Last Friday afternoon, Kay Foley gave a presentation in the Follansbee Room at the Eufaula Memorial Library, offering a thoughtful look at local history through family stories and reflections on the people and events that shaped Eufaula’s early development.

Speaking to a small gathering, Foley shared recollections passed through generations while highlighting the individuals behind Eufaula’s growth. Rather than presenting a formal timeline, she emphasized the cooperation and determination that shaped the town’s early years.

Much of the discussion centered on her grandfather, C.E. Foley, who served multiple terms as mayor during a period when Eufaula was transitioning from a railroad crossroads into a more organized civic community. Foley described how early leaders invested in schools, financial institutions, and gathering spaces — efforts that helped establish stability and long-term growth.

One of the most memorable segments addressed the devastating fire of 1898. Foley explained how the loss of early wooden structures east of the railroad tracks led to a rebuilding effort that reshaped downtown. The move toward brick and sandstone construction, she noted, created the architectural character that continues to define Main Street.

Throughout the presentation, Foley returned to a simple message: history lives through people. Stories of residents working together to establish water systems, utilities, and businesses resonated with audience members, many reflecting on how those same values continue to shape the community today.

The discussion also connected Eufaula’s Creek Nation roots, the arrival of the railroad, and the later transformation brought by Lake Eufaula into a single, ongoing narrative. Questions from attendees added to the informal tone, turning the presentation into a shared exchange rather than a formal lecture.

By the end of the afternoon, Foley’s remarks served as a reminder that Eufaula’s story is not confined to the past but continues through those who preserve its history and remain invested in the town’s future.

Feb. 20.