SUMMER 2022 GRANITEER Elberton Georgia has a long a rich history of producing some of the finest granite monuments available anywhere in the world. The granite deposit in Elbert and the surrounding counties has long been recognized as substantial and of the highest quality, and it is for these reasons, that Elberton has become one of the leading manufacturing centers for granite monuments. Member Spotlight For over 120 years, Elberton granite craftsmen and artisans have been working with the native stone, creating beautiful works of art for both monuments and memorials. Granite is also the medium of choice when it comes to longevity, and our monument and memorials are expected to last for many hundreds, if not thousands of years. It is for these reasons that in the late 1970’s, that a man came to Elberton with a desire to have a monument built out of granite. This gentleman had an idea for a monument, he also had the funding and the design ready to go. This man knew that to build a monument to the size and specification he wanted, he needed to have it built by craftsmen in the granite and stone working trade. The Elberton granite industry has never shied away from a challenge, or from a chance to build something out of granite that would showcase the artistry and talent of those who worked on it. That is what the granite industry in Elberton does, we build beautiful monuments, that can also be considered works of art. We also don’t discriminate on what we build. When a customer brings us an order, we build it. Regardless, of the race, gender, color, religious affiliation, or political preference of the person, event or place being memorialized. The Georgia Guidestones were unveiled on March 22nd, 1980, on a hilltop in Elbert County. Most folks at the time didn’t know what to make of them and quite frankly, they didn’t give them much thought. They were just another monument, like thousands of others produced by the Elberton granite industry. In talking with people in the industry who were around when the Guidestones were being produced, the facts that can’t be ignored, are the utter craftsmanship and talent it took to quarry and manufacture those stones. I have taken people who work with granite in other states and in other countries to see the Guidestones, and the one comment I would consistently hear, is, “that is an impressive monument, I am not sure we could have done that.” The Guidestones, unfortunately, did not appeal to everyone. The words written on them overshadowed the greatness of the stones themselves, causing a division among people. There were those that could admire the Guidestones and their message and then just move on, but there were others that could not. In the end, the words on the Guidestones affected and triggered someone or some group so severely, that the need to destroy them was their solution. The Guidestones may be gone from the land they once occupied, but they will live on, in photos and on the internet forever. For the Elberton Granite Industry, the Guidestones will always represent the craftsmanship and artistry of an industry that builds the finest quality monuments. Majestic Changes Underway at Majestic Memorials (Formerly Known as Majestic Granite Company) Owners Jonathan and Breanna Evans with niece, Natalie, daughter, Ayden and son, Michael The EGA member-firm formerly known as Majestic Granite Company has recently undergone some “Majestic” changes within the company. To start, in March of this year Jonathan and Breanna Evans purchased the company from Robert and Barbara Worley who had been members since 1988. Bobby opened the company in 1965 when he was only twenty-one years old. Jonathan was at a convention when someone mentioned to him that the plant was for sale and he began to think of the things he could do if he purchased the business. Jonathan has worked in the granite industry for the past twenty-three years and looks forward to this new challenge. Jonathan (also known as Bo Bo) along with his wife Breanna are working to renovate the machinery and buildings in order to up production and quality of the monuments fabricated from their facility. Attention is being given to getting higher quality stone and expanding the polishing mill that has been dormant for some time. With the purchase of the company also came the name change from Majestic Granite Company to MAJESTIC MEMORIALS. The company remains in the same location and has maintained all staff that chose to stay through the change-over along with adding a few additional new employees. They are capable of producing custom made monuments, sawing, sandblasting, polishing. They can manufacture sawn or polished slabs as well as monuments. Memorial Art Relocates to New Office and Hires Assistant MEMORIAL ART, owned by Eddy Higginbotham, recently relocated their operations to a new building in Elberton, Georgia. Eddy spent a good bit of time having the new office painted and new carpet laid out to make it more comfortable to work in. It is located just a few blocks from the Elberton Granite Association on College Avenue. Memorial Art is an Associate Member of the EGA and specializes in pre-cut stencil and full-size memorial designs. Memorial Art’s newest employee is Olivia Wilmot. Olivia has been with the company a few months and is enjoying the position. Her duties include assisting Eddy with day-to-day activities and errands along with cutting stencil and delivering it to local customers. Ryan Albertson Named Terminal Manager at Associate Member Firm, Henry & Henry Trucking Ryan Albertson is a name well-known in the Elberton area. He can be seen all over town driving various trucks to and from manufacturers along with being at Henry & Henry doing any task that may need to be accomplished. He has been a fixture at Henry & Henry since the late 1990’s when he worked part time through Elbert County’s work study program with the Elbert County high school. In 2000 he was named Assistant Manager, assisting his father, Paul Albertson, while attending college. Paul, Ryan’s father, recently retired as Terminal Manager at Henry & Henry. Ryan and his wife, Kristen, along with their three children often can be seen at various conventions throughout the year endorsing Henry & Henry Trucking. Ryan’s new position as terminal manager will require him being the liaison between customers and drivers, scheduling loads and maintaining the business office along with the loading dock. Ryan has assisted with all these jobs alongside his father throughout the years. He was often seen at his father’s side and made his first appearance in the Graniteer in 1999 when he attended his first EGA Annual Meeting with his father, Paul Albertson. That was also the year that Ryan earned an EGA Scholarship toward his degree in Business Administration. Henry & Henry has operated in Elberton since 1989. The Elberton location operates with elevated loading docks, a 5-ton capacity bridge crane and a fleet of twelve trucks and twenty-five flatbed trailers. Henry & Henry services twenty-five states from Virginia all the way to Utah. From Medicine to Monuments - Elbert County native, James Michael (Mike) Rutherford, Sr. RN, CRNA, RRT spent twenty-five years administering anesthesia as a certified registered nurse anesthetist before venturing into the granite industry in 1995. That first venture was former member-firm, Sacred Blue Quarries, Inc. located off Harley Rucker Road. Almost everything Mike learned in the granite industry was through mistakes and bad judgments, much of which came in this first unsuccessful venture. Mike Rutherford stated, “I have learned from every mistake and tried my best not to make them again”. Mike’s next venture was in 1996 when Pyramid Quarries was purchased from the late Joe Fendley. This secured Rutherford a solid footing in the Elberton Granite Industry. The granite found in Pyramid featured a fine dark blue grain. In 2007 Robert (Bo) Rutherford graduated from college with a business degree and joined his father in the quarrying business of Pyramid Stone Industries, Inc. As the business grew, Pyramid Materials, Inc. was established to saw slabs and curbing of excess blocks using a Wilson 8-ft. wire saw. In 2013 the business expanded again with the purchase of then, member-firm, Adams Quarry off Ruckersville Road from the late Wayne Adams. Adams Granite Quarry had been a member of EGA since 1992. This quarry was notorious for its Adams Blue and Violet Blue granite. In 2014 the adjoining, Sweet City Quarry and Supreme Granite Company were purchased from the late Willie Simmons. Both quarry and plant were also member-firms with the Elberton Granite Association. The plan was to manufacture just “bread and butter” monuments from the Supreme Granite facility. “Little did we know, just how the monument business would take-off as it did” stated Mike Rutherford. The plan for simple monuments grew and transformed to more strategic and more elaborate monuments being ordered and made. In 2015 Mike convinced his daughter, Gara Andrews to join the manufacturing side of the business as manager of Pyramid Materials, Inc. She was also in the medical field as a radiology and ultrasound technologist. Gara left the medical field all together and dove in full time with her father. “The opportunity to come and work for family has been great for me. I have been able to be more of the mother and wife that I have always wanted to be for my kids and husband. I haven’t had to miss ballgames, or school events. I’ve been able to be flexible with my work hours and be more present for my family than I could have ever been in my previous career. It has meant starting a few days at 4 am, or running back into the office after softball games but as long as the work gets done the timing is a little less critical.” stated Gara. In 2017 the Pyramid Materials, Inc. - Nickville plant was purchased out of bankruptcy which more than doubled the monument fabrication capacity. With the Pyramid Dark quality stone, superior workmanship, and customer service, the monument business continued to grow by leaps and bounds. In 2018 the Apex, Universal and Metro facilities on West Tate Street were added to the monument fabrication business. At this point, Bo’s wife, Amanda joined the management team to facilitate communication and payroll functions of the quarrying and monument fabrication entities. With the combination of plant locations, machinery and employees, Pyramid Materials is fully equipped for all stages of finishing every type of monument or memorial. They pride themselves on quality stone and craftsmanship. In 2021 the Pyramid quarrying operations merged with five other quarriers to form the corporate structure of Savannah Valley Quarries, LLC. The goal of the merger was to increase production of quarried blocks to fabrication customers, promote safer working conditions for all employees and to upgrade equipment used in the quarrying process. “At age 74, it is time to be looking for an exit strategy of the daily management of the quarrying and monument fabrication operation. I am comfortable with Bo, Amanda and Gara in the leadership roles they have to represent the Elberton Granite Industry on the local, national and international stage.” stated Mike Rutherford Johnson Machine Shop Manufactured New Diamond Tipped Core Hole Drill As always, JOHNSON MACHINE SHOP is a bustle of productivity keeping up with multiple orders being built. Steve and son, Clark never fail at leading their team to put out high quality machinery that assist with the natural stone industry. Their latest creation is a diamond tipped core hole drill. The core hole drill is constructed of heavy structural steel. The frame is welded to insure maximum stability and rigidity. The drill is made with a complete water and hydraulic system completely built in. A water supply only needs to be connected to the source for operation. Water is used to minimize the heat and friction that occurs when the drill bit grinds into the hard surface of granite. This machine will hold a drill bit as small as 1-inch and as large as 8-inches. The 10-horsepower spindle motor is equipped with variable speed and pressure to ensure fast and economical and clean operation. Design Mart Introduces New Columbaria In Online Monument Designer Two new monument options are available in Design Mart's Online Monument Designer, and they are an excellent choice for customers who choose cremation. The default granite color for the columbaria is blue/gray, but they can be changed to multiple granite colors, and the door colors can be changed independently of the columbaria. Vases and doors can be easily changed to black for nice contrast if laser etching is to be used rather than sandblast. Images can be imported to create proofs that feature portraits, small scenes, etc. Those who have a subscription to the Online Monument Designer may find the columbaria and begin working with them by using the Designer's search tool and typing one of these words: Columbaria, Columbarium, Cremation, D1545 or D1546. Finished concepts can be easily exported for use with any CAD system for stencil cutting. Design Mart offers a free 30-day trial of the Online Monument Designer as well as free support and training for those who have questions. There is helpful information at https://designmart.com/online-catalog-and-monument-designer/monument-designer/about-online-monument-designer/. Scroll to the bottom of the page to sign up for your free trial. There are also helpful tutorial videos at https://designmart.com/online-catalog-and-monument-designer/monument-designer/monument-designer-tutorials/, which teach all the basics of using the Designer. The Elberton Granite Association pulled off their fifth successful Museum Foundation Golf Tournament. The tournament was held at Arrowhead Pointe Golf Course but was moved to early spring in hopes of better weather than previous years. That decision proved to have very good results. The day was beautiful with a clear sky, fair temperatures and a light breeze. The proceeds of the Museum Foundation Golf Tournament are collected to be used toward updating and renovating the Elberton Granite Museum & Exhibit. The museum was founded in 1981 and has become a favorite attraction to locals and tourists alike. The funds received were added to the foundation funds to renovate the Elberton Granite Museum. Nineteen teams gathered to play with six teams taking the lead from first, second and third place of first and second flights. Member-firms along with other businesses help each year to make this day a success by sponsoring the various aspects of the day. AWARDS CEREMONY & BUFFET SPONSOR Miles Supply of Elberton GOLD SPONSORS Granite Sales & Supply Corporation SILVER SPONSORS A. Q. Stone Design • Air Compressor Sales • Austin Powder Bicknell Supply Company • Central Granite Company Delta Associated Investigations Henry & Henry Trucking Matthews Granite • Pinnacle Bank Wilson Industrial Electric BEVERAGE CART SPONSOR Georgia Administrative Services PUTTING CONTEST SPONSOR Anchor/IPG Stencil LONGEST DRIVE SPONSOR Techstone Granite LUNCH SPONSOR Porcelains Unlimited CLOSEST TO PIN SPONSOR Richards Restaurant GOLF BALL SPONSOR Foothills Financial Strategies HOLE-IN-ONE SPONSOR Lewis Transcontinental EAGLE PUTT SPONSOR SAS Forks First Flight - FIRST PLACE Winners! (L-R) Sandy Thornton, Michael Osborne, Nathan Thornton & Chad Brown, BROWNSTONE MEMORIALS, INC. First Flight - SECOND PLACE Winners! (L-R) Billy Bryant, Walker Bryant, Brett Padgett, & Slate Cook, MILES SUPPLY OF ELBERTON First Flight - THIRD PLACE Winners! (L-R) Jackson McConnell, David Voyles, Shannon Fortson, & Stewart York Second Flight - FIRST PLACE Winners! (L-R) Chad Kelly, Danny Newton, Lamar Whisennant & Harold Wilson, DARICA TRUCKING Second Flight - SECOND PLACE Winners! (L-R) Austin Pruitt, Greg Parker, Tanner Lewis, & Shannon Erwin (not pictured), LEWIS TRANSCONTINENTAL Second Flight - THIRD PLACE Winners! (L-R) David Anderson, Rick Timms, Eddy Higginbotham, & Steve McKinney, BICKNELL SUPPLY COMPANY Quinn Floyd, Mason Gaines, Tim Gaines & Alan Wilder, A.Q. STONE DESIGN COMPANY Ross Ellis, Ed Harris, John Smith, & Adam Thompson David Anderson, Rick Timms, Eddy Higginbotham, & Steve McKinney, BICKNELL SUPPLY COMPANY Chaz Bray, Cole Bray, Landon Brown, & Evan Yeargin, BRAY GRANITE Chad Brown, Michael Osborne, Nathan Thornton & Sandy Thornton, BROWNSTONE MEMORIALS Daniel Graves, Jake Smith, Ray Cannon & Wesley McConnell, CENTRAL GRANITE Chad Kelly, Danny Newton, Lamar Whisennant & Harold Wilson, DARICA TRUCKING Mike Brady, Nick Fleischer, Elliott Paul, & Nathan Walters, EAGLE GRANITE COMPANY Chris Kubas, EGA, Steve Heinen, Thomas Musselwhite, & Ben Vinson, ELBERTON GRANITE ASSOCIATION Amy Schieffelin, Lou Salmon, Andy Anderson & Denny Pickett Stacey Drake, Steve Banks, David Baston, & Heath Brady, GRANITE SALES & SUPPLY Sid Gailey, Thomas Brady, Jim Hulme, & Brady Starrett, GRANITE SALES & SUPPLY Austin Pruitt, David Dye, Greg Parker, Shannon Erwin, LEWIS TRANSCONTINENTAL Trey McAvoy, Rick Buffkin, Jake Baker, & Ben Baker, MATTHEWS INTERNATIONAL Ben Emery, Chad Ankerich, Jason Floyd, & Chris Campbell Brett Padgett, Slate Cook, Walker Bryant, & Billy Bryant, MILES SUPPLY OF ELBERTON Eric Chaloux, Reid Kubesh, Dan Pfannenstein, & Mark Crook, MILES SUPPLY OF ELBERTON Jackson McConnell, David Voyles, Shannon Fortson, & Stewart York Kyle Rosell, Cyanne Fuller, Josh Pierson, & Bob Shah EGA Apprenticeship Program Going Strong In May of 1965, the EGA began the Apprenticeship Program to train young people in the local granite industry. This gives the opportunity to learn hands-on skills such as stone-cutting, polishing, and operating machinery needed in creating monuments. The program was started to fill the need for new qualified workers wanting to make the granite industry their choice of career. The EGA came up with this idea to develop the skills needed over a roughly nine-month training period, or 1,530 hours for stone-cutting. Stonecutters continue to be a much needed employee in the granite industry and EGA is happy to assist in training individuals to keep the art alive. This is just another way that EGA serves its members in preparing for the needs of tomorrow. Chancellar Yeargin with BROWNSTONE MEMORIALS successfully completed his on-the-job training apprenticeship for stone-cutting with 1,907 hours of training. Owner, Chad Brown took the reins as mentor and trainer for Chancellar. Chancellar has worked at Brownstone Memorials for two years and is twenty-eight years old. He decided to work in the granite industry as a stonecutter to follow his father and grandfather who also worked as stonecutters. Chancellar’s goal is to continue to learn and work to be better every day. (Photographed left to right is Matthew Pruitt representing EGA along with Chancellar Yeargin and Chad Brown from Brownstone Memorials) Following in the family footprints is Kyle Moon. Kyle has been working under his grandfather, Gerald Moon, Owner of G.B. MOON GRANITE MEMORIALS, and father Scott Moon to earn his certificate in stone-cutting under the on-the-job-training apprenticeship program. Kyle was successful in completing 1,655 hours of training at only 20 years old. He has worked with his father and grandfather in the family business for about two years and plans to make it his life’s work. When asked what his goals are for the future, he responded “One day, to own this place. I’m in it for the long haul.” Gerald Moon stated, “He’s got a great work ethic and is our third generation.” (Photographed left to right is Gerald, Kyle and Scott Moon, all from G.B. Moon Granite Memorials) KEYNOTE SPEAKER & WEEK-LONG MENTOR: Troy Caldwell, CM, AICA of Caldwell Monuments in Kokomo, Indiana MONUMENT RETAILERS CLASS EGA Hosts Annual Meeting The month of June always brings a whirlwind of activity with summer officially kicking off. But the EGA and its members never fail to get together for the annual meeting to discuss the previous year’s progress and to vote for the upcoming year’s board members. This year’s meeting was held at the Elberton Country Club on June 8th. The evening was kicked off with President, Billy Bryant calling the meeting to order and doing roll call of membership. Vice President Rose Walker officiated the memorial service followed by President Billy Bryant taking nomination ballots for the new trustees. Special thanks goes to the three board members that rolled off of the board and a big welcome is sent to the three stepping into their place. The departing trustees are Billy Bryant of GOLD EAGLE QUARRIES, Jason Edwards of SOUTHERN GRANITE COMPANY, and Bo Rutherford of PYRAMID MATERIALS. The incoming trustees that will serve over the next three years are Rick Adams with STAR GRANITE INTERIORS, Greg Ruff with RIVER EDGE GRANITE COMPANY, and Roger Wallace with WALLACE GRANITE SALES. Congratulations gentlemen. The EGA looks forward to working with you to continue to serve our members. The Treasurer’s Report was done by Bob Paul of EAGLE GRANITE COMPANY, followed by the President’s Report given by Billy Bryant. EVP, Chris Kubas gave the Report of the Executive Vice President. After all of this, the remainder of the evening was catered with a delicious meal and hor d’oeuvres. Fellowship and laughter was in abundance. Each year, the Association recognizes those men and women that have passed on since the last meeting. Vice President, Rose Walker of WALKER GRANITE COMPANY led a moment to remember and honor each of them. TOP LEFT PHOTO: Executive Vice President, Chris Kubas presented outgoing President, Billy Bryant of GOLD EAGLE QUARRIES with a plaque of appreciation for his service to the EGA and its members over the last year. Thank you, Billy! TOP RIGHT PHOTO: The Association was blessed with two new members this past year. BRAY GRANITE owned by Tim and Kim Bray (not present), and LEWIS TRANSCONTINENTAL owned by Tanner Lewis. Office manager of Lewis Transcontinental, Bridgette Gunn, accepted the plaque. Tribute to History The Georgia Guidestones Spring 1980 KEYSTONE MEMORIALS, INC. created this spectacular bell-shaped monument for long-time customer Bell Memorials located in Beloit, Kansas. This bell-shaped memorial was fabricated with such care and attention as it is a standing testimony to the life of the late co-owner of Bell Memorials, Jim Bell and his wife and partner, Ruth Bell. Jim and Ruth played a role in designing the monument prior to his passing. Jim knew that he wanted American Granite to be used. Emblems used on each wing were selected to signify each person’s passions in life. On the right wing, hand tools of stone-working were selected to symbolize Jim’s life work. The left wing displays three roses to signify each of the couple’s children along with a knife, fork and spoon to represent Ruth’s love of cooking. The back of the monument features photograph porcelains from Mr. & Mrs. Bell’s wedding day along with a family photograph taken just weeks prior to Mr. Bell’s passing. This beautiful monument consists of American Black granite, Grey Cloud granite, and Medium Barre granite weighing just shy of 10,000 pounds. The wings and sub base are all polished. The sub base has a three-inch round on each end. The three-inch round is mimicked on the all-dusted base made of Grey Cloud granite. Sitting right in the center of the two wings is a steeled vase with straight ends that taper toward the bottom. Atop the monument rests an all-steeled tablet made from Medium Barre granite featuring bas relief sculpted head of Christ and a notch cut between the front and back, behind the sculpture. Keystone Memorials did a phenomenal job shaping and finishing this monument. This piece of art can be seen at Saint Johns Cemetery in Beloit, Kansas. “This was truly a labor of love for everyone that had a part in producing it. Shortly before Jim died, he and Josh were talking about it and Josh was asking him about the best way of setting the finished memorial. Jim said “son, that’s not my problem!” - Ruth Bell This unique 5-piece monument was crafted by KEYSTONE MEMORIALS for Campbell Monument Company in Provencal, Louisiana. Galaxy Jet Black granite and Missouri Red granite were used to create a two-tone effect. The tablet portion of the monument is all polished and was cut at the top to feature polished rounds leading to straight ends. The tablet rests atop two Missouri Red plinths separated by an empty space. Each outside edge of the plinths imitates the polished round at the top of the tablet. The plinths are all polished as well and sits atop an all polished Galaxy Jet Black sub base. The base features a 2-inch polished margin and is completed with rock pitch along the edges. This monument is located in Hathorn Cemetery in Ashland, Louisiana. RIVER EDGE GRANITE COMPANY continues providing memorials that stand out. Monuments that shine in simplicity to monuments that dazzle with ornate detail can be found in River Edge’s array of completed memorials and monuments. In this case, River Edge fabricated this granite bevel for M&R Granite in Spartanburg, South Carolina in partnership with local Sculptor, Clint Button. This bevel features two sprays of life-sized tulips that were carved in profile relief within a sunken panel. The bevel has a three-inch drop from eight inches in the back to five inches in the front. The bevel was all hand-axes except for the honed detail on the dog tag in the lower left corner. This memorial can be located in Locust Valley Cemetery in Locust Valley, New York. This outstanding family monument was created by EAGLE GRANITE COMPANY from Blue Ridge granite for Glenwood Cemetery in Houston, Texas where the monument can be located. Fourteen pieces of granite make up this massive work of art. All external edges are polished to a pristine shine excluding the inside of hand-tooled recessed panel and the hand-tooled flutes on each of the front columns. The four column caps along with the tablet cap are cut and polished with a combination of checks and ogee to give the pieces a “royal” flare. The side walls are made with a subtle half serp curve that leads to the two wings that have full half serp tops. The center tablet is cut with a straight top and shows the family name sitting within a recessed panel with raised 8-inch hand-tooled lettering on front and back of the center panel. This family memorial is expertly designed and put together. Eagle Granite Company can always be trusted to create the highest of quality monuments. Their ability to combine new age technology and old world craftsmanship is top notch. Baston Monuments fashioned this beautiful Jet Black monument for Vanover Monument Company in Clay, Kentucky. The monument is all polished with an apex top. A steeled scotia wraps around the monument between the top and edges with a sandblasted band just below that featuring the Initial of their family name. The base has a 2” polished margin and is finished with rock pitch around the remainder of the stone. This monument is located in Fairmont Cemetery in Henderson, Kentucky. Baston Monuments fashioned this beautiful Jet Black monument for Vanover Monument Company in Clay, Kentucky. The monument is all polished with an apex top. A steeled scotia wraps around the monument between the top and edges with a sandblasted band just below that featuring the Initial of their family name. The base has a 2” polished margin and is finished with rock pitch around the remainder of the stone. This monument is located in Fairmont Cemetery in Henderson, Kentucky. EAGLE GRANITE COMPANY fabricated this magnificent, special cut memorial for Arnold Monuments in Nashville, Arkansas. The monument is cut and sandblasted in the form of a barn front and back. The all polished front of the monument features double barn doors along with intricately detailed hinges. The all polished back continues the barn look created by sandblasting the lines of the planks of wood. The base of the monument was made with a polished front and rock pitch along the edges. The monument is completed with two polished round vases. The monument is located in Old Mount Tabor Cemetery in Welsh, Arkansas. RIVER EDGE GRANITE COMPANY, INC. created this Peerless Blue and Jet Black columbarium. The memorial is capable of holding space for sixteen cremains with two spots behind each door. The columbarium was completed with a polished finish on all pieces. This lovely columbarium is located in Historic Oakland Cemetery in Atlanta, Georgia. KEYSTONE MEMORIALS fabricated two large granite monuments to be incorporated into this 11th Cavalry Memorial Plaza located in Ft. Benning, Georgia for Columbus Monument Company in Columbus, Georgia. Medium Barre granite was used along with brightly colored lithograph paint and bronze plaques. The two monuments are all steel finish with straight tops and straight ends. The bases are all steel finish. One tablet contains a history of the 11th Cavalry since it was activated in 1901 and features the large Blackhorse insignia. The second tablet lists the 23 campaign credits of the 11th Cavalry since 1901 along with the regiment’s unit crest. Go to the link below and locate the color that you are looking for. The website will filter through our members and list the members that have listed that color as a color they can provide. https://egaonline.com/granite/colors Southern Cemetery Cremation and Funeral Association (SCCFA) and the Georgia Cemetery Association held their 2022 convention at the Hilton Daytona Beach Oceanfront Resort in Daytona, Florida June 12-14th. Breakout sessions included “Second Place is the First Place Loser”, “Mindset Matter - Taking the Checkered Flag”, The Information Race: Who is Fastest? Us or the Consumer?” among other great sessions. There was a multitude of activities throughout the convention from a golf tournament, break out sessions, live entertainment and vendor exhibits along with reception and banquet. It is always great to see member-firms participating but EGA is always available for these conventions to continue representing the Elberton Granite Industry! Paula Reeves-Kirchhofer MATTHEWS GRANITE; Cassandra Ward, Atlanta, GA; Jennifer Willis MATTHEWS GRANITE; Jack Frost,II, Atlanta, GA and Trey McAvoy, MATTHEWS GRANITE Southern Monument Builders Association chose to head back to Rockwall, Texas on the scenic shores of Lake Ray Hubbard for the 2022 convention. This Beautiful hotel overlooks the picturesque, resort-like setting of scenic Lake Ray Hubbard and offered a perfect backdrop for attendees. The convention was loaded with a full schedule for the entire stay. Supply chain panel took a few moments to discuss the issues at hand in the granite industry today. Julie & Troy Caldwell, Kokomo, IN; Emily & Tony Watson with son, James from College Station, TX and Leslie Turpin with BICKNELL SUPPLY COMPANY. Matt Worthington, Burleson, TX; Kevin Laird, Brookhaven, MS; Trey McAvoy, MATTHEWS GRANITE; Ryan Worthington, Burleson, TX; Carson Moon, MATTHEWS GRANITE; and Mark Cowart from Columbus, MS Beth & LC Star from Elkhart, TX; Ronnie Brown, MILES SUPPLY OF ELBERTON; John Scott, Beaumont, TX; Jason Campbell of Provencal, LA; Ian Turpin, Hammond, LA and Mark Cowart, Columbus, MS Eddy & Suzan Daniels, San Angelo, TX; Charlotte & Billy Fox with HENRY & HENRY, INC. and Tiffany & Jimmy Daniels from Franklin, LA Horace Keith Harper July 15, 1934 - June 10, 2022 Horace Keith Harper, 87, of Sherwood Drive, Elberton, husband of Gail Daniel Harper, passed away on Friday, June 10, 2022, at his residence. Horace was born in Elberton on July 15, 1934, son of the late Thomas and Corrine Harper. A graduate of Elberton High School and Eastern Kentucky University, he earned a Bachelor’s Degree in Industrial Arts. Horace played football on scholarship and ran track at EKU. During this time, he was second in the nation for punting average, and served as a student coach. Following graduation, he taught high school in Kentucky and then Cartersville, before returning home to Elberton. After teaching and coaching football at Elberton High School, he entered the granite industry, as owner and president of Apex Granite Company, Inc. and Harper’s Quarry, Inc. Horace was a long time member of the Elberton Granite Association, where he served multiple terms as president. He was instrumental in upgrading the EGA facilities and the construction of the Elberton Granite Museum. Horace loved all things Elberton, and worked to better the Elbert County Community. He contributed to the development of the Historic Granite Bowl, the development of McWilliams Park, and improvements at the Diamond Devils Baseball Field. He served as Elbert County District 1 Commissioner for over 20 years, a position he still proudly held. He was a member of the First Baptist Church of Elberton where he previously served as a deacon. He was a member of the Elberton Country Club and the Elberton Elks Lodge. In addition to his wife of 62 years, Gail, he is survived by his children: Keith Harper (Crystal) of Elberton, Melanie Sigler of Athens, and Mark Harper (Katy) of Elberton; grandchildren: McKenzi (Tristan), Jake, Rachel, and Harper; and numerous nieces, nephews and other relatives. He is preceded in death by his parents and brother, Tommy Harper. Horace Harper’s legacy will continue to impact others for generations to come. Mr. Harper served as trustee to the Elberton Granite Association many times throughout his career. Words will never be enough to acknowledge his dedication to his family, community and the granite industry. Shirley Carol Bailey Worley March 19, 1941 - April 12, 2022 Mrs. Shirley Carol Bailey Worley, 81, of Lincolnton Highway, Elberton, wife of 57 years to the late Eugene Worley, entered into rest on Tuesday, April 12, 2022, at her residence. A native of Hartwell, Mrs. Worley was born on March 19, 1941, daughter of the late Crate Robert Bailey and Amanda Lou Hughes Bailey. She was a secretary having worked at Hart EMC and, along with her husband, owned and operated Globe Granite Company for many years. Shirley was a member of Bethlehem United Methodist Church where she served as treasurer of the parsonage committee. She enjoyed traveling with a special love of cruises; however, “Nana” was happiest while spending time with her family. The epitome of a true southern hostess, Shirley looked forward to each holiday, especially Christmas, and took great pride in preparing meals for her family. She was an excellent interior decorater who enjoyed decorating her home. Survivors include her daughters: Tammy Carol Worley of Clarkesville and Angela Jean Worley Dunn of Elberton; granddaughters: Ashton Jean Dunn, Lola Carol Dunn, and Bailey Len Dunn; sisters: Frances Smith of Anderson and Elizabeth Kidd of Hartwell; and numerous nieces, nephews, and other relatives. In addition to her husband and parents, she is preceded in death by her siblings: Ruby Bowers, Owen Bailey, Charles Bailey, and Connie Wilson. Thomas Edward “Tom” Jenson November 17, 1948 - June 26, 2022 Mr. Thomas Edward “Tom” Jenson, 73, of Hudson Road, Elberton, husband of 50 years to Anne Lyle Jenson, passed away on Sunday, June 26, 2022, at his residence. Mr. Jenson was born in Cleveland, OH on November 17, 1948, son of the late James Robert Jenson and Shirley Mae Erickson Jenson. He worked alongside his family at Jenson Etching and had previously worked at Darica Trucking. Tom was a member of Gideons International as well as a dedicated member of Fortsonia Baptist Church where he was a former deacon, assistant song leader, and assistant Sunday school teacher. An avid outdoorsman, Tom enjoyed fishing and spending time on his tractor; however he was happiest when being “Papa Tom” with his grandchildren. Survivors, in addition to his wife Anne, include his children: Michelle (Todd) Jones of Savannah and Brian (Audrey) Jenson of Dewy Rose; grandchildren: Jackson Jones, Jacob Jenson, Olivia Jenson, Jocelynn Jones, and Joshua Jones; siblings: Eric Jenson of Elberton, Kristin Russell of New Zealand, and Mary Katherine Jenson of California; and numerous nieces, nephews, and other relatives. In addition to his parents, he is preceded in death by his sister, Barbara Rastad. Fun Graniteer Facts The fist issue of the Graniteer was published in January of 1957. • This makes the 261st edition of the quarterly magazine. • The magazine still to this day runs solely on its own without selling ads. • The Graniteer is sent without charge or obligation to each retail or wholesale monument firm or person in our mailing directory. • Each issue carries a complete listing of the EGA member firms at the time of its publication, including their mailing address, telephone numbers and contact persons. • Each Graniteer magazine since its creation can be found on the egaonline.com under the Graniteer tab. • The Graniteer represents a “recorded history” of most of the significant happenings at EGA member firms over the past 65 years. They constitute an important documented record of Elberton Granite events and progress. • The Graniteer has featured numerous articles on how to sandblast, laser etch, clean, erect, set, and even photograph monuments. • Each issue of the Graniteer features monuments created by member-firms in the range of memorials, public, war or cemetery features. • The sitting Executive Vice President writes the opening article of each Graniteer. Their exquisitely crafted memorials exemplify time honored stonework and attention to detail. The Georgia Guidestones -Message And Mystery For Mankind Elberton Granite's reputation as one of the world's best monumental stones, Elbert County's geographic location, and fate seem to be key elements in why one of the nation's most unusual monuments was unveiled near Elberton, March 22. Already called "America's Stonehenge," after the mysterious monuments in England which have puzzled men for ages, THE GEORGIA GUIDESTONES has attracted nationwide publicity and promises to become a major tourist attraction. Overwhelming in size and steeped in enigma, the GUIDESTONES was revealed to the nation in the Winter, 1979, ELBERTON GRANITEER-and is as much a mystery now as it was then -and probably still will be when man ceases to record his history. The gargantuan, six-piece monument stands 19-ft. high in the beautiful hill country eight miles north of Elberton and proclaims a message for the conservation of mankind. Its origins and sponsors are unknown; hence, the mystery. Challenging Project The components were manufactured from ELBERTON GRANITE FINISHING COMPANY, INC's "Pyramid Blue Granite", and the firm's President, Joe H. Fendley, Sr., said the project was one of the most challenging ever for his quarrying and monument manufacturing concern -partly because of the magnitude of the materials and partly because of the exacting specifications from the mysterious group of sponsors, "and those specifications were so precise that they had to be compiled by experts on stone as well as construction," said Fendley. He said it all began late on a Friday afternoon in June when a well-dressed and articulate man walked into his offices on the Tate Street Extension in Elberton and wanted to know the cost of building a large monument to conservation. He identified himself only as "Mr. Christian." He told Fendley that he represented a small group of loyal Americans living outside Georgia who wished to remain anonymous forever, and that he chose the name "Christian" because he was a Christian. He .inquired where Fendley banked and Joe put him in touch with both local banks. Wyatt C. Martin, President of the Granite City Bank, was selected by "Mr. Christian" to be the intermediary for the mysterious project. According to Martin, the man showed up at his office 30 minutes later, explained the project, and said after completion he hoped other conservation-minded groups would erect even more stones in an outer ring and carry the monument's message in more languages. He told Martin that he wanted the monument erected in a remote area away from the main tourist centers. The gentleman also said that Georgia was selected because of the availability of excellent granite, generally mild climate, and the fact that his great-grandmother was a native Georgian. Elbert County Chosen Martin persuaded the mystery man that Elbert County was the ideal location for the memorial; and he agreed, provided a suitable location could be found. He returned later and he and Martin inspected sites. "Mr. Christian", who now called himself "R. C. Christian", chose a five-acre plot on the farm of contractor Wayne Mullenix. It is the highest point in Elbert County. A few weeks later, Martin contacted Joe Fendley and told him that funds for the project were in an escrow account and to start work immediately. Martin promised that when the project was completed, he would deliver his file on the affair to the anonymous sponsors and that the secret would never be known. He said "Christian" told him that the sponsors had planned the monument for years and that the ten "guides" for the conservation of mankind and the earth were carefully worded as a moralistic appeal to all peoples regardless of nationality, religion, or politics. As explained in the photo-essay on the following pages, the guides are brief maxims espousing population control and other conservation messages in eight languages. The guides are inscribed in eight different languages on four huge stones set in a paddlewheel arrangement with the center stone carved and drilled so that the sun will mark the time of day and the seasons. The guides, which were accompanied by ten explanatory precepts in the specifications, are: "Maintain humanity under 500,000,000 in perpetual balance with nature; Guide reproduction wisely - improving fitness and diversity; Unite humanity with a living new language; Rule passion-faith-tra­dition-and all things with tempered reason; Protect people and nations with fair laws and just courts; Let all nations rule internally, resolving external disputes in a world court; Avoid petty laws and useless officials; Balance personal rights with social duties; Prize truth - beauty - love - seeking harmony with the infinite; and, Be not a cancer on the earth - leave room for nature - leave room for nature." Key individuals in the development of the GUIDES TONES proiect pose in front of their handiwork. They include, kneeling, left to right, Jimmy Mattox, Quarry Superintendent; Frankie Bradford, Stone Craftsman; Joe Fendley; Horace Bradford, Stone Craftsman; Joe B. Davis, Proiect Superintendent; standing, Wayne Mullenix, who sold the site; Grndy Albertson, Owner of Argo Crane Rental; Mr. and Mrs. Junior Brown, Draftsmen: Charles Clamp, Sandblastman; and David Brown, Chief Draftsman for Elberton Granite Finishing Company. From Quarry To Colossus - Quarrying was the most crucial phase of GUIOESTONES production because of the massive size of the slabs and the strain on men and equipment. It was accomplished in the more than 100-tt. depths of the "Pyramid Blue Granite" Quarry. "Our Quarry Superintendent. Jimmy Mattox. and his crew simply did a fantastic job under trying circumstances," said Elberton Granite Finishing Company President Joe Fendley. Once the pieces. averaging from 25 to 27 tons each, were freed from the ledge mass. derricks gingerly lifted them to the rim of the quarry. Quarrymen were especially wary in this phase since derricks don't normally lift such extreme weights. Each of the completed outer stones averaged over 42,000 pounds. the center stone over 20,000. and. including the bases. the total of 951 cubic feet of granite weighed in excess of 119 tons. Once quarried, a special burner, developed by the C. S. Peck Company, Inc., was used to size the large blocks; and they were then taken to Reynolds Marble & Granite Company where they were precisely wiresawed. The four upright sections are 16-11., 4-in. high; 1-ft., 7-in. thick; and 6-ft., 6-in. wide. The center stone is the same except it is narrower. The capstone has the same width and thickness, but it is only 9-ft., 8-in long. The tour support bases are 7-ft., 4-in. long and weigh 4,875-pounds each. A special crew of Horace and Frankie Bradford, master stone craftsmen, under the direction of Joe B. Davis, background, a retired plant superintendent, was hired to cut and pitch the slabs to the exact dimensions provided by "Mr. Christian". Special crews were hired because the project was so de­manding that it would disrupt the regular Elberton Granite Finishing Company production schedule. Charles Clamp, a specialist in sandblast engraving and cleaning granite, glues stencil of the Chinese characters on one of the stones. The main inscription on the tour outer sections are in English, Russian, Mandarin Chinese, Arabic, Hebrew, Hindi, Swahili and Spanish. Each side contains the 10 "Guides" in one of the eight languages. Inscribed on the four sides of the capstone in the archaic and ancient languages of Babylonian Cuneiform. Sanskrit, Egyptian Heiroglyphics and Classical Greek is the admonition: "Let These Be Guidestones To An Age of Reason." Special scaffolding had to be erected at the "Oglesby Blue" Quarry plant where the GUIDESTONES were fabricated so that Charles Clamp could sandblast­inscribe the over 4,000 letters each approximately 4 inches high. The languages were chosen because they represent those spoken by a majority of the people in the world. George Gaines, Chief Inspector Certified Memorials Program, closely examined each of the units as it was completed to guarantee that each piece was free of defects and met specifications. The special E.G.A. seal certifying inspection was sandblown on each unit. Elberton Granite Finishing Company Draftsman David Brown devoted many long hours in preparing first the layouts, and then the stencil in 12 languages for the GUIDESTONES. Naturalized citizens in Elberton, college and university language experts, clergymen, and even individuals at /he United Nations in New York assisted in the translations and transliterations of the languages. The Guidestones Evolution While the GUIDESTONES were being fabricated, groundbreaking was held and site preparation got underway on a ridge on the Hartwell Highway (Georgia Highway 77) eight miles north of Elberton. The site was prepared, including reinforcing steel in the foundation, according to specifications provided by "Mr. Christian." The 5-acre site personally chosen by "R. C. Christian", is a pasture owned by contractor Wayne Mullenix, and is the highest point in Elbert County. According to specifications, it was to be on a ridge commanding a view of the horizon to the east and west within range of Summer and Winter sunrises and sunsets. The plot was purchased and deeded to Elbert County. Joe Fendley, left, County Commission Chairman Billy Ray Brown, center, and Wayne Mullenix review plans. This photo shows the configuration of the GUIDESTONES. four large outside slabs with a central, or gnomen. stone. arra,-,_ged l,ke a giant paddlewheel with the oµter stones onented to the l1mlls of the migration of the moon during a year. The center stone Is marked and holes dnlled ,n it so that the sun s rays mark the time of day and the seasons of the year. Also. the North Star Is always visible through a special slot from the South to the North side of the center stone. An astronomer was used to accurately achieve this placement of the stones. 'Ever so gently/" describes how the crane and setting crew handled the sections and their enormous weight. As shown in an above photo. stainless steel dowel pins were placed in each of the granite bases and the upright sections were set on the pins. Argo Trucking Company trucks transported the huge slabs from plant to site, and Argo Crane Rental Owner Grady Albers/on expertly supervised the placement of cables and other equipment during the setting. An expert on setting large monuments, Willie Edwards of Elberton, also assisted. Joe Fendley, Jr.. left, and his dad explain the partially finished GUIDES TONES to newsmen at a February press conference. The story was featured by many local media and in releases by United Press International, the Associated Press. and in the New York Times. The 10 "guides" are inscribed in English on the stone behind the men. Workmen take cables loose as the GUIDES TONES are emplaced. The rock-pitched finish on the sides are in accordance with "Mr. Christian's" instructions that the finish conform as nearly as possible to the natural state of the granite as it is quarried. Dunng the waning twilight of March 12. the final section. the large capstone. was set into place to complete construction of the GUIDES TONES. Joe Fendley is shown d1rectmg placement of the capstone. All that remained was steam-cleaning the stone for the March 22 ded1cat10n. "Mr. Christian·· specd1ed that the site was to rema,n In a "natural" state. with no fences or park-like additions.