Bates County Museum to Dedicate the George Ann Fisher Memorial Exhibition Building at the 6th Annual Heritage Dinner

Lee Ward

On Thursday evening, October 2^nd at 6:00 pm the Bates County Museum will hold a very special dedication service prior to the annual Heritage Dinner and program. One year ago, Butler and Bates County said goodbye to a woman who was and is irreplaceable. George Ann Fisher lost her battle with cancer after a long courageous fight with the disease. George Ann, husband Jim and mother-in-law, Louise Fisher, always supported the museum with their time, talents and gifts. As a loving remembrance to George Ann’s life, Jim Fisher graciously donated the funds necessary to build a structure on the grounds of the museum that will now house many of the artifacts still held in storage.

Jim currently serves as the Bates County Historical Society & Museum’s President and he will be among the guests present when the new building is dedicated. The Board and many other volunteers are working to have several artifacts moved and positioned by the October 2^nddedication. The museum is extremely grateful to Jim and his family for this wonderful addition that will allow visitors to view even more of Bates County’s rich history.

Following the brief dedication ceremony, the 6^thAnnual Heritage Dinner will begin at 6:30 pm. The Free Will Donation dinner is sponsored and catered by Ritchie and Debbie Davis, Butt-Head BBQ, of Adrian. A variety of desserts prepared by Society members will top-off the meal. Reservations are not necessary but would be appreciated so please call the museum to save your seat.

Once dinner is concluded, Mr. Lee Ward of Independence will present a program titled, Jesse James: Alive then Dead. Many will remember Lee from a program in 2010 about Civil War embalming practices. His book, “Coffins, Kits and More,” will be available that evening. For forty-five years, Lee worked as a funeral director and embalmer and owned Ward Funeral Homes in Chilhowee and Urich. He also owns and maintains a private museum dedicated to the Civil War and funeral merchandise up to the 1960s.

The museum extends an invitation to the public to attend these special events and thanks everyone who supports the museum and assists in Preserving Our History and Sustaining Our Heritage. Call for reservations. 660-679-0134.