Book: The Enchanted Land Eighth Hill
About the author: Shirley Denmon has lived in Rome all her life. She is a member of Lovejoy Baptist Church.
About the book: While historically, the city of Rome is known for its seven hills and three rivers, Denmon uses a fictional eighth hill as the backdrop for real life African American residents of Rome from all areas of the community who have played important roles in the history of the city, county, state and nation.
The author dedicates chapters to notable African Americans in all arenas including musicians, educators, artisans, socialites and law enforcement officers.
There are also chapters which tell of particular churches and businesses.
Denmon uses first hand accounts as well as historical and contemporary interviews to assemble a history of local African Americans and their contributions to the community. Many of the chapters contain photographs of people and places as well.
An excerpt from “The Enchanted Land Eighth Hill” taken from “The Eighth Hill Beauticians”
Hubert Holland was the only barber who lived in Hillsboro in the early 40s. When he was a lad he worked in Scase’s Barbershop after school and on Saturdays as a shoeshine boy. The barbershop was owned and operated by Rogers Scase at West First Street in downtown Rome.
Hubert learned the trade of barbering by cutting his friends’ hair under the direction of Rogers Scase.
When Rogers died, Hubert continued to operate the business at the West First Street location in downtown Rome until March of 1950 at which time he moved his business to Five Points in North Rome. Having risen from a “shine boy” to the owner of his own shop, he was described as one of Rome’s progressive young men who was trying to do good for his race. His shop was described as one of the leading barbershops with all of the modern conveniences. J.L. Finely worked with him as barber number two. More will be said about him later. Robert Holland worked as the shine boy.
Where to get the book: “The Enchanted Land Eighth Hill“ is available through special order at Barnes and Noble Booksellers. Copies are also available directly from the author by calling 706-266-2716.
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