Home tour draws hundreds to historic landmarks

Published 10:00 am Tuesday, November 5, 2024

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The Butler County Historical and Genealogical Society’s (BCHGS) Fall Tour of Homes, held Oct. 19, drew visitors from across Alabama and neighboring states, celebrating the county’s historic legacy. 

“We are very grateful to have so many community-spirited people in Greenville to assist our Society,” said BCHGS President Barbara Middleton. “We’ve been celebrating BCHGS’s 60th Anniversary all year and our Fall Tour of Homes was a fantastic way to wrap it up.”

With over 200 attendees, the tour featured a blend of historical homes along with prominent landmarks including four local churches, the Butler County Courthouse, Pioneer Cemetery, the Railroad Depot and the Ritz Theatre. The self-guided tour consisted of four routes, each designed for ease of walking or driving, allowing visitors to choose which routes to explore.

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The tour received support from sponsors Juliette and Stallworth Larson, Representative Chris Sells and Dr. Jean Thompson. 

Perfect fall weather set the scene for residents and visitors who gathered at the tour headquarters, located at First Baptist Church, to start their journeys. Attendees hailed from various cities such as Andalusia, Auburn, Fairhope, Montgomery and Mobile, as well as six groups from Florida and four from Georgia. Many visitors enjoyed mingling and sharing stories before setting out.

Jill Marlar, whose family recently moved into one of the tour homes, expressed her gratitude for being a part of the event. 

“As new residents here in Greenville, it was an honor for us to open this beautiful home to the community during the tour,” Marlar said. “This home’s long and important history makes living here in the Perry-Wilkinson-Branum home very special. Hearing stories from visitors and meeting relatives who lived here made the day truly memorable.”

Middleton extended a special thanks to all the homeowners and volunteers who made the tour possible. She emphasized the importance of community collaboration in preserving and sharing the rich heritage of Greenville.