Greenville Textile Mill Ramps Up Production as Lions Clubs Host International Leader

New mill operations on schedule despite training of new workers, as south Alabama Lions prepare to welcome Melvin Jones of Chicago

Published on Feb. 22, 2026

In 1929, a new textile mill in Greenville, Alabama was ramping up production, with the first looms started and additional machines being put into operation daily. The mill's initial contract called for the delivery of thousands of yards of cloth each week beginning March 1, and reports indicated operations were on schedule despite the training of new workers. Meanwhile, members of the Lions Clubs International from the south Alabama district were scheduled to meet in Greenville, with General Secretary Melvin Jones of Chicago announced as the principal speaker.

Why it matters

The opening of the new textile mill in Greenville represented an important economic development for the region, as the manufacturing sector was a key driver of growth in Alabama in the early 20th century. The visit by the Lions Clubs International leader also highlighted the role of civic organizations in fostering community connections and supporting local initiatives.

The details

The first looms had been started at the new textile mill, with additional machines being put into operation daily. The mill's initial contract called for the delivery of thousands of yards of cloth each week beginning March 1, and reports indicated operations were on schedule despite the training of new workers. Meanwhile, members of the Lions Clubs International from the south Alabama district were scheduled to meet in Greenville, with General Secretary Melvin Jones of Chicago announced as the principal speaker. The event was set to be hosted at the Grenala Hotel and Community House, with a charge of $1 per plate for visitors and host members alike.

  • The first looms had been started at the new textile mill, with additional machines being put into operation daily.
  • The mill's initial contract called for the delivery of thousands of yards of cloth each week beginning March 1.
  • The Lions Clubs International meeting in Greenville was scheduled for a date in 1929.

The players

Melvin Jones

The General Secretary of Lions Clubs International, based in Chicago, who was announced as the principal speaker at the south Alabama Lions Clubs meeting in Greenville.

H.T. Miller

The Deputy District Governor of the Lions Clubs International south Alabama district, who was set to preside over the meeting in Greenville.

A.T. Maddox

The District Governor of the Lions Clubs International south Alabama district, who was also scheduled to appear on the program for the meeting in Greenville.

C.E. Hamilton Jr.

The Mayor of Greenville, Alabama, who was scheduled to deliver the welcome address at the Lions Clubs meeting.

W.A. Roy

The president of the Montgomery, Alabama Lions Club, who was listed on the program for the Greenville meeting.

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The takeaway

The opening of the new textile mill in Greenville and the visit by the Lions Clubs International leader highlighted the economic and civic importance of the manufacturing and community organization sectors in early 20th century Alabama.