Thursday, March 5, 2009
Wednesday, February 11, 2009
The Mayor Of Academy Park Wins Man Of The Year 2009
Green, Doerge named man, woman of the year
Written by Josh Beavers
Wednesday, 11 February 2009
A crowd of more than 500 was treated Thursday night to good food, good fun and a sense of good community spirit.
The setting was the Minden Civic Center and the scene was the annual Minden-South Webster Chamber of Commerce banquet.
Town & Country Health and Rehab and the Weston Place served as the title sponsor for the event. Corporate sponsors included R&V Works, Richland State Bank, Fibrebond, Jean Simpson Personnel Services, TG Garden and Gifts, Konica Minolta, First Choice Personnel, Entergy, Gibsland Bank & Trust, Easley Fine Art Gallery, Webster Printing, Allstate and David Raines Community Health Centers.
Accompanied by the musings and keen insights of event emcee Dr. Richard Campbell, attendees enjoyed a fine dinner provided by Jimmy Hall’s Party Express Catering.
And then there was the much-anticipated announcement of the Minden Man and Woman for 2009.
Once the cat had been let out of the bag and the secret was finally revealed, all in attendance rose to their feet to honor the man and woman who have played such positive roles in the lives of Webster Parish citizens.
This year’s honors went to Bill Green and State Representative Jean Doerge. The Young Women’s Service Club sponsors the Woman of the Year award, while the Minden Lions Club presents the Man of the Year Award.
The award for Chamber Member of the Year went to Jimmy Hall and Party Express Catering.Woman of the Year State Representative Jean Doerge retired from teaching after a 30-year career. She is a Democratic member of the Louisiana House of Representatives, who has represented Webster Parish since the death of her husband Everett in 1998.
“I wouldn’t be in this position if not for the person who stole my heart over 50 years ago – my husband Everett Doerge,” she said as she accepted the honor. “When he died, I felt I had to finish what he started.”
And she has been successful.
In 2001, Doerge worked to establish a special district to authorize the creation of a fire and emergency training service district, only the second created in Louisiana. She helped various residents in the Dubberly community in south Webster Parish obtain water service when their wells went dry. She also helped to secure a grant for the Cotton Valley water system.
In 2002, she helped the Springhill Medical Center obtain placement in the Rural Hospital Coalition, a move that enabled the facility to obtain additional funds. She pushed for the designation of a tourism center in Springhill, with appropriate directional signs to the new facility. She also worked for a jogging trail in Frank Anthony Park and for the funding to renovate the Spring Theater.
She pushed for funding to relocate the Northwest Technical College in Minden into a new home on Industrial Drive.
Doerge’s alma mater, Northwestern State University, inducted her into the College of Business Hall of Distinction.
Her name is engraved on a plaque located in the foyer of Russell Hall.
“I wouldn’t be here if not for the people of Webster Parish who have put their trust in me,” Doerge told the crowd.
“I have always tried to do what is best for you and I am so thankful and honored tonight.” Man of the Year Minden Mayor Bill Robertson calls Bill Green the “Mayor of Academy Park”. He is also affectionately referred to as the “Widow’s Wonder-man” as he gladly comes by and makes home repairs at many of the residences in the historic district.
Called a creator by Duane Cloud, a longtime friend and the gentleman who made last night’s presentation, Green “still gives and volunteers long past retirement age.”
“He is a true giver in every sense of the word,” Cloud said. “He is a creator in several trades. The Minden Historic Commission, our town and this nation has benefitted from his service.”
Event emcee Dr. Richard Campbell said of Green, “he can fix anything. And that is not an exaggeration.”
Green is a native of Tennessee and a veteran of the United States Air Force. He was stationed at Barksdale and moved to Minden after his discharge. He worked as a loan officer at a local banking institution upon his arrival to the community.
He and his wife Billy Jean reared three sons, and they are members of St. John’s Episcopal Church.
“He learned this is a great place to live and raise a family,” Cloud said.
Upon receiving the honor, Green thanked his wife and also kidded that he did not believe the selection committee knew whom they were voting for.
“I love Minden,” he told the crowd. “I am honored and it has been a great pleasure working with the people here. I’m glad to volunteer.”
Written by Josh Beavers
Wednesday, 11 February 2009
A crowd of more than 500 was treated Thursday night to good food, good fun and a sense of good community spirit.
The setting was the Minden Civic Center and the scene was the annual Minden-South Webster Chamber of Commerce banquet.
Town & Country Health and Rehab and the Weston Place served as the title sponsor for the event. Corporate sponsors included R&V Works, Richland State Bank, Fibrebond, Jean Simpson Personnel Services, TG Garden and Gifts, Konica Minolta, First Choice Personnel, Entergy, Gibsland Bank & Trust, Easley Fine Art Gallery, Webster Printing, Allstate and David Raines Community Health Centers.
Accompanied by the musings and keen insights of event emcee Dr. Richard Campbell, attendees enjoyed a fine dinner provided by Jimmy Hall’s Party Express Catering.
And then there was the much-anticipated announcement of the Minden Man and Woman for 2009.
Once the cat had been let out of the bag and the secret was finally revealed, all in attendance rose to their feet to honor the man and woman who have played such positive roles in the lives of Webster Parish citizens.
This year’s honors went to Bill Green and State Representative Jean Doerge. The Young Women’s Service Club sponsors the Woman of the Year award, while the Minden Lions Club presents the Man of the Year Award.
The award for Chamber Member of the Year went to Jimmy Hall and Party Express Catering.Woman of the Year State Representative Jean Doerge retired from teaching after a 30-year career. She is a Democratic member of the Louisiana House of Representatives, who has represented Webster Parish since the death of her husband Everett in 1998.
“I wouldn’t be in this position if not for the person who stole my heart over 50 years ago – my husband Everett Doerge,” she said as she accepted the honor. “When he died, I felt I had to finish what he started.”
And she has been successful.
In 2001, Doerge worked to establish a special district to authorize the creation of a fire and emergency training service district, only the second created in Louisiana. She helped various residents in the Dubberly community in south Webster Parish obtain water service when their wells went dry. She also helped to secure a grant for the Cotton Valley water system.
In 2002, she helped the Springhill Medical Center obtain placement in the Rural Hospital Coalition, a move that enabled the facility to obtain additional funds. She pushed for the designation of a tourism center in Springhill, with appropriate directional signs to the new facility. She also worked for a jogging trail in Frank Anthony Park and for the funding to renovate the Spring Theater.
She pushed for funding to relocate the Northwest Technical College in Minden into a new home on Industrial Drive.
Doerge’s alma mater, Northwestern State University, inducted her into the College of Business Hall of Distinction.
Her name is engraved on a plaque located in the foyer of Russell Hall.
“I wouldn’t be here if not for the people of Webster Parish who have put their trust in me,” Doerge told the crowd.
“I have always tried to do what is best for you and I am so thankful and honored tonight.” Man of the Year Minden Mayor Bill Robertson calls Bill Green the “Mayor of Academy Park”. He is also affectionately referred to as the “Widow’s Wonder-man” as he gladly comes by and makes home repairs at many of the residences in the historic district.
Called a creator by Duane Cloud, a longtime friend and the gentleman who made last night’s presentation, Green “still gives and volunteers long past retirement age.”
“He is a true giver in every sense of the word,” Cloud said. “He is a creator in several trades. The Minden Historic Commission, our town and this nation has benefitted from his service.”
Event emcee Dr. Richard Campbell said of Green, “he can fix anything. And that is not an exaggeration.”
Green is a native of Tennessee and a veteran of the United States Air Force. He was stationed at Barksdale and moved to Minden after his discharge. He worked as a loan officer at a local banking institution upon his arrival to the community.
He and his wife Billy Jean reared three sons, and they are members of St. John’s Episcopal Church.
“He learned this is a great place to live and raise a family,” Cloud said.
Upon receiving the honor, Green thanked his wife and also kidded that he did not believe the selection committee knew whom they were voting for.
“I love Minden,” he told the crowd. “I am honored and it has been a great pleasure working with the people here. I’m glad to volunteer.”
Sunday, December 14, 2008
Christmas Spirit Filled The Air
 |
| Minden Historic Residential Christmas 2008 |
Wednesday, September 17, 2008
December 2008 Minden Historic Residential District Christmas Event
Click on pictures to view larger size. More information and press release will follow.
Minden’s Historic Residential District has big plans for holidays!
The Minden Historic Residential District Association announces their holiday plans. “Saturday December 13th, 2008 will be our way of saying Merry Christmas and Happy Holidays to Minden and the surrounding area.” announced association President Schelley Brown. “This year we are giving back to our community by not charging for our home tour. With the cost of everything escalating we felt that giving something back to our community was the fitting thing to do. We are also adding a home decorating and lighting contest for our home owners. Judging will be done the day of our home tour by three guest judges from other cities and winners announced at 6 p.m. at the close of the tour. We will be giving three wonderful prizes; 1st prize is $200 plus a one night stay at the McKay House B & B in Jefferson, Texas. 2nd prize is $100 and B & B stay, 3rd place prize is B & B stay! We hope that everyone in the district gets out and does some wonderful holiday lighting and decorating. We want the district to be a shinning example of holiday spirit for our visitors during this holiday season. We hope that this contest takes off so that in the future we will be included on the “Holiday Trail of Lights”. Minden’s historic homes are so beautiful and especially so during this time of year. Lighting trails draw huge numbers of visitors into an area and create big economic boost to everyone especially gas stations, restaurants and retail merchants. Everyone is looking for a way to entertain their family during this time of year.”
During the past two years the association has given back to the community with two historic markers that were placed in Academy Park. The association also has purchased more Christmas lights for the park, sponsored a large museum exhibit in the Dorcheat Historical Museum that tells their history and now Minden HRD has a wonderful new web site http://www.mindenhrd.com/ that tells about Minden’s historic homes, history and past citizens.
Melissa Slaid, owner of the Fitzgerald House has generously volunteered her home for the December 13th holiday event. This historic home located at 304 McDonald Street next door to Academy Park will be bustling with activity from 2 p.m. – 6 p.m. Visitors will tour one of Minden's oldest homes and hear its history from a "Ghost of Christmas Past." Take a step back in time with carolers on the streets, the taste of warm cider and cookies plus the magic of seeing Minden's historic homes in all their holiday finery. Have your photo taken in a vintage one horse open sleigh by Jackie Lewis of Main Street Photography. Join us at 5 p.m. for a group sing-along of old fashioned holiday favorites! Don't miss the holiday gifts on the veranda, to make your holiday unique. For more information visit http://www.mindenhrd.com/ and http://www.mindenhrd.blogspot.com/ or call Schelley Brown 423-0192.
Minden’s Historic Residential District has big plans for holidays!The Minden Historic Residential District Association announces their holiday plans. “Saturday December 13th, 2008 will be our way of saying Merry Christmas and Happy Holidays to Minden and the surrounding area.” announced association President Schelley Brown. “This year we are giving back to our community by not charging for our home tour. With the cost of everything escalating we felt that giving something back to our community was the fitting thing to do. We are also adding a home decorating and lighting contest for our home owners. Judging will be done the day of our home tour by three guest judges from other cities and winners announced at 6 p.m. at the close of the tour. We will be giving three wonderful prizes; 1st prize is $200 plus a one night stay at the McKay House B & B in Jefferson, Texas. 2nd prize is $100 and B & B stay, 3rd place prize is B & B stay! We hope that everyone in the district gets out and does some wonderful holiday lighting and decorating. We want the district to be a shinning example of holiday spirit for our visitors during this holiday season. We hope that this contest takes off so that in the future we will be included on the “Holiday Trail of Lights”. Minden’s historic homes are so beautiful and especially so during this time of year. Lighting trails draw huge numbers of visitors into an area and create big economic boost to everyone especially gas stations, restaurants and retail merchants. Everyone is looking for a way to entertain their family during this time of year.”
During the past two years the association has given back to the community with two historic markers that were placed in Academy Park. The association also has purchased more Christmas lights for the park, sponsored a large museum exhibit in the Dorcheat Historical Museum that tells their history and now Minden HRD has a wonderful new web site http://www.mindenhrd.com/ that tells about Minden’s historic homes, history and past citizens.
Melissa Slaid, owner of the Fitzgerald House has generously volunteered her home for the December 13th holiday event. This historic home located at 304 McDonald Street next door to Academy Park will be bustling with activity from 2 p.m. – 6 p.m. Visitors will tour one of Minden's oldest homes and hear its history from a "Ghost of Christmas Past." Take a step back in time with carolers on the streets, the taste of warm cider and cookies plus the magic of seeing Minden's historic homes in all their holiday finery. Have your photo taken in a vintage one horse open sleigh by Jackie Lewis of Main Street Photography. Join us at 5 p.m. for a group sing-along of old fashioned holiday favorites! Don't miss the holiday gifts on the veranda, to make your holiday unique. For more information visit http://www.mindenhrd.com/ and http://www.mindenhrd.blogspot.com/ or call Schelley Brown 423-0192.
Thursday, August 14, 2008
Friday, March 14, 2008
The New Marker To Tell Our History
2008 Project for New Marker In Academy Park To Tell Our History
Minden, Louisiana Historic Residential District
In 1835 Charles Veeder, German-American born in New York State
built an inn on a hillt
op a few miles from Bayou Dorcheat.
Legend has it, the inn was constructed on a salt lick that was
the best deer-hunting site in the region. By 1837, Veeder had
laid out a town in the shape of a parallelogram and divided
the area into lots. Named after the home of his ancestors in
Minden, Germany. The town prospered to become the largest town
in old Claiborne Parish. He hoped Natchitoches Parish would
divide and Minden would become the parish seat. Overton,
established in 1821, on Dorcheat Bayou became the parish seat
of Claiborne parish. Veede
r left for California in 1849.
Minden was incorporated 1850, when Webster Parish was created
from Claiborne Parish. Minden became the parish seat in 1871.
November 5, 1992 the area around the original parallelogram
encompassing 71 buildings was placed on the National Register
of Historic Places. In 1993 the Minden Historic Residential
Association formed. On October 29th, 2007 area was officially
recognized by the city of Minden and Mayor Bill Robertson.
Protective ordnances were created and a Historic Commission
appointed in 2008 for future protection and preservation.
Ms. MONA
MIRIAM ROBINSON MONK
August 23, 1924 - April 1, 2006
Beloved music & band director of the Lowe Junior High School
Band 1968-1980. Taught Expanding Horizons program for gifted
children in Webster Parish until retirement in 1989. Member
of the First Baptist Church, and an active witness for God.
She is remembered as a happy, loving person, a successful,
teacher and someone who cared about the history of Minden and
the history of her home known as the McDonald – Monk Home.
Ms. Monk purchased the home in 1966 and raised her family.
This Minden landmark was built by John W. McDonald in 1900 &
placed on the National Register of Historic Places in 1986.
Active in many civic organizations in 1992 she was one of
the original organizers of the Minden Historic Residential
District Association and served as its first president in 1993.
Mrs. Monk will be remembered for her love of God, family,
mu
sic, history of Minden & the historic residential district.
Donated by The Minden Historic Residential District 2008
In 1835 Charles Veeder, German-American born in New York State
built an inn on a hillt
op a few miles from Bayou Dorcheat.Legend has it, the inn was constructed on a salt lick that was
the best deer-hunting site in the region. By 1837, Veeder had
laid out a town in the shape of a parallelogram and divided
the area into lots. Named after the home of his ancestors in
Minden, Germany. The town prospered to become the largest town
in old Claiborne Parish. He hoped Natchitoches Parish would
divide and Minden would become the parish seat. Overton,
established in 1821, on Dorcheat Bayou became the parish seat
of Claiborne parish. Veede
r left for California in 1849.Minden was incorporated 1850, when Webster Parish was created
from Claiborne Parish. Minden became the parish seat in 1871.
November 5, 1992 the area around the original parallelogram
encompassing 71 buildings was placed on the National Register
of Historic Places. In 1993 the Minden Historic Residential
Association formed. On October 29th, 2007 area was officially
recognized by the city of Minden and Mayor Bill Robertson.
Protective ordnances were created and a Historic Commission
appointed in 2008 for future protection and preservation.
Ms. MONA
MIRIAM ROBINSON MONKAugust 23, 1924 - April 1, 2006
Beloved music & band director of the Lowe Junior High School
Band 1968-1980. Taught Expanding Horizons program for gifted
children in Webster Parish until retirement in 1989. Member
of the First Baptist Church, and an active witness for God.
She is remembered as a happy, loving person, a successful,
teacher and someone who cared about the history of Minden and
the history of her home known as the McDonald – Monk Home.
Ms. Monk purchased the home in 1966 and raised her family.
This Minden landmark was built by John W. McDonald in 1900 &
placed on the National Register of Historic Places in 1986.
Active in many civic organizations in 1992 she was one of
the original organizers of the Minden Historic Residential
District Association and served as its first president in 1993.
Mrs. Monk will be remembered for her love of God, family,
mu
sic, history of Minden & the historic residential district.Donated by The Minden Historic Residential District 2008
Minden Mayor Bill Robertson
Ghost Of Home & Garden 2007
Historic Residential Association and Dorcheat Historical Museum Association’s Ghost of Home & Garden
“A Picture Perfect Success”
Antique cars, old time fiddle music courtesy of Mary Wright, vintage style dress, old-fashioned fun, historic homes, ----yes, it looked like a scene from a movie. If you visited the Minden Historic District Ghost of Home & Garden Tour on Saturday, May 19th, between the hours of 12:00 noon and 5:00 PM, you were transported to the late 1800’s and early 1900’s
. If a picture says a thousand words, then Saturday’s first ever Spring Ghost Tour spoke volumes.
The Historic Residential District has managed to maintain its 19th century charm for over 100 years, and to the delight of 350+ visitors from a 100 mile radius they were able to experience a return to this era by being a part of its new annual Spring Ghost of Home and Garden Tour.
Schelley Brown executive director of the Dorcheat Historical Association Museum, Inc and 2007 President of The Historic Residential Association stated, “I knew we
had a hit, when weeks before the tour people were calling me from Longview, Magnolia, Ruston, Monroe and Texarkana wanting more details. Some days I would receive as many as 75 calls. On Friday, May 18th I received almost 150 calls from all over the Ark-La-Tex. Good media coverage made this a tremendous success as well as the incredible homes that were shown and the wonderful folks that portrayed Minden’s past citizens. It gave me a chill at one point to see the people in costume walking across Academy Park. You just knew that this same scene had been done in reality on that very spot over 100 years ago. It gave you a real sense of our history.” Brown, also stated, “That with out all the help fro
m the wonderful home owners, actor and actresses, door help, and the Webster Parish Convention and Visitors Bureau this would not be possible! It takes a lot of nerve for someone to open up their home to an unknown amount of people and a lot of hard work goes into learning the parts by the actors and actresses that portray the ghost. I can think up the project and promote it but with out lots of help it would never happen. I hope they all know how much they are appreciated ever
y time they come to bat for me.”
People were delighted and thrilled to here the fiddle music drift over the park. The sight of antique school desk had not been seen in that sight in over 100 years! The Academy Park Gazebo was transformed into a picture gallery for the day featuring the pictures that will be featured on the new Academy Park Louisiana Historic Marker. A 1937 Buick “Olivia” and 1930 Model A Roadster courtesy o
f Mr. Steve Fowler were parked at the Green-Davis home which was an added bonus for the visitors. The streets were lined with 100’s of visitors from far and wide waiting in line to take their turn inside one of the four homes. Many guests were stunned at the work done to these homes to make each and everyone of them a work of art, beauty and always a work in progress.
At the Inabnett home guest were treated to lemonade served by two young
ladies from the early 1900’s (Aubrie Stahl & Allison Mourad). A donation only lemonade stand was a big hit with the crowds. Right next door at the Inabnett playhouse was also the site of an antebellum tea party held by three young ladies dressed in full antebellum ball-gowns. One of the young ladies Ms. Leslie Davis is a direct descendent of the Davis family featured in the tour and her cousins Emily and Anna Beth Robinson joined her for the days festivities. All this was done to the old-time fiddle music of Mrs. Mary Wright. Mary was quick to tell you she wasn’t that good but the crowd had a different opinion and loved her performances.
Brown i
s the creator of the Minden Cemetery Ghost Walk that has become a popular tourist attraction and is held annually in November in conjunction with Veterans Day. Bringing history to life seems to be a passion for Ms. Brown, as she stated, “I believe showing history in this manner makes it real for people. They seem to appreciate the importance of what they are seeing, whether it is a wonderful 150-year-old home or a grave marker at the cemetery or even an antique car. This new combined effort is the historic district’s way of showing support fo
r the soon to open Dorcheat Museum.” Brown also stated, “The history of Minden’s homes and the people who lived there is so important. This is just a small way to preserve the past for future generations. It is very exciting to be able to have the privilege to bring this part of history alive for everyone. It is only natural that these different organizations work together to keep history alive for our future. These homes have become a part of the fabric of Minden and can never be replaced and are near and dear to everyone’s heart.” Brown laughed as she said, “It has been said if it is old, rusty, want crank, or buried I must have something to do with it.”
The following homes were featured in the 2007 tour.
416 Broadway Miller – Inabnett Home Built in Mid 1850’s: Featured the acting talents of Sandy Corley and Carol Willis: as Mrs. Joe Miller and Mrs. Roy Inabnett.
1111 Broadway Vance – Sugg Home Built Pre Civil War: Featured the acting talents of Joe and Joan Luck as Alberta Glass and Bell Pratt Vance.
315 East & West Street Creighton Home Built in 1925: Featured the acting talent of Mrs. Janice Mourad as Mrs. Tom Creighton.
311 East & West Street Davis – Green Home Built in 1901: Featured Mrs. Billie Jean Green as her homes former owner Mrs. Davis.
I addition, the history of Academy Park was told by none other than the “Mayor of Academy Park” Mr. Bill Green as an instructor of the academy with his student Sam Marvin. As you entered the park you were met by a man with a top hat, some k
now him as Dr. Richard Campbell.
This tour is just a sample of what the district will have in store for the Christmas Tour “Memories of Christmas Past” scheduled for the second Saturday in December of 2007. We expect these two historic tours to become something to look forward to every year.
The Minden Historic Residential District Association is responsible for preserving the history of the historic homes and their owners. They are currently working to form a Historic District Commission that will work with the Mayor and City Co
uncil when certain issues arise. This commission will be similar to other historic districts across America. These type commissions help preserve and protect certain historic areas especially the ones that are on the National Historic District Registry.
The association is also responsible for the new street signage that indicates when you have entered the historic district. These signs were installed earlier in the year. A current project to erect a state of Louisiana Historical Marker is now in the works for Academy Park. This marker has been ordered and will make its début soon. If you love history and you love to be a part of something unique, you are urged to become involved with these two groups.
The members
of the historic district and the Dorcheat Historic Association will also begin gathering information and pictures for one of the exhibits that will be featured in the museum when it opens later in 2007. This project will be documenting when the homes were built, as well as researching the past owners. Pictures, precious artifacts and documents will be very important in putting this exhibit together and preserving this important part of Minden’s past. The two groups urge anyone with pictures or any items of interest related to the older homes in Minden to contact them. These joint efforts will continue to benefit both historic groups for many years to come.
The Historic Residential Association meets the third Tuesday of every month at a designated home in the district. The Dorcheat Historical Association meets the 2nd Monday of
every month and The Historic Residential District meets the 3rd Tuesday. Come join the fun, and be a part of preserving our history. For more information you can contact Schelley Brown at 423-0192.
“A Picture Perfect Success”
Antique cars, old time fiddle music courtesy of Mary Wright, vintage style dress, old-fashioned fun, historic homes, ----yes, it looked like a scene from a movie. If you visited the Minden Historic District Ghost of Home & Garden Tour on Saturday, May 19th, between the hours of 12:00 noon and 5:00 PM, you were transported to the late 1800’s and early 1900’s
. If a picture says a thousand words, then Saturday’s first ever Spring Ghost Tour spoke volumes.The Historic Residential District has managed to maintain its 19th century charm for over 100 years, and to the delight of 350+ visitors from a 100 mile radius they were able to experience a return to this era by being a part of its new annual Spring Ghost of Home and Garden Tour.
Schelley Brown executive director of the Dorcheat Historical Association Museum, Inc and 2007 President of The Historic Residential Association stated, “I knew we
had a hit, when weeks before the tour people were calling me from Longview, Magnolia, Ruston, Monroe and Texarkana wanting more details. Some days I would receive as many as 75 calls. On Friday, May 18th I received almost 150 calls from all over the Ark-La-Tex. Good media coverage made this a tremendous success as well as the incredible homes that were shown and the wonderful folks that portrayed Minden’s past citizens. It gave me a chill at one point to see the people in costume walking across Academy Park. You just knew that this same scene had been done in reality on that very spot over 100 years ago. It gave you a real sense of our history.” Brown, also stated, “That with out all the help fro
m the wonderful home owners, actor and actresses, door help, and the Webster Parish Convention and Visitors Bureau this would not be possible! It takes a lot of nerve for someone to open up their home to an unknown amount of people and a lot of hard work goes into learning the parts by the actors and actresses that portray the ghost. I can think up the project and promote it but with out lots of help it would never happen. I hope they all know how much they are appreciated ever
y time they come to bat for me.”People were delighted and thrilled to here the fiddle music drift over the park. The sight of antique school desk had not been seen in that sight in over 100 years! The Academy Park Gazebo was transformed into a picture gallery for the day featuring the pictures that will be featured on the new Academy Park Louisiana Historic Marker. A 1937 Buick “Olivia” and 1930 Model A Roadster courtesy o
f Mr. Steve Fowler were parked at the Green-Davis home which was an added bonus for the visitors. The streets were lined with 100’s of visitors from far and wide waiting in line to take their turn inside one of the four homes. Many guests were stunned at the work done to these homes to make each and everyone of them a work of art, beauty and always a work in progress.At the Inabnett home guest were treated to lemonade served by two young
ladies from the early 1900’s (Aubrie Stahl & Allison Mourad). A donation only lemonade stand was a big hit with the crowds. Right next door at the Inabnett playhouse was also the site of an antebellum tea party held by three young ladies dressed in full antebellum ball-gowns. One of the young ladies Ms. Leslie Davis is a direct descendent of the Davis family featured in the tour and her cousins Emily and Anna Beth Robinson joined her for the days festivities. All this was done to the old-time fiddle music of Mrs. Mary Wright. Mary was quick to tell you she wasn’t that good but the crowd had a different opinion and loved her performances.Brown i
s the creator of the Minden Cemetery Ghost Walk that has become a popular tourist attraction and is held annually in November in conjunction with Veterans Day. Bringing history to life seems to be a passion for Ms. Brown, as she stated, “I believe showing history in this manner makes it real for people. They seem to appreciate the importance of what they are seeing, whether it is a wonderful 150-year-old home or a grave marker at the cemetery or even an antique car. This new combined effort is the historic district’s way of showing support fo
r the soon to open Dorcheat Museum.” Brown also stated, “The history of Minden’s homes and the people who lived there is so important. This is just a small way to preserve the past for future generations. It is very exciting to be able to have the privilege to bring this part of history alive for everyone. It is only natural that these different organizations work together to keep history alive for our future. These homes have become a part of the fabric of Minden and can never be replaced and are near and dear to everyone’s heart.” Brown laughed as she said, “It has been said if it is old, rusty, want crank, or buried I must have something to do with it.”The following homes were featured in the 2007 tour.
416 Broadway Miller – Inabnett Home Built in Mid 1850’s: Featured the acting talents of Sandy Corley and Carol Willis: as Mrs. Joe Miller and Mrs. Roy Inabnett.
1111 Broadway Vance – Sugg Home Built Pre Civil War: Featured the acting talents of Joe and Joan Luck as Alberta Glass and Bell Pratt Vance.
315 East & West Street Creighton Home Built in 1925: Featured the acting talent of Mrs. Janice Mourad as Mrs. Tom Creighton.
311 East & West Street Davis – Green Home Built in 1901: Featured Mrs. Billie Jean Green as her homes former owner Mrs. Davis.
I addition, the history of Academy Park was told by none other than the “Mayor of Academy Park” Mr. Bill Green as an instructor of the academy with his student Sam Marvin. As you entered the park you were met by a man with a top hat, some k
now him as Dr. Richard Campbell.This tour is just a sample of what the district will have in store for the Christmas Tour “Memories of Christmas Past” scheduled for the second Saturday in December of 2007. We expect these two historic tours to become something to look forward to every year.
The Minden Historic Residential District Association is responsible for preserving the history of the historic homes and their owners. They are currently working to form a Historic District Commission that will work with the Mayor and City Co
uncil when certain issues arise. This commission will be similar to other historic districts across America. These type commissions help preserve and protect certain historic areas especially the ones that are on the National Historic District Registry.The association is also responsible for the new street signage that indicates when you have entered the historic district. These signs were installed earlier in the year. A current project to erect a state of Louisiana Historical Marker is now in the works for Academy Park. This marker has been ordered and will make its début soon. If you love history and you love to be a part of something unique, you are urged to become involved with these two groups.
The members
of the historic district and the Dorcheat Historic Association will also begin gathering information and pictures for one of the exhibits that will be featured in the museum when it opens later in 2007. This project will be documenting when the homes were built, as well as researching the past owners. Pictures, precious artifacts and documents will be very important in putting this exhibit together and preserving this important part of Minden’s past. The two groups urge anyone with pictures or any items of interest related to the older homes in Minden to contact them. These joint efforts will continue to benefit both historic groups for many years to come.The Historic Residential Association meets the third Tuesday of every month at a designated home in the district. The Dorcheat Historical Association meets the 2nd Monday of
every month and The Historic Residential District meets the 3rd Tuesday. Come join the fun, and be a part of preserving our history. For more information you can contact Schelley Brown at 423-0192.Academy Park Home Of Louisiana's Newest Historic Marker
Louisiana State Historic Marker, number #629, has
a new permanent home located in Academy Park in the heart of Minden’s Historic Residential District. Most think that the historic markers that you see along the roadside are put there by the state. This is not correct. You do have a process of approval from the state but most of these costly markers are paid for by individuals or organizations. The Minden Historic Residential District Association is proud to present this gif
t to Minden and to the state of Louisiana. Preserving the past and Minden’s heritage is important to the members of the HRD Association as is evident in many of their projects and events such as the recent Ghost of Home and Garden Tour and the upcoming Christmas Tour of Homes.
“Academy Park has long been a project of our group. The gazebo, historic district signage and the seasonal lighting is all part of what we as a group have accomplished.” stated Schelley Brown the HRD Association president and director of the Dorcheat Historical Association Museum. Bill Green the proclaimed “Mayor of Academy Park” and city workers worked
hard over the last few days to get this marker in its proper place. Now for many the history of this park will not be a mystery anymore.
Claire Drake Moore, a descendant of W.A Drake whom donated the land for the Academy in the 1850’s was on hand for the unveiling of the plaque as well as Lynn Warnock Dorsey, executive director of the Webster Parish Convention and Visitors Commission and others from the HRD Association. “Anytime you can pass on history in any form is an important accomplishment. Th
is marker is a great addition to Minden and we hope that others will be just as proud of it as the members of the HRD Association are.” stated Brown. The new marker not only tells the history of the property which was provided by Webster Parish historian, John Agan but also includes five beautiful, historic pictures etched in metal of the Minden Male Academy dating back to the 1850’s.
ACADEMY PARK
Academy Park was once the home of the
Minden Male Academy. Built in 1850 with
funds and on land donated by civic leader
W.A. Drake, it was one of two schools
created from the Minden Academy that
had been established in 1838. In 1852,
an additional 80 acres were donated by
civic leaders completing the campus.
Students in all grades were accepted.
Minden civic leaders and several U.S.
Congressmen received primary education
at this institution. Closed in 1898 with the
opening of the local public school system.
Donated by Historic Residential District
This marker was created by Sewah Studios. Sewah’s motto is building a bridge to the past. And the phrase history on a stick is commonly used by this company. Many are familiar with Sewah Studios from the recent feature of Made In America with John Ratzenberger on the Travel Channel. John Ratzenberger's Made in America
brings you the stories of the best people, places and products in the United States. He honors the men and women who work with their hands and skillfully make products that are the backbone of the American economy.
Citizens of Minden and visitors to the area are urged to come by and view this new piece of Minden history donated by the Minden Historic Residential District Association located in the center of Academy Park.
a new permanent home located in Academy Park in the heart of Minden’s Historic Residential District. Most think that the historic markers that you see along the roadside are put there by the state. This is not correct. You do have a process of approval from the state but most of these costly markers are paid for by individuals or organizations. The Minden Historic Residential District Association is proud to present this gif
t to Minden and to the state of Louisiana. Preserving the past and Minden’s heritage is important to the members of the HRD Association as is evident in many of their projects and events such as the recent Ghost of Home and Garden Tour and the upcoming Christmas Tour of Homes.“Academy Park has long been a project of our group. The gazebo, historic district signage and the seasonal lighting is all part of what we as a group have accomplished.” stated Schelley Brown the HRD Association president and director of the Dorcheat Historical Association Museum. Bill Green the proclaimed “Mayor of Academy Park” and city workers worked
hard over the last few days to get this marker in its proper place. Now for many the history of this park will not be a mystery anymore.Claire Drake Moore, a descendant of W.A Drake whom donated the land for the Academy in the 1850’s was on hand for the unveiling of the plaque as well as Lynn Warnock Dorsey, executive director of the Webster Parish Convention and Visitors Commission and others from the HRD Association. “Anytime you can pass on history in any form is an important accomplishment. Th
is marker is a great addition to Minden and we hope that others will be just as proud of it as the members of the HRD Association are.” stated Brown. The new marker not only tells the history of the property which was provided by Webster Parish historian, John Agan but also includes five beautiful, historic pictures etched in metal of the Minden Male Academy dating back to the 1850’s.ACADEMY PARK
Academy Park was once the home of the
Minden Male Academy. Built in 1850 with
funds and on land donated by civic leader
W.A. Drake, it was one of two schools
created from the Minden Academy that
had been established in 1838. In 1852,
an additional 80 acres were donated by
civic leaders completing the campus.
Students in all grades were accepted.
Minden civic leaders and several U.S.
Congressmen received primary education
at this institution. Closed in 1898 with the
opening of the local public school system.
Donated by Historic Residential District
This marker was created by Sewah Studios. Sewah’s motto is building a bridge to the past. And the phrase history on a stick is commonly used by this company. Many are familiar with Sewah Studios from the recent feature of Made In America with John Ratzenberger on the Travel Channel. John Ratzenberger's Made in America
brings you the stories of the best people, places and products in the United States. He honors the men and women who work with their hands and skillfully make products that are the backbone of the American economy.Citizens of Minden and visitors to the area are urged to come by and view this new piece of Minden history donated by the Minden Historic Residential District Association located in the center of Academy Park.
"Memories of Christmas Past"
“Memories of Christmas Past Historic Home Tour” is right around the corner. Saturday December 8th, 2007 will be the day you don’t want to miss in Minden, Louisiana. See Minden’s Historic District in its holiday splendor. Step back to your favorite scene in your favorite holiday movie as you stroll down the brick streets of Minden. You will be beckoned by the twinkle of soft lights and Christmas carols with the smell of mulled cider in the air.
The Minden, Louisiana Historic Residential District along with members of the Dorcheat Historical Association Museum and with help from the Webster Parish Convention and Visitors Bureau once again hosts its annual Christmas tour of historic homes. Historic District president Schelley Brown stated, “Where else but in these homes can you feel the spirit of Christmas past. These 100 year old homes have witnessed Christmas far beyond what we can remember. It is in these homes that the spirit of Minden and its history were born. Step back in time with us and see these architectural masterpieces in their holiday finery. Christmas trees will be aglow and stockings hung in anticipation of Christmas morning. Mulled cider will be served to warm your hearts.
This year’s tour will begin at 1:00 p.m. and doors will close at 7:00 pm. You’re $10.00 ticket for the day can be purchased at any of the homes. No advance tickets will be sold. The tour coordinators expect a crowd of 500 or more this year. The homes in Minden are unique and steeped with history. People enjoy looking at a home that has been a part of the fabric of a town for 100 or more years. This year’s tour will have several homes that have never been on tour before as well as an historic church and bank.
704 Main Street: The Bank Of Webster (Citizen’s Bank) Built 1905 – 1907
1001 Broadway: Minden Presbyterian Church Built 1923
100 College Street: Chaffe-Evans Home Built 1870’s – 1880’s Formerly First Baptist Church Parsonage in 1926
315 East & West Street: Crichton – McCullough Home built in 1890’s – 1925
709 Elm Street: Rathbun – Payne Home built early 1917
Tour coordinators and home owners are looking forward to showing folks from out of town what Minden has to offer. Coordinators commented, “The spring tour was such a huge success that the Christmas tour should be more so. We have had so many people waiting in anticipation for this all year that we want to be sure to give them what they have been waiting for.”
People realize the importance of our Historic Residential District and this is the perfect time of year to take advantage of one of Minden’s biggest assets. With big business all around, being able to step away from that area into a quite, peaceful and picturesque scene is so important to any town or city. In Minden that division is an important aspect to the citizens and visitors. This year the district is proud to say that they are now an official recognized district on the local and national level. The formation of the Historic District Ordnances to protect this district was a big step forward for the city of Minden and the home owners. This all came about after district members worked closely with organizations such as the National Trust for Historic Places and other cities to make sure that the historic district remained just that a step back in time. For more information on the Christmas home tour please contact Schelley Brown at iluvoldcars@yahoo.com or 318-423-0192.
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