Currently, the Upson Historical Society's Pettigrew-White Stamps House, which has been converted to look like a 1940s home, is home to interesting exhibits focused on mill village life around World War II. Masu.
Entering the home through the now enclosed porch, brightly colored walls and trim lead guests through the main hallway, two parlor-style rooms, a bedroom, an added kitchen, and a dining area. Some areas include display cases of local artifacts and history lessons, while others recreate the Thomastonian lifestyle of the '40s, right down to the items placed on the nightstands. It is arranged as follows.
The bright yellow kitchen with red trim displays authentic appliances and cookware, including an electric waffle maker.
In the dining space, examples of dishes tailored to the times are arranged on the table. While overseas, soldiers were often given rations such as peanut butter and jelly sandwiches, potato chips, instant coffee, chewing gum, sardines, and Spam, all of which were on display. Next to the dinner table are shelves of related dishes and cookbooks, including a 1936 Mrs. S.R. Dull's Cooking School cookbook sponsored by the local John Huston chapter of the Daughters of the American Revolution. include.
Between the dining area and the front room is a walkway filled with pottery from Jugtown on the northeast side of Upson County. Officials say about 50 families along Potato Creek have been making Jugtown pottery for more than 100 years using clay from the creek's marshy bottom. Some pitchers were used during the Prohibition era, but marble, face pitchers, ring pitchers, and grave urns were also made.
One room is dedicated to the history of Silvertown and the mill village of East Thomaston. In addition to photographs, information panels, original house plans, and fun finds, the wedding dress of Edna, who married John Dickens at her East Thomaston Baptist Church in July 1945, is also on display. Masu.
The main reception room has associated furniture such as chairs, tables and bookshelves, and is decorated with local artefacts, books by local authors, magazines printed in the 1940s, and other panels displaying history of national significance. It is being
The tour concludes with a World War II model bedroom, including a locally made quilt that is frequently replaced to avoid damage. In the '40s, during the war, fabrics, paint, and linoleum were available for interior decoration. UHS officials said people generally opt for bright colors to brighten up their homes during tough times, as rationing has made other items, such as new furniture, unavailable to consumers. The bathroom also featured bold colors like a mix of kelly green and canary yellow.
Most homes had bright, bold wallpaper, floral fabric curtains, and reconfigured furniture. For example, some people have converted a baby changing table into a women's makeup and hair vanity.
After the war, people increasingly looked for “no-frills”, inexpensive, modern furniture with simple lines and a futuristic look, giving rise to the “modernist” style.
Countless historical facts and artifacts are available at PWS House, and only a visit to the site can truly appreciate the hard work of UHS members and volunteers. The exhibit will be open to the public for the next three months.
The home is open to the public on Tuesdays and Thursdays from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m., and other days by appointment. Officials are asking large groups wishing to visit to call 706-601-3610 to reserve a tour in advance.
UHS Director Cindy Borden shared a tentative schedule of 2024 events hosted by the association.
During April, the association will be attending the third annual Thomaston Art & Soul Fest and hosting a presentation by Mickey Thrasher and Greg Wilson, “Plantation Teen Club,” in late 1960s Upson. be.
May events include a mother-daughter tea, a UHS member picnic, and a booth at the annual Emancipation Day celebration.
The association will hold a “1940s Brunch” fundraiser and macrame workshop in June and July.
Other events the association participates in or hosts throughout the year include pottery workshops, a gala in October, a Veterans Day program in November, and a Christmas card and natural decorations workshop in December.
For more information, visit upsonhistoryalsociety.org.