The Paradise Historical Society was conceptualized and brought to life by the efforts of Edna Wood, the founder and first President of the organization. Thanks to Mrs. Wood’s dedication, hard work and longevity, the society has thrived and has grown into a successful community asset.
Cotton growers on their way to the cotton gin. Main street, looking North. photo circa 1914
The society met for the first time on June 13, 2000, under her direction. As Mrs. Wood recruited help in developing the initial structure, she turned to Gay Read and others for support. Wood spent countless hours researching our history, ensuring that her vision for a Historical Society would become a reality. The patrons who populated the fourteen charter members included Bob & Donna Gayan, Paul & Virgie Potts, Sonny & Gay Read, Robert Crawford, Rosalie Gregg, John & Roberta Campbell, C.G. Skiles, Janice Peyton, and Miriam Vise.
The Society successfully dedicated the Veterans Park on Main Street in 2009 and plans to host a museum in the future.
The primary fundraising event is the Main Street Festival each year in the fall.
Bi-Monthly meetings are held the second Tuesday of odd months (Jan, Mar, May, July, etc.) at the Paradise United Methodist Church, beginning at 7pm. The public is invited to attend.
Paradise Historical Society Officers
