In a recent meeting of the Clay County Historic Preservation Board, the air was filled with excitement as Kathy shared her progress on the preservation of local cemeteries. Over the past few weeks, she has successfully added eight cemeteries to the Florida state master file, including notable sites like Middleburg Methodist and Kingsley Lake. Her enthusiasm was palpable as she recounted her swift interactions with state officials, who have been responsive and efficient in processing her submissions.

Kathy's journey through the county has not only been about paperwork; it has been a deep dive into the rich history of Clay County. She and her colleague, Jennifer, have explored various cemeteries, some dating back to the 1850s. Their visits revealed poignant stories, such as the tragic history of children buried at Long Branch, victims of a past epidemic. Kathy also shared a compelling narrative from the pastor of Shiloh Baptist Church, who recounted how the church agreed to establish a burial site for inmates from the local jail in the early 1900s.

The meeting also highlighted the importance of historical records, with discussions surrounding the legacy of the Clay County Historical Commission, the predecessor to the current board. Kathy has been utilizing resources from former commission head Elizabeth Spencer and other historical documents to ensure that the work of past preservationists is not forgotten. She discovered minutes from meetings dating back to the 1970s, which shed light on previous efforts to map and document local cemeteries.

As the board continues its mission, Kathy's dedication to preserving the stories and histories of Clay County's cemeteries stands out. With plans to submit another cemetery for state recognition soon, the board is making significant strides in safeguarding the county's historical legacy. The meeting concluded with a sense of urgency and commitment to continue uncovering and preserving the rich tapestry of Clay County's past, ensuring that these stories are not lost to time.