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Forest Home and Monterey were abuzz with history enthusiasts as they embarked on a mini tour of several historic houses, organized by the Butler County Historical & Genealogical Society (BCHGS). The tour, held on Apr. 27, showcased the rich history of the area and marked the society’s 60th anniversary.

“We are just completely thrilled by the turnout and what a wonderful day it’s been out in the country,” said Historical Society member Pamala Nolan. “It’s just what we had hoped for.”

The tour began at the Conrad Wall, Sr. home, where attendees gathered before moving on to view the exterior of the Wall/Watt/Taylor home. Judy Atkins Taylor provided historical insights at each stop, offering attendees a glimpse into the area’s past.

The highlight of the tour was a visit to the historic antebellum home Dellmont, owned by Mary Alice and Don Carmichael, where BCHGS members shared stories about the home’s significance. The tour concluded with a quarterly meeting at Mt. Moriah Fellowship Baptist Church, where Martha Grimes Lampkin discussed the church’s history and cemetery.

In celebration of the group’s anniversary, BCHGS provided a box lunch catered by Flying Basset Farm, allowing attendees to enjoy a meal on the church grounds. The event not only educated participants about the area’s rich history but also provided an opportunity for community members to come together and celebrate Butler County’s heritage.

Barbara Middleton, President of the Butler County Historical & Genealogical Society, echoed Nolan’s sentiments, noting the significance of each stop on the tour.

“I think everything has been wonderful today. Each house had its own unique thing to show,” Middleton said. “The Wall house, Flying Basset farm, and Dellmont are all special places that we don’t get to come too often so we’re just pleased to be able to come.”

Looking ahead, the Butler County Historical & Genealogical Society invites the public to join them for the dedication of a historical marker honoring Butler County’s Native American history on May 16 at 1:00 p.m. The dedication will be followed by a reception at Brushey Creek Baptist Church Fellowship Hall, with funding for the project provided by the Fort Dale Chapter, National Society Daughters of the American Revolution and other generous donors.