The Immortal Chipley

Today’s episode isn’t your typical history lesson. This amusing and wildly creative tall tale about the origin of Chipley is steeped in Southern charm, touched with a little moonlight magic, and — let’s be real — packed with more than a few questionable facts. It’s 100% storytelling, 100% fun, and absolutely unlike anything you’ve heard before.

Small-Town Shenanigans: Bo Hastey’s Childhood Pranks

Experience the magic of small-town life in the 1950s—where friendly faces, simple pleasures, and a little bit of mischief were all part of growing up. Join Mr. Bo Hastey as he shares his stories about life in Pine Mountain, from classic teenage pranks to the unforgettable charm of a bygone era.

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Cemetery Stroll leads to search for World War II Female Veteran

Did you know there’s a female World War II veteran buried in the Pine Mountain City Cemetery? I didn’t, until I spotted the gravestone of Mary Hastey Hewitt during a stroll through the cemetery. That one moment sent me down a rabbit hole of questions. Who was she? Before I knew it, my little walk had turned into a full-on search for answers. And in today’s episode, I share what I found.

John Willis, Citizen of the Year

Learn more about our Citizen of the Year, John Willis. From his work with the Boy Scouts and charitable endeavors, John’s contribution to Pine Mountain is widespread and so meaningful. We are so honored that he lives in Pine Mountain.

And don’t miss it! Two events are right around the corner. Our Town Trivia is on Tuesday, January 21st at 11:30 a.m. at Unique Expressions and all of the questions will be from this podcast – so study up! And back by popular demand, the wildly popular . . . Taste of Pine Mountain. I will see you strolling through Pine Mountain on Friday, January 31st at 6:00 p.m. Get your tickets through the chamber via https://www.harriscountychamber.org/tastepm.

The Coca Cola Bottling Plant

Did you know that Pine Mountain used to have a Coca Cola Bottling Plant right in downtown? It was located where the Chipley Historical Center stands today. Even though the plant is long gone, there’s some really great things happening on the site. You can participate in an architectural dig on Saturday afternoons from 1 to 4 with our local archeologist and volunteer extraordinaire, Patrick Severts. And drum roll please . . . the Chipley Historical Center received a grant from Norfolk Southern RR and will use it to refurbish the caboose’s exterior, starting this month!

Miracle Cures!

Listen to a few hilarious ads from the Hamilton Journal between 1880 and 1920. You’ll hear cures for clean blood, gray hair and dandruff. Don’t miss the beauty tips and an ad for an illustrated marriage and health guide. I can only imagine!

And the big event is this weekend! The Pine Mountain Christmas Parade and Festival is on Saturday @ 11:00 a.m.

Candy, Coffee and Coffins

Today I share the history of the building in town that was built in 1892, and still has the cash register, hand crank elevator and wood floors inside. There’s so much history to the building, including what you could buy at the store back in the day, and some of it will surprise you. You’ll appreciate Cat’s Meow even more after you listen to today’s episode. 

Grandma buys a family?

Listen to Bob Swanson share a hilarious tale about the delightful lady who purchased family photos in his store, The Emporium on Main. I guarantee you will laugh and so appreciate our small town. I guarantee I will never look at old family photos the same ever again.

Save the date! December 7th is the Pine Mountain Parade and Festival. There are a ton of fun changes this year, including a longer parade route, a chili cook off, lots of corvettes, and even a Falcon RV flyover!  So save the date, and I will include more information in future episodes.

Dr. Ellis, Physician and Fisherman

Dr. Ellis was the town medical doctor. He was highly regarded for his commitment to this town and adored because of his love for fishing.

Light Up Pine Mountain is on Friday, November 15th! Music starts at 4:30 p.m. and the celebration starts at 6:00 p.m. Don’t miss it!

Female Teacher Requirements

I recently attended a very interesting presentation on the evolution of education in our community presented by the Chipley Historical Center. But, I admit I had a hard time containing my laughter when I heard the female teacher requirements. They were something! I share those in today’s episode.

Save the Date! November 15th is Light up Pine Mountain. They’ll be carolers, music, and of course Santa. The shops will be open late, too. More details in next week’s episode.

On Saturday, November 9th, stop by Unique Expressions for their monthly Acoustic Open Mic. It’s a toe-tapping good time!

And, on Sunday, November 10th at 2:00 p.m., The Chipley Historical Center will be hosting its annual Veterans Day Program. It’s at the Family Life Center at the First United Methodist Church in Pine Mountain. For more details, email info@chipleyhistoriccenter.org.

Shot Through the Window

Today I share with you the story of the shocking murder of Charles Brooks. He was shot through the window of his home, and there were hardly any clues to the murderer. But, 10 days later, an arrest was made. The story doesn’t end with the trial, so stay tuned!

There’s an Art First! Friday on November 1st from 5:00 p.m. to 7:30 p.m. at the Pine Mountain, Art and Jewelry Store. Ona Graham is the featured artist, and she’s so talented! She’ll be at the reception, so you will have a chance to answer questions and she her fabulous sculptures and paintings. Light fare and beverages will be served.

Mayhayley Lancaster, Oracle of the Ages

You may have heard of John Wallace, but have you heard of Mayhayley Lancaster? Mayhayley was a lawyer, fortune teller, farmer, political activist, numbers runner, schoolteacher and self-proclaimed “Oracle of the Ages.”  She had one eye. And, she provided crucial testimony in the John Wallace murder trial.

On Saturday, October 26th, from 7 p.m. to 9 p.m., come join the fun in this free, family event.  The Truck or Treat & Bon Fire will be at the ball field behind the police department in downtown Pine Mountain (that’s 301 Chipley Street).   They’ll be music, a bounce house, bon fire, hot dogs and drinks.   

On October 29th @ 11:30 a.m. at Dakota’s Counter is Our Town Trivia.  All the questions will be from the murders I’ve discussed in this month’s episodes, so I expect it’s going to be a very competitive game.  I will be hosting the fun event in costume, dressed as Mayhayley Lancaster.  Please email me at joy@tourswithjoy.com if you plan to attend, it helps us get a good headcount.  The game is free, and lunch is dutch treat.

Murder on Main Street

In today’s episode, I cover the murder of T. T. Murrah by Ab Hastey, right on Main Street. Listen to the unbelievable-but-true story and the escape from jail that followed. You’ll be surprised!

The Fall Into Fashion Show at the Chipley Women’s club is sure to be a good time. It’s on Saturday at 10:30 a.m. and the cost is $50. Please reach RSVP by calling 706-457-4460 or emailing juliaskeating@gmail.com.

The Artist Open House is at Cat’s Meow Warehouse Annex on Saturday from 11 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. The artists, Sarah and Michele West, will be on-hand with pottery and original pastels, inks, watercolors and more. Their art is amazing, so stop by!

15 Cents leads to a Duel

Who would have thought that a dispute over 15 cents would lead to a duel? Listen to hear the story of Virgil Irvin and Joe Hastey’s shoot out during a political speech given by Hoke Smith. Truth is stranger than fiction.

I hope to see you at the Sunnyside Community Center’s Fall Festival this weekend. It’s on Saturday, from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Lots of vendors, food, music and games and activities for the kids! For details, check out www.sunnysidecommunitycenter.org.

And if you love to be scared, check out the haunted experience, Nightmare on 190. The screams are real! http://www.nightmareon190.com

Doc Hardy pulls out his pistol

Since we don’t have any ghosts in Pine Mountain (none that I have discovered anyway) and in the spirit of Halloween, I am focusing on the wild west days of Chipley for this month’s episodes. Today’s story is a surprising one, because it involves a town doctor, Doc Hardy. So listen in and learn about Pine Mountain’s mayhem past.

If you love live music, make sure you stop by Unique Expressions for their Acoustic Open Mic on 10/5 from 11:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. The music is fantastic . . . and when you order lunch, ask for the secret, unpublished menu only locals know about.

Don’t miss the chance to see the presentation and exhibit that will explore the history of schools and teacher requirements in the Pine Mountain area, spanning from the 1800s to the present day.  The event will take place on Sunday, Oct. 6, 2024, at 2 p.m. in the Family Life Center of the First United Methodist Church of Pine Mountain.   For more details, you can email info@chipleyhistoriccenter.org or call (706) 663-4044.  

The Party Line

Today I share with you the telephone systems in Pine Mountain from back in the day. We had operators that knew everyone’s whereabouts and party lines that were shared with your neighbors. There’s a very charming video of Ken Askew talking about it in YouTube video: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=GFJD7bQDELE.

On Saturday, we have the Pine Mountain Fall Festival. I hope to see you around town!

Surprising Job Requirements

In this episode, I share information about the Civil Conservation Corp and the 10 job requirements that needed to be met in order to be part of the corp. You’ll be surprised!

I also highlight three events happening in town: The World War II exhibit at the Chipley Historical Center, Skyler Sauffley and band at Pure Chipley and The Pumpkins at Callaway.

The Picture Show

Pine Mountain had a movie theater right on Main St! Based on discussions with locals, I describe the movie theater and the exact location. I think you’ll be surprised.

And for this week’s fun, check out the Acoustic Open Mic at Unique Expressions this Saturday from 11:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. Such a great time with musicians just jamming away at our local coffee shop and cafe.

Our Town Trivia is on Tuesday, September 17th at 11:30 a.m. at Unique Expressions. Listen to the podcast to hear more. It’s a hoot! Contact joy@tourswithjoy.com to be added to the list.

Stuck on a Roof

Can you imagine standing on a roof to paint a mural, only to realize you can’t get down? Here about this charming rescue of Annette Wade on today’s episode. Also included are more highlights of the town murals, and the wonderful local artist, John Christian.

Here’s the link for the Dog Splash and Luau at FDR State Park: https://explore.gastateparks.org/info/303774?c=27985822

And if you would like to join the Red Fox Run at FDR State Park, check out https://runsignup.com/Race/GA/PineMountain/RedFoxRun5k1MileFun for details and registration.

Age 12, Killed 6

In the very first episode of Pine Mountain, Then and Now, I share the story about the infamous etching in the old city hall jail cell, “John Ownings, Age 12, Killed 6.” Don’t believe it? Come by the Chipley Historical Center and see it for yourself.

We have a lot happening in town this weekend. The ribbon cutting ceremony of the new store, Pine Mountain Art & Jewelry is on Tuesday, September 3rd at 11:00 a.m. Everyone is invited to celebrate the store opening with refreshments and a chance to meet the artists.

And don’t miss the Hot Air Balloons this weekend at Callaway Gardens. It’s always beautiful, especially the night glow on Robin Lake Beach.

Pine Mountain, Then and Now, Coming Soon!

I’m Joy Foote and I love Pine Mountain, Georgia.  I decided to create a podcast where I share historical stories about our charming little town in a fun and entertaining way.

But wait, there’s more!  The show isn’t just about the past.

This is the place where you can get your little history fix and find out what’s going on in town for the weekend, all in one place.

The show will be released once a week, on Wednesdays.  The launch date is August 28, 2024.

So subscribe to this podcast and start listening, you’ll learn a bunch and I hope to see you around town!