A Walk Through Time: Treasures of the Tallassee Falls Museum
Inside the Collection
By Easterling Carpenter
I walked into the Tallassee Falls Museum for the Society's regularly scheduled 3rd Monday meeting and was immediately impressed. Tallassee boasts a modest population of about 5,000. Usually, you expect a museum in a city our size to be quite limited.
What I saw was a treasure chest on Barnett Boulevard.
The museum is set up with booths detailing different periods, events, and topics. It shows a clear timeline of our region. I noticed quite a complete collection regarding our Native American Heritage. The display touches heavily on the “Tuchabatchee – Creek Nation” and provides context about historical leaders. Many of them lived right here in Tallassee. It brings history to life to see actual artifacts found in local fields. It reminds us that we walk on historic ground every day.
The Industrial Spirit
No history of Tallassee would be complete without the Industrial History. The museum details the Mills with blueprints and an 1890s wooden cotton carding machine. For those interested in how our local economy grew, the collection includes pieces showing name changes over the years, old products, blueprints of the old mill, pictures, and even a miniature weaving loom. Historical businesses are preserved here with antique bottles and equipment on display.
Echoes of Conflict
Tallassee has also been touched by global conflicts. Displays pay homage to those from our area who served in the World Wars. They feature uniforms, helmets, and weapons. Naturally, with the Confederate Armory so close, many items relating to its presence and role in the Civil War are also available for viewing. It offers an objective look at the artifacts of that era.
The Literary Corner
I also noticed the gift shop. It is filled with books from local authors, proving that Tallassee is a town of storytellers. Authors include:
- Debra Hughey
- Larry Williamson
- Charles H. Pollard
- Raymond E. Hall & Francine Coleman Larson
- W. C. Bryant
- Jack Payne Solomon
- Myra S. Johnson
- Willie G. Moseley
- Dr. E. W. Wadsworth
- Virginia Noble Golden
Have you visited the museum yet? Let me know your favorite exhibit in the comments, or tell me if I missed your favorite local author!
The views and opinions expressed in this series are those of the author personally and do not necessarily reflect the official policy or position of the City of Tallassee, the Mayor, or the City Council.
