MSM 523 Georgia Taylor - Macon Memories

Growing up in a small town fosters feelings of community through shared experiences. In this episode, Georgia Taylor shares her memories of Macon, Mississippi during the 1930s, 40s, and 50s. She recalls the government-issued coupon books used to ration commodities during WWII and how her mother would buy groceries one day at a time. It was a time when people didn't lock their doors and grocery stores would delivery your food and even put it in the refrigerator for you. As teenagers in a small town, Taylor and her friends found ways to pass the long summers, together. She recounts the good times at the Dreamland Theater, dances at the American Legion Hut, getting sunburned at Choctaw Lake, and trips to her grandmother's farm. One of Taylor's favorite places was Farris Brook's Book Store. She recalls buying ice cream there and how the children would sit on the floor and read comic books. When Choctaw Indian Chief Cameron Wesley was arrested for murder in 1939, the story made national headlines.  Taylor discusses Wesley's two trials: the first in a Mississippi court and the second under Choctaw Tribal Law.