“Claiborne and Webster Parish… Once We Were One” Draws A Large Claiborne Parish Crowd for the September “Night For The Museum”

The Dorcheat Historical Association Museum, Inc. “Night for the Museum” was another huge success. The monthly event welcomed a large crowd from Shreveport, Claiborne Parish as well as the regular attendees from Minden and surrounding areas.
Monday, September 14th, 2009, Beverly Smith the ninth guest speaker for 2009 told the history of our two parishes and the close ties that bind us. Board members of the Ford Museum were on hand to support Ms. Smith in her appearance at Christopher’s in Minden. Linda Volentine, museum director of the Ford Museum was on hand to talk about the new Images of America “Claiborne Parish” book that has recently been published and is now available at the Ford Museum. Many of the guests were able to purchase a copy at the end of the evening.
Beverly Smith’s abiding interest in the history of Claiborne Parish and North Louisiana was evident. Her title of "Claiborne Parish historian," was obvious as she told the crowd of the early life of the parish and how pioneer life must have been. Smith has served three terms as president of the North Louisiana Historical Association and three terms as president of The Herbert S. Ford Memorial Museum in Homer.
The tenth and final speaker in the 2009 series will be the presentation of Cotton Valley history by Mr. Lonnie Simpson. Mr. Simpson will be speaking on October 12th, 2009. The museum already has an exciting list of speakers lined up for its history filled 2010 schedule. 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. If you have not be able to make it to these events you can purchase each yearly collection series for $75.00. With each complete set you will receive a special $20 Minden 1950s DVD as a gift to you. Speaker DVDs are also sold separately for $10 each.
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. If you would like to help with refreshments by bringing cake, cookies, or sandwiches please do so. 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.

"Marathon on Broadway"

Dorcheat Historical Association Takes Part In Festival Of Memories… By Remembering the Great Depression
The Dorcheat Historical Association invites you to put your dancing shoes on for the November 6th - 7th, 2009 24 hour “Marathon on Broadway”. This dance marathon reminiscent of the marathons that became fads during the depression era will be a step literally back in time, with dancers competing for the chance to win some big money! This event will take place at the Minden Civic Center as a fundraiser for the museum. The event will be open to the public for viewing with a $5.00 admission fee. Food and drinks will be available for purchase on site. Participants will be in 3 categories with dancers as young as 12 allowed to dance with a guardian’s permission. Prizes awarded in all categories plus a Grand Prize of $1000 will be awarded to one lucky winner. Pre-registration is $20 per person, $25 per person day of event. Age divisions are as follows 12-40, 41-59, 60 plus. Museum director Schelley Brown stated, “The different age groups will be dancing for different lengths of time. But anyone that would like can dance the entire time to compete for the $1000 Grand Prize. If you dress in 1920s – 30s costume you can also earn extra break passes. This is going to be something that we hope our teens as well as our 40 plus crowd participates in!” Don’t miss lots of fun, music and food for everyone. Brown stated she also needs volunteers to help with this event. For more information please contact Schelley Brown at 318-423-0192.

Don't Miss The 2009 Season Finale! "Night For The Museum With Mr. Lonnie Simpson"

Don’t miss the season finale for Dorcheat Historical Association’s “Night For The Museum”--- The History of Cotton Valley with Mr. Lonnie Simpson
The Dorcheat Historical Association Museum, Inc. announces the 10th and final “Night for the Museum” of 2009. The monthly events have been a huge success with very interesting speakers. The events draw in between 150-200 people every month and have become the place to be in Minden to learn a little history as well as socialize with friends, neighbors and many visitors from out of town.
Monday, October 12th, 2009, the tenth and final speaker of the 2009 series will be Mr. Lonnie Simpson. Simpson will tell the history of his hometown--- Cotton Valley, Louisiana. Simpson was born in 1937 and grew up in Cotton Valley. Graduating in 1956, he later went on to earn a B.S. from Northwestern University in 1960. He then began his career in the Webster Parish Education system by teaching 6th grade at Stewart Elementary for 6 ½ years. He later became principal at Richardson Elementary followed by becoming principal at Sibley High for a year. Simpson returned to Stewart as principal remaining at this school until his retirement. Married to wife Hannah, the couple has one daughter, Stacey, who lives in Calhoun, Louisiana, and one granddaughter Hannah, who resides in Alexandria, Louisiana. The Simpson’s hobbies include riding horses, reading, and working with daylilies.
Each previous 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. If you have not been able to make it to these events you can purchase each yearly collection series for $75.00. With each complete set you will receive a special $20 Minden 1950s DVD as a gift to you. Speaker DVDs are also sold separately for $10 each.
The museum already has an exciting list of speakers lined up for its history filled 2010 schedule with a few changes in store to benefit the Dorcheat Historical Association Museum.
The October event will be held at Christopher’s, located at 615 Main Street in Minden. Doors open around 5:30; refreshments are served at 6:00 p.m.; speakers begin at 6:30. No admission is charged for this event but donations to the museum are welcomed. If you would like to help with refreshments by bringing cake, cookies, or sandwiches please do so. 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.

Prothro’s “Telling Tales Out Of School” Draws A Packed House

The Dorcheat Historical Association Museum, Inc., 8th “Night for the Museum” of 2009 was a huge success. Monday, August 10th, Carleton Prothro was the eighth guest speaker for the 2009 season. Prothro known by many as “The Colonel” told of his many comical experiences at Minden High School. From the introduction by Dr. Richard Cambell and Thad Andress, the mood for the evening was already set.
Non stop laughter was in store for the 200 plus that attended the monthly museum event. The many pranks that have been played, memorable excuses from class, and tales of caught skippers were told by one of Minden’s most beloved educators. “Prothro’s ways of telling a tale were better than any professional comedian” said many that attended the evening. Always a smile on his face and a joke on his lips is what most people think of, when they think of this Minden icon. His humor sometimes questionable brought many a smile and much laughter for many former students, faculty members and longtime friends.
These monthly events have been a huge success with very interesting speakers talking on a wide variety of subjects. 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. If you missed this event be sure to go by the museum and pick up your copy today for only $10! Get the complete 2008 set for $75.
The museum has two more speakers lined up for its history filled 2009 schedule. The September speaker will be Beverly Smith Claiborne Parish historian with Lonnie Simpson to follow in October with the history of Cotton Valley. 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. If you would like to help with refreshments by bringing cake, cookies, or sandwiches please do so. 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.

Big Crowd For An Emotional Evening For Dorcheat Museum

An Emotion Filled Night For The Museum

On Monday, July 13th, 2009, Dr. William Wilkins was the seventh guest speaker for the 2009 season. Wilkins, known to many as Billy, spoke to a crowded room of history seekers at Christopher’s on Main.
Dr. Wilkins started the evening off with an emotional introduction of what he would be speaking about. His tearful memory of his mother on the day she lost her life in the tornado of 1933 was a very moving moment for everyone in the room. Wilkins also had many happy memories of his boyhood spent in Minden in the 20s and 30s. He named many of his childhood friends and the fun they had. He told of skating all over the city, building forts and fishing in Dorcheat Bayou. He said back then you felt like you knew everyone in town. After the tornado Dr. Wilkins moved to Shreveport with his father. He later would become a member of what we call “the greatest generation”. Billy Wilkins went to war during WWII and his stories of the war were as emotional as his stories of his mother. Dr. Wilkins was one of the many veterans that recently were honored in Washington D.C. with the Louisiana Honor Air group. Many rounds of applause were heard during the evening for what Wilkins and his generation have done for all of America.
“This night was an emotional look back at Minden’s history”, Brown stated. “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. These are 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, and speakers begin their programs 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.

Night For The Museum With Beverly Smith Claiborne Parish Historian September 14, 2009

“Claiborne and Webster Parish… Once We Were One” will be the September theme for Dorcheat Historical Association’s “Night For The Museum”
The Dorcheat Historical Association Museum, Inc. announces the 9th “Night for the Museum” of 2009. The monthly events have been a huge success with very interesting speakers.
Monday, September 14th, 2009, Beverly Smith will be the ninth guest speaker for the 2009 season. Ms. Smith will be speaking on the history of our two parishes and the close ties that bind us. This is certain to be an evening you don’t want to miss!
Beverly Smith has an abiding interest in the history of Claiborne Parish and North Louisiana. Considered by many to be the "Claiborne Parish historian," she has served three terms as president of the North Louisiana Historical Association and three terms as president of The Herbert S. Ford Memorial Museum in Homer.
Ms. Smith is a native of Homer and a graduate of Homer High School and Louisiana State University. A lifelong learner, she recently completed the Master of Liberal Arts program at LSU in Shreveport where she was honored by being inducted into the Omicron Delta Kappa leadership fraternity. Beverly Smith resides in Homer.
The tenth and final speaker in the 2009 series will be the presentation of Cotton Valley history by Mr. Lonnie Simpson. Mr. Simpson will be speaking on October 12th, 2009. The museum already has an exciting list of speakers lined up for its history filled 2010 schedule. 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. If you have not be able to make it to these events you can purchase each yearly collection series for $75.00. With each complete set you will receive a special $20 Minden 1950s DVD as a gift to you. Speaker DVDs are also sold separately for $10 each.
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. If you would like to help with refreshments by bringing cake, cookies, or sandwiches please do so. 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.

"Telling Tales Out Of School" with Carleton Prothro August 10th, 2009

“Telling Tales Out Of School” will be the August theme for Dorcheat Historical Association’s “Night For The Museum”
The Dorcheat Historical Association Museum, Inc., announces the 8th “Night for the Museum” of 2009. The monthly events have been a huge success with very interesting speakers. 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, August 10th, Carleton Prothro will be the eighth guest speaker for the 2009 season. Prothro known by many as “The Colonel” will be speaking on his many comical experiences in the Webster Parish school system. This is certain to be an evening you don’t want to miss!
Prothro is a graduate of Byrd H.S. and the University of Arkansas. He was married to Lois Price in 1957, and the couple has two sons: Carleton who lives in Danbury, Ct. and works for Bunge Corp in White Plains, New York and Lance who lives in Las Vegas, and is a geologist for Dept of Energy. The Prothro’s have two grandchildren: granddaughter, Whitney, whom recently became employed by St. Jude, and currently lives in Pittsburg, Pa., and grandson, Hunt, who is a junior at Auburn University.
Carlton’s career includes his military service of 27 years of active and reserve duty. He retired in 1981, with the rank of colonel. He is most known for his teaching career from 1958-1995 as teacher, counselor, assistant principal, and Title 1 coordinator. It is this part of Prothro’s life that will be the focus of the evening. The many pranks that have been played, memorable excuses from class, and tales of caught skippers will be told by one of Minden’s most beloved educators. Always a smile on his face and a joke on his lips is what most people think of, when they think of this Minden icon. His humor is sometimes questionable, but always brings a laugh to anyone within hearing distance.
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. If you would like to help with refreshments by bringing cake, cookies, or sandwiches please do so. 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.

“The Tales of Two Treebys” Draws a Standing Room Only Crowd”

On Monday June 8th, 2009, Joan Andress Williamson was the sixth guest speaker for the 2009 season to pack Christopher’s on Main. Speaking to a standing room only crowd, Mrs. Williamson spoke from the memoirs written by her mother Treeby Miller Andress and her grandmother Treeby Chaffee Miller.
This night was truly a look back at Minden’s history; the stories written so many years ago brought back memories and unveiled a glimpse of the past for many. Joan’s grandmother was the daughter of Christopher Chaffe, one of Minden’s early pioneer families. Joan’s mother, also named Treeby, was equally interesting and filled with many stories from the 20s, 30s and 40s era of Minden. “These stories reflected a bygone era that most of us would never have known anything about. These two women were not professional writers but were very gifted writers and conveyed their life experiences with the written word in a manner that was spell-binding. The Andress family is very fortunate to have this connection to their past in this form.” commented museum director Schelley Brown.
Brown also stated, “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. These are 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, and speakers begin their programs 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.

Miller Andress, Joan Andress Williamson, and Thad Andress

Jr. Service League 5k A Big Success For Dorcheat Museum

Jamie Barnett, Spring Spectacular race coordinator, far left, and Lela Lemoine, Jr. Service League president, far right, present Dorcheat Historical Association Museum Director Schelly Brown with a check in the amount of $2,800, proceeds from this year’s race.

The Junior Service League of Minden presented the Dorcheat Historical Association Museum a check in the amount of $2,800 Wednesday afternoon, proceeds from this year’s 9th Annual Webster Parish Spring Spectacular 1 mile fun run/walk and 5K run/walk.
This year’s race attracted approximately 115 runners and walkers who enjoyed a post party, complete with entertainment, refreshments and door prizes.
The Dorcheat Historical Association Museum, Inc. was established to promote a strong sense of community pride by preserving the past for future generations. Their goal is to make patrons aware of Webster Parish’s historical assets and significance by promoting, teaching, involving and displaying history in many unique ways for the Webster Parish community and for others outside of the area.
The museum, which opened in June 2008, is located in the heart of Minden’s historical downtown at 116 Pearl St. To learn more about the museum, visit http://www.museuminminden.blogspot.com/.
Race winners were: Overall Female Open - 1. India Tucker and 2. Cherie Bonner; Female 14 and Under - 1. Bailey Hassell and 2. Alayna Robles; Female 15 to 24 – 1. Kelsey Hunter, and 2. Ashley Tyman; Female 25 to 34 – 1. Melissa Easter and 2. Anna Sanders; Female 35 to 44 – 1. Starla Townsend and 2. Staci Jo Kendall; Female 45 to 54 - 1. Anita Meeks and 2. Carol Twyman; Female 55 and over – 1. Jenneth Merriman and 2. Carolyn Smith; Overall Male Open Winners – 1. Trey Allen and 2. Michael Fontana; Male 14 and under – 1. Tyler Robles and 2. Cade Clemons; Male 15 to 24 – 1. Zachary Landers and 2. S. Southerland; Male 25 to 34 - 1. Gary Wilson and 2. Mac McGuire; Male 35 to 44 – 1. Micheal Harper and 2. Baudilio Rodriguez; Male 45 to 54 – 1. Micheal Meeks and 2. Richard Twyman; Male 55 and over – 1. Tad Jurgens and 2. Ramon Bosworth.
The Junior Service League would like to thank the following race sponsors for their support in making this year’s Spring Spectacular a tremendous success: $200 Level Sponsorship – Pitman’s Metal Words, Best Western of Minden, Dr. Scott & Dr. Elizabeth Phillips, Up-and-Running, First United Methodist Church of Minden, Coca-Cola Bottling Company of Minden, Inc., Waller Petroleum, Inc., Gina Almond – Allstate Insurance, The Grove Golf Course, Wal-Mart Supercenter of Minden, Erin E. Soleto, MD, Blazer Construction, Wise Insurance Agency, LLC, TG Garden & Gifts, Age Less Medical Spa, Mark Wise – Big Dawgg Productions, briancarlisle.com; $150 After Race Party – Dr. Carlos & Dr. Kathryn Irizarry; and $100 Registration Tables – Minden Presbyterian Church and Thad and Oneta Andress;.
Additional sponsors include: $75 Water/Check points – Jeanne Martin State Farm and Minden Athletic; $50 Distance Markers – Nedra T. Kelly, Minden Family Medicine, Richland State Bank, Sentell Law Firm, Madden Supply, LLC, and State Rep. Jean M. Doerge.
Other financial support was provided by: Elm Street Dental Center, LLC and Performance Physical Therapy; Door Prizes – Concepts, Crawfish Hole, Dorcheat Historical Museum, Embroidery House, Fanette’s, Mary Kay – Emily Walker, Merle Norman, Music Mountain Water, and Oak Alley Boutique; Post Race Party – Copeland’s Restaurant, Copeland’s Cheesecake Bistro, Domino’s Pizza, Subway (Homer Rd.), Save-a-lot, Coca-Cola Bottling Company of Minden, Inc., Dixie Paper, Brookshire’s, Interstate RV Park, and The Good Life Health Food Store and Deli.
A special thank you goes to Minden Presbyterian Church for the use of their gym and to Jeanne Martin State Farm for the water at the water check point.
Founded in 1931, the Junior Service League focuses on serving the Minden area through projects such as the annual 5K run/walk, which raises money for worthwhile organizations around Webster Parish; the Treeby Miller Andress scholarship, presented each year to a deserving high school senior; and the Angel Tea, which provides area school children with uniforms and school supplies during the Christmas season.
In addition, the League supports the Girl Scouts of Minden by maintaining the “Girl Scout Hut,” where the scouts hold weekly meetings. The hut also serves as a meeting place for the League’s monthly meetings.

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"

Click on picture to enlarge

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

Click to enlarge photos

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/