The Hempstead County Historical Society met on Tuesday (5-26). It was noted there will be live music sponsored by Klipsh at the Hub on Thursday at 6:30PM. It was suggested those attending might want to go to the Charitable Christian Medical Clinic Fish Fry at Hempstead Hall and then head over to the music downtown.
Joshua Williams said the streets of Washington were named after American heroes. When questioned about when the streets were named, Williams said they were named in 1812. Washington’s block setup surrounded the courthouse clockwise. Carol Street was named after Charles Carol, the longest-lived Continental Congress member who passed in 1832. Decater St. was named after Stephen Decater, who served in the Navy during the War of 1812. DeCater died in a duel with James Barron.
In the city of Washington, Hamilton Street was named after Alexander Hamilton. Williams noted Hamilton wanted to be president but was not eligible having been born in the Caribbean. He also died in a duel. Franklin Street was named after Benjamin Franklin. Lawrence Street was named after James Lawrence, who was mortally wounded in the War of 1812. Perry Street is named after Oliver Perry who built the U.S. fleet. He is known as the hero of Lake Erie. Jackson Street is named for Andrew Jackson, who served in the War of 1812, in Congress, and later as President. Jefferson Street is named after Thomas Jefferson. Jefferson helped Franklin represent America in France.
Miller Street was named after James Miller, who is famous for his quote, “I will try, sir.” Izard Street was named after George Izard. In 1825, he became the territorial governor. He died in 1829 and is buried in Mt. Holly Cemetery in Little Rock.
Conway Street is named after Henry Wharton Conway who served in the War of 1812. He was mortally wounded from a duel in 1827.
Williams concluded by saying the Washington Telegraph newspaper supported the Whig political party. Incidentally, most of the streets were named after Whig party members. The floor was opened up for questions and discussion. The meeting was then adjourned.
