Page 4 - Clay County: Communities, Families, & Friends 2024

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Almost seven decades ago, in 1966, the Clay County Historical Society was organized. There were 122 Charter Members
who formed this not-for-profit organization to preserve the history of Clay County for future generations. In 1975, the
Board of County Commissioners agreed that the Annex of the old 1890 Courthouse at 915 Walnut Street could be used
for the Historical Society’s Museum. Time passed and many local people generously donated time, talent, and treasure
to make the Museum a reality. In 1992, the very extensive Bud Hess Railroad Collection, including a wooden caboose,
transfer station and velocipede, was acquired from his estate and transported across the St. John River from Elkton,
Florida to expand the attraction.
Most of the Historical Society’s exhibits today are from the 19th and 20th centuries, which is probably appropriate
because Clay County was not created by the Florida Legislature until December 31, 1858. However, there is plenty to know about the Indian,
Spanish and British occupants as well as the pioneer families who settled here prior to the County’s official designation. There was also
some little-known Civil War activity in Clay County. If you are interested in learning more about this fascinating history, the public is always
welcome to attend the informative general meetings at 7 p.m. in the Courthouse at the Historic Triangle at 915 Walnut Street; so, come and
bring a friend. Mark your calendars for the following upcoming dates:
•
August 26, 2024 – Guest speaker Robert Dews will explore the Magnolia State Park, an African American recreational park in Clay County.
•
October 28, 2024 – Guest speaker Brittany Cohill will discuss the Maple Leaf, a Civil War paddle wheeler torpedoed in the St. Johns River
by Confederates from Clay County.
Even if you cannot attend, please visit
https://www.claycountyhistoricalsociety.org on the web where you can learn
more about us and even download an application if you are so inclined. We
always welcome new members and volunteers to help carry on the tradition.
Staffed entirely by volunteers, the Museum, Caboose, Railroad Collection
and 1894 Jail in the Historic Triangle are open to the public each Sunday from
2 – 5 p.m., and for special tours of at least 10 people by prior arrangement.
Although there is no charge, donations are sincerely appreciated. For
questions call (904) 284-9644 or e-mail info@claycountyhistoricalsociety.org.
Above - Mike Adams as Billie
Bartram at June 2024 meeting.
What’s with the Clay County Historical Society?
By Patricia Sickles, Treasurer, Clay County Historical Society
Above - There is much to see at the Clay County History and Railroad Museum at 915 Walnut. Top Right
– New constitutional officers were sworn in at the Annual meeting by Dr. Larry Richardson: Hon. John
Bowles, Vice President, Pat Garlinghouse, Treasurer, Steve Griffith, President; and Monica Padgett. Lower
Right - Annual meeting guest presenters were Richardson and Bowles, both of whom recounted how their lives
intersected from childhood in Green Cove Springs to the present.