There are times in a historian's life that make all the hours of research in libraries, driving the country side to remote locations, and burning your eyeballs out looking at microfilm worth while. Seeing the drum returned to Northwest Georgia to the home counties of the 39th Georgia is one of them. I would like to thank Mr. Paul H. Ross for all his efforts in getting the drum back and letting me know of its return. I can not put into words the excitement, and pride that I felt when I first saw the drum up close. When I saw the words Free or dead painted onto the drum it sent chills up and down my back.
I would like to thanks the ladies at the Murray County Library for their kindness and hospitality during my visit. The use of the digital camera helped ensure timely publishing of these pictures on the web site.
We have some very good data and leads on finding out more information about the drum. I should have more information within a couple of weeks as we validate our leads. Check back as we publish more information about the drum.
