Honoring John Middleton and Chambers County Law Enforcement

By Gloria Way

  The Chambers County Museum at Wallisville held its 2026 Heritage Day celebration last Saturday. The event honored the late John G. Middleton, founder of the museum, and Chambers County Law Enforcement. Pictures of two members of law enforcement who passed away within the last couple of months were prominently displayed.  Wesley Richey, Chambers County Animal Control and Constable Pct. 2 “Big John” Mulryan both served the county well and with dignity. Former State Senator (D11) Mayes Middleton and State Representative (D23) Terri Leo Wilson jointly presented a resolution to Sheriff Brian Hawthorne honoring the service and sacrifice of The Chambers County Sheriff’s Office.

  Middleton was honored as the museum’s founder. A ribbon cutting ins his name was held at the museum’s historical marker to officially recognize the Memorial Paver Plaza. The plaza is made with bricks from donors and supporters of the museum.

 Under the beautiful oak trees behind the museum, attendees were treated to delicious BBQ and pork sandwiches and chips and cookies. A silent auction filled with historical memorabilia and paintings enticed enthusiasts as well as a live auction that featured knives and rifles.

  The Seabreeze Beacon sponsored a Halloween costume contest for the children. The first-place winner won a visit to their classroom by a K-9 and its trainer for a private exhibition by the dog and its handler.

  Marie Hughes and Sheryl Shaw, co-directors of the museum, want to thank everyone who attended as well as the sponsors of the event. They are: Diamond Sponsor – Billy and Mary Schwertner, David and Dinah Bernsen, and The White Ranch; Platinum Sponsor – Scott Hamilton, Stab Cat-The Glass Family, First Liberty National Bank; Gold Sponsor – Hisler Family, Eldridge “Nick” Bollich, Baret Stephenson, Vortech Contracting, Anahuac National Bank, Roughneck Rentals; Silver Sponsor – EDR Pest Control, Winnie Welding Works, Farm & Home Supply, The Finch Ranch, The Seabreeze Beacon, Garry and Kathy Nelson, Stellar Bank, LaTasha Markham; Bronze Sponsor – Kim and Caroline Turner, Ann Scott, Pickett & Pickett, Kathryn Morrow, Gentz Cattle Cmpany, Twin County Air-Ag, Joe and Betsy Greak, Anita Ratliff, and Gator Junction.