This month, I have taken it upon myself to delve back into the history of a community of people that have long been an integral part of the makeup of Bowie County. The Garland Community holds a special place in my heart because of the people there, and the exceedingly impressive spirit that lives there.
Many years ago, Colonel Iverson Shavers and Jenna Benton gave me a front row seat to the marvelous history of the community. They allowed me to take part in their annual reunion, giving me a brief moment in time in a place where pride, strength and passion lives and is seen through the successes and achievements of those whose roots are buried in the sandy soil of the community.
I recall fondly the many hours I sat on a sofa in Jenna Benton’s front room, hearing the tales of the past, the exploits of the present and going through countless photos chronicling the history of the families descended from slaves. She would invite others over while I was there so they too could tell me their stories.
The Colonel could also talk for hours about those who paved the way for the successes of today, and he always spoke with a reverence about those who had endured so much to blaze a trail to freedom, stability and above all else, education. I do not believe I ever met a man, or a group of people, that were so enthralled about the importance of getting an education. Every singe family member I met in those days had a story about someone who had soared to lofty heights on the wings of education.
