A place to share happenings in Macon & what the Mulberry community is up to!

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Wesleyan College is getting ready to welcome the Class of 2029 to their campus very soon, and is anticipating 12 new international students! They are asking for help from community members who are willing to foster connection and provide intentional hospitality to these students, like inviting them over for a meal, attending a campus event together, and even simply staying in touch throughout the year. If you are interested in being a Friendship Family host, please fill out this form by August 2.

A Bicentennial Moment

In anticipation of Mulberry’s upcoming Bicentennial Celebration in 2026, the Leonard Hill Cochran Historical Room presents a moment of Mulberry history.

"The Great Fire"

Below are excerpts from a letter written by Albert S. Hatcher, Chairman of the Board of Stewards on April 27, 1965 to the Mayor and Council, City of Macon plus excerpts from the Executive Board meeting April 30, 1965.

“At at meeting last night of the full official Board of Stewards of Mulberry Street Methodist Church, they unanimously voted and instructed me to convey to you their sincere appreciations for the job our Macon Fire Department did in confining the fire to the sanctuary and not letting it spread and destroy all of our Mulberry Street Methodist Church

“The subject of seating capacity of the Fellowship Hall was discussed and it was stated that we have presently made arrangement to borrow sufficient number of folding chair for use on Sunday.  These chairs are to be returned to the owners the following Monday which creates quite a problem in transporting, handling some 200 chairs each week.  It was further noted the price of chairs needed.  After discussion, it was decided that the number of chairs needed should be purchased inasmuch as our building program will be under way for approximately 18 months. 

The Speirs-Payne Stained Glass Studios have been contacted about the windows.  Also the organ had been inspected and was reported that it was not too badly damaged although the console was 100% damaged from water.

It was further reported that the choice of an architect had to be made and that James Berg offered to do this job but he stated that since the duplicates of the bldg. plans are in Mrs. League’s lands that it would save considerable expense to secure her services and declined the offer.  Mrs. League was commissioned as the architect.

It was also noted that in dealing with the fire insurance companies‘ adjusters it is the opinion they are required to replace the damaged structure exactly as it was prior to the fire. However, after further discussion with adjustors it was decided that Robt. Smalling Construction Co. be asked to give an estimate of the reconstruction costs as it was reported that the fire insurance policies cover up to $900,000 and do not call for payment on the pro-rata costs of total damaged property.  It was also noted that the reconstruction cost may reach the total amount of the policy.

In conclusion, the senior pastor mentioned that fire safety devices should be installed throughout the church and also noted that the church is receiving contributions from many people outside the city towards the rebuilding program.”

To be continued

"The Saints of Mulberry" Recipes

As part of Mulberry's Bicentennial Celebrations in 2026, we are sharing recipes from some of the saints of Mulberry's past.

Jacques Pepin's Mashed Potatoes and Carrots by Mary Jean Yates

• 3/4 lb. peeled potatoes, cut into 2" chunks
• 1/2 lb. peeled carrots, cut into 2" chunks
• 2 cloves garlic, peeled
• 1 T. unsalted butter
• 1/2 tsp. salt
• 1/4 tsp. freshly ground black pepper

This is an attractive and delicious combination that I prepare very often at home.

Cook cloves of garlic with the potatoes and carrots, which gives the dish a wonderful taste. Note that I use the cooking liquid instead of milk to soften the puree and that I add 1 tablespoon of butter (for 6 people) at the end, when it can most enhance the flavor. Use only good quality, unsalted butter for the most tasty result.

Place the potatoes, carrots and garlic in a pot and add water to cover by 1". Bring to a boil, reduce the heat and cook until the vegetables are soft, about 20 minutes. Drain, reserving the liquid and crush the vegetables slightly. Place in the bowl of a food processor with 1/2 cup of the cooking liquid, the butter, salt and pepper. Process just until combined. Serve. Yield: 6, 1/2 cup servings.

Prepared by Mr. Pepin at the 12th Annual International Conference of Culinary

Professionals in Atlanta.