100th Annual Dunnam Reunion
When one comes across the name Dunnam in the tales of time, I would think the following terms might be found:
Faith… Longevity…Prayer…Laughter…Joy
This year, the descendants of Josh and Frankie Dunnam will once again converge on Clarkco State Park August 24-26 for what some have called “ Dunnam Season “. The town will be turned upside down as relatives from across the United States come to celebrate the 100th year of this glorious family reunion.
I’m sure when Grandma and Grandpa Dunnam came into town 100 years ago, there wasn’t much here. With a wagon full of hopes and dreams, they managed to raise 17 children. They planted crops and learned how to harvest joy in seasons of hardship. They brought ideas that gave birth to invention and they gave us a foundation of faith to build on. In some of their hardest seasons, God was the only thing that brought them through. The family and its descendants can be found all across the United States. From inventors of underwater welding to Automotive shop owners, this family is spread far and wide. Yet, as far apart as they are in miles, they are bound forever close to the heart of what draws them back yearly to Clarke County… FAMILY.
This family with God’s help has flourished. They have ALWAYS FOUND A WAY to come together. The Great Depression, WWII, Vietnam, Korea, Iran , Afghanistan , COVID and all the other conflicts have never stopped the determination of this family to come together. I plan on being there this year. My Grandma Gladys who now resides with Jesus, I know will be there in spirit as we dance, dine and double over in laughter for what I know will be a glorious time . I am looking forward to seeing you all. It has been too long…. I look forward to heading to Quitman for “ Dunnam Season “… see y’all there.
Johnna Kay Utzman
( Ruby Neal’s daughter, Grandaughter of Gladys Dunnam )
