Friday, May 28, 2004

Fairburn getting ready to celebrate 150 years of Southern tradition and heritage marks Fairburn’s sesquicentennial By LINDSAY BIANCHI lbianchi@thecitizennews.com Times have changed since the building of the Atlanta and West Point Railroad led to the incorporation of Fairburn in 1854. Thanks to the efforts of the Fairburn United Methodist Church, founded the same year, and the Old Campbell County Historical Society, the spirit of those early days has been well preserved. The 150th sesquicentennial Celebration of the City of Fairburn June 5 offers its citizens and all those interested in the city’s rich heritage a chance to relive pastimes from the past. An invitational prayer brunch begins the celebration at the Fairburn United Methodist Church with past mayors, city council members, past and current pastors of the local churches. The brunch features a brief historical skit performed by the Southside Theatre Guild. The Historical Society will host a variety of activities at the Old Campbell County Courthouse one block from downtown Fairburn starting at noon. The museum will be open for the day including some special displays for the event. A quilting bee and quilt show are also planned. Visitors are invited to try their hand at quilting as well. A fashion show on the back lawn of the courthouse, of those dressed in period costumes is scheduled for 1 p.m. A prize for the most authentic attire will be awarded. At 2 p.m., enjoy an old-fashioned cake walk. A flying jenny, a giant swing ride popular in the 1800’s, has been specially constructed for the celebration. The ride is free, but any donation will be accepted. Other games and interactive events, such as butter churning are being provided for young people’s amusement. Displays of Indian artifacts from the area, woodworking tools and kitchen implements from yesteryear exhibit how Native Americans and Southerners lived. Walking tours of the Fairburn Cemetery, one block south of downtown on U.S. Highway 29, and the historic downtown area give another view of Fairburn’s history. The Sons of the Confederate Veterans recreate Camp Bailey, a famous local outpost during the Civil War. The authentic living display can be viewed on the front lawn of the Old Campbell County Courthouse. Homemade Ice-cream, hotdogs, cookies and cakes will be on sale throughout the day. More historical displays, games for the kids and tours of the newly-renovated United Methodist Church building on Washington Street keep things lively throughout the mid-afternoon. Also on the church grounds at 7 p.m., the Tara Winds Orchestra present an outdoor concert featuring folk and patriotic music. Prior to the concert, the historic drama by the Southside Theatre Guild will again be performed. The Old Campbell County Courthouse was constructed in 1871, the year after the county seat was moved to Fairburn. The Greek temple design structure, the last of its type to be designed in this country, now houses the Historical Society’s museum. A handmade Victorian doll is being raffled off to raise money for future renovations to the building’s upper floor. Nancy Cornell, President of the Old County Courthouse Historical Society said they are working to expand the museum which is open every Tuesday and by appointment. For more information about Fairburn’s 150th celebration phone Marian Johnson at 770-964-6734 or e-mail johnsononthehill@fairburn.com.