Just over a century ago, the Bonham Daily Favorite offered this description of the Bonham Post Office: "As you enter the splendid corridor, you are at once struck with the magnificent proportions of the Building."
The Bonham Semi-Weekly echoed that sentiment: "This is a building of which the people of Bonham are proud."
At the 100th anniversary of the opening of the Bonham Post Office, it was obvious that both statements still ring true.
With it facing of Georgia granite and towering columns of magnesia limestone quarried near Austin, this structure was made to last.
On Friday, March 21, 2014, a ceremony was held to commemorate a century of service this building has provided to the citizens of Bonham.
Proclamations were presented by Bonham Mayor Roy Floyd and Fannin County Judge Spanky Carter, U.S. Congressman Ralph Hall attended the celebration to present Bonham Postmistress Ramona Rogers with a flag that has flown over the U.S. Capitol and Tom Thornton, chairman of the Fannin County Historical Commission, discussed the historical significance of the iconic landmark.
Mr. Thornton singled out historical commission members Larry Standlee and Malinda Allison for researching the building's history.
"One of our responsibilities is to recognize and promote all of our historical structures," Thornton stated.
Historical photographs and newspaper articles were on display during the ceremony.
As was typical of most post offices constructed during this time frame, there were private walkways in the walls and the attic of the structure that allowed inspectors to observe employees.
At the 100th anniversary ceremony Friday, Congressman Hall had a humorous way of describing just how many years of public service Roy Floyd has given to this community.
"Gosh, he was mayor here when I was a little boy," quipped the 90-year-old congressman, as laughter filled the foyer.
This was also an occasion for many local residents to get to know the relatively new postmistress. Ms. Rogers thanked Sondra Shiver for volunteering to improve landscaping at the Bonham Post Office.
"We care about Bonham," Rogers remarked. "I want to serve you and be part of the team.
Rogers said she is looking forward to meeting more members of the community.
