Happy 250….and yet we still feel so young!
WHAT A RECEPTION
On Friday June 12, 2026 a reception was held to bring attention to a commissioned artwork. Historical Society member Laura LeBreton handpicked Fred Bowen, an historic watercolorist from Blacksburg SC, to commemorate a little known battle – The Battle of Round Mountain – and to honor her ancestor, Captain Thomas Howard. Captain Howard led the battle at the age of 16.
In addition to serving as a part of the North Carolina Tryon County Militia under William Graham, Thomas went on to fight in the Revolutionary War in Roebuck’s Battalion of the Spartan Regiment from the fall of Charleston (May 1780) until the return of Robert Anderson in 1782.
Thomas lived in the Glassy Mountain region of Northern Greenville County. He has a great number of descendants and many of them still reside in the area.
More than 100 hours of work went into creating the piece using a technique the artist developed. The painting was given to Laura on June 1, 2026 – the 250th anniversary of the battle itself. This is the only depiction known to exist.
Those in attendance included a number of Historical Society members, artist Fred Bowen and his family, Loretta Mulle from the NSDAR Behethland Butler Chapter, and surprise guest Mayor Brandy Amidon.
A print of the artwork has been placed in the History Museum of Travelers Rest to tell the story for years to come. We hope you’ll come by to see it!
SWEET SONG INDEED
Local entrepreneur/carpenter/photographer Brian Kelly did a beautiful restoration on this dulcimer that was originally created by Mann Batson. It was one of several that he constructed in the 1970’s during his time as Superintendent of Education in St. George, SC. This dulcimer was gifted to Board Member Stand Coleman by Mann’s daughter-in-law, Frankie Batson.
INK-REDIBLE PENMANSHIP
Bill Williamson, 18th Century Living Historian, hosted a quill writing demonstration at the Spring Park Inn. He used feather and ink, the same way it was done hundreds of years ago. Interested to see this for yourself? He will be doing another live demo on Friday June 26 at the Spring Park Inn during the Dicey Langston celebration.
IN LOVING MEMORY
In May, we lost Board Member Richard Sawyer. Richard’s vast knowledge of Greenville County Native American History allowed him to deliver public programs, complete with artifacts he collected through the years. His contributions live on at the History Museum of Travelers Rest as well as the Upcountry History Museum in Greenville and numerous publications. May his memory be a blessing.
PRESIDENT’S NOTES:
250 years of US history is here! We’re proud to be part of the celebrations commemorating this wonderful milestone, starting with the Dicey Langston celebrations on June 26th. This promises to be a memorable day for Travelers Rest, filled with history, fellowship, and community pride. As we honor the legacy of Dicey Langston and celebrate America’s 250th birthday, we invite you to be part of it!
Watch our Facebook page to stay updated on this and other events we’re participating in.
Sincerely,
Mark Garrison
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