What is the Eatonton Service League?
ESL is a non-profit organization that serves the community we all live in and love - "We Give Where We Live". All money raised goes back into our community. We raise money through our annual Terrapin Trott, Jr. Miss Pageant, various fundraisers and through generous donors. Our annual Toy Drive helps provide Christmas to families in need within our community. We also provide help with medical bills, prescriptions, rent, utilities, etc. throughout the year.

ESL typically meets once a month or every other month, August-May, depending on our current events. Members are required to pay dues and attend at least two events per year to stay an active member.

Interested in joining? Email us at esl31024@yahoo.com for more information.

How it all began:
A group of Eatonton ladies began meeting in private homes in 1951 and were ready to make their announcement of forming the club by March of 1952.  Mrs. Carner M. Rainey was the first president. Some of the charter members were Mrs. Sug Walton, Mrs. Mary Elizabeth Peck, Mrs. Gladyce Dearman, Mrs. Lorraine Davis, Mrs. Katherine Whitman, and Mrs. L.C. Whitlow. Their meeting to choose officers was held on Tuesday, April 2, 1952 at 3:45 p.m. (many ladies of the 1950s did not work and the husbands didn't want them at night meetings). They determined the purpose of the civic club was to serve the community and they were working on a list of projects.

Some history of the ESL:
On Sunday, July 20, 1986 the current members hosted a 35th Anniversary Reception to honor its past presidents and charter members. The reception was held at the Bronson House.
Past presidents attending the anniversary were:

  • Mrs. M.S. Rainey, Jr.--1951
  • Mrs. R.C. Whitman,Jr.--1953
  • Mrs. O.D. Dearman--1955
  • Mrs. R. M. Tyson --1958
  • Mrs. Paul Bolen --1967
  • Mrs. Helen Furbee--1977
  • Mrs. Ernest McDade--1978
  • Mrs. Lynwood Carnes --1979
  • Mrs. Joe Hudson --1981
  • Mrs. Terry Coker--1982
  • Mrs. Sam McFaddin--1985
  • Mrs. R.C. Whitman, III--1986

The 2020 Eatonton Service League Board

Back row, L-R: Kim Smith (2018), corresponding secretary, Rene Beddingfield (2016), historian/social media coordinator, Natalie Holle (2010), president, Ashley Brundage (2013), treasurer, Susan Usry (2016), recording secretary, Brandy Parham (2013), board member; front row, L-R: Amanda K. Wooten (2008) board member, Dawn Wicker (1998), vice president, not pictured: Cathy Rountree (2015), board member