In 2002, T. Larry Smith, Henry County’s Official Historian, founded the Henry County Historical Group, Inc. (HCHG) and over the years left a profound impact on our community. His legacy was remembered this year by a sold-out audience of members and visitors that gathered on August 2 for the organization’s annual meeting. Sadly, Larry passed away on December 17, 2024, at the age of eighty-four.
Convening in the Great Southern Conference Center, the group was united in their respect and admiration for Larry’s invaluable contributions to the preservation of Henry County’s rich history. A heartfelt video tribute celebrating Larry’s life and achievements captivated the audience, and Jimmy Rane, the President, presented an engraved gavel as a lasting tribute to Larry’s legacy.
The highlight of the evening was this year’s guest speaker, Coach Bruce Pearl, the head basketball coach at Auburn University and the school’s all-time leader in wins. Interestingly, he is one of the few Division I basketball coaches who never played varsity or college basketball. During his speech, he discussed Auburn’s impressive 2024-2025 season. Coach Pearl’s Auburn Tigers were ranked number one for a record eight weeks and concluded the season by earning a spot in the Final Four. Coach Pearl stressed the importance of character, faith, and history.
President Jimmy Rane announced that the HCHG is thriving, unlike many other local historical groups in Alabama that are facing challenges. HCHG currently has a membership of 325, with several guests joining the organization during the annual meeting. He also introduced Emily Long, the new editor of the Orator, HCHG’s quarterly publication. Emily’s team published the first issue of the Orator in June and is bringing a new vision and energy to HCHG while maintaining the quality that the HCHG membership expects.
The Henry County Historical Group, Inc. membership welcomes all who would like to be a part of the organization. Memberships are: Individual $25/year, Couples $40/year, Business 100/year, or Lifetime membership is a onetime $500 payment. Make checks payable to HCHG and mail to 5679 CR 53, Abbeville, AL 36310.
