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News Thompson Takes Her Place In Preserving History

Thompson Takes Her Place In Preserving History

Thompson Takes Her Place In Preserving History
January 28, 2016 |

Lauderdale County Farmers Federation member Michelle Thompson was recently appointed to the Alabama Historical Commission (AHC) by Gov. Robert Bentley.

Thompson, who is an active member of her county Women’s Leadership Committee, said she is honored to serve on the 21-seat commission.

“I’m an American, but I’m also an Alabamian,” she said. “It’s important we know our history because it plays such an important role in where we are, who we are and what we do.”

James Day, AHC chairman, said Thompson’s appointment reflects the large role agriculture has played, and continues to play, in Alabama’s history.

“AHC is committed to preserving, protecting and interpreting the history of the state, from the Shoals to the Gulf Coast, from the Civil War to the Civil Rights Movement and from the state’s breathtaking natural beauty to globally connected industries,” he said. “As such, it is critical for the state’s agricultural interests to have a voice on the commission.”

Thompson and her husband, Kenneth, raise cattle, operate a trucking company and have a custom hay baling business.

“I was raised in the city, but I really enjoy rural life,” she said. “My husband introduced me to farming, and we’ve been married 24 years, so I’ve been very much involved in agriculture for at least that long.”

The Alabama Farmers Federation’s Matthew Durdin, who recommended Thompson for the appointment, said she would provide excellent counsel to AHC.

“We’re proud to have Michelle appointed to the Historical Commission,” said Durdin, State Senate Legislative Programs director. “With her work in the county, on the family farm and the Women’s Leadership Committee, she will be an excellent representative of Alabama agriculture.”

Thompson replaces Pickens County Farmers Federation President Diane McCool, who resigned earlier this year. Thompson’s term ends Jan. 10, 2020. 

AHC was created in 1966 by the Alabama Legislature and is charged with safeguarding Alabama’s historic buildings and sites.

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