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BHA NEWSLETTER Latest Newsletters . See our complete list of BHA Newsletters! If you would like to sign up to receive the monthly newsletter directly to your inbox, click the link below... Sign Up Women’s Suffrage Centennial Presentation August 2020 Read the Newsletter Video credit to City of Bristol, Tennessee/BTN-TV CONTACT US!

Links of Interest Bristol History Slide Show Presented by: Bristol Historical Association VIEW Bristol Va.-Tenn. Where Two States Meet From Pioneer Adventures to the Present Presented by: Bristol Historical Association VIEW The History of Lee Highway by Joyce A. Kistner VIEW City of Bristol VA Visit Bristol VA Historic Preservation Awards Visit City of Bristol TN Visit Birthplace of Country Music Visit The Paramount Center for the Performing Arts Visit Solar Hill Historic District Association Visit The Crooked Road Heritage Music Trail Visit Solar Hill Historic District Walking Tour Visit East Hill Cemetery Walking Tour Brochure & Map Visit The Birthplace of Tennessee Ernie Ford Visit Bristol Motor Speedway Visit The Rhythm and Roots Reunion Festival Visit The Bristol Chamber Visit Believe in Bristol Visit Historic Emmanuel Episcopal Church Visit The Carter Family Fold Visit Bristol Historical Association Youtube Channel Visit Bristol Historical Association Facebook Page Visit Bristol Train Station Visit Bristol Public Library Visit Collectible Bottles and History Visit King University Visit Tennessee Genealogy Visit Nashville Genealogy Visit Sullivan County Department of Archives and Tourism Visit The Bristol Hotel Visit The Virginia Lewis and Clark Legacy Trail Visit The Session’s Hotel Visit Historic Bristol Pictorials Facebook Page Visit My Hometown Bristol Va/Tenn Facebook Page Visit Sullivan Central High School Alumni Site Visit CONTACT US!

Contact Us . ADDRESS P.O. Box 204 Bristol, Tennessee 37621 EMAIL BristolTNVA@aol.com Submit DONATE! Donate to the Bristol Historical Association today! DONATE CONTACT US!

BHA Our History In April 1979, a group of nine women devoted to preserving the history of Bristol VA/TN met to organize The Bristol Historical Association. The group consisted of Joyce Kistner, president; Christine Caldwell, Faith Dillow Esposito, Mary Geiger, Ann Greear, Tina Hitt, Martha Marshall, Janice Martin, and Margaret Mitchell. They chose an image from a 1930s button showing the Bristol sign and a view of State Street as the logo for the Association. Since that beginning, the Bristol Historical Association has been dedicated to Identifying, Preserving, Interpreting, and Presenting the history of Bristol. In 1988, a group called the Bristol Preservation Society launched a program to mark structures and sites throughout Bristol which would date back seventy-five years or more. BHA’s late historian and noted author of local history, V .N. (Bud) Phillips, initiated a search for sites which would qualify for designation and receive a plaque. The first four markers placed were at 412 Sixth Street, the Billy Wood house on the corner of Locust and Sixth Streets, East Hill Cemetery, and the Tennessee Ernie Ford House at 1223 Anderson Street. In 1999, the Bristol Preservation Society and the Bristol Historical Association merged. During Bristol’s Centennial Celebration, the city of Bristol, Virginia, and Bristol Historical Association jointly placed markers at important historic locations: the Bristol Virginia Courthouse; two grave sites in East Hill Cemetery (those of Col. Samuel E. Goodson, founder of Bristol, VA, and Evan Shelby); placed black iron chains around the graves of Col. James King and others in Ordway Cemetery; and installed a marker at the historic Bristol Sign. When Michael Ainslie, then president of The National Trust for Historic Preservation, visited Bristol to present a program for BHA and a workshop for over 100 business people in 1982, he stated: “The Bristol Sign should stand as the centerpiece of downtown revitalization effort.” It is thought that his advocacy of revitalizing economic development through historic preservation led to a rebirth of the city - - business as well as residential areas. Both sides of town have several individual properties and districts listed on the National Register of Historic Places. To be listed, the location must be historically or architecturally significant. BHA was successful in nominating three of them, the King-Lancaster-McCoy-Mitchell House, the Robert Preston House, and the Bristol Sign. Bristol Historical Association has saved three historic homes from demolition: the I.C. Fowler Home, built in 1867, the oldest standing structure from the original town limits of Goodson (later Bristol, VA); the E.W. King House in Bristol, TN; and the Robert Preston House, one of the oldest homes in Washington County which the association owns and is in the process of restoring. In addition, the association restored and still owns the Birthplace of Tennessee Ernie Ford. Once history is preserved, it must be interpreted and presented. To accomplish this, Bristol Historical Association each year takes a program to fourth grade classes in Bristol’s public and private schools which is not only educational but fun for the children. Sometimes the students dress in historic costumes portraying Bristol and pioneer people of interest, and artifacts are exhibited and discussed. Pictures and slide shows further add to the students’ knowledge. Another educational avenue can be found in the publications by BHA. The first was in 1985, A Pictorial History ; then came The Passing Years...History in Pictures ...Bristol Virginia-Tennessee 1700s to 1950s in 1993. Honoring our Heritage, Faces and Places From the Past was a Sesquicentennial Edition in 2006. Finally in 2014, Past and Repast - - A Fine Collection of Recipes was released containing recent and vintage recipes from local ladies (and a few brave men) along with pictures and stories from the BHA Archives. The public face of Bristol Historical Association continues to be excellent programs free and open to the community. These are held at the Bristol Public Library. Also at the library, BHA maintains two showcases of theme oriented items, some historical, some whimsical, often from private collections. Past exhibits have included 1939 love letters, radio and country music memorabilia, lamps (1910-1960), political campaign buttons, antique bottles, and vintage postcards. Since its inception in 1979, Bristol Historical Association has been collecting and preserving thousands of items for their Archives. Collections include antique and vintage as well as current items of memorabilia, photographs, magazines (especially “Bristol Magazine” from the 1940s), newspapers, maps, City Directories, post card collections, obituaries, various newspaper articles including all by Bud Phillips, pamphlets, books, scrapbooks, Kelly & Green negatives, posters, and more. The Archive Committee is appreciative of gifts from generous donors. ​ BHA celebrated its 40th Anniversary in 2020 with a special program created and presented by founding member and first president, Joyce Kistner. This program may be viewed at https://youtu.be/UchgpW2tFEE . You may also visit BHA's Youtube channel to view the presentation slides in greater detail at https://youtu.be/q0QDvwqWjUk From an impressive beginning, through years of steadfast effort, The Bristol Historical Association is ready and eager to continue identifying, preserving, interpreting and presenting the history of Bristol for future generations. CONTACT US!

Ford House Birthplace of Tennessee Ernie Ford The History . In 1991, the Bristol Historical Association discovered that the Birthplace of Tennessee Ernie Ford, located at 1223 Anderson Street in Bristol, Tennessee, was available for purchase. The house, while outwardly unassuming, had historical significance. The Association decided that this house was just what was needed and would be a great location for meetings and display of memorabilia. The Ford House, as it has since become known, was ideal for the organization and provided an opportunity to preserve a bit of Bristol's history. Prior to proceeding with the plan to restore the house, Ernie Ford was contacted to determine his feelings about the project. He was elated to discover the intentions of the Association. When he returned to Bristol for the grand opening of the Paramount Center for the Arts, he met with members of the organization on several occasions. Later, upon his return to California, BHA received several phone calls from him desiring to know how the restoration was progressing. While researching the history of the house, it was discovered that it was built in the early 1900's. Years later, following a severe fire, many repairs were necessary, thus altering the original design. Aluminum siding had been installed over imitation brick siding, which previously had covered the original clapboard siding. Inside, the house had taken on a modern look, with narrow woodwork and small windows. The two original fireplaces had been covered over following the installation of electric baseboard heaters. Restoration of the interior began with replacing the narrow woodwork. The next big project was to uncover the two fireplaces and locate suitable mantels. These were found in a nearby old house that was being demolished. Four windows needed to be replaced and were obtained from another old house. The original pine floor, which was heavily damaged by the fire, had been covered with carpeting which was removed and a new pine floor installed.. The dropped ceiling, not original to the house, was replaced with bead board. The property surrounding the house was in need of landscaping. A driveway alongside the house was graded and graveled. The association purchased an adjacent house and razed it to provide space for off-street parking. All rooms have furnishings from the era when the Ford family resided there. The living room includes a Victrola, a settee and a matching chair, a rocker, and a Bible table which were purchased; and a beautiful antique piano and floor lamp, both donated. Over the mantle hangs a large oil portrait of Ernie, which was painted and donated to the Association by Patricia Woody, a local resident. The center room houses a large collection of the star's personal memorabilia. Most of these plaques, awards, photos, and other items were donated by Mr. Ford's son Brion. One of Ernie Ford's favorite features of the house was the original clawfoot bathtub. On his last visit home in 1991, Ernie reminisced about being bathed in that bathtub as a small child. A modern kitchen was restored as an early 1900's kitchen, featuring a wood-burning cookstove and large porcelain cast iron sink. The back room has been returned to its original use as Ford's parents' bedroom. Much time and effort went into the entire project. The house restoration was completed in 2007. An historic marker, 1A 142, installed at the house by the Tennessee Historical Commission reads as follows: ​ Tennessee Ernie Ford’s Birthplace 1919-1991 Ernest Jennings Ford was born 13 February 1919 in Bristol, Tennessee. In 1937 he began his career at WOPI Radio in Bristol. Known professionally as Tennessee Ernie Ford, he began his rise to fame in1948 with Capital Records. The 1955 success of Sixteen Tons brought him to prime-time TV as host of the Ford Show (1956-1961) and the Tennessee Ernie Ford Show (1961-1965). His 1990 induction into the Country Music Hall of Fame, placement of three stars on the Hollywood Walk of Fame for his achievements in radio, television, and recordings, and receipt of the Presidential Medal of Freedom all reflect his status as one of America’s top entertainers. ​ In February of 2019, an exciting lineup of special events commemorated the 100th birthday of Bristol's most famous son, Ernest Jennings "Tennessee Ernie" Ford. Ford, who was born in Bristol, Tennessee, on February 13, 1919, went on to become an international TV, radio, and recording star in the 1950s. Ford hosted his own TV variety show and earned three stars on the Hollywood Walk of Fame, a Grammy Award, and the Presidential Medal of Freedom. His song "Sixteen Tons" sold more than 20 million copies and was inducted into the Grammy Hall of Fame and the Congress National Recording Registry. Along with the Birthplace of Country Music and the Bristol Historical Association, a committee led by former Bristol VA mayor Don Ashley worked tirelessly to put together a variety of events that celebrated the life and legacy of "The Ol' Pea-Picker." ​ Festivities began on February 10th, when Anderson Street United Methodist Church, the Ford family's home church, hosted a special service followed by tours of its Ford archives. Tours of The Birthplace of Tennessee Ernie Ford, 1223 Anderson Street, were held that afternoon from 2-5 p.m. On February 12th, the Birthplace of Country Music Museum hosted the "Buck and Sid Show" in which Ernie's son, Buck Ford, reminisced about his father's career and life with long time Ford family friend Sid Oakley of the Bristol Historical Association. The program also included the screening of Ford family home movies. On February 13th, Ernie's actual birthday, the Bristol Post Office on 6th Street offered a special stamp and envelope cancellation marking Ford's birthday. Buck and Murphy Ford were the guests of honor for special events that afternoon beginning at 2 p.m. at the Paramount Center for the Arts. Episodes of Ford's TV shows and specials were shown, followed by a birthday celebration at 4 p.m. complete with birthday cake, courtesy of Food City. Local musicians performed Ford songs. During Radio Bristol's Farm and Fun Time on Thursday, February 14, from 7 - 9 pm, the "Heirloom Recipe" segment featured two of Tennessee Ernie's favorite recipes, "Betty Ford's Gumbo" and "Ernest Ford's Cornbread and Sausage Dressing" read aloud in grand style by Buck Ford. Bill and the Belles performed for the event. In addition to the events listed above, a special month-long collection of Tennessee Ernie Ford memorabilia was on display at the Birthplace of Country Music Museum in addition to their permanent Ernie Ford exhibit. ​ BHA photographer Amy Hopper recorded some of these activities in short videos which may be viewed on BHA’s Youtube Channel: Many photos and other links were included in the BHA newsletter highlighting this event which can be viewed here: ​ ​ ​ Also, the newsletter commemorating Ernie's 97th birthday can be read here: ​ Ernie's 100th Birthday Videos Ernie's 100th Birthday Newsletter Ernie's 97th Birthday Newsletter ACT NOW! Donate to the Bristol Historical Association today! DONATE CONTACT US!

JOIN! Become a Member Today . Join us now and enjoy learning about and enhancing our knowledge of the history of Bristol. ​ Members of the Bristol Historical Association enjoy a variety of service and fellowship opportunities including informative programs throughout the year and a Christmas Luncheon each December, receive quarterly newsletters, and, most importantly, take pride in the part they play in preserving and promoting the history of our area. Our focus is to be faithful to our founding principles and broaden our efforts to educate a new generation. Please consider lending your support to this worthwhile endeavor by becoming a member of our Association. Just click on the link below to join BHA or to renew your annual membership. And remember, BHA memberships make great gifts! A variety of membership levels are available. When you renew or join this year, please consider doing so at one of the following levels: ​ Individual $40 Family $55 Researcher $50-$99 One-Hundred Club $100+ Historian $200-$499 Virginia Intermont Legacy $50 ($20 supports preservation of VI Records) Business Partner $100 and above Lifetime Membership (Individual) $1000 Please also consider adding a donation to your membership dues. Any gift is very greatly appreciated! Download Application CONTACT US!

BHA Historic Properties Historic Properties . BHA is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit and has owned and preserved a number of properties over the last 20 years including the E.W. King House, the Tennessee Ernie Ford House, the I.C. Fowler House, and the Robert Preston House. Although BHA's original charter did not include acquiring real estate, its mission to identify, preserve, interpret, and promote Bristol's heritage and culture has led to the ownership and protection of a number of historic structures. Most notable of the properties that BHA has been instrumental in protecting is the Bristol Train Station. By placing the Train Station under its non-profit umbrella until the Train Station Foundation acquired tax exempt status, BHA was able to initiate fundraising for the successful restoration of what is now a thriving downtown asset and source of pride for the community at large. In other cases, through temporary ownership of important properties like the E.W. King House and the I.C. Fowler House, BHA has found new owners with the vision and ability to restore these pieces of Bristol's historic fabric and preserve them for future generations to learn from. The Robert Preston House Learn More The I. C. Fowler House Learn More The Birthplace of Tennessee Ernie Ford Learn More The King-Lancaster-McCoy-Mitchell House Learn More The E. W. King House Learn More The Development of Early Bristol After Bristol was planned and laid out in 1852, one would have expected the earliest development to have been along Main (now State) Street. The first two buildings erected in the new town, the homes of Joseph R Anderson and Dr. B.F. Zimmerman, did face Main Street. It is clear that an effort was made to be near the railroad and depot, and that was the trend in those early years of Bristol’s existence. Instead of quickly moving down State Street, early builders sought lots along Fourth Street that ran parallel with the railroad. It should be told here that Fourth Street became known as Front Street. It is now Martin Luther King Jr. Boulevard. Business houses and residences were built along its course. Third and Washington Streets, running parallel with the railroad on the east side of the tracks, saw much of the town’s early residential development. It may come as a surprise to many to know that for years these two streets were the most elite residential sections of Bristol. Many of the “first families” of Bristol lived there. The time came when people avoided building along the tracks. However, in early Bristol such a location was regarded as a status symbol. The first hotel in Bristol was located within a half block of the depot. This was the Columbia, erected in 1854. The second hotel, the Virginia House (sometimes called Langhorne’s Tavern), quickly followed the Columbia. It was erected on Fourth (later Front) Street across from the depot. The large mercantile firm of W.W. James early located on the corner of Fourth and Main, a choice location near the depot. Other business firms soon opened along Fourth Street. Within a very short time development did push westward along Main Street. This was both commercial and residential. As late as the 1890's, homes still stood here and there in the business section of downtown Bristol. I have talked to older citizens here who well remembered when the 800 block of present State Street was largely residential. This mixture of business – residential long existed on Shelby and Cumberland Streets. The big residential expansion came in 1874, when Solar and Virginia Hills were opened for development. These were quickly followed by King’s First Addition to the south and the Burson- Delaney additions to the west. And now, more than one hundred fifty years later, Bristol continues to spread outward, further and further from her beginning point. Historic Markers . History is told through the buildings and homes in a city. The Bristol Historical Association promotes an interest in the history of Bristol by designating properties with historical significance. A generous contribution from Mr. William W. “Bud” Walling financed the cost of the first twenty-five plaques. Much credit is due to the late Mr Walling for his vital part in the promotion of the Landmark Designation program. Are you interested in applying for a Landmark Marker for your historical building? If so, please complete the Historical Landmark Marker Application Form. Download Application Historic Marker Gallery Bristol, Virginia Markers . BRISTOL UNION RAILWAY STATION (DHR, 2018)* – On the east side of Martin Luther King, Jr. Boulevard near State Street at the Bristol Train Station. BRISTOL, VIRGINIA (VCC - 1948)* – At the entrance to Sugar Hollow Park on Lee Highway. COL. JOHN S. MOSBY (DAR, 1962) – At the northeast intersection of Piedmont Avenue and Scott Street. FIRST BURIAL IN EAST HILL CEMETERY (PM, 2012)* – Near the grave of Nellie Gaines in East Hill Cemetery. HISTORIC BRISTOL (CDC, 1927) – On the southwest corner of State Street and Martin Luther King, Jr. Boulevard. SLAVE SECTION OF EAST HILL CEMETERY (PM, 2012) – In East Hill Cemetery WALNUT GROVE PLANTATION (DHR, 2018) – Beside the Preston House on Lee Highway. Bristol, Tennessee Markers . BIRTHPLACE OF BRISTOL (THC) – On the southwest corner of State Street and Martin Luther King, Jr. Boulevard. BRISTOL SESSIONS (THC) - On the southwest corner of State Street and Martin Luther King, Jr. Boulevard. CITY HISTORIAN (PM) – Near the grave of V.N. “Bud” Phillips in East Hill Cemetery. CONFEDERATE HOSPITAL (JKC 52, SCV) – On the south side of State Street just west of the Norfolk Southern railroad tracks. EVAN SHELBY (THC) – On the south side of State Street just west of Pennsylvania Avenue. EVAN SHELBY’S FORT (THC) – On the front wall of the historic E.W. King Building on the south side of Shelby Street just east of 7th Street. FIRST IRONWORKS (THC) – On the east side of Volunteer Parkway just south of Avoca Road. FOUNDER OF BRISTOL (PM) – Near the grave of Joseph Rhea Anderson in East Hill Cemetery. ISAAC SHELBY (FCC, NSDAR, 2009)* –At the Old Custom House (former Bristol Tennessee Post Office), 620 Shelby Street. JOHN ISAAC COX (THC) – At the intersection of Maplehurst Drive and Highway 394. KING COLLEGE (THC) – On the east side of Volunteer Parkway just north of Avoca Road. MISSISSIPPI COUNTRY: THE BRISTOL SESSIONS (MCMT, 2019)* – On the southwest corner of State Street and Martin Luther King, Jr. Boulevard. ORIGINAL SITE OF KING COLLEGE (PM)* – On the grounds at the front of Gregory Pharmaceutical Holdings, 501 Fifth Street. TENNESSEE ERNIE FORD’S BIRTHPLACE (THC)* – In the yard of his home at 1223 Anderson Street. THE BRISTOL MUNICIPAL STADIUM: THE STONE CASTLE (THC) – On the stone wall of the stadium at Bristol Tennessee High School on Weaver Pike near Edgemont Avenue. Marker Sources FCC, NSDAR – Fort Chiswell Chapter, National Society Daughters of the American Revolution. ​ CDC – Conservation & Development Commission. ​ DAR – Erected Dec. 8, 1962 by Anne Carter Lee Chapter, Mathew Fontaine Maury Chapter, United Daughters of the Confederacy. ​ DHR – Virginia Department of Historic Resources. ​ JKC 52, SCV – James Keeling Camp 52, Sons of Confederate Veterans. ​ MCMT – Donated to Bristol by the Mississippi Country Music Trail in recognition of “Blue Yodeler” Jimmie Rodgers and his Mississippi-bred music and style. Rodgers was among the artists participating in the 1927 “Bristol Sessions” considered by some music historians to be “The Big Bang of Country Music.” ​ PM – Private Marker. ​ THC – Tennessee Historical Commission. ​ VCC – Virginia Conservation Commission. CONTACT US!

E.W. King House LEARN MORE! The History . The E.W. King House is one of the few remaining homes built at the beginning of the 20th Century in Bristol and provides an excellent example of Victorian architecture in the Queen Anne style. It was constructed by one of Bristol's most prominent businessmen, Mr. Edward Washington King. The architect was George Franklin Barber who published a catalog of “Modern Dwellings” in 1901, and it included the plan that E.W. and Alice King chose for their home. The McCrary brothers, renowned builders in Bristol, constructed the Anderson Street home, and John Jay Fowler, a local African American master brick mason, provided the beautiful brick work for this job as well as other prestigious buildings in Bristol, including some at King College. As a respected citizen and philanthropist, E.W. King had a profound impact on the growth and development of Bristol. Mr. King was praised for his progressive community action and his support of education. This view was exemplified in the many buildings he blessed Bristol with over the years, both residential and business structures. The location of the E.W. King House is of further historical importance because the house rests on a hill overlooking downtown Bristol near the grounds of the 18th Century fort built by General Evan Shelby which served as an important Revolutionary War era outpost through which countless settlers passed during the westward expansion of the United States Completed in 1903, the Edward Washington King house was listed on the National Register of Historic Places in 1999. The house design incorporated energetic details such as decorative chimneys, molded bricks, and a Renaissance Revival rooftop balustrade. The building has three full floors in addition to attic space and a basement. It boasts beautiful views of downtown Bristol and the surrounding mountains. The house retains many original architectural features and fixtures. Among the home's accouterments are original hardwood floors, paneled doors, stairways, windows, elaborate mantels and tiled fireplaces, handcrafted wood moldings, and stately wainscoting. The house was divided into apartments during the latter half of the century and later weathered years of vacancy. During its thirteen year ownership of the house, BHA spent over $170,000 to repair, maintain, and stabilize the home. The property was dried in with a synthetic slate roof, guttering was replaced, the chimneys rebuilt, and other necessary exterior repairs were performed to protect the home and begin the renovation to a new era of one of Bristol's premiere homes. Even restored, a true value could never be obtained when the historical significance of this Bristol treasure is factored in. Following several years of fundraising efforts in hopes of restoring the house as a museum dedicated to local history and culture, the Bristol Historical Association made the difficult decision to sell the property, citing the double impact of the economic downturn and sharp increases in construction costs. In October of 2016, the Board of Directors of BHA accepted an offer to purchase the E.W. King House. The stipulations of the sale included covenants to protect the integrity of the exterior of the house. However, three years later, the purchaser decided to pursue other ventures and sold the house to Brad Fluke, CEO of Honey Do Service, Inc., a home repair firm. Following restoration of the property, the Honey Do Service’s offices will be headquartered in the historic Anderson Street home. The Bristol Historical Association is proud to have been the steward of this historic property and has accomplished its mission of protecting and preserving the E.W. King House. Additional goals of educating the public about its owner and builder, Edward Washington King, and his tremendous influence on the growth and development of our twin cities have been accomplished through events held for and on the property. BHA's E.W. King House committee, chaired by Nedra Hartley, was especially instrumental in this process. Thanks to the combined efforts of these individuals and many others who volunteered their time and talents, Bristol Historical Association was able to preserve the E. W. King House, and it will continue to be a treasured landmark in Bristol and a tribute to the outstanding contributions of E.W. King and his family to the community. EW King House ACT NOW! Donate to the Bristol Historical Association today! DONATE CONTACT US!

BRISTOL HISTORICAL ASSOCIATION Welcome to the official web site for the Bristol Historical Association! History is told through the buildings and homes in a city. The mission of the Bristol Historical Association is to promote an interest in the history of Bristol. The Bristol Historical Association is dedicated to the identification, preservation, interpretation, and presentation of local history. ​ New BHA Exhibit on Display at Bristol Public Library! ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ The Kelly and Green vintage camera collection was donated to the Bristol Historical Association by Albert Sidney Kelly, Jr., who became president of the Kelly and Green Photo Company in 1945, following the death of its founder, his father, Albert Sidney Kelly, Sr. Albert Kelly, Sr., was a native of Tazewell County Virginia, where he was born September 2, 1886, the son of John P. and Mary Groseclose Kelly, both members of pioneer families. He was educated in the schools of Tazewell County and came to Bristol in 1910. One year later, he established his photo finishing business, continuing actively in its operation until his death. Mr. Kelly married Miss Francis Berry in Dalton, Georgia, in 1912. The couple had two children, Jane Kelly (who later married Dr. William C. Grigsby, Jr.) and Albert Sidney Kelly, Jr. Mr. Kelly established Kelly and Green Inc., at 514 Cumberland Street in Bristol, Virginia. Kelly and Green’s grand opening was on Saturday, July 3, 1920. At the time, Mr. Kelly’s brothers, Charles P. Kelly and George L. Kelly, were associated with the company. Prior to World War II, the company's photographers took pictures of stores, city scenes, and schools. In its early years of business, the company had a complete mailing service of form letters, multigraphing, addressing, mailing, public stenography, and notarizing. Kelly and Green became one of the largest and most prominent photographic companies in the region. Described as “a man of gentle deportment, industrious in his business life, and intensely devoted to his family,” Mr. Kelly built a firm that had a national reputation for quality work, and the excellence of many of his staff’s products brought widespread attention to the Bristol region through their publication in national magazines. No other businessman in Bristol enjoyed a more pleasant relationship with his employees than did Mr. Kelly. He created a positive work environment for his “work family” and hosted events for them, the last one a party held at Hungry Mother Park in Marion the July before ill health forced him to cease active direction of his business. He was a member of State Street Methodist Church, the Rotary Club, and the Bristol Virginia Electoral Board. Albert Kelly, Sr., passed away following a lengthy illness at 11 AM, Friday, October 19, 1945, at the relatively young age of fifty-nine, in the company of his family at his home, 1000 Prospect Avenue. His final resting place is in Glenwood Cemetery, Bristol, Tennessee. Albert Sidney Kelly, Jr., born March 15, 1917, graduated from Bristol Virginia High School in 1934 and received a Bachelor of Arts degree from King College in 1938. At the time of his father’s death, Albert Jr. had only recently returned to Bristol after serving in the U.S. Army Air Corps from 1942 until 1945, from which he was honorably discharged with the rank of captain. Following his father’s passing, Albert Jr. became owner and president of the firm of Kelly and Green Inc., which had become an iconic Bristol business and one of the South’s leading photo supply and photo finishing companies. In 1960, Mr. Kelly, Jr., was elected president of the Master Photo Dealers and Finishers Association, a national organization representing photographic dealers and photo finishers in the United States and Canada, later serving on the Board of Trustees of that organization. In 1966, he graduated from the management development program at Emory University in Atlanta. During his career, Mr. Kelly served as chairman of the “Buc Rogers Group,” which was comprised of the twenty largest photo finishing firms in the United States and Canada. He served as president of the Bristol Host Lions Club and was a member of the Rotary Club of Bristol and the Bristol Elks Lodge. He was on the board of directors of the Bristol Chamber of Commerce and served as its president in 1973. He was also a member of the board of directors of Twin City Federal Savings Bank and was chairman of the board of Dominion National Bank (which later became First Union, now Wachovia). He served as president of both the Massengill DeFriece Foundation and the Bristol Memorial Hospital Board of Directors. He was a lifelong member of State Street United Methodist Church, having served on the board of administrators of the church. Albert S. Kelly, Jr., married Annie Neville Hill. The couple had one daughter, Neville. Following Annie’s death in 1984, he later married Mary Holton Kelly. Mr. Kelly Jr. passed away on Tuesday evening, October 29, 2002, in Savannah, Georgia. He rests in Glenwood Cemetery, Bristol, Tennessee, near his father, both giants in the field of photo finishing, an art that has become rare following the advent of cell phone cameras and personal computers that afford each person the ability to take and print one’s own photos. These cameras represent years of technological advancement and innovation. The inspiration, dedication, personal achievement, and hard work on the part of both father and son captured history and created lasting memories for our entire region. Bristol Residents Recognized with Historic Preservation Awards Efforts to restore both century-old homes in Bristol’s historic neighborhoods and commercial buildings that have long been a part of the downtown landscape were recognized Thursday as officials from Bristol, Va., and Bristol, Tenn., gathered to present the cities’ 2024 Historic Preservation Awards. Each city also presented Stewardship Awards to individuals for significant preservation efforts during the ceremony at the historic Bristol Train Station. Held in conjunction with the national observance of Historic Preservation Month and hosted by the City of Bristol, Va., the event marked the first joint awards program since both cities began recognizing historic preservation efforts. “The property owners we recognized tonight have invested their time, physical labor, and monetary resources as a labor of love,” said Daniel Shew, chair of the Bristol Virginia Historic Preservation Committee. “No matter how large or small the project, any investment in preserving an old building is a huge investment in our community that will benefit citizens for years to come. These efforts play a role in developing safer and more vibrant neighborhoods, while preserving the rich history, culture, character, and landscape of our cities.” Lucia Schneider of the Bristol Tennessee Historic Preservation Committee agreed, adding “Coming together to celebrate preservation efforts on both sides of the state line and share the rich history that is reflected in our grand old buildings reminds us all that Bristol truly is a special place with a remarkable past and a promising future.” Bristol Virginia Historic Preservation Awards • Susan and Clyde Long were presented with the Solar Hill Historic District Award for their efforts to save a 1925 bungalow at 820 Sycamore Street. The couple began by installing a new roof to stop numerous leaks and protect the home from further damage, then rebuilt the chimney, repaired the crumbling brick foundation, and re-glazed the windows before adding a three-color paint scheme to give new life to this historic home in one of Bristol’s oldest neighborhoods. • The Downtown Commercial Historic District Award was presented to Bonnie Flinner and Clinton Holly for their work to restore the three-story brick building located at 152 Lee Street that is now home to The Earnest Tube recording studio. The building is one of only a few in the immediate area that survived the urban renewal movement. After purchasing the building in 2016, the couple removed an old stucco façade, installed new windows, painted the exterior, and created access to a second-floor residential area. The front door was also restored, creating an entrance that takes visitors back to the building’s1909 beginnings. • The Stewardship Award was presented to Brittany and Tyler Rutherford for preservation efforts that have transformed the buildings at 501 and 503 State Street – built in 1890 and 1904, respectively - to highly sought-after space downtown. Great strides were taken to save many of the original features of the two buildings as the couple worked tirelessly to transform them to include ground-floor commercial space with residential areas above. Through their work, the couple has made a significant contribution to the local economy and made it possible for Bristol residents to work, shop, and live downtown. Bristol Tennessee Historic Preservation Awards • Bristol businessman Allen Hurley was presented with the Downtown Commercial Historic District Award for extensive renovations to the two-story brick building at 815 Shelby Street. Built in 1910, it was the first industrial building in Bristol to have electric power. After purchasing the building at auction in 2015, Mr. Hurley completed extensive interior renovations to prepare the structure for two commercial tenants, then greatly enhanced the building’s outward appearance by removing a deteriorating wood awning, installing new windows, cleaning the façade, and applying a fresh coat of paint. • The Holston Historic District Award was presented to George and Junella McClellan, who have lived at the 1920s Craftsman Bungalow at 904 7th Avenue for more than 50 years. After purchasing the home in 1972, the couple went to work to save the picturesque home’s historic features, including a brick basement with cedar-shake shingles, square columns, exposed beams, brick chimneys, and an inviting front porch with a full-length gable roof and dentil molding. A one-story garage to the rear of the house once served as the servants’ quarters but is now used as a guest house. Junella’s love for landscaping is evident in the magnificent gardens that make the home a neighborhood treasure. • The Fairmount Historic District Award was presented to Barry and Kelly Frisbee for their two-story Queen Anne home at 700 Pennsylvania Avenue. The home was built about 1890, and the original property deed was signed by tobacco tycoon R.J. Reynolds. The stately home was in a serious state of disrepair just three years ago but has now been restored to showcase the brick foundation, weatherboard siding, cross-gable roof with box cornice and gable-end brackets, and an impressive wrap-around porch with wood railings and columns situated on brick piers. Fresh landscaping, courtesy of the Frisbees, adds to the home’s overall charm. • Garry and Teresa Slagle were presented with both the Citywide Award and the Stewardship Award for their painstaking efforts to save the majestic two-story Victorian home at 912 Anderson Street from demolition. Built just before the turn of the century, the house was once the home of Dr. George M. Peavler, an ear-nose-and-throat doctor with a thriving practice on nearby 6th Street. The Slagles bought the home in 2016 and embarked on an 8-year journey to transform the magnificent structure back to its former glory, touching every surface of the home’s interior, and removing overgrown weeds, repairing and replacing siding, rebuilding columns, duplicating ornamental features, and rebuilding the wrap-around porch that has long made the home a Bristol showplace. Awards are presented each year, and the nomination deadline is March 31. Winners are chosen by the Historic Preservation Committee in each city. Additional information is available at www.bristoltn.org/PreservationAwards and Historic Preservation Award | Bristol, VA - Official Website (bristolva.org) Members of the Bristol Virginia Historic Preservation Committee are Chairman Daniel Shew, Vice-Chair Catherine Brillhart, Secretary Whitney Manahan, Brenda Otis, and Charles Flannagan. The Bristol Tennessee Historic Preservation Committee is comprised of Susan Tanner, Debra Kennedy, Rebecca Wilkerson, Lucia Schneider, Maggie Elliott, Vickie Mitoraj, Andrew Snyder, and Karen Bateman. NOTE: Please hover over each property's photo to view the address or double click the image to enlarge it. History for Sale! BHA is honored to offer for sale to the public a number of rare Virginia Intermont College mementos. These are the last vestiges of "new" VI memorabilia and will be prized by collectors of VI College history as well as ever faithful and proud alums of this grand institution of higher learning. Proceeds will be used to fund storage costs for the remainder of the VI Collection. Quantities are limited. Prices for each item are shown below. To purchase items, please visit either Willow Creek Antiques and Collectibles at 619 State Street in Bristol, VA, or Believe in Bristol Headquarters at 20 Sixth Street in Bristol, TN. Composition Book $2.50 Silver Photo Album $25 Honors Program Bronze Medal $20 VI Lapel Pin $10 VI Cobra Cheer Horn $5 License Plate Frame $15 Cobra Folder $2 Pencil 0.50 cents Postcards $1 VIC Picture 8x12 0.25 cents VIC Sticker Sheets 0.25 cents VIC Decals 0.25 cents Historic Sites . History is told through the buildings and homes in a city. The Bristol Historical Association promotes an interest in the history of Bristol by designating properties with historical significance. A generous contribution from Mr. William W. “Bud” Walling financed the cost of the first twenty-five plaques. Much credit is due to the late Mr Walling for his vital part in the promotion of the Landmark Designation program. Are you interested in applying for a Landmark Marker for your historical building? If so, please complete the Historical Landmark Marker Application Form. THE ROBERT PRESTON HOME Learn More FORD HOUSE Learn More E.W. KING HOUSE Learn More I.C. FOWLER HOUSE Learn More DONATE! Donate to the Bristol Historical Association today! DONATE CONTACT US!

Robert Preston Home The History . The Robert Preston house at Walnut Grove Plantation, constructed circa 1790, is the oldest frame house in Washington County, Virginia. It is listed on the National Register of Historic Places. Robert Preston, born in Londonderry, Ireland in 1750, immigrated to Virginia in 1773. Preston apprenticed as a surveyor under his cousin, William Preston of Smithfield Plantation, in what is now Montgomery County, Virginia. Robert Preston moved to Washington County, Virginia in 1779. Granted a surveyor’s bond signed by then-Governor Thomas Jefferson in 1780, Robert Preston became the first surveyor in Washington County, Virginia. In the summer of 1780, Robert Preston married Margaret Rhea and acquired 800 acres of what is now part of Bristol, Virginia. He named the tract of land Walnut Grove. A Department of Historic Resources highway marker along Lee Highway documents “William Clark, of Lewis and Clark, breakfasted at the home of Preston’s son John at Walnut Grove in 1809.” A Lewis and Clark Portrait Sign on Lee Highway documents the property’s Lewis and Clark connection. The property is featured as the first stop on the Virginia Lewis and Clar Legacy Trail at https://valewisandclarklegacytrail.org/along-the-trail/ . For more information contact: ​ Jan Rainero Email: janrainero@hotmail.com ​ Isabelle Ladd Email: isladd@gmail.com A! Magazine for the Arts Article Walnut Grove is one of oldest homes in Washington County Read Article WATCH NOW Learn More! Click the link below to download the Robert Preston House pamphlet and learn more about this historical site. Note: Significantly more funds have been invested in the Robert Preston House project since the publication of the pamphlet. As of January 12th, 2022, the Robert Preston House has received $400,000 in donations and gifts. Also, thanks to a generous supporter, a right of way has been donated which will greatly facilitate entrance to this historic property. Download Now ACT NOW! Donate to the Bristol Historical Association today! DONATE CONTACT US!

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