Monday, October 5, 2025, saw the long-awaited arrival in Elkton of almost 1500 copies of Notables of Todd County II, the second 10 by 10 compilation supporting the rehabilitation efforts of the Green River Female Academy located at 204 Goebel Avenue in Elkton.
The trustees of the Green River Female Academy Preservation Society will host a book release event on Saturday, November 29, 2025, at the 1835 Todd County Courthouse / Todd County Welcome Center located on the Square in Elkton. The event is open to the public and will be held from 3:00 PM until 6:00 PM. Attendees will have their first opportunity to purchase copies of Notables II, a coffee table sized book detailing many places, people, memories, and events that make Todd County such a unique and memorable place. Printed by Jostens in Clarksville, the majority of the copies of Notables II will sell for $30. However, 200 copies of Notables II will sell for $35. Those copies, which are signed by CLW, also include a penned message from the author.
The GRA’s Trustees express their heartfelt “thanks” to Laura Brock for her efforts in overseeing the publication of Notables II. “Thanks” is also extended to Terry Cleveland and Shelly Bender of Jostens in Clarksville who worked closely with Laura to complete its publication. A heartfelt “thanks” is also extended to Kathi James, the book’s graphic designer who took the vision of Notables II and provided a finished product that captures the rich beauty of almost 40 entries. The book, which is 124 pages in length, contains slightly over 120 pictures scattered throughout those pages. Laura Brock, one of the founders of the GRA Preservation Society, messaged, “Notables of Todd County II is a heartfelt tribute to the people, places, and moments that make Todd County so special. It is also a reminder of how important it is to keep sharing these stories with each new generation. It was an honor to assist author Carolyn Wells and Green River Academy Preservation Society in bringing Notables II to Todd County.”
Gratitude is also extended to the 68 individuals, businesses, and entities who sponsored the book, and the trustees are also appreciative of the contributors of art and photographs who used their talents and resources to bring the 124 pages to life. One of those repeat contributors who provided art to accompany the entries is Chad Fuller, a well-known photographer whose work is often seen on Facebook. Another artist who assisted with Notables II is Samantha Morin Hightower, a young lady who recently graduated from Western Kentucky University with a degree in art. Thanks is also extended to Kyle DeBerry of Horizon Drone Solutions who provided several aerial pics of requested places in Todd County. Retired U.S. Air Force photographer Dennis Nieuwsma also provided the photograph for the cover of the book; his pic, one of the 1835 Courthouse, ranks as one of the most memorable and breathtaking pics for the second Notables.
Those attending the November 29th event are reminded the Green River Female Academy Preservation Society is a non-profit organization devoted to the rehabilitation of the GRA located on Goebel Avenue. Since the publication of Notables in 2022, the GRA has seen several more custom-made windows added to the building along with the recent addition of two interior doors. The additions of security cameras as well as a picket fence on the north and east sides have been completed in recent years. Obviously, more work needs to be done for the building, and the trustees remind everyone the proceeds from the sale of Notables of Todd County and Notables of Todd County II will allow more restoration of the historic building to occur.
Commenting the compilation was “such a joy to create,” Kathi James messaged, “Just as with the first book, Notables of Todd County II combines wonderful anecdotes with beautiful images of the people of Todd County and the places that are significant to them. A spirit of loyalty and deep affection permeates the pages. These are books to enjoy now and to treasure for future historians.” Following the November 29th book release event, plans are to place Notables II at several locations in Todd County so folks throughout the county will have easy access to purchase the book. For those out of town, Notables II, as well as Notables of Todd County, can be purchased online using a credit card at https://www.greenriveracademy.com/shop. Locations for its sale include “Something Special,” “Hip Harvest,” and Guthrie’s “Main Street Market.” Obviously, someone who wants to purchase Notables II will need to check times of operation for those businesses.
~ Article by Carolyn L. Wells
October 28, 2025
