Byron Herbert Reece in 1955

LEARN MORE ABOUT

The Byron Herbert Reece Society

The Society is dedicated to preserving and promoting the legacy of acclaimed Appalachian poet and novelist Byron Herbert Reece. Through educational programs, community events, and literary initiatives, we celebrate Reece’s contributions to Southern literature and his deep connection to the North Georgia mountains. Our mission is to ensure that Reece's works continue to inspire new generations, fostering an appreciation for his unique voice and the rich cultural heritage he represented. Join us in exploring the life and writings of one of Georgia's literary treasures.

Reece Society Annual Meeting

Our History

As early as 1959 interested persons in Union and Towns Counties worked to keep Byron Herbert Reece’s memory alive and his work in the public mind. Young Harris College immediately implemented a Special Collection in his honor, and a Reece Memorial Association was formed.

The current Society was formed in 2003 to implement the vision of the Chattahoochee-Oconee Forest Interpretive Association (COFIA) to make the Reece homestead a memorial center for the poet/novelist. James Mathis, Sr. of Gainesville was a driving force in the purchase of the land in 1987. 

The Society operated the Reece Farm and Heritage center from opening in 2012 until 2016, when day to day management was transferred to Union County. Since then the Society has devoted its efforts to keeping awareness of Reece’s work and legacy in the public awareness through educational programs, making his print works available, and holding well attended community events at the Reece Farm.

Reece Farm Exhibit

Our Mission

The mission of the Byron Herbert Reece Society is to preserve and promote the literary legacy of Georgia poet and novelist Byron Herbert Reece. By fostering an appreciation for his works and the rural Appalachian culture that inspired them, the Society aims to educate and inspire future generations. Through events, educational programs, and the preservation of Reece's writings, the Society seeks to highlight his deep connection to the natural world, his profound understanding of human struggles, and his contributions to Southern literature. We are always seeking opportunities to bring Reece into the classroom, writer’s groups, civic organizations, and wherever poetry and good writing are appreciated.

Reece Society Timeline

  • Reece among the second group of authors admitted to the Georgia Writers Hall of Fame.

    2000

  • Byron Herbert Reece Society organized and launched.

    2003

  • Reece named by the Georgia General Assembly “Georgia’s Appalachian Poet/Novelist”; the Assembly also named the stretch of U.S. Highway 129 From Neels Gap to the Union County Historic Courthouse in Blairsville “The Byron Herbert Reece Memorial Highway.

    2005

  • On June 3rd, the Byron Herbert Reece Farm & Heritage Center opened to public visitation. On September 14th, Reece’s 95th birthday anniversary, Reece and the Reece Farm & Heritage Center were officially inducted into the Southern Literary Trail.

    2012

  • Dedication of the Bettie Sellers amphitheater beside Wolf Creek. Union County begins day-to-day management of the Reece Farm and Heritage Center.

    2015

  • Dedication of a ledger gravestone at Old Union Cemetery, marking Reece’s final resting place with his accomplishments and accolades.

    2016

  • Reece Birth Centennial Celebration held.

    2017

  • Reece Connector Trail to Vogel State Park completed. Al Garnto sculptures completed. Pentecost Building construction begins.

    2018

  • COVID - but the Society continued giving a scholarship to deserving local students.

    2019

  • Another scholarship given to local students.

    2020

  • With vaccinations- life returns to mostly normal.

    2021

  • Scholarships, Annual Meetings, free ‘Maters and Music Festival, and the Birthday celebrations continue. The Society continues to assure that Reece’s books are in print and available. And a new website and renewed dedication to the mission are in the air!

    PRESENT

Note: Information provided comes from Dr.John Kay, and the records of the Reece Society.

2024-2025

Byron Herbert Reece Society Board of Directors

  • Ken Akins

    Dahlonega, GA

  • Ken Boyd

    Marietta, GA

  • Reid Dyer

    Blairsville, GA

  • Jerri Gill Strickland

    Gainesville, GA

  • Edward Gadrix

    Sandy Springs, GA

  • Stephanie Hulsey

    Gainesville, GA

  • Bill Jernigan

    Doraville, GA

  • Toni Jernigan

    Doraville, GA

  • John Kay

    Young Harris, GA

  • Carol Knight

    Blairsville, GA

  • Debra March

    Hayesville, NC

  • Janice Moore

    Hayesville, NC

  • Lamar Paris

    Union County, GA

  • Steven Reece

    Hendersonville, TN

  • Presley Rich

    Blairsville, GA

  • Bill Strickland

    Portal, GA

  • Jerry Taylor

    Young Harris, GA

  • Burt Weerts

    Cumming, GA

  • Hayley Bell Dyer

    Blairsville, GA

In Memoriam

  • Mildred Greerar

  • Bud Hill

  • Charles Hill

  • Fay Clegg Hoag

  • Charles Jenkins

  • Keith Jones

  • Ethelene Dyer Jones

  • Patti Kay

  • Terry Kay

  • Jack Lance, Sr.

  • Helen Lewis

  • Ruth Looper

  • Zell Miller

  • James Mitchell

  • Sue Ellen Pentecost

  • Garland Reynolds

  • Joe Satterfield

  • Bettie Sellers

  • Dora Hunter Allison Spiva

  • Austine Wells

Reece Society Members

Are you interested in volunteer opportunities?

Join the Reece Society and make a difference by volunteering in meaningful ways that directly impact our community and continue the legacy of Byron Herbert Reece. Whether you're passionate about education, literature, or historical conservation, our diverse volunteer opportunities offer something for everyone. Become a part of a dedicated group of individuals working together to foster positive change and build lasting connections. Explore how you can contribute your time and talents to help us achieve our mission.

How can you support the Reece Society?

Support the preservation of Byron Herbert Reece’s legacy — donate today to help us keep the past alive for future generations! To donate or find out more information about becoming a Reece Society member, click the button below to fill out our contact form.