Historical Society members convene

The Jefferson County Historical Society met July 7 at the Donald W. Reynolds Community Services Center.

The meeting was called to order by Lela R. Murray, president of the society. Sue Trulock, secretary, read the minutes of the last meeting, with one correction, before being approved. Sue Merritt, treasurer, gave the financial report, according to a news release.

Murray reported that two board members’ terms had expired. The nominating committee chairman, Merritt, said that she had met with her committee members, Trulock and Joannye Crabb, and they had nominated David Trulock and Murray to fill the positions. There were no nominees from the floor. A vote by a show of hands was made for each nominee, and the results were unanimous in favor of both. They will serve three-year terms.

Sharon Wyatt, newsletter chairman, explained to the membership and visitors how to sign up for the newsletter to be sent by email.

Harvey McCone, who has served on the staff of the Historical Society’s Quarterly for many years, announced that he is taking a one-year sabbatical in order to pursue other interests. McCone has been a valuable staff member and his work has been outstanding, according to the news release.

Murray announced that the society wanted to commemorate retired Sgt. First Class Thomas Franklin Vaughns, who served during World War II in the famed group of African-Americans known as the Tuskegee Airmen. He received the Congressional Medal of Honor for his service. Vaughns also served during the Korean War. He was honored with the American Campaign Medal and the National Defense Service Medal in 2019. He is a member of the Arkansas Agriculture Hall of Fame.

Vaughns was born on July 7, 1920, and celebrated his 104th birthday on July 7, 2024. He lives in Pine Bluff.

“Sergeant First Class Vaughns is a true hero, and an honored citizen of our community and our country,” a spokesman said.

David Trulock introduced the program speaker, Paul Perdue of Dallas, formerly of Pine Bluff. Perdue has been collecting Pine Bluff memorabilia since he was a teen, and has an impressive collection. He brought some of his favorite items to display. He told the history of many of the items, which date back to the early days of Pine Bluff.

Several members of the Daughters of the American Revolution were in attendance, including Kathy Balkman, DAR Service for Veterans, Veterans Affairs Voluntary Service (VAVS) national vice chair.