Scouting Event Was A Hike Through History In Honor Of Local Bicentennials

By: Holly Hollman
Limestone County Archivist Rebekah Davis led a bicentennial hiking trip that did not require bug spray, boots, or a backpack.

On Wednesday, April 4, Davis was the guest speaker at the annual Athens-Limestone Community Breakfast. She took spectators on a trek called “Hiking Through History,” as a tribute to Athens, Limestone County, and the town of Mooresville turning 200 this year.

The City of Athens and Limestone County hosted the breakfast as a fundraiser for the Arrowhead District of the Boy Scouts. The Scouts presented Heart of an Eagle Awards to Limestone County, Mooresville, and Athens in honor of each entity’s bicentennial, as well as an award to the Limestone County Archives for the department’s work in preserving local history.

Members of the Athens High School Choir ‘Things in Common’ and the Ardmore High School Jazz Band performed during the breakfast portion of the program.

The event was held at the Limestone County Event Center, with a buffet breakfast served by Endless Catering from 7 a.m. to 7:30 a.m. The program started at 7:30 a.m.

Athens Mayor Ronnie Marks said that Scouts have contributed to the community through numerous endeavors, including projects that preserve local history.

“At Scout Music House alone, four Scouts have worked on Eagle Scout projects as part of the renovation work on that WPA-era building,” Marks said.

The City of Athens is leasing what was the Scout House to Athens Arts League, which is renovating it into a music venue known at Scout Music House. Boy Scouts have unveiled the original stone fireplace, added a handicap ramp and entrance, and removed paneling to allow for insulation.

Marks said such opportunities give youth the chance to learn leadership skills, working together to accomplish a goal, and how to invest in their community.

Limestone County Commission Chairman Mark Yarbrough said those attributes create future leaders.

“I am honored to co-host this great event each year with the City of Athens,” Yarbrough said. “The life skills that are taught through Scouting are crucial for the development of our young leaders today.”
By: Holly Hollman