Grady and Brenda Kelley of Thomaston recently donated to the Thomaston-Upson Archives and to the Upson Historical Society, a painting commissioned to commemorate the history of Upson County.

The painting was introduced to the Society members and public at the Upson Historical Society general meeting on November 26 and is on display in the Archives conference room.

Painted by Myma Bell, the original work represents the years before the Civil War, 1859-1860. Standing in front of the second courthouse are three members of the Upson Guard from that time period. The Guard in the middle represents Brenda Kelley's great grandfather, John Stewart.

Grady Kelley diligently researched the Upson County courthouses and information on the Upson Guards at the Archives to make sure that the uniforms and courthouse design were historically accurate.

Because of the Kelleys' love of history, love of the community, and recognition of the importance of sharing our history, this one-of-a-kind painting was commissioned and donated for the people of Upson County to enjoy.

The Thomaston-Upson Archives and the Upson Historical Society work together on a variety of projects. Upson Historical Society President Wesley Brown stated that he hopes that the Kelleys' generosity will encourage others to donate material to the Archives.

The Archives is a joint project creation with the Upson Historical Society, the City of Thomaston, the County of Upson, and the Thomaston-Upson Board of Education.