Nestled between Baldwin, Jasper, Jones, and Putnam counties in Georgia lies the close-knit community of Kinderhook.
Generations of families have woven a tapestry of shared history and enduring connections.
Mid-June, Kinderhook’s own family historian and former Putnam County commissioner Frederick “Poo Tee” Ward gathered with some of the area’s eldest residents for a memorable family dinner filled with stories, laughter, and cherished memories.
“At Kinderhook, you’re either kin by blood or hooked by marriage,” Ward fondly remarked, encapsulating the strong familial bonds that define the community.
Among the guests was Charlie Mathis, a trailblazing entrepreneur and one of the first African American businessmen in the area, known for his logging operation established in 1960. Reflecting on his journey, Mathis shared a glimpse into his humble beginnings.
“My first job was washing dishes at the Greyhound bus station in Macon, alongside ‘Little Richard’ Penniman,” Mathis recalled.
Mathis’ roots run deep in Kinderhook. He originally hailed from Putnam County before settling in Jones County. His presence underscored the rich tapestry of stories and experiences that have shaped Kinderhook’s identity over the decades.
Another tale shared that evening revolved around an area known as the Devil’s Half Acre, located along State Highway 212. According to Ward, the area earned its name from a spirited disagreement between two brothers over what to do with an extra half-acre of land.
“The elder brother, frustrated with the debate, famously quipped, ‘The hell with it, just give it to the devil!’” Ward recounted with a chuckle, highlighting the community’s penchant for storytelling and humor.
At 95 years young, Helen Ward’s memories of her life and journey to Kinderhook are as vivid as ever. A descendant of Baldwin County, Helen fondly recalled how she came to call Kinderhook home after marrying her late husband, Jack Ward Sr., decades ago.
“Jack worked hard to provide for us, but he also had the best moonshine in the whole community,” Helen Ward said with a hearty laugh, highlighting a colorful aspect of her husband’s legacy.
For Helen, the transition to Kinderhook was more than just a change of residence; it was a journey into a close-knit community where she forged lasting friendships and became deeply ingrained in local life.
“Moving here was like gaining a whole new family,” she said, recalling the warmth and hospitality that welcomed her from the outset.
The evening was not just a celebration of history, but a testament to resilience and community spirit.
“Preserving our stories is preserving our identity. Kinderhook isn’t just a place on a map; it’s a tapestry of memories, shared by families who have weathered storms and celebrated triumphs together,” Fred Ward stated.
The gathering emphasized the importance of honoring and passing down traditions from one generation to the next.
As Kinderhook continues to evolve, its residents remain committed to preserving its unique heritage and place within Putnam County and celebrating the diverse contributions of its members.
Looking forward, Ward and others like him are dedicated to documenting and sharing more stories of Kinderhook’s past, to ensure future generations can appreciate and learn from the community’s rich history. In a world where change is constant and inevitable, Kinderhook remains a beacon of continuity and kinship, where stories are cherished, and bonds endure.
As the echoes of laughter and reminiscence lingered in the air at Ward’s Kinorhook Barbeque, it was clear the community’s legacy will continue to thrive, woven into the fabric of Georgia’s cultural tapestry for years to come.