Buyers’ investments, talents boost community

Holly Springs Mayor Andre’ DeBerry has said the community does not see itself as outsiders do. And outsiders bring not only their investments that are saving historic properties to town but their varied talents and vision.

Without individuals who are excited about the quality of life a small town like Holly Springs offers, historic homes would crumble and vanish from this beautiful town, he said.

Some who have recently brought their resources and talents to restore and preserve structures include the following.

Tom and Lisa Phillips, who are restoring Colonsay Cottage and have purchased the Linwood’s building to open an antique shop. The Phillipses will live in Holly Springs when restoration of Colonsay is complete and bring their antique business here.
Mike and Jorja Lynn, who purchased Walter Place, Featherston Place and Polk Place and added a new garden feature.
Scott and Katie Faragher, who purchased historic Grey Gables. Both are writers and have authored many books.
George and Laurie Gwin, who purchased Gholson House. The Gwins came to Holly Springs from New York, by way of Memphis and are both enthusiastic about Holly Springs’ future. George recently closed out his business in Memphis as a media consultant and has joined Alliance Charitable Foundation. Laurie continues her job with Delta Airlines and also sells real estate in the city.
David Person, an attorney and international mediator, restored Crump Place and Burton Place. Person brings fresh ideas that help make Holly Springs a better place to live.
Shannon McNally and Wallace Lester, who purchased Hilltop. From New York, McNally and her husband moved from New Orleans after Hurricane Katrina wiped out the the city and Mississippi Gulf Coast. Lester teaches English at Holly Springs High School. Shannon has performed at Proud Larry’s in Oxford.
Joe and Kathy Overstreet, who restored Airliewood and added to that property.
Chelius H. Carter, formerly of Tennessee, who set his tap root down in Holly Springs with the purchase of the Hugh Craft property. Carter brings his knowledge to bear on historic preservation/restoration, both professionally and through his investments.
Dr. Ben Martin, who purchased and restored Athenia.

“We live here and we don’t recognize and appreciate the hidden treasures we have here in Holly Springs the way outsiders do who come here to make an investment,” she said. “I wish these people will take an active role in our Main Street Program. Sometimes they see things we overlook.”


Thursday, November 13, 2008
Community \| Obits \| Editorial & Columnists \| Society \| Sports \| Education \| Classified Ads \| Calendar of Events \| Features \| Newsbriefs \| Legals \| Archives \| Subscriptions \| Photo Gallery