By Staff
As regular readers of the "Atmore Advance" know, several years ago the First National Bank donated the Peavy-Webb building to the Atmore Historical Society (AHS). The turn-of-the-century building, which was formerly a combination doctor's office/waiting room/drugstore, has been relocated to
Heritage Park on Main Street. It will serve as a museum, not only for
educational initiatives for our children, but also for passing tourists who seek an opportunity to learn about the history of Atmore and southeastern Escambia County.
AHS member Taylor Faircloth was named chairman of the committee to raise funds and to oversee renovations of the exterior of the building, a task he successfully completed through solicitation of funds from both individuals and corporations, as well as a $22,000 grant from the Alabama Department of
Economic and Community Affairs.
Mr. Faircloth has now assumed the task of fund solicitaion, and overseeing the work on, for the interior renovations. At the last AHS meeting earlier this month, Mr. Faircloth presented John Garrard (AHS treasurer) with a $2000 check from an "anonymous donor." The funds will go toward interior renovations.
According to Mr. Faircloth, Terrence Breckenridge and Rob Faircloth have offered to provide volunteer labor for the interior of the building if the AHS provides necessary materials. This will save the AHS an enormous amount
of money and is greatly appreciated, not only by the AHS, but by all
Atmoreans who value the preservation of our heritage and history.
Several local businesses have offered their services pro bono toward the renovation of the Peavy-Webb interior. These include Danny Coley, who will check out the air conditioning, and Marilyn and Earl Bryant of Tri-County Electric, who will look into the wiring of the building.
Rob Faircloth and Terrence Breckinridge have also taken over the job of (volunteer) groundskeepers at Heritage Park--with the help of Rob's son, Elliot, and also Terrill Rigsby. Anyone who has driven by Heritage Park in the last month has surely seen the efforts of their labor. The grass is pristine and the crepe myrtle are lovely. Since Heritage Park is located on a main traffic artery into Atmore from Pensacola, many out of town people pass
by each day. For many, it is their first impression of our town. Thanks to this group of selfless volunteers, that impression is likely favorable.
Sincere appreciation is extended to all of these individuals--including Taylor Faircloth -- who have given their time and talent to help celebrate the heritage of our community. If you see them around town, please thank them
for their volunteer spirit.
Anyone who would like to share their time and talent toward the betterment of
Heritage Park and the Peavy-Webb building is welcome to contact Taylor Faircloth.
Susan Jansen
The Atmore Historical Society