Beyond The Blog
Beyond the Blog is an evolution of The Patterson Foundation’s storytelling approach focused on creating and sharing engaging content featuring the people, organizations, and communities strengthened through the Foundation’s work. This idea began and grew in 2022 with strategic oversight from MagnifyGood, guidance from Debra Jacobs, and content planning, coordination, and production by Kellie Alexander and Rachel Hettinger.
Beyond The Blog
Discover DeSoto: Honoring History with DeSoto County’s Historian Carol Mahler
In the latest episode of Discover DeSoto, host Alicia Exantus sits down with Carol Mahler, a longtime resident and beloved historian of DeSoto County. This episode offers a heartfelt and enlightening look at the people, places, and moments that have shaped this amazing community over the years. Carol's gift of personal stories and historical insight reminds us that preserving local history isn't just about remembering the past but honoring those who made it. She also connects history to the present beautifully, highlighting how the same spirit of resilience and pride fuels collaboration among neighbors and inspires action driven by shared aspirations for DeSoto's future.
Carol shares her Discover DeSoto Gem: The John Morgan Ingraham Museum. The museum is a place close to her heart, rich in artifacts, stories, and photographs that reflect the county's past. For Carol, the museum is more than a building; it is a living tribute to the resilience, creativity, and spirit of the people who've called DeSoto home. Whether you are a longtime resident or a curious visitor, this episode will inspire you to take a deeper look at the legacy of this special place.
Timestamps
- 00:40 - Introduction to Carol, long time DeSoto County resident and historian.
- 01:25 - Carol shares what brought her to DeSoto County.
- 01:44 - Carol discusses the change she has seen in DeSoto County.
- 02:26 - Carol shares her aspirations for DeSoto County.
- 14:40 - Carol discusses when she first heard about The Patterson Foundation starting community conversations in 2022.
- 18:03- Carol shares her experience as an exhibitor at The DeSoto County Ahead events in 2023 and 2025.
- 20:41 - Carol shares details about her “Discover DeSoto Gem” The John Morgan Ingraham Museum.
- 29:56 - Carol reminds us of DeSoto County’s big birthday!
- 32:07 - Alicia shares details about DeSoto County’s involvement with this year's Remake Learning Days and Carol shares the event she helped host.
- 38:35 - Alicia discusses the Harwood Institutes impact in DeSoto County and encourages listeners to share small wins..
- 41:10 - Carol shares her impact in the Public Capitol Report about DeSoto County and her involvement in the roundtables that lead to that report..
- 42:00 - Carol discusses the change that is here and coming in DeSoto County and encourages residents to step up and have a voice in that change.
Links to Learn More
- DeSoto County Ahead
- Public Capital Report: DeSoto County Coming Together
- DeSoto County Ahead Anthem
- DeSoto County Historical Society
- John Morgan Ingraham Museum
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