More Than a Museum: My Introduction to the THPS

By Easterling Carpenter

My journey with the Talisi Historical Preservation Society (THPS) began unexpectedly earlier this year. Like many great connections in a smaller city, it started with a conversation. While doing research for a college assignment, my paths crossed with Joey Wiginton, the Vice President of the THPS.

In our casual conversation, I voiced the interest I had in my hometown of Eclectic. I had been learning about their history and felt a strong pull to help preserve it. Joey’s reaction was immediate and welcoming: he invited me to look a little closer to home, here in Tallassee, and get to know the Talisi Historical Preservation Society.

I accepted the invitation, though I wasn't entirely sure what to expect. When I walked through the doors of the Tallassee Falls Museum I was pleasantly surprised. I found a live an thriving organization full of passionate citizens and knowledgeable stewards of history. Not only did I find historians well acquainted with the past, but active participants in the future of Tallassee and Alabama history. These were not merely caretakers of dusty artifacts; they were working actively to improve current historical sites and encourage knowledge and engagement in the community.

The energy was contagious. Not long after that first meeting, I joined as a member of the organization.

The work they do aligns perfectly with the spirit of redevelopment we see growing in our city. Tallassee has a rich history that is still with us. Preserving the past and telling its stories are an indispensable part of our future. Over the next few weeks, I will be sharing a series of posts detailing the incredible resources I have uncovered since that night. From the Native American heritage that named our river to the industrial might that built our skyline, there is so much to explore.

I hope this series properly echoes the efforts I have seen from the society members.

A special thanks to Susan Dragone, Alan Parker, and Randall Hughey for the information provided in this series.

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.