Guest Commentary: Save Ophir Prison's memory

In 1969, Willie Slade, a Newcastle barber, claimed to have found artifacts confirming the location of the Ophir State Prison that existed in the early 1800s. The world-famous prison was maximum security and in its heyday, a modern-day prototype for such institutions. To save the prison's history, Willie and his good friend, Assemblymen E.A Chappie, began a campaign that included pins and bumper stickers claiming, "1969 was save Ophir Prison time." This paraphernalia was seen on vehicles all over the United States and as far as Vietnam. On June 7, 1969, they unveiled a magnificent monument on the location of the world-famous institution. Assemblyman Chappie flew by helicopter to the celebration to deliver the dedication speech. Unveiled, the eight-foot-tall monument was reminiscent of the stone prison with decorative iron spikes, chains to restrain prisoners and a metal grate resembling a prisoner's window that protected a glorious brass plaque inside telling the story of the prison. The celebration continued as the gathering paraded with a trumpeter leading the way, dressed in E Clampus Vitus regalia, down the street for a barbecue, free beer and street dance. However, many in attendance knew there was one more part to the prison's history: The only place the Ophir Prison ever existed was in Willie's head. The prison was a farce, or some may say a humbug. This even included the plaque, which was nothing more than a piece of plywood with sandwich board letters painted bronze. Regardless, in the article after the celebration, it was mentioned that it was a most satisfactory event and the participants wanted to do it every year. Sadly, this never happened again. As time has passed, this monument of absurd and hysterical history has taken a beating from time and weather. The brothers of Lord Sholto Douglas Lodge No. 3, E Clampus Vitus are on a mission to ensure the memory of the Ophir Prison will not be lost. A new campaign to restore the Ophir Prison monument is underway. Bumper stickers and buttons just like the originals are available for purchase to help spread the word at the Auburn Visitors Center at 1103 High Street or Auburn Barbershop at 860 Lincoln way. The purchase of these items will help contribute to replacing the decayed wooden plaque and beautification of the remaining manganous prison walls that will encase the plaque. To assist in this modern time to spread the word, there is also a Facebook group page simply called "SAVE OPHIR PRISON." Page visitors are encouraged to post pictures of their bumper stickers and pins wherever they may travel. Currently, there are photos from Missouri, Florida, South Carolina, Texas and Georgia. Word of the new campaign has even reached Willie Slade himself. He has relocated and is doing well at the age of 87. He has requested that if we are to mention him in anything to include his friend E.A. Chappie. "He has passed away to the big prison in the sky," They were together in this from day one and Slade "misses that man greatly." On June 8, 55 years and one day from the original dedication, there will be another parade and rededication ceremony. After the dedication ceremony, just as they did in 1969, the congregation will travel to another location for a barbecue. All are welcome. CREDO QUIA ABSURDUM Kristian "STILTS" Grasberger Historian ECV#3 XNGH#47