Columbus Celebrities

From lady bootleggers to captains of industry to the world renowned, it’s always been the people of Columbus that keep things exciting!

Meet Bettie Sims, the lady bootlegger. Young and good looking, from a good home and with 4 kids to support, Bettie turned to the best way to earn money she knew. Always dressed to the nines, the lady had a temper and was often a guest in the local jail… until she burned it down.

Newspaper clipping Bettie Sims Bootlegger October 4, 1906 — What a character!

Francis McCain as bootlegger Bettie Sims — Francis McCain as Bettie Sims

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Newspaper Clipping Thomas Edison visits Columbus NC June 7, 1906

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Polk County High School Basketball 1977

HOMECOMING ON THE HARDWOOD AT POLK COUNTY HIGH SCHOOL

This Friday, January 10, 2020 at the Polk County High Gymnasium there will be a reunion of sorts. In 1977 Polk Central High School had a phenomenal year with its two varsity basketball teams. They had not one but two teams with undefeated regular season schedules.

It has been 43 years since this impressive accomplishment and neither team has been recognized for the feat. That is about to change on Friday at halftime of the Polk County vs Owen High School boys game. Both 1977 Polk Central teams and their head coaches will be recognized.

Polk County High School Girls Basketball 1977 team photo — (1st Row): Cindy Stott, Wynn Price, Deanna Lynch, Dale York, Lisa Miller and Kelli Sheehan.
(2nd Row): Cheri McIntyre, Christa Owens, Kathey Byers, Deborah Jackson, Cindy Manchester, Marsha Gosnell and Coach Jerry Vaughn.

Both coaches and nearly all of the girl and boy players from the 1977 teams are expected to be on hand at the January 10th Polk County High game.

Please honor these two accomplished teams and come be a part of a much deserved homecoming.