A family legacy, a place to gather.

Cad Thomas Roddey informed his family that he had two wishes: to start a family reunion and to erect a landmark to celebrate it. In 1955 and for the next 12 years, the family held reunions under a huge gum tree near the residence of his granddaughter, Calla R. Moffett Wright. The affair was held from 1968-1976 in the adjoining yards of grandsons Thomas T. and James E. Roddey.

The possibility of fulfilling the second wish began in the early 1970's when 30 family units made a financial pledge to erect a building. Spear heading the building drive was Janie Roddey Miller. a daughter, who deeded the site of the center to the fame in August of 1975. The family selected Theodore T. Roddey, James E. Roddey and Robert L. Moffett to design and supervise the construction of the center. For two years, the family gave generous and substantial contributions of labor, materials and furnishings. Their united and sustain efforts produced a unique and lasting tribute to the family patriarch "Papa Cad". Few other black families have utilized their talents and resources to promote family unity in this manner.

On Friday, August 12th, 1977, at 8 p.m., the center was dedicated. The festivities began with a worship service led by Rev. F. G. Lowery and Rev. Ray Thompson. It included the unveiling of a portray of Cad and Massey Roddey by their daughter Janie R. Miller and son Theodore R. Roddey. The artist, Nat Brisco, grandson-in-law, was presented [present]. The evening concluded with a formal reception.

The main purpose of the center to provide a permanent annual site for the union has greatly expanded during its 20 year operation. In addition to family monthly meetings, the center has hosted wedding shows, ceremonies and receptions, wakes, birthday parties, Boy Scout camping, political rallies, sorority and social club affairs, dances and barbecues. It has evolved into a community center.