Klarke Bradwell (Class of '29) - Legacy Infused Walls
Seven hours before I boarded the bus to Shelbyville, Tennessee, I was running around playing tag with friends in the Morehouse Parking Lot. When I returned to my room, I frantically packed my tote bag, anxious for the trip ahead. Tennessee was on my list of “Places I’ll Never Go,” alongside other red states like Alabama and South Dakota. Around three a.m., I lay down, hoping for a few hours of sleep. In the morning, I rushed to make it to the bus by 8:30, and once I settled in, the very, very long ride began.
During the bus ride to Shelbyville, I did the things that I never made time to do; I looked for internships, reread parts of Love & Whisky, and relaxed. I gazed out the window at the trees, rivers, and mountains, noting the swamps we passed -- wondering how many ancestors traveled through them. It reminded me of why I didn’t want to come to Tennessee, it brings up racial trauma and uncertainty of what atrocities might’ve happened there. When we drove by the Confederate cemetery and numerous Trump 2024 flags, that idea was driven home.
Once we arrived at Uncle Nearest’s Distillery, a sense of peace washed over me. It was quiet, on a vast field with buildings scattered throughout. The design of the buildings outside was nothing notable, resembling a typical farm, but inside, I was floored -- the book didn’t do it justice. The rooms were huge and had moody lighting. Then my eyes were drawn to the focal point of the room, the shelves where the whiskey was held. It was at least 8 feet tall and brightly illuminated -- a stark contrast to the dimly lit room. After you walked past the shelves of whiskey you were met with Uncle Nearest’s various accolades, Fawn Weaver mentioned some in the book but seeing them in person was truly astounding.
We were all ushered into the dining room, where we anxiously awaited our meal. I was elated to be a part of the first group sent to eat and eagerly got in line. My plate was full to the brim with a little bit of everything, and it was amazing. Then Kevin Weaver showed up, and we had an insightful conversation with him. It truly brought the book to life, being able to see and hear people who were referred to in the book.
As I listened, I recalled Kevin's expressed disdain for Tennessee before his arrival; he had hoped to persuade Fawn to choose anywhere else. Yet, hearing his perspective post-move was comforting. He didn’t attempt sugarcoat his feelings; he acknowledged Tennessee's flaws while appreciating the community.
After talking to Kevin, I prepared to go on my tour and heard Dr.Hite talking about the history of grandmothers only displaying pictures of you in your best moments. It made me reflect on how Black people have been viewed in the past and how we have made strides to change that. Uncle Nearest’s Distillery was another large stride. A stride to uncover the monumental story of a Black man who taught one of the most famous whisky makers his craft. A stride to ensure that Black people felt represented in every field.
The tour exemplified the love and effort that went into this distillery. History and legacy were infused into the design of the building. For example, in the speakeasy, the walls were decorated with references to societal movements, and the floorboards were engraved with words from loved ones. This endeavor meant far more to the Weavers than mere business; it was their calling.
Visiting Uncle Nearest’s Distillery taught me about community, service, and passion. Fawn’s curiosity uncovered a powerful story, bringing a remarkable family into the spotlight while honoring their wishes. Additionally, Fawn plans to give the business away to one of Uncle Nearest’s descendants. It is clear that the Weavers did not do this for themselves but to advance and give back to the community.
Their efforts uncovered an important part of black history and brought it into the spotlight. That was made abundantly clear during our tour through the distillery. On the ride back from quiet Shelbyville to bustling Atlanta, I took time to reflect on my experience. I learned the importance of nurturing myself while realizing the significance of investing in others. I also discovered the value of experiencing things firsthand before passing judgment. Shelbyville, Tennessee, taught me much, transforming it from “A Place I’ll Never Go” into “A Place I’ll Definitely Have to Revisit.”
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