linda Pound, Benton & Brown, The Rev. & Mrs. William R. Bryant, Mr. & Mrs. James Bryant, Judge John C. Campbell, Mr. & Mrs. Jack Carroll, Mr. & Mrs. Bobby Evans, Virginia Fox, George French, Mr. & Mrs. Robert Gorman, Frank Griffith, Mr. & Mrs. Jud Hale, Dr. & Mrs. Carl Hines, Mr. & Mrs. Ben Hunter, Mr. & Mrs. John Irving, Mr. & Mrs. Loye Jones, Mrs. Allyson Hancock Kinzel, Bob & Earlene Lyle, Mr. & Mrs. James Madden, Mr. & Mrs. Rodney Mason, Mr. & Mrs. Harry McInnis, Mike Merritt Timberland Services, Dr. & Mrs. Carter Norman, Mr. & Mrs. Glen Pittman, Mr. & Mrs. Homer Purtle, Regions Bank, Mr. & Mrs. Henry Bridges, Waynette Sharon, Mr. & Mrs. Terry Snook, Woodard Investments, Sallie H. Anderton, Gerard & Cheryl Benit, Mr. & Mrs. Fred Berry, State Representative Jean Doerge, Fiberbond Corporation, R. O. Machen, Gibsland Bank and Trust, Jean Mendenhall, Jeannine & Dr. Mark Miller, Mr. & Mrs. Bobby Mourad, Mr. & Mrs. Carleton Prothro, Mr. & Mrs. Lonnie Simpson, Fant & Collier Smith, Dr. & Mrs. Webb Stewart, Mrs. Barbara Stewart-Shaffer, Mr. Andrew Walker, Wal-Mart, Dr. & Mrs. G. W. Willis, Mr. & Mrs. T. C. Bloxom, Jr., Dr. & Mrs. Ed Brown, Dr. & Mrs. Fred Cabaniss, Mr. & Mrs. Billy Chanler, Mr. & Mrs. Bruce Corley, Judge and Mrs. Harmon Drew, Jr., Harry Edwards, Mr. & Mrs. Larry Elkins, Marcia Gater, Mr. & Mrs. Larry Hock, Marilyn & Lea Miller, George Rolfe, Mr. & Mrs. Lynn Sinclair, Ronnie Veitch, Robert White and Mr. and Mrs. R. E. Woodard.
John Agan is a local historian, an Instructor at Bossier Parish Community College, and a published author. His column appears Fridays in the Minden Press-Herald.

We Made Minden's Top Ten For 2008

An eventful year in Minden, Webster
Written by Press-Herald Staff
Wednesday, 31 December 2008
Over the next two days, the Press-Herald will recap the 10 biggest news stories of 2008 in Webster Parish.As follows are numbers 10 through 6.
TEN
Dorcheat Historical Museum opens
The greatly-anticipated Dorcheat Historical Museum, located at 116 Pearl Street, opened to the public on June 10.
The museum houses relics of historical interest and significance collected from all areas of Webster Parish as well as family heirlooms, which have been passed down through the generations. Many of the items have been donated by life-long residents of Minden.
Museum tours start with the history of Webster Parish, beginning with a Native American exhibit. They then progress down a timeline depicting progressions seen and made during the life of Webster Parish.
The Museum began hosting “Night for the Museum”, an exciting and entertaining evening featuring guest speakers who recall stories of Minden’s past. Speakers for this monthly event have included George Turner, Dr. Steve Kirkikis and Marilyn Miller.
The highly attended events are held at Christopher’s, located at 615 Main Street and include refreshments.Museum Director Schelley Brown said Night for the Museum allows for the recording of these important stories for future generations.

2009 Season for “Night for the Museum” will be filled with History

Click to enlarge picturesJohn Stillmon Willis, Jr. To Be The First Speaker of 2009

The Dorcheat Historical Association Museum, Inc announces the first “Night for the Museum” of 2009. These events were such a huge success in 2008 with 9 speakers’ total for the year. Each event was recorded and made into a DVD. These DVDs are a part of the fundraising efforts of the always expanding and progressing new museum.
Museum director Schelley Brown stated, “Last year with our June opening we wanted to get the word out about the museum and what better way to do that than to tell our parish history from people that have lived it or whose grandparents experienced it.” The events have included a wide range of subjects from the Civil War – the 1940’s and 50’s recreation at Hunter’s Playhouse. Each event was attended by 150-200 guests. Many of these people traveled a great distance to attend the monthly events.
Monday January 12th, 2009, Mr. John S. Willis will be the first guest speaker for the 2009 season. Mr. Willis a longtime Webster Parish citizen grew up in the Doyline area of the parish. John Stillmon Willis, Jr. was born on the Willis farm south of Doyline to Ada Kennon Willis and John Stillmon Willis, Sr. in June of 1919. Ada Willis would succumb to along illness when John was just 4 years old. John was then raised by his grandparents John Gladden and Anna Willis. He graduated with a degree in Agronomy from LSU. He farmed until Pearl Harbor. He spent four years in the service, the later three years in the Army Air Corps. His combat service was as a B-17 Pilot out of Deephen-Greene Airbase with the 452nd Bomb Group in England. The average casualty rate for the Bomb Groups was a staggering 77% with his unit having an 85% casualty rate. Willis flew amazingly over 30 missions. After leaving the service John spent 20 years in the family lumber business. The next 20 years many remember Mr. Willis and his late wife Mrs. Lillian Life Willis as a part of the Webb Hardware family. These two played important parts in the fabric of our community. They retired in 1988. Lillian died in 2006. Mr. Willis will be speaking on his early childhood days around Lake Bistineau as well as his amazing stories of WWII and life in our surrounding communities. Ms. Brown commented, “I know Mr. Willis is going to be a wonderful first speaker for 2009. We are so excited that he has agreed to do this for us. He has wonderful stories and I know that everyone is going to enjoy listening to him.”
Speakers are already lined up for an exciting and history filled 2009 schedule. The events will be held at Christopher’s located at 615 Main Street in Minden on the 2nd Monday of the month. Doors open around 5:30 refreshments are served at 6:00 p.m. with speakers to begin at 6:30. No admission is charged for the events but donations to the museum are welcomed. For more information on the museum you can visit the web site at http://www.museuminminden.blogspot.com/ or call Schelley Brown at 318-423-0192.

Holiday Hours

The Dorcheat Historical Association Museum Holiday hours. On December 4th we will be open until 8:00 p.m. for Wrap It Up Downtown In Minden. The Week of Christmas we will be closed for a week from December 24th Christmas Eve - New Years Day. We will open again on Friday January 2nd, 2009. We will be in town the week we are closed so if you have family in that would like to see the museum please call Schelley Brown 423-0192 or Thad Andress 377-7311. If we are able to we would love to come down and show you the museum.

We Start Them Early To Volunteer Here At The Museum

Volunteer Kristin Little is a seventh grade student at Webster Jr. High school. During her Thanksgiving vacation this young volunteer got in a days work at the Dorcheat Museum sorting and folding the Winter 2008-09 Newsletters. Kristin needed 10 hours of service for this semester for her Beta Club Service Project. The Dorcheat Museum was glad to have this help from a young person. It is important to start children out young to learn about the importance of volunteerism. We hope Kristin enjoyed her work here and will want to continue to help us in the future. We also hopes she gets an A+ on her work at school.

2008 Season Finale

2008 Season Finale for “A Night for the Museum” A Big Hit
Monday, November 10th, 2008 was the 2008 “Night for the Museum” season finale. The monthly history events but on by the new Dorcheat Historical Association Museum have been a huge success and have increased awareness of the importance of Webster Parish history. Schelley Brown the director of the museum stated, “These events began to help promote the museum. We weren’t sure at first how they would go over, but we were thrilled when they kept growing in attendance every month. The people of Minden and surrounding areas are now looking forward to our next speakers. We not only created an interest in history but also stirred people’s memories of items and artifacts that they have tucked away in closets and attics. These items have now found there way to where they belong in the new museum.
Monday night’s speaker was the official Bossier Parish historian Clifton Cardin. Mr. Cardin has done extensive research about old Bossier Parish which at one time was part of what is now Webster Parish. He is the author of many history related books dealing with our area. Cardin donated one of his books to the museum on Monday night to be placed in the library reference section of the museum. Cardin also donated the same history book to be given away in the gift basket that was given away and was won by Sandra Sparkman.
Cardin told of some of the great leaders of our Parish and the huge influence they made on this area. One in particular was Judge John Watkins the man that had “Shed Road” constructed. Cardin talked on the importance and rarity of this type road and how he is looking for a picture of this structure. No picture exists of the old road to his knowledge and historians would love to find this in the future. Cardin also presented the museum with several pictures that were recently located dealing with the Yellow Pine area of Webster Parish.
All of the events have been recorded and are available for sale now as a complete set. You can save by getting the entire 9 DVD set which sales normally for $10 each. Now get all 9 DVDs for $75.00. These make a great gift for Christmas and the museum now has special old-time gift wrapping to make it a perfect gift of history. The museum has several items including prints and history books and the popular “Taste of Yesterday” cookbook series. All of these items are related to our area and are a great way to support the museum plus make great gifts for your holiday list.
The monthly events will continue in January 2009 with first speaker to be Mr. John S. Willis. Willis is a longtime Minden citizen and also a WWII Veteran with many heroic stories to tell. February will celebrate African-American History Month with Dr. Roy Phillips. Dr. Phillips has traced his family history to Africa and back. Dr. Phillips has published a book about his family and has done extensive research in Africa as well as the United States about African- Americans in our area. Dr. Phillips is also currently working with Mr. James Smith, long time educator in Webster Parish on the Black history for the museum. A grant has been applied for to help with this exhibit.
The museum has a lot to look forward to in 2009 as work continues on the Children’s Learning Center in the back room of the museum. The museum hopes to have classes come to the museum for tours and is encouraging local children’s club leaders, teachers and schools to call for tour times. This museum is not what you expect in a small town and you must get out and see it for yourself. For more information contact Schelley Brown at 318-377-3002 or 318-423-0192. To read more about the museum go to http://www.museuminminden.blogspot.com/