Witness of the Times

Freedom Summer

In this week’s episode, we delve into pivotal moments that have shaped our nation's journey toward justice and equality as we explore a powerful chapter in American history: Freedom Summer. Dr.  Bruce Baker takes us back to the turbulent summers of 1964 and 1965 in Cherokee County, Georgia—a time when segregation still gripped communities and equality was far from guaranteed. Dr. Baker recounts the experiences of courageous African Americans who risked their safety and stood firm against racial injustice. We’ll hear the gripping stories of Freedom Summer, including the bold actions of young men who attempted to sit in seats marked “whites only” at a local movie theater, challenging entrenched boundaries of segregation. Dr. Baker also tells us about two extraordinary young women, Priscilla Strickland and Cynthia Durham, whose determination to attend Cherokee County High School in 1965 set a new standard for bravery in the fight for civil rights. Their experiences, along with the efforts of The Freedom League, are reminders of the strength and resolve needed to secure justice and equality. Freedom Summer was more than a single season—it was a testament to the power of collective action in confronting racial injustice. The sacrifices made during this pivotal time continue to resonate, reminding us of the enduring narrative of American democracy and the struggle for civil rights. Stay tuned for a compelling journey into a summer that changed history. This is Witness of the Times.
 

Beyond The Rails/Georgia's Devastating Train Tales

Episode Title: Beyond the rails/Georgia’s devastating train tales
Episode Summary: In this week’s episode, we explore two devastating train tragedies that left an indelible mark on Georgia’s history. Dr. Bruce Baker joins us to recount the harrowing stories of the Mill Pond Trestle collapse and the derailment of the Little Hook Train—accidents that occurred within twenty miles and twenty years of each other.
Our journey begins with the collapse of the Mill Pond Trestle, as reported by the Lee County Journal on November 11, 1904. James P. Harrison, a prominent Atlanta citizen and part-owner of the Atlanta Marble Company, along with A.C. Gaddis, superintendent of the company’s railroad, lost their lives when their train, loaded with marble, plunged over forty feet as the trestle gave way near Ball Ground, Georgia. The thunderous noise of the collapse reverberated through the area, fading into silence and leaving a lasting impact on the local community.
Our second story centers around the tragic derailment of the “Little Hook Train,” another heartbreaking accident that claimed the lives of dedicated workers. In this episode, we honor the memories of those lost in these tragedies and reflect on the legacy they left behind.
Listen to this episode to learn about:
The circumstances and impacts of the Mill Pond Trestle collapse.
The tragic derailment of the Little Hook Train.
The historical and personal legacy of those who lost their lives in these events.
Support the Show: If you enjoy Witness of the Times, please rate and review us on Apple Podcasts or wherever you listen. Every positive review helps new listeners find the show.
Have questions about the stories we cover? Email us at witnessofthetimes@gmail.com.
Credits:
Executive Producers: Marc Veazey and Dr. Bruce Baker
Hosts: Marc Veazey and Dr. Bruce Baker
Music: Jorgen Hallberg
Thank you for tuning in to Witness of the Times!
 

The Steele's Bridge Incident

On this week’s episode we’re unraveling a piece of Cherokee County history that speaks to resilience, conflict, and a forgotten act of sabotage. Nestled in the heart of the Bridge Mill Community lies Steel’s Bridge Road, once a route that led to an old wooden covered bridge spanning the Etowah River. Today, the remnants of that bridge rest beneath the waters of Lake Allatoona, a lake constructed by the Corps of Engineers in the wake of World War II. But this isn’t just a story of a submerged structure; it’s a poignant chapter in our history that takes us back to the turmoil of World War I—a tragedy we should never forget.
During the Great War, while many brave young men answered the call to service, others chose a different path, seeking refuge from the draft. In the greater Atlanta area, “anti-draft clubs” sprang up, fostering defiance against conscription and aiding those who resisted. By June 1918, federal authorities and local police knew that dozens of these men were hidden in the remote areas of Cherokee County, prompting a dramatic response. On Sunday, June 16th, 1918, fifty soldiers from Camp Gordon embarked on a mission, accompanied by federal agents and journalists, in a convoy of Velie trucks and police cars, to capture those evading the draft.
But on that fateful day, as they journeyed north past Woodstock and toward Canton, a catastrophe unfolded on Steel’s Bridge. The calamity that took place that day was an act not of misfortune, but of deliberate sabotage—and the men responsible for it have never been found and held accountable.
In today’s episode, we honor the memory of those soldiers who perished on Steel’s Bridge and reflect on a time when war, disease, and defiance intersected in a small Georgia town. Stay tuned as we dive into the full story of the Steel’s Bridge sabotage—a reminder of the countless unseen battles fought not only in fields far away but also in the quiet, hidden corners of our own hometowns.  With Veteran’s Day only a week away, this is Witness of the Times.
 

Beer, Wine and Taxes (A History of Distilled Spirits)

High folk’s Marc Here. Welcome to this week’s episode of Witness of the Times, where we take a fascinating journey into the history of distilled spirits with Dr. Bruce Baker. Dr. Baker walks us through the origins of the distillation process, which was first discovered in Mesopotamia around 4000 BC. He also introduces us to the earlier discoveries of wine and mead, dating back to approximately 5400 BC, explaining how the fundamentals of the process have remained largely unchanged over thousands of years. In this episode, Dr. Baker also sheds light on the earliest chemists and their pioneering work linking alcohol to essential oils, as well as the influence of early government taxation on distilled spirits. You’ll learn how these taxes not only shaped economies but also sparked significant historical events, such as the American Revolutionary War. Join us for this deep dive into the world of distillation, chemistry, and history, as we uncover the powerful connections between these ancient practices and modern times. Welcome to Witness of the Times.
 If you like what we do, rate and review the show on Apple Podcasts or wherever you listen.  Every positive review helps new listeners find the show.  Send us your questions about the stories we profile.  You can email us at witnessofthetimes@gmail.com.  The Executive Producers of “Witness of The Times” are Marc Veazey and Dr. Bruce Baker.  Our music is by Jorgen Hallberg.  We are your hosts, Marc Veazey and Dr. Bruce Baker, and this has been” Witness of the Times.”

Bootleggers, Moonshiners and Revenuers

On this week’s episode, we dive deep into the delicate dance between bootleggers, moonshiners, and the brave revenuers who tried to shut them down. Dr. Bruce Baker educates us on the crucial role that ATF agents played in the fight against the moonshine industry and the immense bravery these agents displayed. We learn about Justice Department Prohibition Agent Duff Floyd, whose long career was marked by thrilling car chases, gunfights, and even airplane crashes in his pursuit of illegal liquor. Dr. Baker also introduces us to Police Officer Lee Cape, who dedicated much of his career to battling moonshiners. Officer Cape’s headstone poignantly reads, "Through the performance of his duties in the enforcement of the law, he sacrificed his life." Join us as we explore these captivating stories from the Prohibition era and honor the individuals who upheld the law against significant odds.
If you enjoy the show, please rate and review it on Apple Podcasts or wherever you listen. Every positive review helps new listeners find the show. Send us your questions about the stories we profile at witnessofthetimes@gmail.com. The Executive Producers of Witness of the Times are Marc Veazey and Dr. Bruce Baker. Our music is by Jorgen Hallberg. We are your hosts, Marc Veazey and Dr. Bruce Baker, and this has been Witness of the Times.
 

John Henry Hardin (The Moonshine King of Georgia)

In this week’s episode, we are thrilled to welcome Dr. Bruce Baker, who introduces us to the fascinating story of John Henry Hardin from Cherokee County, Georgia. Dr. Baker transports us back to the early 1900s, delving into the world of moonshining in Northwest Georgia. He shares the industrious spirit of Hardin in the moonshining industry, along with the numerous encounters Hardin had with the law.
This episode kicks off a compelling three-part series on the history of moonshining. As we explore these stories, we’ll also reflect on the timeless wisdom of Cicero: “What is morally wrong can never be advantageous, even when it enables you to make some gain that you believe to be to your advantage.”
If you enjoy our show, please rate and review it on Apple Podcasts or wherever you listen. Every positive review helps new listeners find the show. We also invite you to send us your questions about the stories we profile. You can email us at witnessofthetimes@gmail.com.
The Executive Producers of "Witness of the Times" are Marc Veazey and Dr. Bruce Baker. Our music is by Jorgen Hallberg. We are your hosts, Marc Veazey and Dr. Bruce Baker, and this has been "Witness of the Times."

The Conclusion of Gold Mining in North Georgia

Episode 6 Show Notes
Episode 6: The Conclusion of Gold Mining in North Georgia
On this week’s episode of The Witness of the Times, Dr. Bruce Baker concludes his compelling series on gold mining in North Georgia. In this final installment, Dr. Baker sheds light on the profound impact of the removal of Native Americans and the subsequent land lottery—a pivotal moment in history that led to the sale of previously owned Native American land.
The narrative takes an intriguing turn as some of the new landowners make a surprising discovery—gold in their very own backyard. This episode offers a captivating exploration of the historical reverberations and unforeseen developments that arose from this significant period in North Georgia's past.
Show Notes:
Native American Removal and the Land Lottery: Learn about the historical context of the land lottery and its impact on the Native American population in North Georgia.
Discovery of Gold: Explore the surprising turn of events as new landowners stumble upon gold, leading to a new chapter in the region's history.
Historical Impact: Dr. Baker examines the long-lasting effects of these events and their significance in shaping North Georgia's history.
Connect with Us: If you enjoyed this episode, please take a moment to rate and review The Witness of the Times on Apple Podcasts or wherever you listen. Your positive feedback helps new listeners discover the show. We also want to hear from you! Send us your questions about the stories we profile. Email us at witnessofthetimes@gmail.com. You can find us on Facebook at Witness of the Times.
Credits:
Executive Producers: Marc Veazey and Dr. Bruce Baker
Music: Jorgen Hallberg
Hosts: Marc Veazey and Dr. Bruce Baker
Thank you for joining us for this episode of The Witness of the Times. We look forward to bringing you more fascinating stories in future episodes.
 
 
 

The Cherokee Treasure Tunnel and the Quest for Lost Gold

Episode 5 Show Notes
Episode 5: The Cherokee Treasure Tunnel and the Quest for Lost Gold
Hi folks, Marc here. Welcome to a riveting new episode of The Witness of the Times as we dive into the captivating tale of the Cherokee Treasure Tunnel and the Red Bank Indian Tribe. In this episode, Dr. Bruce Baker takes us on a journey through history, unraveling the stories of resilience and loss as the Cherokee tribe concealed their gold before the heartbreaking forced removal to Oklahoma during the Trail of Tears.
Join us as Dr. Baker delves into the narratives of individuals on the quest for lost gold in North Georgia, painting a vivid picture of the enduring allure and mystery surrounding hidden treasures. This is an episode not to be missed as we explore the rich history and legends of lost gold in North Georgia.
Show Notes:
Cherokee Treasure Tunnel: Discover the hidden treasures of the Cherokee tribe and the significance of their efforts to conceal their wealth during the Trail of Tears.
Quest for Lost Gold: Learn about the legends and stories of those who have sought after the lost gold in North Georgia, driven by the mystery and allure of hidden treasures.
Historical and Cultural Impact: Explore the lasting impact of these tales on the region and how they continue to capture the imagination of treasure hunters and historians alike.
Connect with Us: If you enjoyed this episode, please take a moment to rate and review The Witness of the Times on Apple Podcasts or wherever you listen. Your positive feedback helps new listeners discover the show. We also want to hear from you! Send us your questions about the stories we profile. Email us at witnessofthetimes@gmail.com. You can find us on Facebook at Witness of the Times.
Credits:
Executive Producers: Marc Veazey and Dr. Bruce Baker
Music: Jorgen Hallberg
Hosts: Marc Veazey and Dr. Bruce Baker
Thank you for joining us for this episode of The Witness of the Times. We look forward to sharing more intriguing stories with you in future episodes.
 

Jacob Scudder and The First Gold Rush in North Georgia

Episode 4: The First Gold Rush in North Georgia
Join us in this week’s episode of The Witness of the Times as we embark on a captivating journey into the history of the first gold rush in the United States. Dr. Bruce Baker kicks off a three-episode series on gold mining in North Georgia, beginning with the enthralling tales of Jacob Scudder and two slaves, Dan and Lucinda Riley. Their compelling experiences, intertwined with the allure and deception of gold, offer a deep and poignant perspective on this pivotal era.
As we navigate through this historical narrative, Dr. Baker revisits Mark Twain’s thought-provoking theory on gold, reminding us that "A Gold Mine Is a Hole in the Ground with a Liar at the Top." This episode is the beginning of a fascinating series that explores the significant role gold mining played in shaping the history and culture of North Georgia.
Show Notes:
Introduction to Gold Mining in North Georgia: Dr. Bruce Baker introduces the first of a three-part series, focusing on the early gold rush and its impact on the region.
Tales of Jacob Scudder, Dan, and Lucinda Riley: Explore the stories of these individuals whose lives were deeply affected by the lure of gold.
Mark Twain’s Perspective on Gold: Reflect on Twain’s famous observation about the deceit often associated with gold mining, providing a critical lens through which to view this period in history.
Connect with Us: If you enjoyed this episode, please take a moment to rate and review The Witness of the Times on Apple Podcasts or wherever you listen. Your positive feedback helps new listeners discover the show. We also want to hear from you! Send us your questions about the stories we profile. Email us at witnessofthetimes@gmail.com. You can find us on Facebook at Witness of the Times.
Credits:
Executive Producers: Marc Veazey and Dr. Bruce Baker
Music: Jorgen Hallberg
Hosts: Marc Veazey and Dr. Bruce Baker
Thank you for joining us for this episode of The Witness of the Times. We look forward to continuing this exciting series with you in the coming weeks.
 

The story of Georgia Governor Joseph E. Brown

Episode 3 Show Notes
 
Episode 3: The Legacy of Governor Joseph Emerson Brown
In this week’s episode of The Witness of the Times, we delve into a fascinating chapter of history as Dr. Bruce Baker introduces us to the formidable former Georgia Governor, Joseph Emerson Brown. Known for his resilience and profound influence throughout the American Civil War, Governor Brown played a pivotal role in Georgia's reconstruction, leaving an indelible mark on the state and the nation. This episode offers invaluable insights into the life and legacy of this remarkable figure, helping us understand the enduring impact of his contributions to a significant period in our nation’s past.
 
Show Notes:
Introduction to Joseph Emerson Brown: Dr. Bruce Baker sheds light on the life and career of Governor Brown, exploring his leadership during the Civil War and his critical role in the post-war reconstruction of Georgia.
Historical Context: Learn about the challenges Governor Brown faced and the strategies he employed to navigate Georgia through one of the most turbulent times in American history.
Legacy and Impact: We discuss the lasting influence of Brown’s actions and decisions, offering a deeper understanding of how his legacy continues to shape the present.
 
Connect with Us: If you enjoyed this episode, please take a moment to rate and review The Witness of the Times on Apple Podcasts or wherever you listen. Your positive feedback helps new listeners discover the show.
We also want to hear from you! Send us your questions about the stories we profile. Email us at witnessofthetimes@gmail.com. You can find us on Facebook at Witness of the Times.
 
Credits:
Executive Producers: Marc Veazey and Dr. Bruce Baker
Music: Jorgen Hallberg
Hosts: Marc Veazey and Dr. Bruce Baker
 
Thank you for joining us for this episode of The Witness of the Times. We look forward to bringing you more insightful stories in future episodes.