GREEN COVE SPRINGS – Men dressed in Civil War uniforms stood in line at the food truck last Saturday, May 18, while a man dressed in Native American attire explored a half-size replica of The Hunley Confederate submarine. Elementary children studied the life work of country singer Slim Whitman, and everyone found something interesting, if not spooky, inside the Old Jail.

The Celebrate Clay County History Festival had something for everyone.

The Old Courthouse and Jail were open. Displays filled the oak tree, Spanish moss- filled the Clay County Historical Triangle. More important, residents spent hours pouring through artifacts and enjoying a sun-splashed afternoon.

“The historical triangle is such an ideal place to have these kinds of events,” said Vishi Garig, the county’s historical archivist. “Everything is right here in one place. It’s so peaceful, so wonderful.”

Tara Green, Clay County Clerk of Circuit Court, said it was important to move the focal point of the county’s past back to where so much history was created.

“A lot of work went into this and it really paid off,” Green said. “There is so much history right here. It’s incredible.”

Garig said the clerk’s office, which maintains the historic triangle, jail, courthouse and train depot, were delighted with the turnout, especially since it was an inaugural effort.

“It really came out awesome,” Garig said. “We had a lot more people than we thought we would – and we were hopeful for a big turnout.”

Children interacting with the displays became the highlight of the five-hour event.

“The way the kids went through everything, so see how they were entertained, that was the best part,” Garig said. “They were part of the event and there were so many kids there. They teach Clay history in school now, so it made a lot of sense. All the exhibitors were very pleased. Everything went smoothly and there weren’t any glitches.

“We’re definitely going to do it again next year.”