History: a study of the club archives

“Names that ring a bell”

Examining the January 1925 roster of the Villager Club — out of which our local Rotary Club grew — is a humbling experience. Many of its members left a major imprint upon the city of Auburn as we know it. Their names are emblazoned on many features of our community — sidewalks, buildings, roads, parks, records...and in our memories.

Starting at the northwest corner of Magnolia and College streets, we find embedded in the sidewalk a Tiger Trail plaque honoring Rotarian Wilbur Hutzell, long-time track and field coach. Across the street stands Toomer’s Corner and south, between College Street and Chewacla Park, runs Toomer’s Parkway, named in memory of Shell Toomer. Several local citizens carry the McAdory name honoring former Rotarian and College of Agriculture dean, Dr. Ike McAdory.

The Hudson building on Magnolia Street is named after member J. T. Hudson’s grandson, Clark. Tamplin Hardware no longer graces Magnolia Street, but Hugh’s descendants have given his name to a major real estate development in South Auburn. Standing at the east end of Magnolia Street is the old Doc Yarborough House, now called Pebble Hill.

North on Gay Street, the city library once occupied land given by Molly Hollifield Jones, one-time wife of member Herman Jones. Many years ago north on College Street, stood the old Thomas Hotel. Its name was associated with distinguished citizen A. L. “Susie” Thomas, whose wife Delphine Thomas, also made such an imprint on the city. Susie’s grandson, Charles, is now one of Auburn’s outstanding doctors.

Felton Little gave his name to our downtown park, whereas the names of Deans M J. Funchess and B. B .Ross adorn university buildings. Legendary football coach Cliff Hare’s name now shares space on the football stadium with non-member (but favorite speaker) Ralph “Shug” Jordan.

No structure memorializes member Zebulon Judd, but records and memories have preserved his legacy. An assertive dean of the School of Education, in 1934-35 “Zeb” served as the 20th district governor of Rotary District 16. In later years, his world vision changed. He became a major landlord in the city and, during the civil rights struggles, headed up a White Citizens Council. Zeb’s driving eventually became so erratic that prudent citizens who recognized his car approaching gave it wide berth.

Report of the History Committee of the Auburn Rotary Club for September 2004