Headland native brings memories of growing up back to life

Gary Smith was raised in Headland, and, to this day, has very fond memories he likes to reflect on just to get a laugh.

“The book ‘Square Tales’ gives an insight on growing up in Headland during the 1940s, 1950s and 1960s,” said Gary Smith, author of “Square Tales.” “This book includes all of my fondest memories from growing up in south Henry County.”

Although the book is filled with Smith’s memories, he is also hoping this book helps remind many who grew up in Headland just how good life was back then.

“I had no idea, when growing up back then, that actually I was living in the best times,” Smith said. “I hope this book, maybe, will explain and give a little history of what makes the South such a great place to be reared and even the best place, by far, to live. Basically, this book tells how life really was back then and how times changed, as seen through the eyes of a freckled-face boy.”

“Square Tales” includes many memories that will also affect several Headland natives as well as current Headland residents who grew up in the area. During Smith’s last visit home to Headland before the holidays, he took time to sit around the town square to reflect on exactly how the downtown area has changed.

“Growing up, Headland was filled with many shops around the square,” Smith said. “In the 50s and 60s Headland residents purchased 95 percent of their clothing from shops located on the square. Think about it. Back then, Headland just about had it all - everything from stores selling shoes to hats. Stores offered an array from fine to economy; and for those who made their own clothes, well, we had Palmer Company that sold fabric and threads. As you entered into the square you were greeted with stores such as Earl Solomon’s, Randy’s, Buris Davis, White-Vann, Espy’s, Corrine’s and others. I am sure it is hard for newcomers to the area to believe this, but it is true. Headland was a very busy town.”

Along with telling how the area has changed regarding businesses in the area, the book also goes into detail about how attending school as well as playing sports have changed.

“I just want everyone who reads this book, well, I hope, if you grew up in the area, you take a few moments to reflect on your childhood and just how good it really was,” Smith said. “Whether it was when you were picking cotton, playing baseball in a cow pasture with a homemade bat from a Chinaberry tree or maybe it was when we attended Headland Grammar School and we went barefooted and the old hardwood floors gave us splinters. We all have fond memories and some may not be so good, but they are our memories. They helped make us who we are today.”

Smith will hold a book signing for “Square Tales” Jan. 27, from 11 a.m.-2 p.m., at the Blanche R. Solomon Memorial Library.