Published: March 07, 2008 06:44 pm            

Out 49 & Beyond: Feb. 27, 2008

A dream that was started by the late Hattie Graves many years ago was brought to fruition Dec. 15, 2007, when the Rev. Jessup dedicated the Hattie Groves Hut for the members of the Ramseur E.C.A. club.

If my memory serves me right, sometime in the early 1960's the Old Chisolmn Dry Cleaners building, which was located in the vicinity of where the Pawn Shop in Ramseur now stands, was torn down. Hattie Graves began to envision that pile of blocks as a little building up on 49 North, a meeting place for the then Home Demonstration Club. Now it is known as E.C.A.

The ladies who started the project, all deceased now, purchased some land and worked diligently trying to get it completed. Their fundraisers included a quilt raffle, selling plates and each lady was responsible for raising $5 each month. Mrs. Graves was in charge of the project, which progressed, as funds were available because they paid as they went. The ladies didn't want any indebtedness. There were periods over the years when the construction was put on hold.

After many years of dormancy the project was revitalized in 2000 when Betty Brown became president, continued through the presidency of Pauline HIll and was completed under the current president, Pattie Gales. Some of their fundraisers included a Baby Contest and States Contest. These ladies were determined and committed to getting the building finished. Their hard work paid off.

If the ladies who started the building could see from the great beyond, they would be so pleased to see that the next generation has taken up the torch and finished it for them. Some of them would see that their daughters have followed in their footsteps. Cora Caviness, Pattie Gales and Pauline Hill are the daughters of Golda Goldston, Margie Walden's mother, Sallie McMillon, was a member, Rosa Carroway was the mother of Dyann Spencer and Faye Mason's mother, Katie Brown, was a member.



A thank-you from Alabama:

To The Goldston Family Reunion

Thank you for the generous donation in Bob's name, made to the Hospice of Shoals. This organization enabled us to support Bob through his phase of passing, and he left us in perfect peace.

Bob treasured his childhood memories of Ramseur and had hoped to host a Goldston family reunion here, in Alabama. He knew the importance of carrying out the tradition of family. As he made his way, he kept his memories and spread his love; and I am sure he is smiling, accepting the blessing the Goldston Reunion has given.

Thank you for all you have been to him.

Vickie Goldston and family.

Bobby F. Goldston was the son of former Ramseur resident, the late Walter Goldston. He was 61 years old.



Pattye Harris of Ramseur shares news of interest from N.C. 49, the Empire Charge area and beyond. She can be reached at (336) 824-8198 and invites readers to call her with information they would like to share.

        

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