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These were the headlines featured in the Greenville Advocate during this week in 1958, offering a glimpse into local developments and events. Among the topics covered were the new trial stop for the “Hummingbird” train in Greenville and a spirited campaign visit from Judge George Wallace, accompanied by Grand Ole Opry star Minnie Pearl.

Hummingbird train begins trial stops in Greenville 

The southbound “Hummingbird” train began a trial run as a conditional stop in Greenville on Sunday, April 27, according to R.A. Laun, District Passenger Agent for the L&N Railroad. Train No. 5, arriving at 9:18 a.m., was scheduled to let off passengers traveling from Nashville and points north. The stop was introduced in hopes of increasing passenger traffic, while the conditional stop in Georgiana was discontinued due to low demand. No changes were made to the northbound service, with passengers from Greenville continuing to use Train No. 4 to Montgomery for transfers.

Plan to eradicate fire ants is called off

Plans to eradicate fire ants in Butler County were called off after the County Fire Ant Committee determined the program was not practical. Joe P. Henderson, chairman of the committee, reported that despite mailing letters to 1,600 farmers, only 15 indicated a willingness to participate. The program would have required landowners to treat all types of land, including swamps and wooded areas, at a personal cost of $1.25 per acre. The committee communicated its findings in a letter to A.W. Todd, Commissioner of Agriculture and Industries.

Gubernatorial candidate visits Greenville and Georgiana 

Judge George Wallace, candidate for governor, held campaign rallies in Greenville and Georgiana, becoming the fourth gubernatorial contender to visit the city within eight days. Wallace spoke from a truck parked in front of the courthouse and later traveled to Georgiana for a second speech. Minnie Pearl, beloved Grand Ole Opry and TV star, entertained crowds ahead of Wallace’s addresses. Wallace’s campaign headquarters were established on East Commerce Street, offering coffee and campaign literature to visitors around the clock.

Foxhunters Club hosts annual supper and show

The Butler County Fox Hunters Club announced plans to host its annual supper, show and trial on Saturday night, May 3, at Fort Robert E. Steiner, home of the Greenville National Guard Armory. S.R. Mallette served as club president, with Millard Burkett as vice president and Cohen Stapp as secretary-treasurer. Following a chicken supper, a foxhound show judged by experts was scheduled, concluding with a trial featuring some of the finest hounds in the region. A large turnout of foxhunters and spectators was anticipated.