A Personal View of the HSC Historical Society

By Bobby Hornaday in 2002

It was apparent from the word “GO” that the members of the HSC Historical Society were an earnest and dedicated group. It was obvious in the faithful-attendance group and in their financial support. You could also see it in their monthly programs, which are always interesting. The meetings are well attended and there are frequently visitors.

One recent program featured a local storeowner, Mr. Wilburn Black, who had many good stories for us about Malvern and its changes through the years. Another was given by a young lady, Marilee Kinzie, who led us on a make-believe tour around the county and pointed out many worthwhile and planned improvement projects as though they had already been completed and we were enjoying the finished results. There was one on the Rockport Bridge and another on the Courthouse. It will truly be a good day when these are done.

In September, Hays Swayze, an expert on the Civil War, provided the program. He gave us a most interesting talk and his crew dressed in period clothing. I was really impressed with the man wearing a complete Confederate uniform. One of the ladies wore a dress suitable for Sunday, or other dress-up occasions and another fine-looking young lady sported a wedding gown or ballroom gown. It was stunning. Mr. Swayze showed u S a very extensive collection of Confederate battle flags and several other military artifacts, including muzzle loading rifles and some cannon balls. It was enjoyed by all.

At the last meeting Mr. Orval E. Albritton, a former FBI agent, gave a well-documented talk on bootlegging (corn squeezings) in Hot Spring and Garland counties during prohibition. It was both informative and amusing.

There is one member, Mr. George Gatliff, who is an archeologist. He answers many questions about local digs both in Indian sites and mineral properties, of which HSC is well endowed.

Recently, we had a showand-tell night. Several people brought old artifacts or stories from by-gone-days. It was very interesting.

The Society turns out a first class book each year called “The Heritage”. It is filled with past county history and family genealogies. Each member gets one with his or her dues of $20.00. These books can also be purchased by non-members.

The HSCHS meets the first Monday of each month at 7:00 pm at 118 West 2nd Street, Malvern, Arkansas.

This Tidbit in Time shared by the Hot Spring County Historical Society

The Heritage, Vol. 29, p. 131