GAINESVILLE - Board members, city officials, family and former students gathered this morning at the Beulah Rucker Museum to celebrate the dedication of the Beulah Rucker Oliver Memorial Intersection.
The dedication named the intersection at Athens Highway and Athens Street, just in front of the museum.
The ceremony featured several guest speakers, including the great-great-grandchildren of Oliver and several museum board members. Myrtle Figueras, board member, recognized guests, family and former students and then read Rogers Resolution, stating Oliver's place as a Georgia Woman of Achievement.
Senator Butch Miller explained the process of the naming of the intersection, and then it was revealed by the family.
After the dedication, several of Oliver's former students shared their memories of her. Many joked about her strict nature, but plenty recalled using the things she had taught them throughout their lives and in their careers.
"She was really ahead of her time," said former student Peggye Davenport. "She was creative, she was resourceful, she found ways to get stuff done but she was strong and she was very strict. We did learn a heck of a lot. So that's why I'm so glad... I'm so thrilled to see this wonderful dedication to her."
Former student Betty Hopkins recalled Oliver teaching her upholstery and catering, as well as how to work with your hands. "That was one of her main [teaching points]: learn to use your hands and learn to use what you have," said Hopkins. "I'm greatly honored to be here today to honor her legacy."
"Ms. Oliver did a lot for us," said former student Kathleen Bonds. "I enjoyed this day. Because she taught us a whole lot: how to treat people, love people and everything and put time in."
The sign revealed at the dedication was put in place after the luncheon following the event. Another sign was put in place during the event.
Oliver was a pioneer African-American educator who was responsible for the education of thousands of African-Americans in and around the Gainesville and Hall County area. Her school, The Industrial School, was founded in 1914 and operated until 1958. She also started the first Veterans Night School in the state of Georgia. Rucker, who died in February of 1963, was a teacher her entire adult life.
The Beulah Rucker Museum was created as a memorial to her life by her daughters, the late Mrs. Carre N. Bailey and Mrs. Dorothy B. Rucker, and their life long friend and former student, the late Mrs. Laura Mae Whelchel.
Tuesday
November 26th, 2024
1:57AM
