Songs of Avondale - Paperback

by James W. Holmes (Author)

Songs of Avondale is a book of poems reflective of the early life of a boy who grew up in a world dominated by the Avondale Mills of Alabama, one of the largest textile companies in the United States, and by its founders, the Comer family, beginning with Governor Braxton Bragg Comer and extending to the rest of the Comers, especially including "Mr. Donald" Comer and "Mr. Hugh" Comer. Contrary to what some might think, that life was filled with joy and wonderment; and, though the people of Mignon and Avondale were never rich in the goods of the world, their hearts rang good and true. One could not ask more of his nurturers than that. Now Avondale Mills is but a ghostly memory. Its buildings and properties stand unused and in disrepair. The mill in Sylacauga, Alabama was struck by lightning and burned in 2011. Mill Village Life" is no more...gone the way of all that is too golden to remain inviolate. The memories of the people who are left, however, are the true gold, and they should be put into savings for those who follow. This is the author's deposit.

Author Biography

James W. Holmes grew up in the Avondale community. He graduated from B.B. Comer Memorial School., served in the United States Air Force, received degrees from Jacksonville (AL) State and Sul Ross (TX) State, and retired in 1995 after a thirty-five-year career as a teacher and administrator. He lives in San Antonio, Texas.