The Play
The Tallapoosa Historical Society episodically produces
From Possum Snout to Tallapoosa,
a two-act drama depicting the history of
Tallapoosa, Georgia from its roots through
World War II.
The play, originally written by Dr. Benjamin Griffith,
a retired English professor from Carrollton,
was last presented October 12 & 13, 2007 in the
old Tallapoosa High School auditorium.
The Story
Chief Possum Snout of Creek Indian fame gave Tallapoosa
its very first name. The small settlement first called
Possum Snout was renamed when Tallapoosa was founded in
1860. But it wasn't until the railroad came in 1884 that
the city grew into a prosperous business, manufacturing
and tourist location.
Through the ingenious plans and schemes of one enterprising
young man from Connecticut named Ralph L. Spencer, people from
northern and midwestern states, as well as from Hungary,
Slovakia and other European countries came to Tallapoosa
in the late 1800's and early 1900's to live, work and
Partake of the ideal climate and soothing waters of
the Lithia Springs.
The Hungarians and Slovaks came from the coal mines of
Pennsylvania to grow grapes to supply the prosperous
wine-making industry. Other Europeans were skilled
glass blowers and worked in local factories to supply
the wine industry. Yet others began businesses and factories
and built lovely homes that still stand today. Tallapoosa
had the distinction of being known as A Yankee City
under a Southern Sun.
Tallapoosa has a rich history and
From Possum Snout to Tallapoosa tells it all.
Based on an abstract by Mary Tolleson
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