To the editor: As one year closes and another begins, it is appropriate that we look back at the preceding year and give thanks for all good things. It is also appropriate to offer our appreciation to those who give freely of their time and resources.
A person that deserves our utmost appreciation is William H. (Bill) Raper.
Bill has given freely of his time and knowledge to the Clarkesville library for over 30 years. This has resulted in the establishment of the William H. Raper Heritage Room, which has computers and records room, the Genealogy Heritage Room, and the Habersham Room which contains materials about Habersham County history.
This exhibits Bill’s love of history and genealogy and is his gift to the people of the surrounding area, so that they may enhance their own knowledge of Habersham County and Northeast Georgia; also that any person may utilize the resources in the Genealogy Heritage Room to pursue their own family trees.
Bill is willing to use his own knowledge of genealogy (which is extensive) to assist anyone in finding their family roots. He has been contacted literally, by persons from all over the United States.
This is probably the most extensive history collection of Habersham County and surrounding area, involving books, registers, documents, and maps for the public to learn of the area.
Bill was recognized by the Georgia Senate with Senate Resolution 702 for his service, talent, and time given to the Habersham County Library and people of Northeast Georgia.
Appreciation is also expressed to the Clarkesville Library staff, Habersham County Library Board, and the present Branch Manager Shawna Meers-Ernst for their support of Bill and the William H Raper Heritage Room. May the Heritage Room and Bill’s work be maintained and kept for many years.
Lynwood Cash
President, Joseph Habersham Chapter
Sons of the American Revolution