SHARING THE HISTORY: Jinanne Parrish, member of John B. Gordon chapter 383, presented her program about the organization of the UDC by using a “Timeline” organizer she designed. She also showed pictures of interest concerning information discussed in the program.

THOMASVILLE- The John B. Gordon chapter 383 UDC began its new year with chapter member Jinanne Parrish being introduced by Sheila Tucker, Historian, as speaker. Her program was “John B. Gordon Chapter 383 History.”

Parrish is one of the founders of All Saints’ Episcopal Church and currently serves on the Altar Guild. She is a Lay Reader and member of the Episcopal Church Women. Parrish is a retired counselor. Her last position was Counselor for Seniors and Chairman of the Guidance Department of Thomas County Central High School. She is a member of nine lineage societies, serving as officers in three. She is married to Robert H. Parrish, Jr.

Parrish began her program by telling the women that The Ladies Memorial Association began in 1874. Twelve Confederate soldiers’ graves were moved to Laurel Hill Cemetery. In 1875, General John C. Vaughn died and was buried at Laurel Hill Cemetery. In 1879, a Confederate Monument was placed in the center of the street on Broad Street and Remington. But, because of safety it was removed in 1895. Parrish continued saying that during 1894, the Ladies Association changed their name to United Daughters of the Confederacy. The ladies in Thomasville joined the UDC, calling their chapter John B. Gordon chapter 383. Later in 1914, Captain John Triplett, and publisher of the Thomasville Times died and was buried at Laurel Hill Cemetery. In 1945, at the age of 95 years old, the last surviving Confederate Veteran passed away. His name was Judge Henry William Hopkins. In the 1980’s John B. Gordon chapter 383 was privileged to have two Real Daughters as members. They were sisters Fannie Davis Tinsley and Naomi Davis Scarborough. Their father was Jonah Beal Davis, CO B, 8th Reg’t. FL Vol. Infantry, CSA. Two members in the chapter were related to the Real Daughters, Parrish and Dot Maxwell. John B. Gordon chapter 383 was organized on May 09, 1900. In 2000, the chapter turned 100 years old.

The meeting was presided over by President Mary Margaret Tyson Quiggle.