Author Archives: William Bruce
90-Year Old Coppersmith Still Turning Out Lanterns
When Bill Paulk opened his coppersmith company in 1985 at age 64 he says it was as “a retirement business.” Now 26 years later at age 90, Paulk gives no hint of real retirement. He is still handcrafting copper lanterns. Continue reading
An Adventure Into Prehistoric Alabama
Deep in the heart of the Mobile-Tensaw River Delta lies a mysterious island, studied for centuries by explorers, archeologists and historians. As the crow flies, the island is only 24 miles north of downtown Mobile, Alabama. But by other measures, it’s eons away. The site is accessible only by boat. Continue reading
Let’s Pass a Law Against August. Just Make it Illegal.
The month of August is upon us. August has no socially redeeming features. Absolutely none. It’s a dreadful time. But there is a simple solution. Continue reading
The Business Side of Girl Scout Cookies
Your intrepid writer here has eaten tons of Girl Scout cookies in the last few weeks which qualifies said glutton as an expert witness. A little curiosity about the business side of the operation revealed some interesting information. Continue reading
Did Jesse James Practice Medicine in Baldwin County, Alabama?
Yes, according to the written remembrances of John Snook. Now deceased, Snook recorded his recollections in Baldwin Vignettes, which was published in 1984. Long time residents of the area will remember Snook as the eccentric owner of the Foley-based Gulf … Continue reading
Notes on a trip from Fairhope to Meridian, MS and Tuscaloosa, AL
Combining pleasure, including good restaurants, with business trips is favorite diversion. A recent trip to Meridian, Mississippi and Tuscaloosa, Alabama was no exception. In Meridian for the first time in over a decade, I visited for lunch the historic 140- year old Weidmann’s Restaurant. Continue reading
