By Cindy Madden | Dorcheat-Bistineau Chapter Daughters of the American Revolution
In September 2024, the Dorcheat-Bistineau chapter dedicated their Big Free Library at 900 Gladney Street as a place for the public to leave their worn flags and enjoy a free library of books and materials with a Christian or patriotic theme. Members of the chapter attending the event include; Donna Sutton, Libbey Watkins, Sue Reynolds, Helaine Milam, Linda Watson, Nancy West, Judy Reese, Harol Thompson, Margaret Evans, Elaine Burns, Cindy Walker, Linda Wood. It was dedicated by Mayor Nick Cox City of Minden, Webster Parish School Board Principal Daniel Lee, who placed the first flag. Also attending the dedication were the police and fire departments, John Becker from the American Legion Post #74, Quartermaster Les and President Sue Williams from the Hunter-Richerson VFW and VFW Auxiliary Post 2885, Colonel Carl Thompson from the Webster Parish Tax Accessors Office, City Court Judge and Ret. Brigadier General Sherb Sentell, Tommy and Sherry McMurray from the Minden Evening Lions Club, Rick Buckner, Robert Kidd, and Dr. Richard Campbell from the Minden Lions Club, Louisiana Society Daughters of the American Revolution State Regent Cheryl Gott, Spencer Creech from the Children of the American Revolution Chapter, Galvez chapter Sons of the American Revolution and Kathy Babers from Speaker Mike Johnson’s office, banners were made by Judy Grubbs Minden Coca-Cola Bottling Co.
Members of the public leave flags on average 14 per week including flags of all different sizes, the total as of today is 657 flags. Jerry Madden checks the Big Free Library every other day and folds each flag for proper disposal. Les and Sue Williams will receive these flags and will properly dispose of them for which Jerry and Cindy Madden are so grateful.
This project won state awards and Southern District National Society Daughters of the American Revolution. The Big Free Library will continue to accept worn flags to retire.