Jones County

Jones County History and Heritage (JCHH)
created the Hamilton-Williams Preservation Award in 2007 as a lasting Bicentennial tribute. It is named for two women whose names are entwined in Jones County's history but in very different ways.

Carolyn White Williams was a school teacher in Round Oak, but she is best known as the author of The History of Jones County, first published in 1957. The book chronicles Jones County's first 100 years from 1807 to 1907 and has been reprinted three times, most recently in 2003 by History and Heritage.

Annie Bowen Hamilton was the founder and first president of the Old Clinton Historical Society, which was formed in 1974. From the time the historical society was formed, Hamilton devoted the majority of her life to protect Clinton and its colorful history. Hamilton was one of the founders of Old Clinton War Days, which has been the major fundraiser for the historical society since it began in 1982.

The criteria for the award are: outstanding achievement or contributions to the preservation of Jones County's historical landscapes, buildings, artifacts and folklore; broad and effective advocacy of the value of Jones County's historical assets; advocacy of the promotion and education of the public about Jones County's historical landscapes, buildings, artifacts and folklore; and commitment to further the preservation of Jones County’s historical assets.

A plaque with annual award recipient names hangs on the wall of the W. E. Knox Civic Center.

2008 Recipiants: Sherri Rollins and Earl Colvin
2009 Recipiant: Ralph Sires
2010 Recipiant: To be presented at the end of the year