When Jimmy Carter celebrated his 100th birthday on October 1, it sparked fond memories for many, including Charles Touhey. In 1976, Touhey, a curious 29-year-old, embarked on an unannounced four-day journey to Plains, Georgia, that would forever change his perspective on hospitality and public service.
A Journey of Curiosity
Touhey was captivated by Carter’s story—a peanut farmer turned politician—after his nomination as the Democratic presidential candidate at the convention in July 1976.
- Intrigued, he mentioned to his wife, Alice Green, “If I wasn’t married, I’d go down to Plains to see for myself what Jimmy’s really like.”
- Alice responded simply, “What’s stopping you?”
Two weeks later, he purchased a round-trip ticket for $240 from Albany, NY, to Albany, GA, booked a room at a modest motel, and hitchhiked into Plains (population 683).
The Arrival in Plains
Dressed in blue jeans, a white T-shirt, and sporting a homemade campaign button that read “Charles Touhey of Albany, NY,” he made his way to Carter’s campaign headquarters, a humble train depot that doubled as a peanut warehouse.
Upon entering, he found Miss Lillian, Carter’s mother, sitting alone.
- “I introduced myself as Charles from the north,” he recalls, and they struck up a warm conversation.
- Tourists began arriving, eager to take photos with Miss Lillian, and Touhey was happy to oblige.
With an amateur photographer’s eye, he captured moments that would later become cherished memories.
A Warm Invitation
During his visit, Touhey assisted with odd jobs at the campaign office and played cards with Carter’s daughter, Amy, who entertained him with her doodles of Snoopy.
Miss Lillian invited him to dinner at her home, where she served him freshly caught bream and hush puppies—a quintessential Southern meal.
- “She made me feel so welcome,” Touhey reminisces.
Their evenings together continued, watching wrestling on TV while enjoying drinks—Miss Lillian with bourbon and Touhey with cold beers from the local store.
A Weekend of Unforgettable Experiences
Saturday brought excitement as Jimmy Carter organised a softball game with media and townsfolk, where Touhey captured photos of the future president in action.
- Rabel, a journalist, famously broke his arm during the game, and Touhey later snapped a photo of him in a cast.
Sunday was equally memorable. Before his return flight, Touhey attended Carter’s Sunday school class at Plains Baptist Church. Sitting next to Walter Mondale, Carter delivered a compelling 40-minute Bible lesson.
A Lasting Impression
Upon returning home, Touhey called Miss Lillian to assure her of his safe arrival.
- “The entire Carter family treated me wonderfully,” he shared, recalling his visit as “one of the greatest experiences of my life.”
He even created a scrapbook filled with black-and-white photos from his time in Plains, a testament to the warmth he felt from the Carter family.
In a sweet gesture, Rosalynn Carter later sent a thank-you note to Alice for providing sweaters during the chilly campaign swing through Albany, showing her appreciation for the family’s support.
A Life Inspired by Service
Jimmy Carter went on to become the 39th President of the United States, defeating Gerald Ford in the November election. Inspired by his experience, Touhey ventured into politics himself, serving on the Albany City School District board and later helping with his father’s mayoral campaign.
Though he faced electoral defeats, including a significant loss to incumbent Mayor Erastus Corning in 1981, Touhey found purpose in philanthropy.
- He became known for constructing affordable housing units, revitalising underserved areas of Albany, including Arbor Hill and the South End.
A Role Model in Public Service
Reflecting on his journey, Touhey expresses profound gratitude for Jimmy Carter’s influence.
- “Jimmy Carter was the ultimate role model of a public servant for me,” he states. “I’ve tried to live my life like him.”
Carter’s legacy as a humanitarian and advocate for Habitat for Humanity continues to resonate. Volunteers in St. Paul, Minnesota, celebrated his 100th birthday by building homes for low-income families, showcasing the enduring impact of his service.
Conclusion
Charles Touhey’s visit to Plains not only introduced him to a presidential family but also instilled in him values of kindness and service that have shaped his life.
As we reflect on Jimmy Carter’s milestone birthday, it’s clear that his warmth and hospitality left an indelible mark on those lucky enough to experience it.
