Hometown Drawings

A Place Called Hope

2011-09-17T18:05:00.000-07:00

What two famous men were born in Hope, Arkansas? Former President Bill Clinton, and former Governor Mike Huckabee of the "Huckabee" Show on the Fox News Channel, came from this famous little small town.To learn more about the print of Hope, AR, check out this link.

The artistic team of Tommy Thompson and his two daughters, Michelle and Melanie, has produced composite drawings of more than 300 towns across 12 Southern states. These drawings can be viewed on the web site, Village Prints. The drawing of Hope was done by Thompson's daughter, Michelle Rideout, who is the one of the South’s most prolific artists in capturing small town Americana.

Struck by the pride of older Americans in the heritage of their towns, Thompson transformed glimpses of the past found in old, faded photographs and memories into composite drawings, which were then printed as limited editions. Collectors of Thompson's prints sometimes find it difficult to locate someone who is willing to part with their prints once all the prints of a particular town have been sold.

Many people have asked Thompson how his unique art business originated. In 1984 Thompson was traveling through a small town called Iron City, Tennessee, and happened to stop by one of the stores for a soft drink and was amazed at the town pride that he heard in the voices of the old men sitting around a pot-bellied stove in the store. After listening some more, he learned that a community group needed a fundraiser to help refurbish a park along a creek that ran through the town. The people in the general store, through their descriptions and recollections, helped the artist capture in a pencil drawing the essence of the buildings that had long ago been torn down. The project was quite successful, selling all prints in a month or so, to benefit the small town. From that spark, the artistic team preserved the memories of bygone days for more than 300 towns in twelve states across the South.

Town of Iron City, TN, No Longer Exists

2010-07-27T13:48:00.000-07:00

According to the July 27, 2010, issue of the Times Daily of Florence, AL, the town of Iron City, TN, no longer exists. According to the Times Daily, the town will become an unincorporated community within the county of Lawrence County, TN.This town was the first town featured in a print produced by Tommy Thompson when he began a unique business called Village Prints. The artist became interested in the small town when he became involved in a conversation with a group of older gentlemen about a grand old hotel that used to stand in town. "I heard so much pride in their voices," he said. Thompson produced the drawing primarily from old faded photographs and the memories of older people in the town. He drew the hotel primarily based on descriptions that the townspeople gave him. The prints that he produced from the drawing were sold to purchase picnic tables along a creek that ran through the town. Thompson has only 16 prints of Iron City, TN, remaining in his stock. Interested parties can order them at this link: http://www.villageprints.com/tnironcity.html.

Fayette, AL Art Print

2009-10-07T08:38:00.001-07:00

Artist Tommy Thompson created this beautiful hand-pulled silk-screened print of Fayette, Al. We have a few artist proofs of the print remaining if you would like to purchase one for a Christmas gift or other occasion. Please click on this link: http://www.villageprints.com/alfayette.html.

Haleyville, AL Art Print

2009-10-07T08:35:00.000-07:00

Artist Tommy Thompson created this beautiful hand-pulled silk-screened print of Haleyville, AL. We have a few artist proofs remaining if you would like to purchase one for a Christmas present or other occasion. Log onto http://www.villageprints.com/alhaleyville.html

Hartselle, AL Hand-Pulled Silk Screen Print

2009-10-07T08:33:00.001-07:00

Tommy Thompson created this beautiful hand-pulled, silk-screened print of Hartselle, AL. We have a few artist proofs of the print remaining. To purchase a print for a Christmas gift or other occasion, please check this out: http://www.villageprints.com/alhartselle.html

Jasper, AL Art Print

2009-10-07T08:25:00.000-07:00

Tommy Thompson created this beautiful hand-pulled silk-screened print of Jasper, AL, the hometown of George Lindsey, "Goober," on the legendary Andy Griffith Show. If you would like to purchase one of these prints for a Christmas gift or other occasion, check out: http://www.villageprints.com/aljasper.html.

Cullman, AL, Art Print

2009-10-07T07:26:00.000-07:00

Tommy Thompson created this beautiful hand-pulled silk-screened print of Cullman, AL. We have a few artist proofs of the print remaining. If you would like to purchase one as a Christmas gift or other occasion, please check out http://www.villageprints.com/alcullman.html.

Ennis, TX

2009-10-07T07:24:00.001-07:00

Are you longing for a memento of your birthplace, Ennis, TX? Are you searching for that unique Christmas gift for a loved one who has a special place in their heart for Corsicana, TX? Do you belong to a club or organization that is looking for an unusual fund-raising idea? If you answered yes to any of these questions, you need to check out Village Prints.

Greenville, TX

2009-10-07T07:17:00.000-07:00

Are you longing for a memento of your birthplace, Greenville, TX? Are you searching for that unique Christmas gift for a loved one who has a special place in their heart for Corsicana, TX? Do you belong to a club or organization that is looking for an unusual fund-raising idea? If you answered yes to any of these questions, you need to check out Village Prints.

Memories of Marshall, TX

2009-10-07T07:14:00.001-07:00

Are you longing for a memento of your birthplace, Marshall, TX? Are you searching for that unique Christmas gift for a loved one who has a special place in their heart for Corsicana, TX? Do you belong to a club or organization that is looking for an unusual fund-raising idea? If you answered yes to any of these questions, you need to check out Village Prints.

Memento of Jacksonville, TX

2009-10-07T07:07:00.001-07:00

Are you longing for a memento of your birthplace, Jacksonville, TX? Are you searching for that unique Christmas gift for a loved one who has a special place in their heart for Corsicana, TX? Do you belong to a club or organization that is looking for an unusual fund-raising idea? If you answered yes to any of these questions, you need to check out Village Prints.

Home to Corsicana, TX

2009-10-07T06:52:00.000-07:00

Are you longing for a memento of your birthplace, Corsicana, TX? Are you searching for that unique Christmas gift for a loved one who has a special place in their heart for Corsicana, TX? Do you belong to a club or organization that is looking for an unusual fund-raising idea? If you answered yes to any of these questions, you need to check out Village Prints.

Homesick for the South

2009-05-31T09:37:00.000-07:00

Are you a transplanted Southerner? Are you homesick for your Southern roots? The hometown drawings of 12 Southern states available through Village Prints offer transplanted Southerners the chance to soothe their homesickness by having composite prints of their hometowns hanging on their walls. We received a call recently from a lady originally from Tennessee, who is now living in Florida. She told us how homesick she was for the South, and memorabilia like our prints of Southern towns would be so welcome in her home. Although she already owns our print of her hometown of Columbia, TN, she immediately ordered prints of three other towns around Columbia, TN.

Last October we met M. L. Rose, the author of The Road to Eden's Ridge, at the Factory in Franklin, TN. Ms. Rose is an exuberant writer and interesting conversationalist. When she learned about the 350+ pencil drawings that the artists of Village Prints have done, she became very enthusiastic about the prospect of promoting these prints because during today's economic downturn so many Americans are now wanting to return to basics--to return to their roots. Be sure to check out the website at http://www.villageprints.com to see if we have drawn your hometown. You will find drawings of towns in Alabama, Arkansas, Florida, Georgia, Kentucky, Louisiana, Mississippi, Missouri, North Carolina, South Carolina, Tennessee, and Texas.

Hope, Arkansas, Birthplace of Mike Huckabee

2009-03-03T05:26:00.000-08:00

The artistic team of Tommy Thompson and his two daughters, Michelle and Melanie, has produced composite drawings of more than 300 towns across 12 Southern states. These drawings can be viewed on the web site, Village Prints. One of the prints is Hope, Arkansas, the birthplace of former Governor Mike Huckabee, who now has one of our favorite television shows, "Huckabee." The drawing of Hope was done by Thompson's daughter, Michelle Rideout, who is the one of the South’s most prolific artists in capturing small town Americana.

Struck by the pride of older Americans in the heritage of their towns, Thompson transformed glimpses of the past found in old, faded photographs and memories into composite drawings, which were then printed as limited editions. Collectors of Thompson's prints sometimes find it difficult to locate someone who is willing to part with their prints once all the prints of a particular town have been sold.

Many people have asked Thompson how his unique art business originated. In 1984 Thompson was traveling through a small town called Iron City, Tennessee, and happened to stop by one of the stores for a soft drink and was amazed at the town pride that he heard in the voices of the old men sitting around a pot-bellied stove in the store. After listening some more, he learned that a community group needed a fundraiser to help refurbish a park along a creek that ran through the town. The people in the general store, through their descriptions and recollections, helped the artist capture in a pencil drawing the essence of the buildings that had long ago been torn down. The project was quite successful, selling all prints in a month or so, to benefit the small town. From that spark, the artistic team preserved the memories of bygone days for more than 300 towns in twelve states across the South.

Iron City, Tennessee, Origin of Village Prints

2009-03-02T16:37:00.000-08:00

In 1984 artist Tommy Thompson was traveling through a small town called Iron City, Tennessee (link to http://www.villageprints.com/tnironcity.html) and happened to stop by one of the stores for a soft drink and was amazed at the town pride that he heard in the voices of the old men sitting around a pot-bellied stove in the store. After listening some more, he learned that a community group needed a fundraiser to help refurbish a park along a creek that ran through the town. The people in the general store, through their descriptions and recollections, helped the artist capture in a pencil drawing the essence of the buildings that had long ago been torn down. The project was quite successful, selling all prints in a month or so, to benefit the small town. From that spark, the artistic team preserved the memories of bygone days for more than 300 towns in twelve states across the South.

For more than 20 years, Thompson and his two daughters, Michelle and Melanie, preserved small-town Americana for posterity in their drawings. Check out the newly redesigned web site to see if you can find the place of your roots. For example, you will see a composite drawing of Hope, Arkansas (http://www.villageprints.com/arhope.html), the birthplace of two famous men, Governor Mike Huckabee and former President Bill Clinton.

In their travels as painter, photographer, and writer, Tommy and Marie Thompson have met some very interesting people. Last fall in Franklin, TN, they met M. L. Rose, the author of the new book, The Road to Eden's Ridge. In a conversation with Tommy Thompson, Rose learned of his original career as an illustrator (Village Prints.com). She was fascinated with the artist's concept for the unique business that has preserved memories of the past for many Americans who grew up in small towns across the South. Rose advised Thompson to promote vigorously his unusual web site, Village Prints.com, because, she said, in the present economic downturn Americans want to return to the basics and are longing to reminisce about their roots--the place where they grew up.

Newly Redesigned Web Site at Village Prints. Com

2009-02-26T03:47:00.000-08:00

Artist Tommy Thompson has now redesigned his web site for Village Prints. com. During the two decades, the artist has recorded for posterity the main streets of small-town America. Thompson has more than 30 years' experience in art, photography, printing and marketing. The native Mississippian studied graphic art at Mississippi State University, where he also supervised the art and photography division of the Mississippi Agricultural Experiment Station. Thompson began his unique business, Village Prints, in 1984, and since that time he and his daughters Michelle and Melanie have drawn more than 300 towns in 12 states across the southern United States. Struck by the pride of older Americans in the heritage of their towns, Thompson has transformed glimpses of the past found in old, faded photographs and memories into composite drawings, which are then printed as limited editions. Collectors of Thompson's prints sometimes find it difficult to locate someone who is willing to part with their prints once all the prints of a particular town are sold, which sometimes occurs in a week or two. Because these art prints are limited editions, they represent an investment that increases in value over time.

Return to Basics--Find a Drawing of the Hometown of Your Roots

2009-01-04T13:55:00.000-08:00

www.villageprints.com/txmarshall.html

Whenever we experience an economic downturn, we usually want to return to the basics--to a simpler way of life.

www.villageprints.com/arhope.html

If you long to return to your roots, why not search for your hometown on http://www.villageprints.com/.

www.villageprints.com/gacamilla.html

Tommy Thompson or his two daughters may have captured the essence of your hometown in a composite drawing.

www.villageprints.com/alspringville.html

These artists have preserved the memories of hundreds of towns in 12 states across the South.

www.villageprints.com/ncconcord.html

These limited-edition prints are signed and numbered and printed on parchtone paper.

www.villageprints.com/kybowlinggreen.html

The prints make wonderful gifts for any occasion--Valentines, birthdays, retirements, etc.

www.villageprints.com/tnhenderson.html

Log onto http://www.villageprints.com/ and try to find the town where you grew up or once lived.

Appleby School, Florence, Alabama

2008-10-15T11:21:00.000-07:00

On October 15, 2008, we had the pleasure of speaking with the great grandson of F. T. Appleby, for whom the Appleby School of Florence, Alabama, was named. The School was named to honor Appleby, who was superintendent from 1917 to 1932. The building is the original Coffee High School. Florence Junior High School, built in 1936 on the lot adjoining Coffee High, had housed all junior high classes until 1951 when the new high school was built on its present location. The old high school building was then converted into an elementary school. Upon completion of Richard School in 1961, all the elementary grades were moved to that school. Both the old high school building and the junior high school are now used as junior high schools. This building had several fires, and in the 1980's it was badly burned. It has been razed, and the University of North Alabama tennis courts now occupy the area.

Tommy Thompson completed a drawing of Appleby School during the 1980s prior to the razing of the school.

(Historical information taken from http://www.rootsweb.ancestry.com/~allauder/edu-schools1.htm#APPLEBY, October 15, 2008)

Decatur, AL

2008-08-12T15:19:00.001-07:00

Located on the Tennessee River in Morgan County, Decatur, AL, boasts a rich heritage and a dynamic future. Here you’ll find economic prosperity, cultural diversity, and community spirit combined to make Decatur a grand city on a charming scale. Nestled in the Tennessee River Valley, the city of Decatur boasts a rich and colorful history. For those who grew up in Decatur or live there now, a perfect gift for any occasion is a limited-edition print of the town, printed on parchtone paper. The 11" x 14" composite print, rendered by Melanie Gentle, includes drawings of the Old State Bank, Carnegie Library, the Depot, Gordon Bibb School, and the old bridge over the Tennessee River. The prints sell for $50.00, plus $7.00 for shipping and handling. To order one of the few remaining artist's proofs, call 256-767-0422 or email: tmt11@comcast.net.

Hartselle, AL

2008-08-12T14:59:00.000-07:00

Located near Huntsville and Decatur, AL, Hartselle is the ideal destination for antique collectors . You can take a stroll through the historic downtown that prides itself on its excellent service, quality of merchandise and hometown atmosphere. With its beautifully renovated historic buildings, the downtown offers a mix of antique stores, for which Hartselle is famous; restaurants; gift and specialty stores. For those people who either live in Hartselle or grew up there, an excellent gift idea for any occasion is a limited-edition print of Hartselle, printed on parchtone paper. The composite print drawn by Melanie Gentle includes drawings of Burleson School, the Post Office, Depot, Railroad Street, and other landmarks. This 11" x 14" print sells for $40.00, plus $7.00 for shipping and handling. To order a print, call 256-767-0422 or email: tmt11@comcast.net.

Collierville, TN

2007-12-10T08:42:00.001-08:00

Located only a few miles from Memphis, Collierville, TN, is the ideal destination for a weekend getaway, family vacation, group tour, or meeting. You can take a stroll through the historic Town Square that prides itself on its excellent service, quality of merchandise and hometown atmosphere. With its beautifully renovated historic buildings, the square offers a mix of antique stores, for which Collierville is famous; restaurants; gift and specialty stores; clothiers; and an array of professional services.

For those people who either live in Collierville or grew up there, an excellent gift idea for any occasion is a limited-edition print of Collierville. This 16" x 20" print sells for $45.00, plus $7.00 for shipping and handling. For details see http://www.villageprints.com/tncollierville.html

Cochran, GA, Tapestry

2007-12-10T07:18:00.001-08:00

A beautiful woven afghan featuring the Cochran, GA, drawing, would make an excellent Christmas or birthday gift for someone who either lives in Cochran or grew up there. If you are interested in purchasing a woven afghan featuring the Cochran drawing, please call 256-767-0422. Only two of these afghans, measuring 36 inches by 54 inches, are still available at $100.00 each. The picture here shows the framed drawing, but the afghan looks identical to the drawing, omitting the frame. The afghan is woven in colors of black, off-white, and beige.

Jasper, AL Color Original

2007-11-25T15:38:00.000-08:00

Jasper, Alabama, is located in Walker County, and once ranked among the world's leading producers of coal. The town, named in honor of Sergeant William Jasper, was incorporated in 1888. Famous television and movie stars call Jasper their hometown. Included among the famous are Polly Holliday and George Lindsey, who played Goober on the Andy Griffith Show. Other notables include singer Sandy Posey; U.S. Senator John H. Bankhead II; former speaker of the House William Brockman Bankhead; Alabama millionaire James Stanley Freemand and his son, famed World War II admiral James Shepherd Freeman; and the late Congressman Tom Bevill, who is known for making the first 911 emergency call. The late actress Tallulah Brockman Bankhead lived for a while as a child at her father's home in Jasper. One of the fictional characters from the television show, James "Sawyer" Ford, was originally from Jasper, Alabama.

Anyone who would like to either own a memento of Jasper or give someone else a present commemorating the town of Jasper can do so by purchasing a signed and numbered, 20 inch by 24 inch, hand-pulled, eight-color silk screen original of the town by clicking here.

Camilla, Georgia

2007-11-25T13:34:00.001-08:00

Camilla, Georgia, is a lovely town located in southwest Georgia. During 2007 the town celebrated its sesquicentennial; the town was incorporated in 1858. For those people who are looking for that special Christmas or birthday gift or a retirement gift for someone who either grew up or now lives in Camilla, Georgia, a limited-edition print of a composite drawing of Camilla would be a fine selection. These prints preserve the memories of bygone days for people who have a connection with Camilla. To order a Camilla print, please click here.

Camilla is located in the center of one of the most efficient irrigated agricultural production systems in the world. A myriad of crops and products such as peanuts, pecans, pine trees, poultry, cotton, cattle, and vegetables are grown in the fertile fields surrounding Camilla. Camilla has a proud history and a great future.

Many of the beautiful landmarks of Camilla, including many antebellum homes, a historic courthouse and businesses, line Broad Street. Several of the landmarks of Camilla are located on the Village Prints drawing of Camilla.

Lady Bird Johnson, Marshall, Texas, High School Graduate

2007-07-11T15:53:00.001-07:00

The world lost a beautiful lady today, July 11, 2007--Lady Bird Johnson, who grew up in Marshall, Texas, and graduated from Marshall High School. She was the wife of President Lyndon Baines Johnson and was beloved by all Americans. We cannot drive down a highway in the United States in the springtime or summer without remembering this lovely lady whose mission was to beautify the highways and byways of her country. Lady Bird got her nickname from a family maid who said she was as cute as a "Lady Bird." Lady Bird became famous for her work to encourage the planting of wildflowers along our nation's highways (see www.wildflower.org) This sweet Southern lady will long be remembered and revered by her country.

Fairhope, Alabama

2007-07-10T15:21:00.002-07:00

Fairhope, a vibrant and livable Southern city, began over a hundred years ago when an adventurous group of people sought their personal utopia. Come and visit today, and find out why people say they instantly felt at home in this city of 12,000 residents where newcomers are welcomed and friendships are easily forged.

With its location high on the bluffs of the Eastern Shore of Mobile Bay, Fairhope has long been known for its lovely parks, rich with moss-draped live oaks, its sweeping panoramic views of Mobile Bay, and its charming and vital downtown where visitors and locals alike find reasons to shop, stroll, and dine. Many famous writers, musicians, and artists have called Fairhope, Alabama, home.

Mobile, Alabama

2007-07-10T15:21:00.001-07:00

Mobile is the third most populous city in the state of Alabama and is the county seat of Mobile County. The city's name is derived from the presence of the Mobile Indians in the area at the time of founding. Mobile is the only saltwater port in Alabama. Located along the northwest shore of Mobile Bay, the city began as the first capital of colonial French Louisiana in 1702. Over the past 300 years, Mobile has officially flown six flags, including France, Britain, Spain, the Republic of Alabama (1861), the Confederacy, and the United States.

The Village Prints drawing of Mobile captures the elegance of this fair city.

Springville, Alabama

2007-07-10T15:21:00.000-07:00

Historic Springville, Alabama is located 30 miles north of Birmingham adjacent to Interstate 59. With a population more than 3,000 citizens, the town continues to grow because of its friendly people, outstanding schools, and beautiful countryside.

Springville hosts many events throughout the year. These events include cruise-ins featuring antique cars, concerts, firework shows and "Homestead Hollow."

The Village Prints drawing of Springville, Alabama, depicts a church, a section of the historic downtown area, the old depot, the old high school, and the town hall.

Hendersonville, North Carolina

2007-07-10T11:16:00.004-07:00

Henderson-ville, North Carolina, depicted in a Village Prints drawing, is a wonderful place to visit. The various landmarks depicted on the drawing include several historical homes, a number of churches, the dome of the courthouse, the old depot, the old high school and the post office. Hendersonville is located in Henderson County, North Carolina, 22 miles southeast of Asheville. It is the county seat of Henderson County. Like the county, the city is named for 19th-century North Carolina Supreme Court Chief Justice Leonard Henderson.

The city has an exceptionally beautiful small-city downtown comprised primarily of boutiques, antique shops, and tourist attractions. Its architecture reflects the late 19th and early 20th centuries. Hendersonville is also well known for the North Carolina Apple Festival that takes place on Main Street every fall.

Lincolnton, North Carolina

2007-07-10T11:16:00.003-07:00

Lincolnton, North Carolina, is depicted in a Village Prints pencil drawing. Included on the limited-edition prints are several historical buildings, including a church, the old high school, the court house, and other significant landmarks.

Lincolnton is the county seat of Lincoln County. Lincolnton, a former textile mill town, is located in central North Carolina, northwest of Charlotte. The community was named for Revolutionary War Gen. Benjamin Lincoln. Gaston College is located in Lincolnton.

Kannapolis, North Carolina

2007-07-10T11:16:00.002-07:00

The Village Prints drawing of Kannapolis, North Carolina, depicts several historical buildings such as the old Cannon Mills, the courthouse, city hall, an old movie theater, one of the churhes, etc.

In 1906, James William Cannon bought several farms to build Cannon Mills Company. Under the guidance of James Cannon's son, Charles, Cannon Mills became the world's largest producer of household textiles and a household name. Kannapolis was built as a mill village of small craftsman style homes. The mill employees lived in the homes for a low rent and enjoyed free maintenance, low cost utilities, and free garbage collection and disposal while paying no taxes. The Cannon's also provided a YMCA, a hospital, a police department, scholarships, loans and jobs.
In 1982, California financier David Murdoch took over Cannon Mills. Murdock merged the mill in 1985 with Fieldcrest Mills Inc. creating Fieldcrest Cannon. In 1984, the citizens of Kannapolis voted to incorporate making the largest unincorporated area in the United States the 16th largest city in North Carolina. The Pillowtex Corporation purchased Fieldcrest Cannon in 1997. The City prepared for the day the mill would close. In the mid-1990's, 10 square miles of land to the west of Kannapolis was identified as a growth area and annexed to the city.

Concord, North Carolina

2007-07-10T11:16:00.001-07:00

When the new county of Cabarrus, North Carolina, was formed, there was controversy over the selection of the county seat. Finally, a compromise was reached and a new city was formed in 1796. The city was to be located on a 26 acre site and was to be called Concord, which means harmony. The founders felt the name appropriate since there was a coming together of the two factions to create the city. Concord was incorporated in 1806.

The Village Prints drawing of Concord depicts several historical landmarks such as the old court house, the old mill, the post office, the old high school and other buildings.

Concord is located in the Piedmont. Gold was discovered near Concord in 1799, sparking the North Carolina gold rush. The city was the filming location for the 2001 movie, "Shallow Hal." Well-known residents have included William "Billy" Goodman, baseball player.

Attractions in Concord include the Concord Motorsport Park, the Lowe's Motor Speedway, and NASCAR Speedpark.

Jacksonville, Texas

2007-07-10T11:16:00.000-07:00

Jacksonville is a city in Cherokee County, Texas. The town is located in an area of rolling hills in East Texas, north of the county seat, Rusk, and south of Tyler, in Smith County, on U. S. Highway 69. Area production and shipping of tomatoes gained the town the title "Tomato Capital of the World". The impressive red iron ore rock Tomato Bowl, built by WPA workers during the Great Depression, is home to the Jacksonville High School Fightin' Indians. The Village Prints drawing of Jacksonville, Texas, depicts several landmarks of the town including the famous "Tomato Bowl" stadium, the Library, the old high school, historical homes, etc.

Annual events include the "Tomato Fest" celebration in June, and the "Tops in Texas Rodeo", held in July. It is the hometown of country music singers Lee Ann Womack and Neal McCoy, Detroit Lions Quarterback Josh McCown, Tampa Bay Buccaneers Quarterback Luke McCown, Jacksonville Jaguars' punter Toby Gowin, and former New York Jets Tight End and Defensive End Pete Lammons.

Jacksonville began in 1847 as the town of Gum Creek. Jackson Smith built a home and blacksmith shop in the area, and became postmaster in 1848, when a post office was authorized. Shortly afterward, Dr. William Jackson established an office near Smith's shop. When the townsite was laid out in 1850, the name Jacksonville was chosen in honor of these two men.

Monroe, North Carolina

2007-04-07T08:01:00.000-07:00

My wife Marie and I recently enjoyed a visit to the beautiful town of Monroe, North Carolina. Everyone we met was so friendly and helpful. We enjoyed meeting people like Helen Thomas of the First Citizens Bank, who is also president of the Breakfast Rotary Club. Matthew Sganga, chef/owner of Stone Table Cafe and Catering in Nottingham Plaza (704-225-7675) fed us so well that our mouths are still watering when we think of all of his delicious creations.

Beginning on Sunday, April 8, 2007, our limited-edition prints of Monroe are now being advertised in the Enquirer Journal . The prints are $45.00 each if purchased online. If an organization such as a bank, corporation, church, real estate agency, etc., would like to purchase multiple copies for their stock holders, employees, members, and new home owners, they can purchase as many as 10 prints for $20.00 each. If a family is having a reunion, these prints would make excellent mementoes of their days in Monroe. We will not charge for shipping for this special promotion. Since this is a limited edition, the copies will go fast. Order yours today. Remember to check out the Enquirer Journal each day during April for an image of the prints.

The pencil drawing was done by our daughter, Michelle, whose work has been published in national civic magazines. She has been called "one of the South’s most prolific artists in capturing small town Americana." Her interest in art was sparked while she was a small child looking over her father’s shoulder as he was drawing. She graduated with a bachelor of science degree in graphic design, soon afterwards she began working with her father Tommy Thompson, also known for his sketches of Southern towns. The artist's composite pencil drawings reveal a meticulous attention to detail, which gives a delicate quality to the overall print. Her prints have often been used for fundraisers, raising money around the country and receiving greater prominence through features in national magazines. She also produced drawings of the homes of the late record producer Sam Phillips and late author Alex Haley.

Ennis, Texas

2006-11-30T15:46:00.000-08:00

Ennis, Texas is famous for the bluebonnets that blanket the hills around the town every spring, drawing about 50,000 visitors each year to an annual festival during the third weekend of April. The Ennis Garden Club has laid out 42 miles of trails that the Texas Legislature named "The Official Bluebonnet Trail of Texas." The club provides free maps of trails through fertile farmlands and rolling hills where bluebonnets cover miles of grasslands. The club members provide information on the best areas for viewing the bluebonnets and other wildflowers. The bluebonnet was named for its striking resemblance to the sunbonnets of pioneer women.

Bluebonnets are not the only source of pride in Ennis, which celebrates its Czech heritage each Memorial Day with the National Polka Festival. But it is the state flower of Texas for which Ennis is best known. The sweet-smelling blooms were beloved by the American Indians long before the Czech settlers arrived. A Comanche legend about the origin of the bluebonnets tells of the tribe´s struggle with starvation, cold, and disease. The Great Spirit told the chieftains that their most valued and cherished possessions should be burned and scattered to the four winds as an offering. A little American Indian princess overheard the council and sacrificed her beautiful doll with a headdress from a blue jay. The next morning, where the ashes had fallen, there was a beautiful spread of blue flowers the same shade as the blue jay´s feather. Regardless of how the flowers came to Texas, the bonnet-shaped blooms are a state treasure, especially in Ennis.

To see how a Village Prints artist has preserved the historical heritage of Ennis, click on the Ennis, TX page. These prints make excellent gifts for all occasions--Christmas, birthdays, anniversaries, retirements, etc.

Marshall, Texas

2006-11-14T15:50:00.000-08:00

Marshall, Texas, is just one of the hundreds of towns that I have visited during my unusual career of recording interesting places for future generations (see www.villageprints.com). When I arrived in Marshall, as usual, I visited the old Court House and marveled at this beautiful structure. As I walked around the outside of the building, I was eating a sandwich that I had bought at a local diner. I noticed another gentleman observing this architectural marvel and also eating a sandwich he had coincidentally purchased at the same diner. Since I am interested in the history of towns, as I always do, I asked him where he was from. He answered, "Houston, Texas." Since he is an oil man, I asked him about the prospects of oil exploration in my home state of Mississippi. This is just one incident during my unusual career, but one that is imprinted on my memory.
Marshall, Texas has several famous sons and daughters, Lady Bird Johnson, wife of President Lyndon Baines Johnson, graduated from Marshall High School. Lady Bird got her nickname from a family maid who said she was as cute as a "Lady Bird." Lady Bird became famous for her work to encourage the planting of wildflowers along our nation's highways (see www.wildflower.org)
George Edward Foreman , a former boxer, who was a world Heavyweight champion and an ordained Christian minister, was born in Marshall, Texas. George is probably most famous today for his "George Foreman Lean Mean Grilling Machine."
Another famous son of Marshall is the Huddie Ledbetter, a guitarist who wrote such famous songs as "Goodnight Irene"and The Midnight Special." Journalist and television commentator, Bill Moyers, and football great, Y. A. Tittle, are two more famous sons of Marshall.
Marshall is a Norman Rockwell painting that has come to life. Marshall, Texas, is just one of the towns that have been captured on paper by the Village Prints artists. The print can be viewed at http://www.villageprints.com/txmarshall.html. Village Prints has completed drawings of more than 330 towns in Alabama, Arkansas, Florida, Georgia, Kentucky, Louisiana, Mississippi, Missouri, North Carolina, South Carolina, Tennessee, and Texas and have produced limited edition prints of these towns.
The originals are pencil drawings, featuring composites of outstanding landmarks and historical buildings such as those in Marshall, TX. Limited edition prints on parchtone paper are then produced from the drawings.
These art prints, which portray the historical and architectural heritage of Marshall Texas, quickly become collectors' items. Each print is signed and numbered. The art prints make excellent gifts for all occasions and are especially appropriate for professional offices. Some professional people have collected all of the prints of their particular regions.
On the Marshall, Texas page at http://www.villageprints.com/txmarshall.html interested parties may purchase a print of Marshall by clicking on the PayPal logo below the drawing or they may send a check to Village Prints, 209 Shirley Drive, Florence, Alabama.

Corsicana, Texas

2006-10-09T17:08:00.000-07:00

Is anyone reading this blog who grew up in Corsicana, Texas?

Did you know that your hometown was named by Jose Antonio Navarro, a famous Texas statesman, who was one of the signers of the Texas Declaration of Independence . The county is named for Navarro . When he was asked to name the town, his response was "Call it Corsicana in honor of the island of Corsica , the birthplace of my father." The Corsicana/Navarro County Chamber of Commerce reveals more interesting tidbits about their famous town. Anyone looking for Corsicana art can see a beautiful pencil drawing of the town by clicking on this link (www.villageprints.com/txcorsicana.html) These limited-edition prints make excellent gifts for any occasion. Many people purchase one for each of their children and grandchildren. Anyone who grew up in Corsicana, TX and later moved away will treasure one because it brings a little bit of home back to them.

If you are from Corsicana, TX, you know about the town's famous fruit cake. Corsicana is best known for its Corsicana fruit cake, baked by the famous Collin Street Bakery and marketed under the name "Deluxe." The cake is possibly the world´s most famous and is shipped each year to every state in the nation and more than 290 foreign countries. I have visited the Collin Street Bakery several times and enjoyed their delicious cakes.

Speaking of Corsicana fruit cakes, have you ordered several to give your friends this Christmas? Another unique gift--a work of art-- for anyone on your Christmas list or any other list can be found at this link, www.villageprints.com/txcorsicana.html. These limited-edition prints of a Corsicana pencil drawing are printed on parchtone paper and increase in value because only 300 were printed. Anyone who grew up in Corsicana and has moved away will treasure this keepsake.

Corsicana is also home to Navarro College , which is famous for its "Dawgs," who have won 13 conference championships and won the national championship in 1989.

Corsicana is also famous because oil was first discovered west of the Mississippi River in this Texas town by a drilling firm that was searching for water for the growing town. Thus, Corsicana became the first Texas oil boom town. Corsicana was the site of the first use of crude oil as fuel for locomotives. The state's first oil refinery--known today as Mobil Oil was built in Corsicana. The Texas Company, Texaco also traces its origin to Corsicana.

Russell Stover Candy Company built its largest plant in Corsicana. Russell Stover is the nation's largest handmade candy company.

Corsicana, Texas is just one of the towns that the Village Prints artists have captured on paper. Village Prints has completed pencil drawings of more than 330 towns in Alabama, Arkansas, Florida, Georgia, Kentucky, Louisiana, Mississippi, Missouri, North Carolina, South Carolina, Tennessee, and Texas and has produced limited-edition prints of these towns. The originals are pencil drawings, featuring composites of outstanding landmarks and historical buildings such as those in Corsicana, Texas. Limited-edition prints on parchtone paper are then produced from the drawings.

Art prints, which portray the historical and architectural heritage of Corsicana, Texas, quickly become collectors' items. Each print is signed and numbered. The prints make excellent gifts for all occasions and are especially appropriate for professional offices. Some professional people have collected all of the prints of their particular regions.

A Unique Business is Born

Many people have asked how Village Prints got started. I was traveling through a small town called Iron City, Tennessee, and happened to stop by one of the stores for a soft drink and was amazed at the town pride that I heard in the voices of the old men sitting around a pot-bellied stove in the store. After listening some more, I learned that a community group needed a fundraiser to help refurbish a park along a creek that ran through the town. I developed a concept for a unique business whereby my two daughters and I would preserve the pride and memories that townspeople have for their villages and towns. The people in the general store, through their descriptions and recollections, helped me capture in a pencil drawing the essence of the buildings that had long ago been torn down. The town's project was quite successful, selling all prints in a month or so, to benefit the small town.

Preserving Memories in Small Town Americana

From that spark, my daughters and I have preserved the memories of bygone days for towns in twelve states across the South. I would drive into a town, talk with some of the notables, photograph some of the existing buildings and other landmarks, search through old photographs at libraries and museums, and then take the photographs back to my two daughters and two other artists who would complete the composite drawings. We have preserved the memories of hundreds of towns across the South in our composite drawings.