About the Irma Walker Montgomery Teapot Collection Exhibit
This exhibit showcases the cherished teapot collection of Irma Walker Montgomery, a remarkable woman whose life exemplified service, dedication, and a love for beauty. Irma Walker Montgomery was a lifelong member of First Baptist Church Town Mountain and a 1936 graduate of Liberty High School. Notably, she broke barriers by becoming the first African-American telephone operator for General Telephone Company.
Beyond her professional achievements, Irma found joy in a variety of hobbies, including sewing, cultivating vibrant flower gardens, nurturing her vegetable garden, mastering culinary arts, and immersing herself in the world of literature. Throughout her life, she also cultivated a passion for collecting teapots, each piece a testament to her appreciation for elegance and history.
Irma's commitment to her faith was unwavering. She served her church with devotion as a musician, Deaconess, and president of the Hospitality Committee, leaving a lasting impact on her community.
The Irma Walker Montgomery Teapot Collection, a reflection of her refined taste and personal history, was generously donated by her daughters, Lovetta Gipson and Laura Hagins, allowing us to share her legacy and the beauty she valued with all who visit.