By By Mary-Allison Lancaster
The Escambia County Historical Society is getting better and bigger every month. It is due in large part to the programs that have been scheduled by the president of the organization, Ann Biggs-Williams.
There have been some very interesting speakers scheduled for the past several months. Not only have they been easy to listen to, but also what they say has been full of helpful information.
The last monthly meeting was held May 23, and was a little different, as it was not held at Jefferson Davis Community College as it usually is. This one was held at the old Luttrell Hardware building with refreshments being served at Willie's.
There has been a lot of talk around town lately as several of the historical buildings have been on the market and sold. This is continuing every day.
A few months ago Terrence Breckenridge bought the old Luttrell Hardware store (which was later Pensacola Mill Supply) and has been renovating the building to be used for commercial use.
Jus Do Signs and Graphics now occupies the ground floor while Breckenridge's construction business, Turning Leaf also has an office there. The second and third floors have not been completed yet, but Breckenridge and his employees have made many historic discoveries there.
The meeting was held on the second floor, which is in the stage of being renovated. There were several interesting things to note including the original tin tiles that form the ceiling and some lighting left over from many years ago. Breckenridge told about his discovery of a diary written by one of the Luttrells while he served in World War I. He also pointed out rows of tacks in various places, which represented the flood heights over the years.
The Society recognized Lee Anne Wafford who made a presentation to Mayor Ted Jennings, and James and Norma Rogers who have volunteered to represent Escambia County in the cemetery preservation project.
The group then crossed the railroad tracks and was served refreshments and iced tea at Willie's.
The new owners Cecil Bryden and Al Briscoe were recognized and spoke of the plans they have for the future of Willie's.