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In March, I began the series, “A Battle for Calhoun.”
The series was due to the onset of several projects based on the Civil
War in the county. In a period of only a few months, planning and action
began on the reenactment of the Sycamore Skirmish, the development of
the Civil War highway stop at Arnoldsburg, and the publication of Major
Michael Ayers’ letters.
Work also continues at Heritage Village at Calhoun
County Park and Family History Center in Grantsville. Another building
was placed in the Village on Friday, Sept. 18. The historic hilltop is
growing and now has seven buildings for the history of the county to be
preserved.
The newest addition is a 100-year-old workshop.
According to Jim Bell, the structure was built and used by Grantsville
resident L.T. Stump. It was transported by May Movers from Bell’s
property, located South of Grantsville on Rt. 16.
It has been exciting to watch the focus of some of the
community turn to the richness of county history. The time may have come
when the focus on Calhoun can shift to what we possess, instead of what
we lack.
Though this series has come to an end, I believe the
“Battle for Calhoun” will continue. Not in the acts of skirmishes and
soldiers, but in the acts of those that seek to see the county progress
and grow.
With the successful completion of the county’s first
annual Sycamore Skirmish re-enactment, some can now see that our
identity could be the source of our progress. There is still work to be
done.
Could something great be on the horizon for Calhoun
County?
I guess that will depend on you. If you are an able
body, get involved in projects at the park or with the historical
society. Devote time to preserving the past. Get up and work toward the
future. Our yesterdays will help lead and form our tomorrows, but only
through the labors of those that are willing to make it happen.
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