7 Questions With Author Ted Ehmann

 

Currently besides writing histories, Ted Ehmann conducts historical research on the prehistoric mound-building cultures that were in south Florida from 800 B.C. -1700 A.D.. In 2018 he founded and is now the president of the Charlotte Harbor Anthropological Society. The following year, he co-founded the Charlotte County Florida Historical Society. His more recent research has been on the history of phosphate mining in Florida . His book on phosphate mining history will  be published in 2021 and the history of Charlotte County, Florida in preparation of its centennial in 2021. He enjoys presenting his research and narratives to archaeological and history groups throughout Southwest Florida. Website https://tedehmannhistories.net/about-the-author

1. How and when did you get hooked on history?

     Strange as it may seem, I got hooked on history beginning with a preoccupation in prehistory. Quite uncommon I know.

2. What role does history play or has it played in your personal life?

The older I get, turn 72 in 11 days, the greater the role history plays.

  3. How does history play a part of your professional life/career?

     Currently researching, writing, publishing histories is my entire professional life owing to the major needs in the histories of Florida.

4. Why is studying/knowing history important?

The study of history is vitally linked to both identity, as well as beliefs.

5. What is your favorite period or aspect of history to learn about and why?

     It is now American history, all of it. Strange I hated it growing up.

6. Is there a common theme or thread that runs through your books?

     Yes, relevancy!. I will not write a history if it does not have relevancy today. Period.

7. Tell us about your most recent book. Are you currently working on a book?

     My most recently published book 1/11/21 is a complete history of Charlotte County FL, where I live. What drove the writing of this history were themes/cultural characteristics early in the county’s history 1870’s-1880s that are very much alive today. History does “repeat itself”.
     My most current book in production is the complete history of phosphate mining in Florida.
     Several in process. I am three-quarters through a history of Fort Ogden, FL

7 Questions with Angus Teague

  

7 Questions with Angus Teague, Community Historian

  

As well as being a history major at Georgia State University, he is the program committee chair for the Genealogical Society of Henry and Clayton counties and a local historian in the city of McDonough and Henry County. He is the creator and administrator of several Facebook pages on local history, and he leads history walking tours and has participated in several historical re-enactment events.

1. How and/or when did you get you hooked on history?

I became interested in history through listening to stories older family members have told me. My great grandfather was a cotton farmer in Hiram, Georgia, and was known for his many stories that he would tell at family gatherings and get-togethers. My great-great-uncle on my father’s side of the family was the first County historian for Union County, Georgia. Even though I never knew these men personally, I felt like I inherited their love for stories and history; they are two people I aspire to live up to. The reason that I am so fond of Henry County’s past is because of the ancestral roots my mother’s family has in the Henry County community. My sixth great grandfather Emanuel Teal was given a land grant in Henry county in 1830 for his service in the American Revolution.

2.What role does history play or has it played in your personal life?

 History plays a role in how I view the world; dwelling in the past is not the worst thing. Dwelling in the past gives you a perspective that others might not have.

3. How will history play  a part of your professional life/career?

It has played a role in how I view everyday life, especially when working with local governments, which is the career I am wanting to pursue. Being able to know the history of these legislative acts helps you understand the current power structure.

4. Why is studying/knowing history important?

Learning history is important because we as citizens need to know the roots of our institutions. Not knowing this hinders you from reaching your potential.

5. What is your favorite period or aspect of history to learn about and why?

My favorite period of history to learn about is the Era of Good Feelings (about 1815-1825). So many things occurred throughout the United States in this period that played a role in future events such as the Civil War

6. What history related projects are you working on currently?

I am currently working on a history book about the city council in McDonough, Ga. I am proud to be working with some of the trailblazers in my hometown who broke through barriers to be elected to their positions.

7. What advice do you have for people who may be interested in learning  their own local history?

Find something that interests you. Don’t just dive into the whole subject of history. Find something that brings you joy when researching it, and go from there.