Troy Oliver: Not Exactly a Historian

The age of a cabin owned by Russellville Mayor Troy Oliver is in dispute--for some unknown reason. While this is hardly an issue that concerns the entire Shoals area, it should be noted since it reflects on the intelligence, or lack thereof, of some local leaders.

Oliver cliams the DeVaney House was built in 1770. Were there white settlers in Franklin County at that time? It's certainly possible that fur traders and similar settlers may have lived here with the indigenous population that early, but it's Oliver's "proof" that is ludicrous.

Oliver claims, and TimesDaily journalist Trevor Stokes does not question, that property deeds date the house to 1770. Very interesting...except for the fact this area was Indian territory until after the War of 1812; before that time the U.S. government officially discouraged settlement. To claim that there were property deeds for North Alabama as early as the late 18th century shows a dramatic lack of education on Oliver's part--not to mention a college educated journalist who fails to note this small fact.

We realize that due to Franklin County's isolated geographical location and resulting lack of high-tech industry, or any industry for that matter, it's not the hub of critical thinking; however, unless Franklin County voters become more discerning, Russellville and the surrounding area will never progress beyond a 1770 mentality.

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Did someone say education? How about the Florence Business College circa 1920? For many years a business college stood on South Court Street, it's ownership and name changing frequently, but this architectural gem does not resemble what ended its life as Alverson-Draughn Business School. We're unsure if this Arts and Crafts building is still extant, but you can buy an image on eBay: Link

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D.K. reports that the defense team in the Brandi Willingham murder trial requested to have the proceedings moved from the area. The motion was temporarily denied until after an attempt at jury selection today.

Look for D.K. to bring us reports of interest from this trial that don't make it to the TimesDaily.

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Other upcoming blogs will feature a most interesting Cherokee tale from C.R. and, deep breath, blackmail by those who don't have a clue...


Shoalanda



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