President Clayton Bell called the meeting to order and welcomed the members and

guests. Thirty-five persons were in attendance.

David Boyle, vice-president, presided over the business portion of the meeting. Jennie Chandler, recording secretary, read the minutes from the August meeting, which were approved. In the absence of Francis Cobb, treasurer, David gave the financial report. The ending balance for September is $3,398.74.

Under old business, David reported on the Historic Preservation Award recipients of the last two years. The award was presented to Fred Roth in 2008 for more than 20 years of faithful service as treasurer of the Walker County Historical Society. The recipient in 2009 was Clayton Bell for his years of service to the society as an office, as well as keeping the historic value of our area in the public eye and his work with the preservation of the Marsh House in many hands-on efforts.

Under new business, David shared with the group several books form the American Association of Museums that have been purchased by the society to enhance the efforts of managing of the Marsh House as a museum, which falls under the auspices of the Walker County Historical Society.

He explained that they may be shared throughout the county as the network of historic causes continues to evolve, citing the John Ross House, the Davis House, John B. Gordon Hall and

others which may become a local consortium.

David announced that the LaFayette Development Authority Historic Preservation Committee is working on a cycling/driving map, starting in La Fayette and making a loop in McLemore Cove. Points of historic interest along the route will be marked.

Acknowledging the great loss to the community, David read the obituary related to the passing of Annie (Suttles) McSears, noting the Suttles were related to the Marshes and to the Frank Shaw Jr., the last owner of the Davis House.

David introduced Jim Staub, director of the Martin Davis House Museum, which is administered by the Martin Davis House Foundation and Trust. Staub shared the history of the house from its building in 1840 to the present. In addition to organizing the many artifacts already in the house, plans are being made to expand the Coca-Cola display, add public restrooms and reconstruct the

kitchen area. Attendees were invited to tour the main house and dependencies at the conclusion of his remarks.

Submitted by Jennie Chandler, secretary.