The community came together to support the Smithville Town Cemetery's 1838 Restoration Project, last Thursday evening, a truly special evening at the Harvester.
The fundraiser event was a heartwarming success, filled with well-wishers eager to learn more about this historic landmark in the heart of our city. The Harvester venue served as a beautiful backdrop, symbolizing the ongoing revitalization of downtown Smithville. Larry Pinkerton provided a delightful musical backdrop with his groovy tunes, covering classics from Nat King Cole to the Allman Brothers and The Beatles, creating a relaxed and inviting atmosphere. Firemen One BBQ provided the delicious catering for the event.
The silent auction featured a well-curated selection of items, including artwork, live trees, flowers, and gift certificates to local restaurants and resorts. The community's support was palpable, as attendees embraced the evening with enthusiasm despite the chilly weather.
A preview of the proposed landscape architecture and restoration plans was shared, illustrating the vision for the cemetery's revitalization. Cornelia Evins Mallozzi discussed her vision and shared her creative and wonderful design, presenting her beautiful landscape renderings and drawings, for the restoration project.
Steven Cantrell also spoke about the importance of citizen support and what it means to take pride in our hometown heritage and to our community. Showcasing the committee's hard work and dedication, brothers Greg and Bert Driver played an active role by planting trees earlier in the year along Congress Boulevard in honor of the cemetery's restoration.
Bo Thomas led the speaking program, sharing his motivation for the project inspired by Tommy Webb’s vision to repair the cemetery’s fence and wall. He emphasized the historical value and significance of the Smithville Town Cemetery to our community and what a rare opportunity we have in this project.
Bert Driver spoke passionately about the importance of this cemetery, highlighting how it provides an opportunity for our community to come together in a meaningful way creating green space and a place to visit much like a public park. Bert challenged the large group in attendance to spread the word and bring community awareness to the worthy cause. As the gateway to Center Hill Lake and the Upper Cumberland region, Smithville’s history is rich and deserves to be preserved.
“We extend our heartfelt thanks to the Evins family and the trustees for their ongoing commitment to maintaining the cemetery. The success of our kickoff event is just the start of our journey. We look forward to continuing this vital work to ensure that Smithville Town Cemetery is recognized and cherished for its beauty and historical value.”
“This event marks a significant step in our efforts to raise funds and awareness for the Smithville Town Cemetery, so let’s rally together for the 1838 Project: Smithville Town Cemetery Revitalization and Restoration! Together, we can make a lasting impact on our community! Your participation will ensure that the cemetery receives the attention and respect it deserves as a place of respect and remembrance, and help us honor our past and preserve it for future generations. Let’s work together to preserve the legacy of our town and enhance our downtown community area. Thank you for your support, and follow their progress on the Smithville Town Cemetery Association Facebook page.”
For more information to make a donation and to find out how to get involved please contact:
Bo Thomas - bothomas5566@gmail.com or (615) 351-4515, or Mary Evins Overton - maevins@bellsouth.net or ( 615) 521-2084.
