Kate Harman, affectionately termed “Mama Kate,” was a lifelong resident of Carroll County, Georgia. Her parents were Mary Elizabeth (Mollie) Camp Strickland and Henry H. Strickland of Carroll County and they were married in the historic Bonner home in 1872.

Kate married Virgil Harman in 1907 and she had five children, nine grandchildren, and 13 great-grandchildren. While her husband farmed, she sold canned vegetables, baked cakes, and took in sewing to earn extra money. After her husband’s health declined, she sought employment with West Georgia College and became the snack bar manager for approximately eight years. Students and faculty eagerly lined up for Mrs. Harman’s excellent food and her caring, motherly disposition. The snack bar was such a success that Mrs. Harman continued to cook for students from her home after retirement. She charged only $2.50 per person and served meat, vegetables, bread, dessert and a beverage.

In 1954 Mrs. Harman was chosen “Most Outstanding Woman in Carroll County” and the next year she was voted “Mother of the Year” in Georgia by the Home Demonstration Council. A narrative pertaining to her award and pictures were published in the book, “Historic Georgia Mothers, 1776-1976.” In 1980 Mama Kate received the Founders Day Award from West Georgia College for her superior service to the school and its students. She died in 1986 at the age of 96.