JOHNSON COUNTY HISTORICAL SOCIETY

TO OPEN DOWNTOWN HERITAGE CENTER

Fulfilling the dream that has existed since the organization was organized in 1975, the Johnson County Historical Society, at their quarterly meeting last Thursday night (5 November 2009) enthusiastically voted to open a museum, research center, and office at 131 West Main in downtown Clarksville.

Plans for the building have already begun, with a grand opening celebration in the near future. The office will be manned by volunteers. From the beginning of the Society, Johnson County records, such as marriages, probate, wills, etc. have been collected. Many have been included in the organization's Journal which has been published each spring and fall, beginning in 1975. Copies of all previous journals and other publications are available for sale. Files are being established covering the history of Johnson County, schools, churches, mining, railroads, wars and veterans, etc. Files contain cemetery records and obituaries, family records, and histories of towns and communities, some of which no longer exist except in fond memories. The Society has many artifacts of historical value that have been accumulated over the years and now can be properly displayed.

The Society will be soliciting the donation of items of Johnson County historical importance. The County's heritage will be preserved in a manner of vital importance for future generations. Membership in the Society is not necessary in order to make contributions. All persons are invited to help make this effort something that will be a real boost for Johnson County and downtown Clarksville. All contributions are tax-deductible.

The JCHS Board of Directors consists of Robert Ed Farris, Lance Spanke, Patricia Rowbotham, Erma Brooks, and Guice Howell. Current officers include Mark Hodge, President, Clayton Caldwell, Vice-President, Patricia Rowbotham, Recording Secretary, Rubye Moore, Treasurer and Corresponding Secretary and Donna Schillinger, Journal editor.

For further information, to join the Society, make a contribution, or to volunteer, please contact any of the above officers or the Society at P. O. Box 505, Clarksville, AR 72830.