Wilcox Historical Society Welcomes Gordon G. Martin for American Village Program at Yaupon
The Wilcox Historical Society gathered on Sunday, October 4, for its fall meeting at Yaupon, the historic Mathews-Tait-Rutherford Home near Camden, where members and guests enjoyed an afternoon of history, hospitality, and fellowship.
Gordon G. Martin was the featured speaker and presented a program on American Village in Montevallo. Martin has served for 26 years on the American Village Board of Trustees, including twice as chairman, giving him a unique perspective on the organization’s history, mission, and work to promote an understanding of American history and citizenship.
The program was especially timely as the nation celebrates the 250th anniversary of the United States in 2026.
A Birmingham native, Martin is the inaugural Director of the James C. Kennemer Center for Innovation in the Honors College at The University of Alabama and also serves as an Operating Partner at Redmont Capital. He previously spent 28 years with Alabama Power Company and Southern Company and has held leadership positions with numerous educational, historical, civic, and charitable organizations throughout Alabama.
The afternoon setting offered another connection to history. Yaupon, also known as the Mathews-Tait-Rutherford Home, was built in the 1840s and is located in the Canton Bend community near Camden. The historic Neoclassical residence is distinguished by its raised brick basement, broad veranda, and imposing Doric columns.
Laura and Schley Rutherford graciously welcomed the Society into their beautiful historic home for the meeting. A nice crowd of members and guests attended and enjoyed the opportunity to visit Yaupon, hear Martin’s presentation, and spend time together in fellowship.
The Wilcox Historical Society extends its appreciation to Gordon G. Martin for an informative and engaging program; to Laura and Schley Rutherford for opening Yaupon for the afternoon; and to Garland Smith, WHS Vice President for Programs, for arranging the program.
The October gathering continued the Society’s mission to preserve and share the history of Wilcox County while providing programs that connect our local heritage to the broader story of Alabama and the nation.
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