Reuben L. Blanton, Jr., Rev. Gene Tatum, Mary Nell Tatum and Sam McCracken stand in the stripped down parlor.

The New Year is beginning in an exciting way for the Blackstone Conference and Retreat Center.   A generous gift has been given in memory of Nell Ruth Clay Blanton by her son, Reuben L. Blanton, Jr. and her daughter and son-in-law, Mary Nell Blanton Tatum and Rev. Gene C. Tatum.  This gift and memorials made by friends at the time of her death will be used to renovate and refurbish the first floor parlor (room 113).  Mrs. Blanton graduated in 1937 from Blackstone College for Girls.

“I can think of no better way to memorialize our Mother than to renovate a room in her memory at Blackstone.  Blackstone College and the Church were very special to her,” said Mary Nell Tatum.

“We are thrilled with the Blanton/Tatum gift in memory of their mother Nell Blanton.   Their generosity is a dream come true as we strive to begin much needed renovation work to this wonderful historic property,” said Executive Director Sam McCracken.

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January 16, 2012