Project Milestones
Friends of the Historic Bell Buckle School
Felons, Flappers, and Foul Play
Saturday, March 22, 2025
The Friends of the Historic Bell Buckle School hosted a sold-out Murder Mystery Dinner Theater, offering guests an unforgettable evening of entertainment and community support. Set in the 1920s-themed Velvet Flask, the immersive show transported attendees into the world of the Macaroni brothers — where drama unfolded and the mysterious death of Bugs Macaroni left everyone asking, “Who did it?”
The evening featured a lavish grazing table, signature cocktails, and a silent auction, all contributing to the atmosphere. Guests arrived ready for a night of intrigue, dressed in their best vintage attire and fully embracing the theatrical experience.
This successful fundraiser directly supports the ongoing restoration of the historic Bell Buckle School and the development of the Bell Buckle Community Center. The Friends of the Historic Bell Buckle School are deeply grateful to the attendees, sponsors, and volunteers whose support made this event such a resounding success.
Fall Clean Up Day
Saturday, November 9th, 2024
Our Fall Clean-Up Day was a huge success, thanks to the dedication and hard work of everyone who showed up and got the job done! The Historic Bell Buckle School grounds are looking better than ever, and the improvements to the gutters and downspouts are a game-changer. Your efforts made a tremendous difference in the restoration and upkeep of this cherished landmark. Thank you for taking the time to restore and preserve a piece of our community’s history. Together, we’re keeping the spirit of Bell Buckle alive!
Volunteers included: FHBBS Board Members — Mark King, Sara Lee Fox, Edwina Chilton, Amy Strobel, and Katie Banks; Cascade Class of ‘74 Members — Benny King and Karl Marlin; Cascade High School Students — Daniella Jara (niece of Reba West Beasley, Cascade Class of ‘73) and Allie Farris; and Bell Buckle Residents — B. J. Haverkorn and Aran McRady.
Fundraising at the 2024 Webb School Art & Craft Show
We couldn’t have asked for a more beautiful day to park cars! Many thanks to Sara Lee Fox for organizing the fundraiser, to Edwina Chilton for the use of her yard and to the players and coaches from Cascade High School who came and volunteered their service.
Dorothy Elkins 98th Birthday Party
On August 29, the Bell Buckle community gathered at the Bell Buckle Fire Department to celebrate the 98th birthday of 1944 alum — Ms. Dorothy Elkins. Over 100 guests were present for this once in a lifetime celebration.
Photo Credit: John Smith with Next Level Photography
Friend-Raising Event for FHBBS
On May 4, 2024, FHBBS hosted its first Community Day. Thank you to everyone who joined our "Friend-Raising" event to learn about plans and progress for the renovation. Many thanks also to Purity Dairy for furnishing the treats and their freezer! Old friends reunited, new friends were made, and excitement and promise were in the air.
Memorandum of Understanding Signing
On October 10, 2023, the Memorandum of Understanding between the Town of Bell Buckle and the Friends of the Historic Bell Buckle School was signed by Bell Buckle mayor, Ronnie Lokey, and the FHBBS chair, Mark King.
501(c)3 Nonprofit Status
September, 2022
Thanks to the diligence and hard work of Mark King The Friends of the Historic Bell Buckle School have obtained 501(c)3 nonprofit status with the state of TN and the federal government. This will help us all tremendously in our efforts to raise funds and find external grant funding. Thank you, Mark!
Also, we had our first Friends work day this past Sunday, and despite the off and on showers, we got SO much done to show that the building and grounds are cared about. I've included some before and afters as well as a few random shots. We cleared away trees and vines, repaired gutters, moved a lot of bricks and a trailer full of debris, and sealed up some of the holes that were allowing wildlife to inhabit the building. If you had other plans on Sunday, don't fret. We will have many more days like this in the near future, and welcome you all to come out to pitch in, cheer others on, and make this a welcoming site for our community and visitors.
August, 2022 Updates
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Charter submitted and successfully registered with state as non-profit
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Article of Incorporation filed with IRS as 501(c)3 non-profit, EIN obtained
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Bank account established, along with financial management structure and policies
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Working to develop website for sharing news and to aid in fundraising
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Plan to work with Town of Bell Buckle (ToBB) on grant development, and to expand area of project impact to increase eligibility
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ToBB granted group recognition as a “civic entity”
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ToBB offered use of Fire Hall for future group meetings
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Established regular meeting time of first Sunday of each month at 2pm, unless necessary to move due to holiday. Unless otherwise noted, meetings will be held at the ToBB Fire Hall, 113 Main St, Bell Buckle
