Drew Monroe Dismuke operated a general store here. Jennifer Horne McKinney sheds some light on the history of the settlement: ” It was Iverson Lea Graves who sold the right of way through that plantation to the Southwestern Railroad (later Central of Georgia) and the area and resulting town was called “Graves.” Iverson Dutton Graves continued to live in the home he built in Terrell County until his death in 1906.” Jennifer notes that she is a distant relative of Iverson Lea Graves, who was one of the founders of Emory University.
It’s a well-loved landmark on US 82, between Dawson and Shellman.
Does anyone know if square dances were ever held in this building C. M. Dismuke? Maybe 1953 or 1954. Thanks for sharing and your help 🙂 Amy
My name is camoray boyd. . My family genealogy is the dismukes I am wondering if anyone can tell me more. And if there is any family property or old homes for sale I would love to know cuz I would love to own a piece of my family history!!
The Dismuke store has deteriorated with only the brick walls standing and part of a roof. It is owned by the Newman family in Dawson GA who are related to the Dismuke family that once owned the store.
keep up the good work – I sure enjoy reading and seeing this info !
Thank you, Judi.
Judy do you know if they are interested in selling this?? Just curious more than anything
The Dismuke building is owned by Mrs. Bill Newman of Dawson GA. The Newmans are relatives of the Dismukes.
Drove past this old brick building today on 82, turned around twice to get a better look at it. So covered in over growth, I would have to say not so well loved as in days gone by. Such a shame to see sour many buildings and towns with such history just going to waste. Makes my heart ache that no one cares about stuff like the past generations did.
I remember stopping by this building when it was a store. My dad was a distributor for White Lily flour in the 1940s and 1950s. He later bought a farm in the Coleman area. Every once in a while, he would stop in stores like this to say hello to his old customers. I can still remember the marvelous smells of farm supplies and groceries!
M
My great great great grandfathers first cousin (lol) was Zadoc Monroe Dismuke, who lived in western Georgia…Webster, Stewart counties. The Dismukes lived in Washington, Hancock, Putnam and Baldwin counties before some of them traveled west. Whenever I passed this building, I wondered if it was run by some distant family members. Now I am a little closer to knowing…
After a lot of research, I have found that Drew Monroe Dismuke was my 2nd cousin 3x removed. His great-grandparents were also my gggg-grandparents. Have finally connected the dots…
Happy to hear that you were able to figure out this information! 🙂
my grandmother was Flora Mae Dismuke from Webster county is there any chance she is related to the Dismukes who owned this store?
I think you have too many greats. My grandfather was Zadock Monroe Dismuke, born in 1889-1971.
Dismuke is a old family name with a rich history in the Graves area. This building was one of two mercantile business located here in Graves Station as it was known back years ago. One could purchase just about anything needed for everyday life here. This building faces what once was a dirt street lined with several other shops all along side of the railroad. It has changed hands several times over the years, mostly just a brick shell now.
My husband and I have a semi truck in going home to jacksonville we sometimes take 82. We enjoy the local sights and especially the Dismuke co. building. We agree it would benice to have someone restore and run a business from there.
Does anyone know the history of this building and the name of the company? I was heading to Alabama this past weekend with my girlfriend as we stopped at a few old places to take pictures. We came across this place and wanted to find out the history behind it.
Gus, My wifes dad owned and ran the store for a great many years. From the time of mule and wagons up to 1960.
I pass this building everytime I go home to Cuthbert. I love it! It’s such a beautiful old building. I keep hoping someone will buy it and restore it and put it to some use.
I remember when this was open for business 🙂
What was this building used for? I was in the area and took photos of it and wanted to know the history. Thanks.
I’m told that it was a general merchandise store with feed & seed, as well…
I just discovered your blog this week. I wanted to tell you that I love it. I love all these little old towns, that are a vanishing beauty, and full of wonderful images. Thanks for sharing.
Thank you, Kristin, for taking the time to look! Stay in touch…