Amanda Pevey
Elmore Autauga News
The Atagi Chapter, NSDAR recognized two local leaders whose efforts have strengthened Autauga County’s connection to its past during the chapter’s monthly meeting on May 16.
Larry Caver and Danny Loftin each received the DAR America 250 Commendation Medal and certificate, an honor presented to individuals and organizations that have made significant contributions to commemorating the 250th anniversary of the United States.
The awards highlighted two different but equally meaningful forms of service, preserving local history and creating spaces where patriotism and education can thrive.
Barbara Russell, treasurer of the Atagi Chapter and a board member of the Old Autauga Historical Society, presented Caver’s award and reflected on the vision that led to the organization’s creation.
“Larry Caver is a father, genealogist, author, historian, and gentleman farmer,” Russell said. “Several years ago, he had a vision of an organization that not only honored the history of travel, but also the deep roots of all Autauga County, especially the families, businesses, and communities that established this county.”
That vision became the Old Autauga Historical Society, a nonprofit organization that now includes more than 300 members.
Russell said the society was founded “with the sole purpose of sharing and preserving all the history of Old Autauga County without giving preference to anyone, geographical town, city, community, or entity.”
Under Caver’s leadership, the group has restored historic structures, cleaned cemeteries, documented family histories and helped communities celebrate important milestones, including Autauga County’s bicentennial.
In April, the society hosted “Chronicles of America, 1776 to 2026,” a large-scale exhibit featuring more than 300 trifold display boards tracing the nation’s history from Native Americans to the present day. More than 2,000 students from 10 Alabama counties toured the exhibit.
“The event was a success supported by city, county, and state legislators,” Russell said. “As a board member of Old Autauga Historical Society, I can truly say that without Larry’s vision, leadership, and friendship, we would not have accomplished as much as we have in such a short period of time.”
Accepting the award, Caver emphasized the importance of collaboration among local organizations.
“This was a collaborative effort,” Caver said. “We have members from Atagi DAR, John Archer Elmore SAR, Confederate veterans and so many other groups, including the Boy Scouts. We worked together and when we work together as a community, we get more going. That is just the way it is. Thank you.”
The chapter also honored Loftin, owner of Fat Boy’s BBQ Ranch, for his longstanding support of the chapter’s History Tree Project.
Kathy Clements, librarian for the Atagi Chapter, said Loftin has generously welcomed the chapter’s patriotic displays into his restaurant for the past four years.
“Danny wholeheartedly supports us as we decorate patriotic and educational trees with the Atagi’s A Team, History Tree Project,” Clements said.
Each themed tree features more than 100 ornaments highlighting topics such as the Boston Tea Party, the Vietnam War and the Sept. 11 attacks. Positioned prominently in the restaurant, the displays offer educational and historical information to the more than 3,000 patrons who visit each month.
Clements said Loftin’s support extends far beyond providing space for the displays.
“Danny allows us, very graciously, to stay after the staff has departed, and the restaurant’s closed, and he just lets us stay,” she said. “He allows us to stay as long as we need.”
Loftin has also closed the restaurant for special events hosted by the chapter, including ceremonies honoring World War II veterans and the U.S. Navy’s 250th anniversary.
“Without Danny’s support, we would not have been successful in our endeavor to show our patriotism and show educational and historical information on the tree,” Clements said.
Loftin accepted the award and was thankful for the award.
The Atagi Chapter of the National Society Daughters of the American Revolution continues to uphold the organization’s longstanding mission of promoting patriotism, preserving history and supporting education. Through projects that honor veterans, celebrate America’s founding and connect residents with local stories, the chapter demonstrates how community partnerships can help keep the nation’s heritage alive for future generations.
For more information about the Atagi Chapter, NSDAR visit their website at: https://atagiasdar.weebly.com.
