Hammond's story has been shaped by many people, from the Indigenous peoples who first cared for this land, to Peter Hammond and the early settlers who built a community around the railroad, to generations of families whose names and stories were never written down. Now it's time to add the next chapter.

Meet Me Downtown is a new series of community gatherings in downtown Hammond, where it all began. The series brings together people who might not usually cross paths so they can meet, learn the fuller history of the community, share ideas, and build a shared vision for Hammond's future.

The kickoff will be an informational session with a closer look at downtown Hammond.

Everyone is welcome: residents, churches, businesses, schools, civic groups, Southeastern students, longtime locals, and newcomers. Come ready to help answer one question: what can I do to build and heal this community?

For more information, contact Shauna Seals at sjseals@yahoo.com.