By Rick Lanier
For the Opelika
Observer
Pioneer Park will once again host the 4-H History Seekers presentation of the second annual “Back in Time” event Dec. 8 from 5-8 p.m.
The presentation is an effort to raise support and bring awareness to our shared regional history, Alabama’s Bicentennial and the Lee County Historical Society.
This year’s program will introduce guests to the historical travels, research and contributions to Alabama’s botanical history by the noted American naturalist William Bartram. In 1773, Bartram embarked upon a four-year journey through eight southern colonies, a trip where he is best known for his many drawings and notes on the native flora and fauna and Native Americans. Also included in this year’s theme is a historical look at the impact that railroad travel between Montgomery and Loachapoka had on the region.
Guests will be treated to traditional seasonal music as they are taken back to the early 1700, 1800 and 1900s by period-appropriate costumed servers dishing up a multi-course meal within the confines of historical buildings. During the meal, character actors and actresses will visit each table to provide a first-hand experience surrounding the deep history of the Alabama people.
Some of Lee County’s more noteworthy historic characters and friends will be featured, including, Auburn University’s Drs. George Petrie, Charles Allen Cary and John Hodges Drake.
Guests may also expect to encounter local teachers and their students, train conductors, bankers, merchants, cattle drivers, traveling musicians, grist mill operators, blacksmiths, travelers of the Old Federal Road, Native Americans and more.
According to Betsy Jordan, club leader of the 4-H History Seekers, “our efforts started out as a simple attempt to help fundraise and bring awareness to the Lee County Historical Society as a thank you to the Society for their help in support of the 4H.” Jordan added that “it has now evolved into a much more comprehensive community involvement opportunity that we’re very proud of and hope the public enjoys.”
“Back in Time” is endorsed by Alabama200 and sponsored by the Caroline Marshall Draughon Center for the Arts & Humanities.
Tickets are $50 each with all proceeds considered donations to the Lee County Historical Society.
They can be purchased by calling the Lee County Historical Society at 334-887-3007 or visiting www.leecountyhistoricalsociety.org.