www.robertmackayclan.com
Vol. 51 #1 Michael L. McKay, Editor,
115 Morgan St., Winchester, VA 22601
Phone (540) 667-1243 | mike@robertmackayclan.com
Kimberly A. Price, Co-Editor,
66 E 7660 S, Midvale, UT 84047
Phone (801) 567-1190 | stimpyinc@yahoo.com
Betty I. Powers, Mailing,
996 Ashby Station Rd., Front Royal, VA 22630
Phone (540) 636-7356 | bippy603@yahoo.com
ROBERT
McKAY
CLAN
NEWSLETTER
Issue date: 4th July 2010
Also serving Sowers, Kerfoot and other related families.
for about three miles. Picnic grounds are on the left at the
corner of Inwood and Gurneyville Roads.
GREETINGS
Welcome to my sixth edition of The Robert Mackay Clan
Newsletter.
This Newsletter is made possible by the generous donations
from its readers. Without you we wouldn’t have the funds
needed to produce our family Newsletter. The expenses for the
spring 2009 Newsletter totalled $514.66. Due to the increasing
costs of postage we found it necessary to ask the readers to send
a donation prior to receiving your copy of this year’s Newsletter.
The Newsletter is printed in the Spring in order to get the
information regarding the forthcoming Virginia McKay Reunion
out in a timely fashion.
Please consider sending a donation to help us cover the
expenses for producing this Newsletter.
BETHEL MEMORIAL INC. MEETINGS
Meeting and Traditional Service
The annual Bethel Memorial Incorporated Meeting and
Traditional Service will be held on Sunday 22nd August 2010 at
Bethel Church south of Millwood, VA beginning at 11:00 a.m.
with a picnic under the oaks immediately following the service.
The details have not yet been completed as to whom the guest
speaker will be but will be posted on the Robert Mackay Clan
website once they become known. Bethel has been the home
church for many generations of our Sowers and Kerfoot
families.
To get to Bethel on U.S. 50 between the Shenandoah River
and the U.S. 340 interchange at Waterloo turn onto State Route
622 (Red Gate Rd.). Follow 622 (Red Gate Rd.) for about a mile
or so and turn left onto State Route 624 (Swift Shoals Rd.).
Drive about a half mile or so and turn right onto Bethel Lane.
Bethel Church is located on the top of the hill. The road
encircles the building.
NEWSLETTER NOW ONLINE
For those of you interested, the Robert McKay Clan
Newsletter now has an online edition through Yahoo! Groups.
If you would like to receive the Newsletter as an electronic file
please go to this URL:
http://groups.yahoo.com/group/robertmackayclan/join
You will need a Yahoo! ID in order to join and view the
Newsletter online.
Christmas Carols and Lessons Service
Additionally, Bethel’s annual Christmas Carols and Lessons
Service will be held on Sunday 19th Dec 2010 beginning at 5:00
p.m. Our Christmas service has been well attended in the past.
Due to the fact that there is no heat in the building attendees
should be prepared to dress warmly. The service usually lasts
about 30 minutes.
ANNUAL VIRGINIA McKAY REUNION
(McKay-Sowers-Kerfoot)
You should have received a separate announcement about
our annual Virginia Robert McKay Clan Reunion but as a
reminder our annual gathering will be held on Sunday 27th June
2010 with lunch starting at 1:00 p.m.
This year’s reunion will again be a covered dish picnic and
will be held at the Lion’s Park Shelter # 5 in Front Royal, VA.
If you have misplaced your notice about the picnic and need
directions you can reach me at the contact information in the
above right corner of this page.
PAST REUNION NEWS
Second Picnic gathering for 64th Robert
McKay Clan Reunion comes to a close
There were 31 people present this year. The oldest attendee
was Helen Burch and the youngest attendee was Emiliegh
McKay. The farthest travelled were Chuck & Kate (Hackney)
Luby of Wilmington, Ohio. The playground once again proved
to be a hit for all the children present of which there were six.
A basket luncheon was served and Wallace Shipp gave the
invocation. The sky was overcast for most of the day with the
sun coming out occasionally but we never experienced any rain.
As before we didn't hold a business meeting of any kind. Some
present remarked on how they felt about the destruction of the
Robert McKay Jr. house five miles north of the picnic location.
I believe everyone present had a good time and I will try to get
the shelter reserved once again as soon as I am permitted next
year.
Attending this year's picnic were: Susan Jeffery (greatgranddaughter of Oscar C. McKay) of Front Royal, VA.; her
COLLETT-McKAY PICNIC
The annual Collett-McKay Picnic held every year since 1866
is scheduled to be held on the family picnic grounds at the
corner of Inwood and Gurneyville Roads in northwestern
Clinton County, Ohio on Saturday 14th August 2010 beginning
at 12 noon.
To get to the picnic grounds from I-71 take U.S. 68 South
and turn right onto Gurneyville Road. Follow Gurneyville Road
1
mother Minnie Randall (granddaughter of Oscar) of Front
Royal, VA.; Michael LeHew McKay of Winchester, VA; Jay
Keller of Front Royal, VA; Dawn Perrero of Front Royal, VA;
Mala Bansal of Front Royal, VA; Mike Bansal of Front Royal,
VA and a guest; Maurice Bowen of Front Royal, VA; Ed &
Kate McKay with children Tommy, Mary & Will of Winchester,
VA; Fred & Joyce McKay of Winchester, VA; Archie & Cathy
McKay of Winchester, VA; Jeff & Heather McKay with
children Logan & Emiliegh of Winchester, VA; Chuck & Kate
Luby of Wilmington, OH; Helen Burch & son Greg of Charles
Town, WV; Wallace & Dorothy Shipp of Broadway, VA;
Donna Alliata and daughter Dorothy Lynn of Broadway, VA;
Phyllis Gardner of Middletown, VA;
144th COLLETT-MCKAY PICNIC,
AUGUST 8, 2009
by D. Howard Doster
a Family Recorder
Near-by cousins had the 5151 Gurneyville Road grounds
manicured the best ever! At least 163 cousins gathered again on
the 4-acre picnic site purchased 204 years ago by our northern
Virginia Quaker ancestor, Moses Mckay, from the Virginia
Military Land Grant surveyor, Nathanial Massie. At least ten
first-time attendees were among the persons who registered from
15 states, plus Costa Rica and Iraq. First-timer Phyllis Rohrback
of Xenia brought four other first-timers. She said her
Grandfather, Werter McKay, last attended the picnic in 1947.
Michael McKay, the McKay Clan Webmaster, at
www.robertmackayclan.com, from Winchester, Virginia,
reported the sad news that the 1734 Robert McCoy (McKay)
house at Cedarville, Virginia, has burned down. Robert was our
Moses’ grandfather, and his home was the oldest house in the
Shenandoah Valley. He came into the valley in 1731 with his
father and sixteen German families, including my Doster g-g-gg-g-g grandfather, Thomas Doster. A hundred-sixty years and
four generations later, in Harveysburg, Ohio, a Mckay-CollettMcCune married a Doster. They were my grandparents.
While attending the McKay Clan picnic in northern Virginia
several years ago, this recorder learned why the McCoy house
was not burned during the many Civil War battles in that area.
In the first battle, it was used as a hospital, and it continued to be
used as a hospital in all the many battles there during the “War
of Northern Aggression” as some of the cousins there still call it.
Two of Moses’ grandsons, no longer Quakers, were Union
casualties; some of their cousins fought for the Rebels.
Cousins travelling to Cedarville can still have their picture
taken standing in the fireplace of Moses’ house, which burned
perhaps fifty years ago. It’s located a few yards south of his
grandfather’s home site, on the south side of a big spring. The
town of Front Royal now owns the property and gets water from
this spring.
For the first time in many years, Esther Doster, my mother,
was not the oldest attendee. She died last October at age 105,
after attending 79 of the 81 picnics, starting with the year before
she married into the family. Her record of perfect attendance at
82 Wilmington College Alumni and 87 Kingman High School
Alumni gatherings will not be matched. She often summed up
her commitment to these events; “Some persons attend, some
don’t. We do.”
At age 94, Betty Magee, a descendant of Daniel and Mary
Haines Collett’s son, Aaron, was the oldest cousin present.
Aaron’s cousin, Aaron, was scalped by Shawnees in Kentucky
in 1780. Betty now owns former Moses McKay land across
Gurneyville Road from the present picnic site, including the site
of former Mt Pisgah Methodist Church, started by McKay’s and
where several are still buried, where the first Collett-McKay
Picnic was held in 1866.
Jonathan Collett married Sarah McKay in 1823. McKay
Collett, now age 85, and living in the “Hole-in-the-Woods”
home Jonathan built for his bride, was their oldest descendant
present. Daniel Collett, Jr, married Virginia McKay in 1826, but
she died in childbirth and Daniel, their only child who inherited
the picnic site from his grandfather, Moses, never married.
Francis McKay married Mary Collett in 1830. Patricia Schultz,
age 78, of Proctorville was their oldest descendent present; and
Holly Nicole Beers, at 4 months, of Columbus, was the youngest
cousin present. Maria McKay married Daniel Haines Collett in
1830. Virginia Collett, age 89, was their oldest representative.
Playing softball used to be a high point of the picnic. While
several teenagers attended, no one brought a volleyball or net.
Who will get such games started again next year?
Photos from the picnic
The children enjoyed the playground.
Helen Burch & Archie McKay, Fred McKay & Donna Shipp.
Heather & Jeff McKay with Emileigh and Logan at genealogy table.
2
Out of state attendees included: Lue and Bob Rowsey of
Opelika, Alabama; Kathi McKay Stafford of Tucson, AZ; Mary,
Raymond Sell, of Boulder, Colorado; Nate Rowsey of
Columbus, Georgia; Jim and Patricia Giesting of Glenwood,,
Iowa; Jason and Allen Inwood, Lebanon, and Chuck, Chad, and
Kevin Fabian, Des Plaines, Illinois; Pierpaula, Stella, and Lena
Polzonetta, South Bend, IN; David Sell, Richmond, KY; Dave,
Cynthia, and Drew Doster, Novi, Mich.; Bernice and Brian
Magee, Dryden, NY; Marilyn Talmage, Nashville, Tenn;
Andrea and Max Magee, Webster, Texas; Bill Zook, Seattle,
Wash; Ellen Magee and Guy Fields, Madison, Wisc; plus Jim
Zook in Costa Rica, and James Lee Billingsley in Iraq.
NEWS FROM CARDS AND LETTERS
Lydia Donovan: Sorry… I work weekends and can’t take
off. New: Passing of Mary Eva Bingamon Hackney on 11/14/08
(age: 93) & passing of Arthur “Art” Robert Godfrey on 12/6/08
(age: 61)
Cortney Hackney: I am divorced now so it’s back to
Cortney Hackney and I have 3 children, Gracee, Gabriel, &
Garret.
Carole A. Bunker: Sorry to be so late responding. Thanks
for keeping me posted on events.
Donald H. Clarke: Still retired with a parttime job. No
car to get to the reunion unless I win the Georgia Lottery before
then. I still haven’t had the time to contact Mr. Sherrman on his
McKay Genealogy.
Robert S. Coleman: We will be in CA.
Marjorie Sears: I don’t do genealogy anymore. I will
soon be 88 & can’t travel. You have a wonderful publication &
organization. Keep up the good work.
Doris McKee: I have had two strokes this year so no
longer able to travel. Do so appreciate you always inviting me,
but although I’m seriousl handicap due to stroke. Unable to get
around very well.
Julie Soderlund: Kevin works for Hewlett Packard. He
usually travels but with his current contract is able to stay home
and work. Julie homeschools Katelyn who will be a six grader
next fall and Jeffrey who will be a third grader. If you’re in
Raleigh, NC stop by!
Yvonne Schneider: No news. Currently live in Florida &
cannot get up to the reunion.
Sue Ellen Tyree: We have a wedding to attend.
Lynn and Kim Cozzi: Sorry we can’t attend. Working
and Mom is not well.
Wallace E. Shipp: Our next Callaway Reunion Oct 12 –
16, 2009 in Branson, Mo. We had over 100 Ritchie families at a
picnic 6/7. Suggest you have a meal at Traditions Restaurant in
Harrisonburg, VA. It would help if the type was bigger. Thanks
for all your work. Wallace & Dot Shipp
Paul & Mary Levo: Had a stroke. Health Reasons we are
not able to attend. Was glad to visit with you at Collett-McKay
Picnic.
Bruce Vanscoy: Thanks for all the work you do Mike!
Daughter Jamie & husband Tarek having baby due June 26th
which is 1st grandchild. Son Jeremy wife Ashley having a baby
due Oct 17th Amazing!
Judith E. McKay: My wonderful husband, Donald
Gordon McKay, died October 4, 2008. – Judy
Perry B. McKay: Mike McKay Rocks!
Minnie Catherine Randall: Hi Michael, I was saddened
at the loss of the McKay Home. My hope was that it would be
restored some day. Please accept this contribution towards the
newsletter. Minnie Catherine Randall. Michael Jeffery, son of
Susan Jeffery, joined the Marine Corps on May 10, 2009. He is
currently at Parris Island, S.C. for Boot Training.
Anne & Bill Simmons: We have too much going on to
come. Bill’s brother’s grandson is graduating from the Naval
Academy the same weekend. Our first granddaughter is getting
married in September. Another granddaughter – Jenny McKay
Simmons is going to a year in Edinburgh, Scotland to earn a
degree in early English History which she wants to teach. Our
grandson is a new lawyer practicing in Annapolis and our
youngest granddaughter is still waiting to hear if she has been
accepted to medical school at the University of Maryland where
she hopes to become a surgeon!
Gracie Esser: I want to extend an invitation to anyone
traveling thru Colorado to come and visit me. I enjoy meeting
Photos from the picnic
McKay Collett giving the opening remarks.
One of the three food tables. So much to choose from.
The genealogy table was another popular gathering spot.
3
new relatives. Thanks Michael for keeping me in the loop.
Gracie.
Lois E. Wunderwald: I am 93 years old and really like
receiving the McKay Newsletter. Interesting to know about
other McKay relatives. Though I only really know or have had
contact with other descendants of Levi Duffy McKay – Son of
Moses – Son of Andrew. Thank you for keeping the Newsletter
going. Lois Wunderwald
Jessie Hutt: Hi Mike, I don’t know any news. Hope you
are well.
Beverly Garmany: Michael, I hope to attend in the next
couple of years. Thank you for all your hard work to keep us
together. Bev.
Virginia Kerin: I had knee replacement surgery in April –
Granddaughter Melissa was married 7 June in Manchester, NH
to Mark Regan.
Richard McKay: Grandson Jeffrey Smith and Jennifer
Adkins are getting married December 19, 2009.
Herb & Linda McKay (Golden) Brown: I was
preparing my thoughts for this annual letter, (while the TV was
playing away in the background), when a question posed by a
television character stopped me in my tracks! The question,
“What’s the most important thing in life.” And the answer,
“Making a difference in someone’s life.” immediately
captured my thoughts of JESUS and the DIFFERENCE he has
made in my life! I pray your Christmas Celebration will provide
time for making a difference in someone’s life AND
experiencing The Baby Jesus in a DIFFERENT WAY …
“The Word became flesh and made his dwelling among
us. We have seen his glory, the glory of the One and Only,
who came from the Father, full of grace and truth.” John
1:14
****************************************************
THE BROWN’S FAMILY CHRISTMAS LETTER, 2008
The Grandchildren:
Luke Thomas Brown: 5 years and the youngest, LOVES
ANYTHING to do with Firemen and has started Home School!
Our northern visits are few and far between, but Luke
immediately joins us in the amazing bond between that of a
grandchild and his grandparents…a beautiful blessing!
Jeffrey Soderlund: 7 years, is in his 2nd year of Home School
classes. He LOVES the Wii games and Webkinz, as well as all
Playmobil, Star Wars and the piano. He visits us on numerous
Tuesday afternoons, while his sister is participating in her
Drama class.
Katelyn Soderlund: 10 years, is in her 5th year of Home School
classes and is totally absorbed by: Webkinz, DRAMA,
American Girl dolls, Wii games, and singing. Katelyn,
surprised us recently with the creation of three original poems,
revealing another dimension to our “growing up too fast” young
lady!
Mark and Elizabeth:
They experienced a successful 2008 winter art exhibit during
their LAST WEEKEND in Florida…talk about a cliff hanger!
The summer/fall art festivals took them to Connecticut, New
York, Delaware, Virginia, D.C., and Pennsylvania. Of course,
the big question for this year’s tour of Florida, is the
economy…we are praying for them.
www.markbrownartist.com. Elizabeth loves to cook and
experiment with organic foods as well as home schooling Luke.
Kevin and Julie:
The family spent their summer months in Toronto, Canada,
where Kevin was on assignment to Maple Leaf Foods. They
experienced the area tourist spots as well as the natural
surroundings. Julie researched nearby “Underground Railroad”
locations for her fall class presentation on “Slavery.” Upon
returning to Raleigh, she met with the curator of the N.C.
Museum of History, who provided additional information. Both
parents and students have received her course work with
enthusiastic praise!
Life at Holland’s United Methodist Church:
Herb: Co-Chair of Missions Committee; Attends a weekly
“DISCIPLE” Bible Study; Raleigh Food Bank volunteer; United
Methodist Men; Vacation Bible School (Kitchen Volunteer);
Established “Stop Hunger Now!” program; Homeless Ministry
volunteer (twice yearly) and MERCI Disaster Warehouse
volunteer; Co-Team Leader – Home Repair Mission Team to
Dulac, Louisiana. Presently raking enough leaves to bury
Chicago!
Linda: Co-Chair of Missions Committee; Attends a weekly
8:00 A.M. bible study; Raleigh Food Bank volunteer; United
Methodist Women/First Journey Circle (Program Chair);
Vacation Bible School (Kitchen Volunteer) Homeless Ministry
Volunteer; Choir Member; Co-Team Leader – Home Repair
Mission Team to Dulac, Louisiana.
Friends Passing Through
Gretchen Zimmerman’s surprise arrival/move to North Carolina,
during the early days of ’08. Ronny and Gerri Thurston –
returning from Gulf Coast home repair mission in Mississippi.
The Dutrow Clan Reunion @ Uncle Paul’s home in Durham and
the joy of meeting Jim & Hilda’s first granddaughter, Mia and
mother, Kathy! My sister, Nancy Sipe, visited in October.
Cynthia Dolinger and daughter-in-law, Margaret Dolinger, on
return from Florida. (2) Stray cats, dropped in last winter and
seem to be here for awhile…yes, we fed them!
Travels
“February Birthday Bash” with Gerri Thurston and Barbara
Zimmerman – Williamsburg, VA. The Ward & Susan Smith
wedding in Columbia, S.C.; Tom & Lee Mueller in Belton, S.C.
The “Going North” Reunion of Round Hill friends/Family in
Carlisle and New Oxford, PA. Team Leaders for First Youth
Team (7) from Holland’s United Methodist to participate in
home repairs in Mt. Olive, N.C. – Coordinated through the
M.E.R.C.I. ministry of “FOOTPRINTS.” Joined Julie & kids on
return drive from Toronto to Raleigh. Toured Niagara Falls;
Western N.Y.; Reunion with Mark & family in Lancaster, PA.,
and attended the Sight & Sound Production, “In the Beginning.”
Attended “Women of Faith” Conference in Greensboro, N.C.
Dulac, Louisiana – Home Repair Mission Team (18) Hurricane
Ike made landfall 10 miles S. My visits to Hickory, N.C. will be
replaced by flying to Tampa, Florida, where friends, Judith &
Larry Lane, have recently moved. Myrtle Beach, S.C. – 4th of
July and Thanksgiving! The Best Days are spent at the Beach!
Grateful Hearts
Brandt and Amelia Zimmerman – United in Holy
Matrimony – September 21, 2008
Enoch Robert Soderlund – November 25, 2008, son of Scott
& Joyce
Gretel’s Mother, Margaret Henssler, now with the Lord
For the Amazing Native American (Houma) Indian People
of Dulac, Louisiana, who lovingly embraced our mission
team in the midst of their devastation and loss of homes.
Each one of you have made a DIFFERENCE in our lives…You
are always there…whenever times are tough…or when we are
Celebrating…we couldn’t do it without your calls, prayers and
love…WE ARE BLESSED TO CALL YOU A LOVED
ONE!
MERRY CHRISTMAS!
HERB AND LINDA BROWN
Joanne Mackay: Husband Stanley died Mar. 2008. Both
granddaughters – Emily and Elizabeth are in junior year at
Northeastern Univ. Boston, MA Stanley is buried in Mt.
Ashburn Cem. Cambridge, MA gts’plot – Peter, Donald. My
baby sister Rosanna Darnall McKay Seamans just celebrated her
4
75th birthday. We tried had to get to the reunion but maybe next
year!
Michael L. McKay: I have a few things to report from
Ohio and Virgina. First, Caleb John Jaycob Price was born
Sunday 18 Oct 2009 at 1:14pm to Delwyn and Kim (Becker)
Price. He weighed 8lbs and was 20 inches long. Kim is the
daughter of Katherine (Hackney) Luby and granddaughter of the
late Howard S. and Lucille (Morrow) Hackney. Tyler Reid
Billingsley was born 19 Apr 2010 at 3:41 pm to Samuel
Billingsley and Sarah Payton. He weighed 6 lbs 4 oz and was
21 ¼” long. Sam is the son of Kristen (Becker) St. John and
grandson of Katherine (Hackney) Luby and great-grandson of
the late Howard S. and Lucille (Morrow) Hackney. Josephine
Annabelle Proctor was born Friday 12 Mar 2010 at 7:05 pm to
Jenica Jones and Steve Proctor. She weighed 8 lbs 5 oz and was
20 ¼:” long. Jenica is the daughter of Wilma (McKay) &
Johnny Gilbert Jones and granddaughter of Kenneth T. McKay.
Landen Westley Boswell was born on Thursday 22 Apr 2010 to
Jeweli Billingsley and Rob Boswell. He weighed 7 lbs 15.8 oz
and was 21 inches long. Jeweli is the daughter of Kristen
(Becker) St. John and granddaughter of Katherine (Hackney)
Luby and great-granddaughter of the late Howard S. and Lucille
(Morrow) Hackney. Keagan James Billingsley was born at
10:04 am on 7 Jun 2010 to James & Melissa Steele Billingsley.
He weighed 9 lbs 6.4 oz and was 20.4 in. long. James is the son
of Kristen (Becker) St. John and grandson of Katherine
(Hackney) Luby and great-grandson of the late Howard S. and
Lucille (Morrow) Hackney. Justin Bradley Lakes and Linda
Grasso were united in marriage on 20 Feb 2010. Brad is the son
of Gayle (Hackney) Lakes and Larry Lakes and grandson of
Albert Morrow Hackney and great-grandson of the late Howard
S. & Lucille (Morrow) Hackney. Kent Robert Hackney and
LeAnn Hughes were united in marriage in 2010. Kent is the
son of David and Pat (McClelland) Hackney and grandson of the
late Robert & Mary Eva (Bingamon) Hackney. Cecilia Rose
Hackney was born to Mark & Sarah (Rogers) Hackney on 22
Jun 2010 weighing 8 lbs 4 oz and was 20.5 in long. Mark is the
son of David and Pat (McClelland) Hackney and grandson of
the late Robert & Mary Eva (Bingamon) Hackney. Cole
Rahmany was born in 2009 to Tarek and Jamie (Vanscoy)
Ramany. Jamie is the daughter of Bruce McKay & Judy (Ott)
Vanscoy and granddaughter of the late Keightley (McKay)
Vanscoy. Ellie Vanscoy was born in 2009 to Jeremy and
Ashley Vanscoy. Jeremy is the son of Bruce McKay & Judy
(Ott) Vanscoy and grandson of the late Keightley (McKay)
Vanscoy.
Old Bethel was organized in 1808 on what is believed to be
the site of a former Quaker meeting house. The current brick
church near Swift Shoals Road was started in 1828 and
dedicated in 1830.
The congregation closed the church's doors 100 years later in
1930, after membership declined.
But in the early 1940s, the memorial association began
efforts to restore the structure and its cemetery. And today, the
church holds twice-yearly events -- an August picnic and annual
meeting and the December Carols and Lessons service,
traditionally held on the Sunday before Christmas (but not on
Christmas Eve.)
The Christmas service is short, about 30 minutes, and aside
from simple stories and hymns, features a handbell choir and a
vocal soloist.
Debbie Piplani, 61, of Front Royal will perform for the first
time this year, singing "O Holy Night."
Williams asked her several years ago to appear at the service,
but this is the first time she has been available.
Piplani's life has been surrounded with song. She began
taking voice lessons at age 16 and is taking them again today
from Janette Ogg, a professor in Shenandoah University's
Shenandoah Conservatory in Winchester. The return to lessons
is a refresher necessary as a person's voice ages, she said.
Piplani also teaches private voice lessons. She sings in the
Shenandoah University Arts Academy Chorale and in the choir
of Calvary Episcopal Church in Front Royal.
A longtime church musician, Piplani is a former liturgy
director for Catholic churches in Northern Virginia. She is a
former high school and elementary school music teacher and a
veteran of some small opera companies, in which she sang in the
late 1970s in New Jersey.
Song "just been a part of my life, ever since I can remember,"
she said.
Her voice is set to ring out at a Christmas service that
continues to gain popularity as time passes, Williams said.
"Each year has been better and better attended," he said, with
about 200 people turning out last year. The downstairs area can
fit about 180 people, with the upstairs portion accommodating
about 60. However, the handbell choir will be upstairs this year,
Williams said, taking away 14 of those slots.
To assure a place at the 5 p.m. service, Williams encouraged
people "to come early and dress warmly."
He noted, though, that with 200 people and plenty of candles,
the old church does warm up.
Directions
Take U.S. 50 east from Winchester. Between the Shenandoah
River and the U.S. 340 interchange at Waterloo, turn onto Red
Gate Road (Route 622) and follow it for about a mile, turning
left onto Swift Shoals Road (Route 624). Drive about a half-mile
and turn right onto Bethel Lane. The church is on top of the hill.
The roadway encircles the building.
http://www.robertmackayclan.com/bethel
Due to a heavy snowstorm during that weekend, the 2009
service was cancelled.
NEWS ITEMS
FAIR USE - Doctrine of International Copyright Law
http://www4.law.cornell.edu/uscode/17/107.html
Lessons and Carols at Old Bethel
(From The Winchester Star dated Thursday 17 December 2009.)
By Stephanie M. Mangino
The Winchester Star
Millwood -- A brief candlelight service of Lessons and
Carols -- in a small country church with no electricity or heat -will celebrate the Christmas season Sunday, as it has for at least
15 years.
But the service really hearkens back to the active years at Old
Bethel Church, said Ian Williams, Bethel Memorial Association
president. "It really captures the 1850s sort of spirit of
Christmas."
The conditions, lessons, and service are much like those
people would have experienced about 160 years ago when Old
Bethel had a Baptist congregation.
5
House, the first house of worship constructed in what is now
Warren County, the foundation of which still exists and is part
of a newer church building in Cedarville."
The house had been constructed in two sections, the log
section on the north side and the limestone section on the south
side.
"Built atop a hill in the bend of Crooked Run and nearby
McKay Spring, the homestead survived as a family home and
more recently as a rental for over 270 years. It was standing by
1734, but some records indicate it could have been built as early
as 1731. The discrepancy could be accounted for by the two
distinct sections of the home - one log, one stone - which could
have been built in intervals," Farris said. "The Robert McKay
House is not only the oldest house still standing in Warren
County, but one of only a handful of structures of its age west of
the Blue Ridge in Virginia. It is the sincere hope of the Warren
Heritage Society that the County and Town, who jointly
purchased and own the property, will commit to preserving the
stone section of the home which still stands."
Firefighters arrived on Sunday to find the fire was well
involved throughout the frame of the structure and indoors.
"Damage estimates are between $60,000 to $75,000 which
does not include any historical values," said Mabie. "At this
time, the fire is under investigation by the Warren County Fire
and Rescue Department with assistance from Warren County
Sheriffs Office and Front Royal Police Department." Once the
flames were doused firefighters diligently stayed on scene until
all hot spots were cooled and there was no chance of the blaze
reigniting.
McKay Home Fire
Photos I took from of the site.
The first three photos were taken 3rd Jun 2009 not long after
the date of the fire. The last photo was taken on 7th Jun 2009
after the chimney on the left side collapsed.
Historic McKay house burns in weekend blaze
(From The Warren Sentinel dated Thursday 4 June 2009.)
Structure built in 1700s; oldest house in
Warren County sees damage
By MEGHAN MOESLEIN
The Warren Sentinel
WARREN COUNTY In the days of America's founding fathers,
many structures were not built to stand the test of time and as
such have been renovated or remodeled as the years press on.
One example of a local homestead that lasted over 270 years to
preserve the history of this area was the McKay house.
It was early in the day
Monday when units were
dispatched to the site of
the historic landmark up in
flames.
"Warren County Fire
and Rescue units
responded to a reported
COURTESY PHOTO
abandoned structure fire
on Sunday morning at the
Original structure
historic Robert McKay, Jr.
House at 8378 Winchester
Road," said Warren
County Fire and Rescue
Chief Richard Mabie in a
press release. "The house
was jointly owned by the
Town of Front Royal and
the County of Warren.
COURTESY PHOTO
While the house had been
Firefighters found the McKay house
added on to several times
engulfed.
over the years, the original
The equipment seen here does not
house dates back to 1734
come with the engine when
and is considered the
purchased; each hose is purchased
separately.
oldest house in Warren
County."
Robert McKay was one of the very first settlers of what is
today Warren County, according to Patrick Farris, executive
director of the Warren Heritage Society.
"A Scots-Irish Quaker from central Maryland, McKay came
to the Shenandoah Valley in 1731 as the leader of several
Quaker families who took up land as part of the famous Joist
Hite land grant purchase," said Farris. "McKay built his house
and organized the construction of the McKay Quaker Meeting
McKay House solution
(From The Warren Sentinel dates Thursday 11 June 2009.)
Repairs to stone structure before investigation can begin
By MEGHAN MOESLEIN
The Warren Sentinel
WARREN COUNTY On May 31 tragedy struck the county
when the oldest known structure caught fire. The structure was
comprised of both wooden and stone features, now the stone
remains.
"The Town of Front Royal and County of Warren have
tentatively approved funds [Monday night] to be used to shore
up the historic Robert McKay Jr. house at 8378 Winchester
Road," said Warren County Fire and Rescue Chief Richard
Mabie. "The funds will be used to stabilize the remaining walls
and chimneys of the house, which dated back to 1734. This will
render the structure safe for the Fire and Rescue Department to
continue it's investigation as to the cause and origin of the fire,
as well as stabilizing the remaining structure from further
deterioration from the weather, etc."
Mike Graham, town manager, said that the incident is a true
historic tragedy.
"Anytime you have a building that old still in existence when
a tragedy like this happens we are all saddened," Graham said.
"This is a good example of the town and the county working
together quickly in order to make the best of a bad situation. We
sprung instantly after the fire."
Town and county both came together shortly after news of
the fire had reached them in order to start to devise a course of
action for the historic location.
"It is still a joint project between the town and the county.
We've had several meetings in coming up with what would be
the best short term solution. We [decided that] we have to
stabilize the current structure," said Graham. "[Stabilizing] will
allow safety, because right now the fire department cannot do
the research or investigation in it until we actually make the
place safe."
The current costs have been approximated in order for both
entities to move forward with the stabilization project that will
6
assure firefighter safety while the investigation into the incident
takes place.
"We are estimating the cost to be around $20,000 and we
hope that the stabilization will last two or three years at the most
at which time a decision will be made to either sell the property
or turn it over to the Heritage Association," Graham said.
After that point it is the hopes of the town that the building
will once again reach its full historic glory.
started by Mother Nature herself.
At least five different instances of lightning strikes were
recorded in the area surrounding the McKay House on the night
of the fire. Beahm said it is possible one of those strikes may
have struck the historic landmark.
McKay in Farm Service loan training program
(From The Wilmington News Journal
dated Saturday 15 May 2010.)
Executive director for the Ohio Farm
Service Agency FSA), Steve Maurer,
announces the addition of Wayne McKay
as the farm loan officer in training for
Clark, Clinton, Fayette, Greene, Madison
and Warren counties. While in the
program, McKay will assist the loan
manager in making, servicing and
supervising loans and providing technical
advice, guidance and credit counseling to loan applicants and
borrowers. He began his duties on March 29 in the Greene
County FSA office.
McKay is a graduate of the Ohio State University. He holds a
bachelor of science degree in agriculture with a major in
agriculture and construction systems management and a minor
in production of agriculture. McKay has worked for Cargill in
Cincinnati, Southwest Landmark Inc., in Xenia and Sabina
Farmer Exchange Inc.
He remains active in the management of the grain operation
and with the Angus and Simmental cattle herd on his familys
farm.
McKay and his wife, Andrea, have an 11-month-old son,
Colt, and they currently live in one of their family farm houses
located in northwestern Clinton County.
Some of McKays hobbies include; boating, wake boarding,
water skiing and snow skiing.
McKay House stable
(From The Warren Sentinel dated Thursday 18 June 2009.)
Investigation begins Friday to determine cause of fire
By MEGHAN MOESLEIN
The Warren Sentinel
WARREN COUNTY - In
recent weeks one of Warren
County's most historic buildings
burned in a fire that left little
more than two stone walls
standing. With the flames
having long been doused
investigators are still unable to
investigate the premises
properly due to the weak
structure that was left behind
after the blaze.
The property - believed to
have been built in the 1700s WARREN SENTINEL
PHOTO/MEGHAN MOESLEIN
was comprised of two
Without the stabilization
components, a wooden
investigators would be unable to
structure and a stone structure,
complete their search for the
neither of which is known to be
cause of the blaze that nearly
older than the other. The
demolished the entire building.
property is jointly owned by the
Town of Front Royal and Warren County.
"Most of the work has been done at this point in time. It was
basically just to stabilize the structure, [or] what's remaining at
this point in time, so the fire investigators can get in and
continue their fire investigation," said David Beahm, building
official for Warren County. Beahm said they want to "basically
get it to a point during the investigation that allows any of the
material that could be reused [to be put] off to one side so when
they do decide to restore it they have the original material."
To stabilize what was left of the stone and wood structure
crews enveloped the standing stone with steel I-bars and metal
framework in order to create a sort of cage that would hold
portions in place.
"Originally, right after the fire, the main chimney in the
center of the structure was still mostly standing [but] there was a
lot of deterioration because of the fire," Beahm said.
Early after the fire, while crews were still assessing the
damage, the creaks and moans of stones under pressure could be
heard oozing from what was left of the center chimney.
"This portion to the west side was a wood structure and the
fire obviously consumed more of the wood. That center chimney
originally we tried to save, but because of the weather and the
elements it eventually came down," said Beahm. "They did a
little bit more to stabilize it so that when people are in there they
are not in a dangerous situation."
The center chimney, along with some of the walls, started to
crumble from the constant abuse of the elements and the
structurally damaged parts slipping loose from one another.
Crews had to knock a few feet off of each in order to maintain
safety for investigators.
As of now, the structure is safe enough for crews to begin
their investigation into the circumstances surrounding the blaze.
Currently there are several theories that Beahm has discussed
with investigators including the possibility of the fire being
WHS students of the month
(From The Wilmington News Journal
dated Thursday 13 May 2010.)
Nine students at Wilmington High School were nominated as
Students of the Month for April. Each department selected a
student based on leadership and academic achievements.
Students receiving this distinction are Chad McKay-agriculture,
Sidney Trasser-art, Rodney Urton-math, Dylan Lyon-social
studies, Marci Sodini-business, Samantha Pringle-English,
Bryan Hoggatt-music, Deanna Pennewitt-science, and Josh
Harding-physical education. Congratulations to these deserving
students.
'Raise the Roof' to help restore Old Bethel
(From The Winchester Star dated Friday 11 Sep 2009.)
By Val Van Meter
The Winchester Star
Millwood -- It may be hard to believe that an evening of
pleasant music above a tranquil Shenandoah River will "Raise
the Roof," but thats just what Ian Williams is hoping for.
On Sunday, from 5 to 7 p.m., Marjorie and John Lewis will
7
open their home the Cliff to aid the restoration effort at Old
Bethel Church.
The historic church, one of the oldest west of the Blue Ridge
Mountain, was first a Quaker congregation and then a Baptist
church.
It stands on a cliff above the Shenandoah River in the
southeast corner of Clarke County.
Now, it is a trust for the people of the county, according to
Williams, president of its board of trustees.
Twice a year, Old Bethel opens its doors to the public: once
in August for a homecoming service and cultural talk, followed
by a picnic under the shade trees on the grounds; and again in
December, for an old-time candlelit Christmas service.
But keeping the building intact has been a continuing effort
for the trustees.
Although the interior and the floor have had intensive
renovation, its time to tackle the roof, Williams said.
"Its a tin roof, and its lived its fullest life," he said.
Everyone is invited to attend the "end-of-summer casual
party" at the Lewises' home, Williams said, and the $50-perperson donation will help get the church roof "raised" before bad
weather sets in.
"Well have the music of Al Webber's Arcadians," Williams
said.
But of even more interest, he said, is the venue.
The Cliff was originally built in 1940 for Mr. and Mrs.
Thomas B. Byrd. The Colonial Revival-style home was
designed by Washington architect George Howe.
In May, the Clarke County Historic Preservation
Commission honored the Lewises for their sensitive updating of
the property, including the landscaping of the grounds.
The estate has been placed in a protective open space
easement.
"I have always thought it was one of the most attractive
houses in Clarke County," Williams said, adding that its
location, perched high above the Shenandoah River with a view
of a winding stream, makes it "a unique location. It is one of the
most remarkable views."
The evening fundraiser is open to "anyone in the world who
has an interest in Bethel," Williams said.
Swim Team, participates on the Winchester Academy Dance
Team, and takes piano lessons. She attends Bethel Lutheran
Church.
Davis is the daughter of Mitzi and Bryce Davis of
Winchester. She is the granddaughter of Ellen and Rodney
Cowley of Winchester and Lela and Boyd Davis of Stephens
City.
She is a first-grader at John Kerr Elementary School. Mattie
plays tee ball for Frederick County National Little League and
takes tennis lessons at Stonebrook Club. She attends First
Baptist Church.
Griffin is the daughter of Kate Obenshain and Phillip Griffin
II, both of Winchester. She is the granddaughter of Helen
Obenshain of Richmond and Carolyn and Phillip S. Griffin of
Winchester.
She is a first-grader at Winchester Academy. She participates
in ballet and tap at The Shenandoah Arts Academy. Lucy
attends Sunday school at Bethel Lutheran Church and First
Presbyterian Church. Lucys grandmother, Carolyn Griffin, was
festival president for the 1997 and 1998 festivals. Her father was
a page to Queen Shenandoah XLVIII Susan Ford in 1975.
Heishman is the daughter of Melanie and Tim Heishman of
Winchester. She is the granddaughter of Cynthia Brock Perry of
Winchester, Jane and Randy Perry of Jamesville, N.C., and Judy
and C.J. Reed of Winchester.
She is a second-grader at Orchard View Elementary School.
She participates in ballet, jazz, and soccer and attends Opequon
Presbyterian Church.
Huntsberry is the daughter of Jayme Lynn Huntsberry of
Winchester and David N. Huntsberry of White Post. She is the
granddaughter of Tammy and Chris Mason of Winchester,
Deedee and Eddie Cassidy of White Post, and Kathy and David
Huntsberry of Winchester.
She is the great-granddaughter of Erma and Hugh Forshey of
Winchester, Fletta and Ralph Mason of Cambridge, Ohio, and
Betty Henry and Getty Huntsberry, both of Winchester. She is a
second-grader at Indian Hollow Elementary School. She
participates in Brownies and gymnastics. She attends Roundhill
United Methodist Church.
Her father, David N. Huntsberry was a page to Queen
Shenandoah LXI Mary Clancy Collins, in 1988. Her
grandfather, David Huntsberry, served as president for the 2001
and 2002 Shenandoah Apple Blossom festivals.
McKay is the daughter of Kate and Ed McKay of
Winchester. She is the granddaughter of Sharon and Tom Byrd,
Ruth and Tom Glass, and Joyce and Fred McKay, all of
Winchester.
She is a first-grader at Winchester Academy where she is a
member of the Winchester Academy Twirlers. She takes
gymnastics at Shenandoah Tumblers and is in the childrens
choir at Braddock Street United Methodist Church.
Her mother, Kate Glass McKay, was a princess to Queen
Shenandoah LXI Mary Clancy Collins in 1988. Her
grandmother, Sharon Moore Byrd, was a junior maid in 1960 to
Queen Shenandoah XXXIII Yvonne Mendonca and a princess in
1964 to Queen Shenandoah XXXVII Luci Baines Johnson.
Wilkins is the daughter of Lauralyn Wilkins of Boyce and
James R. Wilkins III of Winchester. She is the granddaughter of
Brenda and Thurman Brickhouse of Richmond and the late
Diana Bauserman Brickhouse, and Elise Drunagel of Warrenton
and James R. Wilkins Jr. of Winchester.
She is a second-grader at Powhatan School. She takes dance
lessons at Vostrikov Academy of Ballet and participates in
horseback riding. Her father, James R. Wilkins III was a page to
Queen Shenandoah XLIX Mary Frances Crosby in 1976. Her
grandmother, Elise Hortenstine Drunagel was a junior maid to
Queen Shenandoah XXXIII Yvonne Medonca, in 1960.
Her great-grandfather, the late James R. Wilkins Sr., was
And anyone who would like to donate more than $50 to the
roof project is welcome to, he added. "We will thank you
profusely for it."
Reservations
To make a reservation for the "Raise the Roof" event ($50
per ticket), call Carly Bauserman at 540-667-1266, ext. 20.
-- Contact Val Van Meter at
vvanmeter@winchesterstar.com
7 little maids chosen
(From The Winchester Star dated Saturday 26 December 2009.)
Star Staff Report
Seven girls from the Winchester area have been selected to
serve as little maids in the court of Queen Shenandoah LXXXIII
during the Shenandoah Apple Blossom Festival April 23 to May
2.
They are Ellie Leslie Bowman, Mattie Gray Davis, Lucy
Caroline Griffin, Maggie Katharine Heishman, Taylor Lynn
Huntsberry, Mary Katherine McKay, and Isabel Blish Wilkins.
Bowman is the daughter of Leslie and Michael Scott
Bowman of Winchester. She is the granddaughter of JoAnn and
Robert Whitman of McKinney, Texas, Debbie and Charles
Galloway of Winchester and Michael Bowman of Haywood.
She is the great-granddaughter of Elise and George Bowman
of Boyce, Nina Galloway of Berryville, and Darnell and Rufus
(Sonny) Burcham of Winchester. She is a second grader at
Winchester Academy. Ellie is a member of the Winchester
8
festival president for the 1964 and 1965 festivals. Her
grandfather, James R. Wilkins Jr., served as festival president
for the 1977 and 1978 festivals.
The little maids will participate in the coronation ceremony
of Queen Shenandoah LXXXIII at John Handley High School
auditorium and will ride on the queens float in the Grand
Feature Parade.
The theme of this years festival is Do you believe in magic?
http://www.thebloom.com
Court of Queen Shenandoah LXXXIII
(From The Winchester Star dated Monday 3 May 2010.)
Queen Rachel McDonnell
Little Maids Mattie Davis (left) and Mary McKay play a whitegloved game of patty cake
(Other photos also appeared in this article which are not used in
this version. They didn't include family members.)
Barn quilt is one of the stars
(From The Wilmington News Journal
dated Tuesday 23 Mar 2010.)
The "Ohio Star" is the 31st quilt
block along the Clinton County
Barn Quilt Trail and proudly hangs
at 4780 Larrick Road. The farm is
on the county line and is in the
Leesburg postal zone.
Josiah and Ruth McPherson first
purchased the land, built a cabin, and began working the land
and on a family. They had four children, Walter, Carrie, Olivia
and Edith.
It is believed that the barn and two story brick home across
the road were built in the 1860s. The bricks used to build the
house were made by taking clay soil out of the field next to the
barn and forming it into bricks by hand. The house and barn
have large quarried limestone blocks that form the foundation
and the basement walls in both. The barn is constructed of hand
hewn timbers with wooden pegs. The barn has three levels and
over the years has housed a dairy operation and grain mill, beef
cattle, sheep and many 4-H and FFA projects.
In 1971 the farm was purchased by James and Lana Larrick
from Robert and Ruth Esther Hussey. After renovating the house
over a two year period, they moved their family, including
children Timothy, Tina, LeAnn, and DeAnn into the house and
began working the land and raising livestock. Later the barn was
sided with aluminum to preserve the plank barn siding that
existed. The original hay hook still hangs on the rail at the top of
the barn. The family has lots of fond memories of days spent on
the farm. Timothy Larrick now lives in the family home.
The Clinton County Democratic Party was one of the first
barn quilt sponsors and is very pleased to be able to sponsor the
"Ohio Star" design.
(Photos by Scott Mason)
Maids of Honor
*Cassie Rhodes
Huntsberry
*Lindsey Catherine
Lawler
*Beall Bentley
Bentie Scully
*Natalie Ann
White
Princesses
*Heather Rae
Armel
*Channel Ruth
Ausberry
*Taryn Pine
Burke
*Rachel Kelsey
Burkhart
*Alisha Blair
Coulson
*Caitlyn
Elizabeth
Denham
*Whitney Paige
Drumheller
*Lynn Estella
Evans
*Ashley Elizabeth
Faucher
Little Maids
*Ellie Leslie
Bowman
*Mattie Gray
Davis
*Lucy Caroline
Griffin
*Maggie Katharine
Heishman
*Taylor Lynn
Huntsberry
*Mary Katherine
McKay
*Isabel Blish
Wilkins
*Brittany Nicole
Green
*Alexis Marie
Hargbol
*Jonnie Lee
Herndon
*Molly Catherine
Hopkins
*Kayla Jean
Hylton
*Monet Nicole
Johnson
*Anna Lucille
Kuykendall
*Britney Michelle
Leaf
*Emily Nicole
Levi
Pages
*Daniel Travis
Brill
*Philip Paul Reese
*Jalen Malik
Tyson
*Elizabeth Noel
Maddox
*Emily Marie
Maddox
*Sydney
Windous
Mitchell
*Amanda
Christine
Pinckney
*Mary Kathryn
Sadler
*Rachael
Elizabeth Shirley
*Stephanie Lynn
Sites
*Ericka Caitlin
Strosnyder
*Anna Lee Wilt
*Chelsea Layne
Wingfield
‘Berry Basket’ on Center Road
(From The Wilmington News Journal
dated Thursday 11 Feb 2010.)
EDITORS NOTE Quilt
Trail is a series of articles
featuring painted wood barn
quilts that are being placed
on barns throughout Clinton
This Berry Basket quilt block is
County in conjunction with
located on Center Road
the 2010 county bicentennial
celebration. A variety of quilt block designs will connect the
entire county into one large patchwork quilt block.
The 26th barn on the barn quilt trail is located at 2822 Center
Road in Union Township. It is currently owned by Mark and
9
Stephanie Stokes. The quilt block "Berry Basket" was specially
designed to represent the strawberries and raspberries produced
at Stokes Berry Farm.
The barn is part of a fiveacre parcel situated in the middle of
Stokes Farm. It was built in the early 1800s by Joshua and Jane
Haines who were early settlers of Clinton County. Their
daughter, Rebecca, married C.R. Oglesbee. They had three sons:
Eric, Oscar L. and Edward. In the early 1900s ownership of the
barn and property was transferred to Oscar, often referred to as
O.L. In 1962 Mary Oglesbee, O.L.'s widow, sold the farm to
Ben and Agnes Stokes. During the 1990s it was sold out of the
family for several years until their grandson Mark, was able to
purchase the property in 1999 and bring it back into the Stokes
family. At that point restoration of both the original house and
barn were undertaken.
The three-story classic bank barn was built on a limestone
block foundation which was made from stone quarried nearby. It
features a mortise/pin construction, hand hewn rafters, original
wide plank floorboards and joist made of solid logs twelve
inches in diameter. Of special notice are the five 55- foot hand
hewn oak beams which support the barn's structure.
Oxen were used on the thrashing floor adjacent to the granary
in the barn. There is a hay loft with the antique hay fork and
other tools from the era. A lower area was a feeding floor for the
horses, cattle and other livestock.
Diane Murphy at 382-0316 or The Cotton Junky Quilt Shop at
366-6302.
'Providence' quilt graces Gurneyville Road
(From The Wilmington News Journal
dated Tuesday 13 Oct 2009.)
EDITORS NOTE -- Quilt Trail
is a series of articles featuring
painted wood barn quilts that are
being placed on barns throughout
Clinton County in conjunction
with the upcoming county
bicentennial celebration in 2010.
A variety of quilt block designs will connect the entire county
into one large patchwork quilt block.
The twelfth barn along the Clinton County Barn Quilt Trail is
located at 6613 Gurneyville Road. The quilt block "Providence"
was chosen as it reminds us to seek God's guidance and
protection.
The current farm contains 218 acres and is owned by Ronald
and Pat Whitacre, however the original tract contained 1,000
acres and was a military tract owned by Jonathan and Elizabeth
McKay. In 1871 the farm was purchased by Moses McKay, and
in 1910 Edwin and Allie McKay took over ownership of the
farm. The property was then transferred to their daughter Cleo
(Harold) Whitacre in 1969. By 1990 the remaining property was
transferred to their son Ronald (Pat) Whitacre. The property has
been farmed by McKay/Whitacre famililes for more than 138
years and in 1997 Ronald received the farm bureau's Century
Farm Award.
The barn displaying the quilt block is approximately 103
years old, with the corn crib and another barn being even older.
Ronald is the fifth generation owner/operator. Beginning in
1964 he raised hogs for 46 years and to this day he continues to
raise beef cattle and grain. Ronald's mother instilled in him a
deep love for farming and responsibility for the land that had
been entrusted to him. Each day he seeks God's guidance and
protections as he goes about his duties on the farm.
Due to the overwhelming interest in the project barns with
adequate space and visibility are being accepted for the display
of quilt blocks. Sponsorships for those barns are available
through Oct. 31. For more information contact Diane Murphy at
382-0316 or Carol Earheart, Cotton Junky Quilt Shop, 3666302.
‘North Star Variation’ shines
(From The Wilmington News Journal
dated Wednesday 13 January 2010.)
EDITOR'S NOTE Quilt
Trail is a series of articles
featuring painted wood
barn quilts that are being
placed on barns
Contributed photo
throughout Clinton County
This "North Star Variation" barn
in conjunction with the
quilt is located on New Burlingrton
2010 county bicentennial
Road.
celebration.
A variety of quilt block designs will connect the entire county
into one large patchwork quilt block.
The 23rd barn along the Clinton County Barn Quilt Trail is
located in the northwest corner of the county in Chester
Township at 5052 New Burlington Road where Gurneyville
Road ends.
The barn is currently owned by Roger and Priscilla Vaughan.
The quilt block, "North Star Variation," is appropriate for its
location in the northern edge of the county.
The barn was built on a stone foundation with mortise and
pin construction in the late 1890s by Priscilla's great-great-uncle,
Walter Lackey. Several years later he jacked up the barn and
added the lower level to create the bank barn effect that it has to
this day. The barn has always been an intricate part of the
working farm. It has been used to store grain, hay and straw. It
has housed farm equipment and livestock, held ballgames and
assorted other events over the years. Currently the barn is used
primarily by the Vaughan's son Bryan and grandchildren, Alex
and Cameron for raising Holstein dairy replacement heifers and
4-H livestock and poultry projects.
Maintaining the barn has always been priority for the family.
In the 1980s Priscilla's father, Wilbur McKay owner of the farm
at the time, hired a restoration firm from New
York to repair and restore the foundation and structure of the
barn. More recently the barn has had the roof, siding and
electricity updated to help ensure its preservation.
The Vaughan's quilt block was graciously sponsored by
Larry and Mary Ann Roddy.
For information concerning the barn quilt project contact
Six and Twenty Club conducts
first meeting of new year
(From The Wilmington News Journal
dated Friday 5 February 2010.)
The first meeting of 2010 for the Six and Twenty Club was
held in January at the home of Mrs. Dawn Victor-Herring.
The gavel was passed from the vice-president, Mrs. Sara
Conti, to the new president, Mrs. Cecilia Wathen.
Meeting the day after the death of Mrs. Jean Heiland, an
honorary member of the group, members reflected on Mrs.
Heiland's life.
Some told humorous incidents while others told of how she
was a tomboy growing up, but a perfect lady in her adult years.
She was known as an excellent cook and hostess and a
supporter of her husband and family, a good example to follow.
Mrs. Mary Ann Raizk was introduced as the years first
program leader. Her 2010 club book is "Telex from Cuba," a
fictional novel based on historical fact, written by Rachel
Kushner.
The setting was in Oriente province during the 1950s,
luxurious years during which the United Fruit Company owned
thousands of acres of sugarcane plantations before Castro
overthrew the Batista. Desiring to know more about the history
10
of Cuba, Mrs. Raizk researched and gave members a brief
summary of Cuba's past.
Mrs. Raizk introduced guest speakers Libby Curry and Lois
Hackney who have been on several mission trips to eastern Cuba
under the leadership of the Friends United Meeting.
Mrs. Curry related that Cuba became a desperate country
after Fidel Castro deported Americans in 1959. During the
several trips she has made to Cuba, she observed that in spite of
their poverty, the people of Cubans are well educated and have
excellent health care.
The Quakers started a Cuban mission in 1902 and Eva Terrell
from Fairview Friends Meeting was its first missionary. The
"Wilmington School," which was built by the Wilmington
Yearly Meeting still exists there today.
Mrs. Hackney told of her 2004 trip to Cuba for the centennial
celebration of the mission church built in Puerto Padre by the
Wilmington Quakers. She noted the sense of community and a
spirit of happiness among the Cuban populace.
Under a socialistic regime, everyone works for the
government. However, every time they have returned to Cuba,
things are improving, due in part to the easing of church bans.
Mrs. Curry and Mrs. Hackney concluded their program by
passing mementos crafted by the enterprising citizens, including
crocheted, carved and woven items.
Members exchanged their books and convened at the tea
table. Mrs. Victor-Herring served a selection of tea sandwiches,
cookies, cheese straws, nuts and candy with caramel tea amid
bouquets of red tulips.
report was also approved. David Holmes mentioned a $1,000
anonymous donation he received from a member who read
about the organizations financial problems in the newsletter.
Joyce Pinkerton, Shirley Lakotas and Mary Lou Bush have
been working on a history of CCGS for the Ohio Historical
Society who is putting together a book on all Ohio Genealogy
Societies. They are looking for pictures to include with their
article.
Christine Snyder reported on the upcoming event at the
Springfield Meeting taking place on Sept. 19 and 20. There will
be displays, antiques, period clothing, art, the Eli Harvey
collection, a cemetery walk, bus tour, play, slide show, worship,
basket dinner and music. On Sunday, everyone is invited to go
to the Quaker Heritage Center for the unveiling of the statue.
There will also be food for sale by Sam's Deli and Jen's Deli.
They also have for sale a 500-plus page book which will have
lots of genealogy details. Springfield Meeting is located off
Route 380.
Jean Holmes suggested a copy of the group's newsletter be
sent to members of the Historical Society and ask if they wish to
include information in future editions.
The next meeting is Sept. 28 at 7:30 p.m. Melissa Beal
Beyerlein will speak on New York Quaker Families and Clinton
County -- Dakin Colony.
WHS students honored
(From The Wilmington News Journal
dated Wednesday 10 Feb 2010.)
Chester meeting and cemetery topic for program
(From The Wilmington News Journal
dated Monday 31 Aug 2009.)
The history of Chester Friends Meeting and cemetery was
presented for the program when the Clinton County Genealogy
Society met Aug. 24 at the Clinton County Historical Society
with 32 members in attendance.
Joyce Peters, acting president, opened the meeting with the
pledge to the flag. She introduced visitors to the meeting, Paul
and Martha Anthony of North Carolina, Pauline Terrell, Carol
Tharpe, Caroline Lewis and J. Douglas Borton.
Jim Hackney, who presented the program, said the McMillan
family of Ireland started their American journey in Chester
County Pennsylvania. They later moved to York County
Pennsylvania before coming to Ohio by prairie schooner and
settling in Indian Territory they called Meetland. The name was
later changed to the McMillan community. Members traveled to
Center Meeting for worship. Finding the trip far to travel, they
requested the opportunity to establish their own meeting house
but were denied. In 1824, three members each purchased four
acres of land to establish the Chester Friends Meeting house and
began their own worship. Center Meeting did not give them
formal approval until May of 1839.
Hackney spoke of the anti-slavery movement in which the
church had a major role. The members were against war and part
of the temperance movement. For years the members were very
strict but became more conservative as time went on. The
speaker shared pictures of the building as it would have looked
in the early 1800s, 1843 to 1913 and how it looks today. He also
showed a bench that has been in the meeting house for years. It
is used by the children today. Hackney shared many funny
stories that have been passed down through the congregation.
Many stories have been lost as church members pass on. The
Chester Friends Meeting is still active today.
The first burial in the cemetery was John Baxter and his wife
Mary. Many Quakers didnt use headstones at this time. Those
who did used small unadorned stones. There are several slaves
buried in this graveyard, most have no headstone.
The minutes were read and approved as read. The treasurer's
Submitted photo
Eleven students at Wilmington High School have been
nominated as Students of the Month for December. Each
department selected a student based on leadership and academic
achievements.
Students receiving this distinction are (l-r) Ashton Johnson,
Tyler White, Heather Macella, Michael Ford, Laura Miller,
Chad McKay, Autumn McCammon, JD Hottinger, Heather
Mapes, Scott Liermann and Tyler Roberts.
$68,786 donated in ‘real rescue effort’
for Greenway Court
(From The Winchester Star dated Tuesday 30 June 2009.)
By Val Van Meter
The Winchester Star
WHITE POST -- Local residents dug deep to save a $47,500
state matching grant this month.
The money is earmarked to stabilize three historic buildings
at Greenway Court.
Thomas, Lord Fairfax lived there during the 1700s, selling
land from his 1,600-square-mile grant in the Northern
Shenandoah Valley from the king of England.
"We are very grateful to the donors who responded so
generously to this emergency campaign," said Robert Stieg,
president of the Northern Shenandoah Valley Branch of
11
Hopewell Friends celebrates 275th
Preservation Virginia.
The state grant was due to expire today.
Stieg said county officials had applied for another grant to
pay the matching share, but that grant did not materialize.
In 45 days, Stieg and a committee of volunteers raised
$68,786, enough to fund $116,286 in rescue work, he said.
The money will help to repair and stabilize the cracked side
of the stone Fairfax Land Office, built around 1761, and the
foundation under a wooden powder house/meat house from the
same era.
Stieg said this will be the first of a two-phase project to
rehabilitate and restore the historic buildings, along with a third
building -- a carriage house constructed in the 1830s and
believed to have been built with materials taken from Lord
Fairfaxs guest house at Greenway Court. A pilaster is pulling
away from this structure, Stieg said.
That is a building George Washington would have stayed in
when he came to the Shenandoah Valley to survey tracts the
British peer planned to sell.
Washington was in the Frederick-Clarke county area for 10
years and got his first military and political experience here.
Clarke County holds an easement on the historic structures
and the land around them that are part of the Greenway Court
property. The easement is also held by the Virginia Department
of Historic Resources.
"We have saved it," said Stieg, who noted that the local
nonprofit organization couldnt stand back and allow the grant to
fall through, considering that the historic buildings might do the
same.
"Somebody had to take the responsibility," he added.
"It was a real rescue effort," said Franny Crawford, a member
of Stiegs committee. "People can understand, in Clarke, the
value of saving a place like that."
Stieg said many people -- including Crawford, Doug Bartley,
Carolyn Farouki, Lucia Henderson, Maral Kalbian, Matthew and
Winkie Mackay-Smith, Betty Schutte, and Nancy Talley came
forward to help solicit donations.
"It should have been a tough time for this, but it wasnt," said
Talley. "Since 1964, when I started working with Preservation
of Historic Winchester and the Burwell-Morgan Mill, I have
never seen such and enthusiastic or quick response to a
problem."
An earlier study identified some $400,000 in preservation
work needed for the buildings, Stieg said, but this money will
complete the stabilization phase.
Then, he said, fundraising will start to complete the work.
Now, the participants in the process -- the state and county
governments, Preservation Virginia, and the landowners -- must
agree on the scope of the work.
An architect experienced in preservation and an engineer will
be hired to determine the best method of repairing the damage to
the buildings, and what can reasonably be accomplished with the
money on hand.
Then the project must be offered by county officials for bids.
Stieg hopes the work can begin by fall.
"Were very anxious to get moving on it."
-- Contact Val Van Meter at
mailto:vvanmeter@winchesterstar.com
(From The Winchester Star dated Friday 15 May 2009.)
Open house is scheduled for Saturday afternoon
By Christine Miller Ford
The Winchester Star
Clear Brook -- As his church marks its 275th anniversary
with an open house Saturday, Jim Riley says there's much more
to celebrate than simply the long history of the Hopewell
Meeting House.
Yes, the Winchester
resident says, it's noteworthy
that Hopewell has been home
to worship services without
interruption since its
founding in 1734, making it
the oldest place of worship in
Mary Robare of Frederick County
Frederick County.
sits in a pew at the Hopewell
But to Riley, it's the
Friends Meeting House in Clear
spiritual aspect of Hopewell
Brook. The faith, also called the
that looms largest.
Religious Society of Friends, is
"There's a great cloud of
widely known for a commitment
witnesses here," said Riley,
to peace.
63, part of the eighth
(Photo by Jeff Taylor)
generation of his family to
worship at Hopewell.
Saturday's open house -- set for 1 to 5 p.m. at 604 Hopewell
Road, a mile west of Clear Brook off U.S. 11 -- will offer
visitors the opportunity to learn more about the church's rich
history and as well as insight into what the Quaker faith stands
for, Riley said.
"Sometimes you'll hear from people who have the impression
that Quakerism is something that's in the past," he said. "The
275th anniversary is a chance for us to talk about what Quakers
have done in the world, about what our faith is all about."
About 100,000 Quakers make their homes in the United
States and Canada, according to the Web site
http://www.Quakerfinder.org; another 200,000 live in Europe,
Africa, Asia, and elsewhere in the world.
The faith, also called the
Religious Society of Friends,
is widely known for a
commitment to peace, Riley
said.
"Quakers traditionally
have worked very hard to
Quakers quilt inside the Hopewell
create peace in the world," he
Friends Meeting House in Clear
said. "That's probably the
Brook in this undated photo.
strongest testimony of
Quakers."
The church's practice of worshipping largely in silence also
sets Quakers apart, Riley said.
"We don't have a minister or a priest who is seen as the
leader of our worship service," he said. "We gather and sit in
silence and if the spirit moves someone to speak, then that
person speaks."
The denomination dates to the mid-1600s when an
Englishman named George Fox began to preach of the need to
turn away from the hierarchy of established churches. His
radical belief: Each person could work to encounter God
directly.
"That's still what we believe, that God speaks to each of us,"
Riley said.
Photographs of Quakers from earlier generations show them
in plain dress, but Riley said that tradition has fallen away.
As for the church building itself, Hopewell remains as he
remembers it from his childhood.
12
"We've done a few
improvements on the outside,
adding a handicapped ramp
and a railing to the porch, but
inside where our worship is
held, its been pretty much the
same for 250 years."
The Hopewell Friends Meeting
According to the church's
House is at 604 Hopewell Road, a
history, the first meeting
mile west of Clear Brook off U.S.
house was made of logs.
11.
After more than 20 years of
(Photo by Jeff Taylor)
use, the building was
destroyed by fire in 1757.
The eastern side of the current meeting house was constructed
between 1759 and 1761, with another section added in 1794.
Hopewell is not only on the National Register of Historic
Places, but is also designated as a Virginia Historic Landmark
and a Frederick County Historic Site.
In 1999, Hopewell merged in with Centre Meeting in
downtown Winchester to form the congregation now known as
the Hopewell Centre Meeting.
Hopewell typically has celebrated its roots with an open
house and other special events only every quarter-century or so,
Riley said.
Hopewell's next big event is a homecoming celebration slated
for late August.
Riley's affiliation with
Hopewell has been lifelong.
His mother's ancestors were
among the handful of
Pennsylvania families who
founded Hopewell 275 years
ago.
Virginia Lupton Riley
was the oldest member of
Jim Riley holds a cradle roll from
Hopewell when she died this
the early 1900s that shows the
month at 96.
young children of the Hopewell
"I'm kind of the
Meeting House. His mother
exception, having grown up
Virginia Lupton, born in 1912, is
here," Riley said. "Most of
one of the children pictured.
the people who come to
(Photo by Rick Foster)
worship at Hopewell today
didn't grow up with the faith.
Something about Quakerism speaks to them and they attend a
service and realize it's for them.
"We try to be very welcoming to anyone who comes. We
want everyone to feel at home."
Saturday's tour will include the meeting house and grounds,
along with the adjoining graveyard.
The church's regular worship services are scheduled for 10
a.m. Sundays.
http://hopecentre.quaker.org
-- Contact Christine Miller Ford
at cford@winchesterstar.com
care clerk, even found a crushed Washington Post newspaper
dated 1898 in one of the fabric-covered footstools that sit
beneath the church's long wooden benches.
She was replacing the stools' "yucky" fabric coverings for the
open house when she made the discovery, and it drew her back
in time as she read that a new Steinway piano was on sale for
$65.
"I ran around excited," she said, jogging her feet up and
down to mimic her glee.
Linda J. Wilk, church clerk, estimated that up to 100 people
came to the Hopewell Meeting House Saturday at 604 Hopewell
Road to celebrate the anniversary.
"We had a lot of people come from the community," said
Betty McCormick, a church member. "I just talked to a variety
of people who came, and I was just really pleased."
Some who showed up Saturday at the gray stone meeting
house, which sits on a rolling hill of emerald green grass,
wanted to link their ancestors to names listed in the church's
records.
Other visitors were interested in the Quakers' practice of
worshipping in silence, while others were drawn in by mere
curiosity.
"I think more people are struck by the antiquity of the
building, and how well-preserved it is after so many years of
continuous use," Hambach said.
The church was founded in 1734. Two men from
Pennsylvania had brought 70 families to the Shenandoah Valley
of Virginia to start a new community for the faith, also called
the Religious Society of Friends.
The church building was first made of logs, but was
destroyed by fire in 1757.
The eastern portion of the existing building was built from
1759 to 1761, and the western portion from 1758 to 1794.
Wilk said she spent a lot of time during the open house
explaining Quaker religious practices.
Attendees were curious as to why the faith does not employ
pastors, and how members know when they're supposed to
speak during the mostly silent periods of worship.
"How do you know God is there?" she said, recalling one
question. "You know that by sitting and waiting."
She said another focal point for visitors was the centuries-old
wedding certificates that list the names of all the attendees of a
particular ceremony.
Hambach said that during Quaker wedding ceremonies, the
couple sits in the center of the church together.
The other members sit in silence, and speak about the couple
when they are moved to do so.
"When the bride and groom are ready, they stand and make
their vows," she said.
The attendees, who all sign the certificate, then file out. All
are considered witnesses to the event.
"The feeling is that God also married them," said Anne
Bacon, a church member.
Wilk said that at one point during Saturday's open house,
about 60 people gathered to hear the singing of a woman dressed
in the Quaker "plain dress" of a black bonnet and gray dress.
"It was very moving," she said, although, "we normally
wouldn't sing during worship."
Others wandered through the cemetery adjacent to the
church, which contains marked and unmarked graves.
Wilk said that early Quakers did not believe in marking a
grave with tombstones. They believed the practice was pompous
and therefore sinful, according to church literature.
Bacon said the graves were unmarked "because God knew
who was there," she said. "It was considered frivolous."
The earliest gravesite is the resting place of John Griffith,
who lived from 1737 to 1833, according to church literature.
Winchester resident Carolyn Maccubin attended the church
It’s 275 years and counting at Hopewell
(From The Winchester Star dated Monday 18 May 2009.)
By Laura Oleniacz
The Winchester Star
Clear Brook -- Historic treasures unearthed at the Hopewell
Meeting House were dusted off and aired Saturday when the
Quaker church celebrated its 275th anniversary with an open
house.
A black velvet bonnet from the 1800s, a gray button-up
child's tunic, and wedding certificates signed by the Quaker
community in 1826 and 1917, were some of the artifacts on
display.
Pam Hambach, a two-year church member and its pastoral
13
Saturday as a visitor since her daughter-in-law is a member.
"I thought it was interesting to see the building pretty much
as it was originally erected," she said.
benevolently from beneath the brim of a black hat on the front of
an oatmeal box -- have gone the way of the dinosaur.
When people learn that
Winchester resident Jim
Riley is an eighth-generation
Quaker, they often ask:
"There are still Quakers
around?"
Established in mid-17th
century England as an
In 1910, workers were rebuilding
antidote to institutional
the eastern end of the historic
Christianity, Quakerism -meeting house near Clear Brook.
formally known as the
The area's oldest surviving place
Religious Society of Friends
of worship, built of native
-- has about 300,000
limestone and pine, first held
services in 1759.
members worldwide,
(Photo provided by Hopewell
according to the Web
Meeting House)
sitehttp://www.Quaker
finder.org. About 100,000 live in the United States and Canada.
Quakerism eschews creeds and religious symbolism and has
no official leader or pastors. Each member is considered equal
before God and capable of knowing "the light" directly.
Wilk said the faith's emphasis on living simply and
peacefully makes it particularly relevant now, given the wars
and economic and environmental crises around the world.
"We think we speak to the 21st century."
Marking 275 years of Quaker worship in the Valley
(From The Winchester Star dated Saturday 29 Aug 2009.)
By Cynthia Cather Burton
The Winchester Star
Clear Brook -- Maggie Stetler was raised Catholic.
But deep down, she was really Quaker.
"I just didnt know it," the
Winchester resident said
recently.
Four years ago, Stetler
visited the 250-year-old
Hopewell Meeting House
for the first time.
Hopewell Meeting House has been
She was so moved by the
hosting services for 250 years.
hour-long Sunday service
(Photos by Jeff Taylor)
the congregation sits in
silence unless someone is moved to speak -- that she has been
attending ever since.
Stetler thinks others would find the faith's commitment to
pacifism, social activism, and simplicity appealing -- if only
they knew about it.
Quakers typically shy away from publicity, but they're
making an exception this year to mark the 275th anniversary of
Quaker worship in the Shenandoah Valley. It began in 1734 in a
Frederick County log cabin with about 70 families who migrated
from Hopewell in Lancaster County, Pa.
A more permanent structure, the Hopewell Meeting House,
was built 25 years later from native limestone and pine on
present-day Hopewell Road. It is here that Quaker worship has
continued uninterrupted since 1759, making it the area's oldest
surviving place of worship.
Today, about 100
families are on the rolls at
Hopewell, which merged
in 1999 with Winchester
Centre Meeting to become
Hopewell Centre.
Linda Wilk, clerk of
the combined meetings,
Linda Wilk (left) of Falling Waters,
said 30 to 40 people
W.Va., a member of the Hopewell
regularly attend services.
Friends since 1997, and Maggie
They are held on the first
Stetler of Winchester, who attends
three Sundays of the
local Quaker services, look over the
month at Hopewell and on
sanctuary of the meeting house near
the fourth Sunday in the
Clear Brook. The first Quakers
moved to the Valley in 1734, and
Winchester meeting house
Quaker services have been held at the
at Washington and
meeting house for 250 years. "You
Piccadilly streets.
dont have to be Christian to come
Wilk was raised
here," Wilk said. "You would never
Presbyterian.
Nearly 30
be turned away."
years ago, she and her
husband became "convinced" Quakers.
She noted that just 25 percent of Hopewell's members are
Quaker by birthright. Most came to the faith later in life.
"You don't have to be Christian to come here," Wilk said on a
recent afternoon as she sat on a shady side porch at Hopewell.
"You would never be turned away."
Because Quakers dont evangelize or advertise, they are
frequently confused with the Amish, Wilk added with a laugh.
"They think we walk around in plain clothes and dont use
electricity."
Another common misconception is that Quakers -- long
associated with the image of a white-haired man smiling
CELEBRATION PLANNED
Anyone interested in learning more about Quakerism may
attend the Hopewell Meeting House's annual homecoming
service and anniversary celebration Sunday.
It will begin with silent worship at 10 a.m., followed by a
pot-luck picnic at noon. Music will be provided at 2 p.m. by
Chilean guitarist Ali Youssefi and violinist Pam Hill.
The Hopewell Meeting House, a Virginia Historic Landmark
and a Frederick County historic site, is at 604 Hopewell Road
near Clear Brook. It will remain open throughout the day for
visitors to explore.
Vintage photos, quilts, and clothing will be on display.
Quaker crafts will also be for sale.
Four free public talks on "the Quaker way" will be held Oct.
7, 14, 21, and 28 at the Centre Meeting House in Winchester.
For more information, call 540-667-9114
540-6679114
or visithttp://www.hopecentre.quaker.org.
-- Contact Cynthia Cather Burton at
cburton@winchesterstar.com
Author will pay tribute to creator of apple culture
(From The Winchester Star dated Saturday 22 Aug 2009.)
By Val Van Meter
The Winchester Star
Millwood -- The apple industry
The annual meeting
has been a big part of Clarke
begins at 11 a.m.
Countys history.
It is free and open
On Sunday, author Howard
to the public.
Means will discuss the man who
Old Bethel is on
gets credit for spreading apple
Old Bethel Lane,
culture in America: Johnny
off Swift Shoals Road.
Appleseed.
The venue is The Bethel Memorial Inc., a historic church
above the Shenandoah River in the countys southeast corner.
The event, Bethels annual meeting, will begin at 11 a.m.
In its lengthy past, the land the site of one of the oldest roads
in the county has seen a Quaker meeting house and a Baptist
congregation.
The renovated structure is now held in trust for the people of
14
the county and holds an annual meeting and traditional service
in August and a special Christmas service in December each
year.
Ian Williams, president of the board of trustees, said the Rev.
Anne Manson of Cunningham Chapel Parish will conduct
Sundays service, with music by Amy Call and Steven Murray,
with Loretta Johnston as organist.
And the traditional covered-dish picnic will take place under
the oak trees surrounding Bethel, "rain or shine," Williams said.
Everyone should bring a lawn chair, he added.
The speaker is a former magazine editor and newspaper
columnist. Means is also the author or co-author of eight books,
including "Colin Powell: A Biography," a novel, "CSA," and
most recently, "The Avenger Takes His Place: Andrew Johnson
and the 45 Days that Changed the Nation."
He has also assisted with more than 20 other titles, ranging
from the best-selling memoirs by George Tenet, Robert Baer,
and Michael Deaver to business advice from mutual fund guru
John C. Bogle.
His upcoming book, "Right Fresh from Heaven John
Chapman a.k.a. Johnny Appleseed: The Man, The Myth and The
American Story," will be published by Simon & Schuster.
Means and his wife Candy live in Millwood.
Contact Val Van Meter at
vvanmeter@winchesterstar.com
Years before he built Belle Grove, the 283-acre historic
plantation outside Middletown, Hite served in the Revolutionary
War (1775-1783) as a generals aide-de-camp, even losing one of
his fingers in the battle of Yorktown in October 1781.
Saturday marked the first time that Hite has been honored by
the Sons of the American Revolution.
"Were honoring him for his contributions to the cause of
American freedom " said Berryville resident Ralph Pierce, who
organized the ceremony and suited up in a thick wool
reproduction uniform similar to the one Hite might have worn.
Pierce said that his organization honors long-dead patriots
like Hite because it helps keep the areas rich history from being
forgotten. "We do this to preserve the memory of the service of
our ancestors," he said.
David Carne, a Hite family descendant and a member of the
board of Belle Grove, said that the participation of the
Shenandoah Valley in the Revolutionary War is often
overlooked.
"Everybody in this area is interested in the Civil War, but the
history of this place goes back much further," he said.
-- Contact Monty Tayloe at
mtayloe@winchesterstar.com
Son born to McKays
(From The Wilmington News Journal
dated Tuesday 4 Aug 2009 at 5:35 PM)
Wayne and Andrea McKay are the
proud parents of a son, Colt Michael
McKay, born June 12, 2009 at Kettering
Medical Center. Colt weighed 7 pounds 7
ounces and was 22 inches long.
Maternal grandparents are Rock and
Kathy Persinger of Jamestown. Maternal
great-grandparents are Mark and Connie
Guess and Bob and Barb Persinger.
Paternal grandparents are Steve and
Roseanne McKay of Wilmington. Paternal great-grandparents
are Don and Marilyn Wilkin and the late Wilbur and Ada
McKay.
Isaac Hite reaches new heights
(From The Winchester Star dated Monday 27 July 2009.)
By Monty Tayloe
The Winchester Star
Winchester -- At Long Meadow Cemetery outside
Middletown, descendants of the man who more than 200 years
ago built Belle Grove Plantation gathered Saturday at a
ceremony to honor him.
Accompanied by a bugler playing taps and a color guard in
full Revolutionary War regalia, the James Wood Jr. chapter of
the Sons of the American Revolution placed a special stone
marker and wreath on the weathered 174-year-old gravestone of
Isaac Hite Jr., recognizing him for his service as a lieutenant in
the Continental Army.
"We learn about history in
school . . . having a personal
connection to it helps makes it
real," said Dan Tulles, vice
president of the Hite Family
Association and a descendant
of Jost Hite, Isaac Hites
American Revolutionary War
grandfather, who was the
re-enactors Brett Osborn of
Shenandoah Valleys first
Winchester (left) and Ralph
settler.
Pierce of Berryville take part in
Every three years, Hite
a special ceremony Saturday at
family descendants gather at
the grave of Revolutionary War
Belle Grove to catch up and
soldier Isaac Hite Jr.
(Photos by Jeff Taylor)
learn about their ancestors.
They hear speakers on
genealogy and history, and take
behind-the-scenes tours of the
historic house and
archeological studies on the
farm.
Elaine Boyer Roy of
Descendants of Isaac Hite Jr.
Lynchburg has been to the Hite
gather at his gravesite Saturday
at Long Meadow Cemetery
reunion before and said that
near Middletown during the
finding out about family
Hite Family Reunion, which
genealogy is addictive.
was attended by several dozen
"I started researching it, and
people. A Revolutionary War
once you get bitten by the bug,
soldier, Hite built nearby Belle
you cant stop," she said.
Grove Plantation in the 1790s.
Collett to meet at 3 M Club
(From The Wilmington News Journal
dated Thursday 14 May 2009.)
The 3 M Club (Monday Morning Mens Club) invites senior
men in the community to join the group for the Monday meeting
at 9 a.m. in the Cape May Campus Center at the Cape May
Retirement Village.
The featured speaker will be Sherry Collett, co-owner of
Sams Meats in Wilmington. She will talk about owning a
business that is multifunctional and family owned.
Collett will provide Sams doughnuts for breakfast.
The mens club meets the first and third Mondays of each
month.
Cape May Retirement Village is located on State Route 73
West, just west of Nelson Avenue.
For more information, call Bob Holmes at 382-3673.
15
every bit of it."
McKay wanted the course to be "different" -- not to the point
that some golfers loved it and others hated it, but to ensure that
there would be a wide variety of holes.
The McKays moved only 150,000 to 200,000 yards of dirt,
about a third to a half of what is normally moved for a golf
course. Some big-time resort courses move 10 to 20 times that,
McKay said.
The Enquirer's golf staff played Majestic Springs' front nine,
then toured the back with course superintendent Chris Haley.
The Enquirer found it to be a terrific blend of links-style and
conventionally wooded holes. On No.15, we came upon a fellow
in bib overalls next to a surveyor's transit. He was shooting
grade for the bridge there.
It was family patriarch Wilbur McKay, Roger's dad.
He is proud of his son's work and believes this land has made
for a better golf course than it did a farm.
Majestic Springs has been a family affair: Roger's brother,
Dave, helped move the dirt and build the bridges ... their mother,
Ada, did the bookkeeping ... and Wilbur did "a little bit of
everything," said Roger.
When the "shaper" Roger hired to contour the ground for the
fairways and greens kept odd hours -- and then one day just
stopped showing up altogether -- McKay turned to his lifelong
friend, Mike Rich, who had a bulldozer.
"Mike was great at the technical side of operating a dozer,"
McKay said. "He can make things as flat as a pancake just by
using his eye. Once I learned the fundamentals, I developed a
knack for the creative side, making mounds and curves. It was a
pretty good combination."
At any point in turning 220 acres of farmland into an 18-hole
golf course did McKay wonder what he had gotten himself into?
"All the time," McKay said. "I never stopped wondering
about that -- at least not until the first group of people came out
to play. They said how nice it looked and how much fun it was
to play. That wiped away all the doubts and fears."
Course spotlight: Majestic Springs
(From The Cincinnati Enquirer date unknown.)
McKays make new layout a family affair
By John Erardi and Carey Hoffman
The Cincinnati Enquirer
WILMINGTON -- Back
when Roger McKay was 5 years
old and behind the wheel of a
moving tractor -- a real farm
tractor -- he wasn't eyeballing
the scenery.
He wasn't daydreaming about
Roger McKay maintains the
how a particular piece of farm
course with his father, mother
land might make a terrific golf
and brother.
hole.
(Dick Swaim photo)
He was more concerned that,
if ever he needed to stop the
MAJESTIC
tractor, he must shut off the
SPRINGS GOLF
ignition key.
COURSE
It was the only way for Roger
to stop the tractor once his
Where: 48 miles from
brother got it in gear. Roger was
downtown Cincinnati.
Directions: I-71 North to exit 45
too short to reach the clutch.
(Route 73); east (right) on Route
Yes, 28 years ago, five-year73, south (right) on Route 380,
old Roger McKay was operating
left on Todd's Fork Road, course
a tractor while the field hands
on left.
behind it baled hay. Nobody's
Weekend rate: $36 for 18
holes, including cart.
saying it was right, but it was
Phone: (937) 383-1474
necessary. Times were different.
A man did what he had to do to work his land, even turning his
children into farmhands, a critical need in operating a family
farm.
Later, when McKay was able to handle all the farm
equipment with the best of them, he would occasionally turn his
thoughts to golf. He was a recreational player, but had no
knowledge of course design.
He felt strongly, however, that the family's 220 acres of
farmland off Todd's Fork Road -- home to hogs, beef cattle and
fields of soybean and corn -- was a golf course waiting to
happen.
"I could "see' the fourth hole and the eighth hole, and believe
it or not, I could see the 10th hole," said McKay, 33.
And what a vision it turned out to be:
Majestic Springs will one day vie for a spot in The Enquirer's
"Top Five Public Golf Courses in the Tristate," judging by what
we saw during a recent tour of the grounds.
Its front nine opened for play last spring; its back nine opens
Saturday. The back nine is as strong as any nine holes we've
seen on a Tristate public golf course outside Shaker Run, Elks
Run and Lassing Pointe.
McKay had been a farmer all his life until he went to college
to study ag-business (marketing minor) at the University of
Illinois, from which he graduated in 1989. He was working in
Columbus at a mortgage company when he encountered a
couple employees at a party who had just finished building a
golf course.
In the spring of 1997, he left the mortgage company to
pursue his dream.
A farmer's headache turned into a golfer's delight.
The ground features big elevation changes, sizeable stands of
healthy trees and a creek running through it. These are the things
that define a course's character, and produce the strategy that
goes into playing it.
"I came out to look at the ground when Roger first called me,
and I could see the potential right away," said architect Barry
Serafin, who built the new nine at Wilmington Elks Course.
"There are some spectacular holes and some great views ...
(Designing) the course was a unique experience, and I enjoyed
Majestic Springs raises more than
$1,000 to battle breast cancer
(From The Wilmington News Journal
dated Monday 20 July 2009 at 9:55 p.m.)
Majestic Springs Golf
Courses recent Ribbon Round
the Pin event raised more than
$1,000 for the CMH
Foundation to be utilized in the
battle against breast cancer by
patients of CMH Regional
Health System.
Majestic Springs golf course
The funds will assist
general manager BJ Joyce (left)
uninsured and underinsured
hands the cash to Scott Holmer
patients needing financial
(second from right), treasurer of
assistance in order to have
the CMH Foundation Board of
Trustees, the fundraising board
screening mammograms in
for CMH. Looking on, left to
Radiology Services at Clinton
right, are Barbara Multon,
Memorial Hospital. Course
Linda Gledhill and Carl
general manager BJ Joyce
Coatney.
presented the cash to Scott
Holmer, treasurer of the CMH Foundation Board of Trustees,
the fundraising board for CMH.
Also on hand were Barbara Multon, Linda Gledhill and Carl
Coatney. Coatney and Multon collaborated on the idea. Coatney,
the athletic equipment manager at Wilmington College, works
summers at Majestic Springs. Multon volunteers for CMH at the
Foster J. Boyd, MD, Regional Cancer Center and is the Clinton
County Unit of the American Cancer Society Breast Cancer
Mission Chair. She also is a member of the CMH Foundation
Auxiliary, which coordinates special fundraising events for the
16
CMH Foundation that benefits CMH. Gledhill is the oncology
program administrator at the Foster J. Boyd, MD, Regional
Cancer Center, an affiliate of CMH.
During the last weekend in June, Majestic Springs golfers
playing the par 3 No. 7 hole had the opportunity to wager
between $1 and $5 that they could hit their tee shot into a circle
painted around the flagstick. Those whose shots landed in the
circle doubled their money while others forfeited their bet as a
donation to the cancer center. Majestic Springs management
also donated $1 for each golfer who played that weekend.
Majestic Springs volunteers who also helped at the hole were
Brent Coatney, Chris Graff, Brooke Irwin, Rich Hurley,
Katherine McKenzie, Brooke Sargent and Jack Gasaway.
The CMH Foundation appreciates and encourages area
businesses, colleges, schools and community service groups to
raise money or provide gifts in kinds to support for patients of
Clinton Memorial Hospital and other CMH Regional Health
System services.
All monies contributed to the CMH Foundation stay in
Clinton County for community benefit to support healthcare
programs and services offered locally as well as those CMH
patients who truly need financial assistance with health care and
related expenses. Donations are tax deductible and will be
credited and acknowledged by the CMH Foundation.
The CMH Foundation has $1.5 million in restricted fund
assets, an unrestricted endowment of $1.7 million and a
restricted endowment of $1 million.
If you have questions about giving opportunities through the
Foundation or want to be added to our email list for updates on
CMH Regional Health System and the CMH Foundation, please
email dadunn@c.mhregional.com or call 937-382-9454 or 937382-9454.
Amid his piles of green beans, peaches, berries, and plums,
Marker always tries to push his customers to taste something
new. Like a fresh apricot. A lot of people think theyre always
dry.
"And people will say, 'I
dont like plums,' and Ill tell
them to go ahead and try one
anyway," he said. "Theyre
usually amazed. Theyll say, 'I
never knew a plum could
taste like that.'"
Hundreds of people
Children take a ride in a cow train
turned out to the event
Saturday afternoon at the
Saturday for some free
Frederick County Farm Bureau
grilled hot dogs, tractor rides,
Farm Fun Day held at MarkerMiller Orchards.
raffles, a petting zoo, and
(Photo by Scott Mason)
informational discussions
with a slate of area farmers.
Families learned that while it might appear that farming
culture has eroded a bit in the area, the Frederick County Farm
Bureau still boasts 1,000 members 250 of whom raise
agricultural products, Anderson said.
Further, he said as he stood in a tent surrounded by posters of
rolling wheat fields and smiling children chomping into freshly
picked fruit, each American farmer feeds about 98 people.
"But its a dying industry because theyre going broke," he
said. "If the American farmer cant survive, your foods going to
come from China, Mexico, and all of the other countries that
export food."
Anderson would know. Besides debts, he said (with a smirk),
he grows hay and keeps beef cattle on his farm near Stephens
City. He used to produce peaches, but the trees lost so much
money that it became more profitable to let them die and plow
them under.
Such trends can be dangerous, he said. Especially when less
than one percent of imported food is inspected as closely as the
food grown in America, Anderson said.
And hearing a statistic like that is enough cause for pause for
people like Rachel Schwartz, Leos mom, who said that she
usually shops at Martins but has been trying to make more of a
"concerted effort" to buy local.
As a start, she and Leo planned to pick some fresh
raspberries and peaches at the orchard Saturday. They planned
to leave the farm full and happy.
"Whether it makes a difference, I dont know," Anderson said.
"Thats something well never know. But were out here trying to
make a difference."
One juicy plum and apricot at a time.
-- Contact Jason Kane at
jkane@winchesterstar.com
Farm Fun Day group pushes local produce
(From The Winchester Star dated Monday 13 July 2009.)
By Jason Kane
The Winchester Star
Winchester -- Dont even
bother trying to stump 6year-old Leo Howerdd. He
already knows the source of
his fruits and veggies.
"They come from plants,"
he said. Obviously.
And its just as clear to
Matthew Caniniti, 1, meets Peanut
Leo that the best place to buy
the dairy goat Saturday afternoon
plants is from a farm which
during the Frederick County Farm
Bureaus Farm Fun Day at Markeris why Leo and his family
Miller Orchards in Winchester.
traveled to Marker-Miller
(Photo by Scott Mason)
Orchards on Saturday for
Farm Fun Day, sponsored by the Frederick County Farm
Bureau.
If only more adults would think that way, said Paul
Anderson, the president of the bureau that organized the event.
The chief objective of the day: to push people to think more
critically about their food.
Most shoppers just plop produce in their cart at the
supermarket and call it a day, Anderson said. And thats a
problem.
"Were trying to encourage them to buy local, or at the very
least to look at the label and see where their food comes from,"
he said.
Saturdays event was the third Farm Fun Day put on by the
bureau, with the first having been held at Hill High Farm two
years ago and last years at Hedgebrook Farm.
John Marker, who operates Marker-Miller Orchards with his
wife Carolyn, said he jumped at the chance to play host to the
event. It was a natural fit.
OBITUARIES
Patsy Dee Hopgood Shipp
(From The Charlotte Observer dated 14 Jan 2010. See
Legacy.com for Guest Book entries.)
Mrs. Shipp, of Cornelius, NC, formerly of Silver Spring,
MD, returned to her Heavenly Father on Wednesday, January
13, 2010. She was 80 years young. She lived her life with
unwavering faith, abiding love, profound wisdom, and in service
to others. To the end, when asked how she felt, she answered
'happy.'
Patsy was born on May 15, 1927 in Washington, DC. Patsy
and her eternal companion, Ralph Earl Shipp, raised their
family--daughters, Dee Ann Buck (Irv), Fairfax, VA, Laura
Lewis (John), Cornelius, NC and Robin Ritchey (Ken), Raleigh,
NC, and son, Craig Shipp, Sarasota, FL, and taught their
children to believe in God and Jesus Christ, and to love one
17
another. Patsy excelled in her first career, full-time homemaker
and later as a successful Realtor. She loved being 'Gammy' to 13
grandchildren and 7 great grandchildren, and she frequently
asked, 'Have I told you today that I love you?'
Patsy is also survived by brothers, Roy, Earl, Daniel; sister,
Sandra Rada and every heart she ever touched and every hand
she ever held. She only gave hugs, never handshakes.
A celebration of her life will begin with the visitation on
Friday, January 15, from 6 to 8 p.m., at Cavin-Cook Funeral
Home, 494 East Plaza Drive, Mooresville, NC. The memorial
service will be on Saturday, January 16, at 3 p.m., at The Church
of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints, 148 Lazy Lane,
Mooresville, NC. Interment at Sharon Memorial Park, Charlotte,
NC, will be private.
In lieu of flowers, Patsy would like everyone to begin a
Christmas Jar (see www.patsydeeshipp.com for details) or
donate to Hospice of Lake Norman, 705 Griffith St., Suite 203,
Davidson, NC, 28056.
Cavin-Cook Funeral Home, Mooresville, NC, is serving the
Shipp Family.
their families.
Memorial services will be held 6 p.m. Tuesday at the Sugar
Grove United Methodist Church, Roland Mitchell officiating,
Visitation will be from 3 to 6 p.m. Tuesday at the church.
Memorial contributions may be made to the McKay Family
Scholarship Fund at the U.S. Bank, 1220 Columbus Ave.,
Washington Court House, 43160. Arrangements are under the
direction of MORROW FUNERAL HOME, 415 E. Court St.,
Washington Court House. Online condolences may be made at
the funeral homes Web site at www.morrowfuneralhome.com.
Virginia Atkinson Miller Griesheimer
(From The Wilmington News Journal dated
Tuesday 9 February 2010 at 12:45 a.m.)
Virginia Atkinson Miller
Griesheimer, 93, of Xenia, died
Sunday (Feb. 7, 2010) at Liberty
Nursing Center, Xenia. She was
preceded in death by her first
husband, Arthur Miller, and her
second husband, Richard
Griesheimer.
Mrs. Griesheimer was born Aug.
10, 1916, in Warren County, daughter
Griesheimer
of the late Harry C. and Eva May
(Bryan) Atkinson. She was a graduate of Kingman High School
in Clinton County. She obtained an educational degree to teach
primary education from Wilmington College and began her
teaching career in Clermont County. She retired from teaching
in 1977 after 38 years. Many of those years were spent teaching
first grade at Spring Hill Elementary, Xenia. She was a
dedicated member of the Xenia Friends Church and United
Society of Friends Women. She was a life member of Greene
County and Ohio Retired Teachers Association and a charter
member of Beta Sigma Phi Sorority. She was a member of
Greene County Business and Professional Women, Ainex
Grandmothers Club, Golden Age Senior Citizens and St. Helen's
Leisure Club. She spent many hours volunteering at Greene
Memorial Hospital.
She is survived by many nieces and nephews; a stepson,
Robert (Hattie) Miller of Xenia; and several stepgrandchildren.
In addition to her first husband, second husband and parents,
she was preceded in death by five sisters, Leola Gray, Mary
Green, Clara Zurface, Ruth Kelly and Ada McKay; and a
brother, John Atkinson.
Funeral services will be held 1:30 p.m. Thursday at
McCOLAUGH FUNERAL HOME INC., 826 N. Detroit St.,
Xenia, with burial in the Sugar Grove Cemetery, Wilmington.
Visitation will be from noon to 1:30 p.m. Thursday at the
funeral home. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be
made to Hospice of Dayton, 324 Wilmington Ave., Dayton,
45420, or to a charity of the donor's choice. Online condolences
may be sent to the family at the funeral home's Web site at
www.mccolaughfuneralhome.com.
Douglas R. 'Doug' McKay
1954-2010
(From The Wilmington News Journal
dated Saturday 13 Mar 2010.)
Doug McKay on the back left end.
Douglas R. "Doug" McKay, 56, of Washington Court House,
died Wednesday (March 10, 2010) at his residence. He is
survived by his wife, Renee Pequignot McKay.
Mr. McKay was born Jan. 20, 1954, son of Donald and Joan
McConnaha McKay of Hillsboro. He was a lifelong dairy farmer
and worked 19 years at the Pickaway County Corrections
Facility. He attended the Sugar Grove United Methodist Church.
He was a member of the American Jersey Cattle Association and
received the Pioneer Breeder award in 2008. He also was a
member of the American Jersey Cattle Association. A highlight
of his showing career was his exhibiting the grand champion
Jersey Cow at the Pennsylvania All American Dairy Show in
1978. He graduated in 1972 from Westfall High School, where
he competed in basketball, baseball, FFA and 4-H. He attended
of The Ohio State University, where he was a member of the
dairy judging team. He was very passionate about family and an
avid support of athletic competition.
In addition to his wife and parents, he is survived by three
sons, Willy McKay, Sam McKay and Josh McKay, all of
Washington Court House; three daughters, Katie McKay,
Juliana McKay and Deidre McKay, all of Washington Court
House; a brother, Greg (Elaine) McKay of Zansfield; a sister,
Cindy (Bruce) Sykes of Williamsport; three sisters-in-law, Lisa
Ulery of Springfield, Anette (Mitch) Ulery of Springfield and
Denise (Bill) Kontras of London; his father-in-law, Robert
Pequignot of Springfield; and numerous nieces and nephews and
Ella "Kay" Corso
(From The Omps Funeral Home)
Ella Lee McKay Corso, 90, of Inwood, WV, died Saturday
September 12, 2009, at Winchester Medical Center, Winchester,
VA.
Mrs. Corso was born on October 15, 1918 in Charles Town,
WV, the daughter of LeHew and Nannie (Heflybower) McKay.
She graduated from Berryville High School and was also a
graduate of the Hospital Nursing Program at City Hospital in
Martinsburg, WV. She had worked as a registered nurse and was
the Director of Nursing for Jefferson Memorial Hospital in
Ranson, WV. She also worked as an office nurse for Dr. Mildred
Williams in Charles Town, WV. Mrs. Corso was a member of
18
St. Leo's Catholic Church in Inwood, WV.
She married Paul Corso, Sr. on August 13, 1943, in Tampa,
FL.
Surviving with her husband, are son, Dr. Paul Corso and his
wife, Karen, of McLean, VA; son, Ronald Corso, of South
Miami, FL; and her brother, Kenneth McKay of Bunker Hill,
WV. She was preceded in death by her sister, Keightley "Kitty"
Vanscoy, and three brothers, Jonathan McKay, Winston McKay
and William McKay.
A funeral service will be conducted at 2:00 P.M. on
Wednesday, September 16, 2009, at St. Leo's Catholic Church,
2019 Sulphur Springs Road, Inwood, WV, with Father Brian
Shoda officiating. Interment will be in Pleasant View Memory
Garden, Kearneysville, WV.
Pallbearers will be Dr. Paul Corso, Ronald Corso, Robert
Stepp, John Corso, Fred McKay, and Archie McKay.
The family will receive friends at Omps Funeral Home,
Amherst Chapel, 1600 Amherst Street, Winchester, VA on
Tuesday, September 15, 2009 from 6:00 P.M. until 8:00 P.M.
made in lieu of flowers to The First Presbyterian Church of
Foley, 195 Berry Ave, Foley, AL 36535. Arrangements made by
Pine Rest Funeral Home, Inc. Foley, AL
Laura Louise McKay
(From Enders and Shirley Funeral Home.)
Laura Louise Jones McKay, 82, of Millwood, Virginia, died
August 30, 2009 at her residence.
Mrs. McKay was born October 10, 1926 on Woodside Farm,
Clarke County, Virginia, the daughter of M.W. Jones, Jr. and
Ethel Caroline Fishpaw Jones.
She was retired from the Clarke County School Systems
where she was a teacher and was also a dairy farmer.
She was a member of Christ Church in Millwood, Virginia;
Blue Ridge Hunt; Millwood Country Club, where she was an
avid golfer; and graduated with a BA from Duke University and
a Masters from University of Virginia.
She was married to Beverly Burch McKay. Mr. McKay
passed away January 26, 1996.
Surviving is a daughter, Caroline Frances McKay of
Millwood, VA; 3 sons, Beverly B. McKay of Millwood, VA,
Branson D. McKay of Boyce, VA, and Bryan W. McKay of
Millwood, VA; and 6 grandchildren, Alex McKay, Simon
McKay, Evan McKay, Andrew McWhinney, Emily
McWhinney, and Sarah Rawlings.
A funeral service will be 11:00 A. M. Thursday, September
2, 2009 at the Christ Episcopal Church in Millwood, VA with
Rev. Anne Manson and Rev. Bill Jones officiating. Burial will
follow in the Green Hill Cemetery, Berryville, VA.
The family will receive friends from 7:00 9:00 P. M. Wednesday
evening at the Enders & Shirley Funeral Home, Berryville, VA.
Memorial contributions may be made to the Blue Ridge
Hospice, 333 W. Cork St., Winchester, VA 22601, Boyce
Volunteer Fire Co., P. O. Box 285, Boyce, VA 22620, or to
Christ Episcopal Church, P. O. Box 153 Millwood, VA 22646.
Stanley M. Walker
(From the Hancock-Henderson County Quill,
Illinois Wednesday 19 August 2009.)
Stanley M. Walker, 95, passed
away on August 12, 2009 in Foley,
Alabama.
Mr. Walker was born on
February 23, 1914 in Xenia, Ohio to
his parents Marcus Henry Walker
and Beatrice (McKay) Walker.
A resident of west/central Illinois
for many years, he was a graduate of Colchester High School
and Western Illinois University, receiving his master's degree
from the University of Illinois.
He married Dorothy Kern on May 13, 1942 in Terre Haute,
Illinois.
A veteran, he served in the National Guard and was a field
artillery officer during WWII.
Stan's career in education spanned forty-two years.
He began as a teacher in a one-room schoolhouse, taught and
coached briefly at Terre Haute High School (Illinois) prior to
WWII and returned to Media High School (Illinois) as a teacher
and eventually, the school principal.
Mr. Walker entered county school administration, serving as
Assistant County Superintendent, County Superintendent and
Regional Superintendent for Warren/Henderson Counties,
before retiring in 1979.
The Walkers retired to Foley where he was active in the
Foley Rotary Club, the First Presbyterian Church and
Curmudgeon Coffee Group.
He is survived by his wife of sixty-seven years, Dorothy
(Kern) Walker, son, Don of Fairhope, Alabama, daughter Jan
(Scott) Schmitz, Odessa, Florida and grandsons, Andy (Sabrina)
Schmitz, Odessa, Florida and Tanner (Amanda) Schmitz, Land
O' Lakes, Florida.
Stan was devoted to his faith, to his family and to his
community.
He was committed to his students and found great
satisfaction in their later successes.
He was a lifelong learner, an avid reader and an enthusiastic
traveler.
Stan had a wonderful sense of humor, a patient demeanor and
a generous heart.
There will be a graveside service for Mr. Walker, Monday,
August 17th, 2009, 10:00 am at Pine Rest Memorial Park with a
memorial service following at The First Presbyterian Church of
Foley starting at 11:00 am.
The Walker family has requested that memorial donations be
Charles "Chuck" Luby
(From the Edgington Funeral Home.
Some corrections made here.)
Charles "Chuck" Luby, 64 years
old of Wilmington, OH, went home
to his Father and Savior, Saturday,
September 12, 2009 at the Miami
Valley Hospital after suffering
injuries from an auto accident. His
wife Katherine Hackney Luby,
whom he married August, 1990,
survives.
He was born Wednesday,
February 21, 1945 in Valejo, CA, Son of the late Monteford &
Mary Cherrie (Braid) Luby.
He worked at NCR , National City, and Assurant Insurance.
He enjoyed roller skating, motorcycle and bicycle riding,
bowling and singing. He was a life-long member of the Church
of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints, and held numerous callings
over the years.He loved animals and was a dedicated blood
donor. Charles loved his family and talked of them often.
In addition to his wife he is also survived by nine children,
Cherrie (Robert) Alziebler, Nathaniel (Heather) Luby, Elizabeth
(Gary) Schow, Jayne (Jeremy Campbell) Luby, John (Kathy)
Becker, Kristen (Dean) St. John, Jennifer (Paul) Dunn, Kevin
(Lora) Becker, Kimberly (Delwyn) Price; 30 GrandchildrenMikayla, David, Anna Alziebler, Connor Luby, Megan, Charles,
Benjamin Schow, Ashley Hurley, Kyle Becker, James (Melissa)
Billingsley, K. Dawn (Scott Blacker) Billingsley, D. Allen,
Samuel (Sarah Payton) & Jeweliann Billingsley, Cody St. John,
Danielle (Lenny) Barnhart, JP, Anna, Rebekah, Sarah, Ashley,
& Aaron Dunn, Tony & William Slone, Joshua, Adam, Azoa,
19
Emma, Seth, & Caleb Price; 4 Great-Grandchildren- Kendra
Billingsley, Aries Barnhart, AJ Blacker, & Baby Billingsley.
In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by 1st
Wife- Pamela Ruth Snodgrass; 2 sons- Charles Thomas Luby &
Kenneth Becker; & brother- Donald Luby.
Friends will be received 5-8 p.m., Thursday, September 17 at
the Church of Jesus Christ of the Latter Day Saints, 2415 West
St Rte 73, Wilmington, Ohio.
Funeral Services will be held 1:00 PM, Friday, September
18, at the Church of Jesus Christ of the Latter Day Saints, with
the family receiving friends again from 12 Noon until the time
of services. Branch President Frank Kennedy will officiate.
Interment will follow in the Clinton County Memory
Gardens, Wilmington, Ohio.
Contributions in Chuck's memory may be made to the
Liberty Savings Bank in care of Katherine Luby, 647 Fife
Avenue, Wilmington, Ohio 45177. Fisher-Edgington Funeral
Home, Wilmington has been entrusted with the arrangements.
For more information and to access the on-line register book,
please visit www.edgingtonfuneralhomes.com.
(From The Wilmington News Journal dated Saturday 19 Sep
2009.)
CHARLES LUBY -- Burial was Friday in Clinton Memory
Gardens for Charles "Chuck" Luby. Frank Kennedy and Monte
Anderson officiated. Pallbearers were Nathaniel Luby, John
Becker III, Kevin Becker, Delwyn Price, Gary Schow and
Robert Alziebler. Honorary pallbearers were David Alziebler,
Charles Schow, Benjamin Schow, Conner Luby, Kyle Becker,
James Billingsley, D. Allen Billingsley, Samuel Billingsley,
Cody St. John, J.P. Dunn, Aaron Dunn, Tony Slone, William
Slone, Josh Price, Adam Price, Seth Price and Jeremy Campbell.
Arrangements were under the direction of FISHEREDGINGTON FUNERAL HOME, Wilmington.
Duane L. Ervin
(From The K-O Times dated Thursday 30 Apr 2009.)
Duane L. Ervin, 87, of Kettering, died Friday, April 24, 2009,
at Legacy Assisted Living Center, Xenia.
He was born June 14, 1921, in Thurmond, West Virginia, the
son of Thomas Glen and Florence M. Thomas Ervin. He was a
member of Belmont United Methodist Church, and was a
veteran of the US Army, serving during World War II. He
retired from Continental Baking.
He is survived by his wife, Lois (McKay) Ervin, married
September 17, 1941, a daughter, Bonnadine Ervin, Kettering, a
son and daughter-in-law, Daniel L. (Alice) Ervin, West
Carrrollton, five grandchildren and 11 great-grandchildren. He
was preceded in death by his parents, and a brother, Marvin V.
Ervin.
Services will be held at 1 p.m. Thursday, April 30, at Neeld
Funeral Home, 1276 N. Detroit. St., Xenia, with Rev. Robert C.
McKay, Daniel L. Ervin, and Kevin S. Batson officiating. Burial
will be in New Burlington Cemetery.
Contributions may be made to Legacy Assisted Living
Center, Xenia, VITAS Hospice of Dayton, or to the Belmont
United Methodist Church.
Nelson Ritter Clevenger Sr.
1920 – 2009
(From The Omps Funeral Home website.)
Nelson Ritter Clevenger, Sr., 88, of
Stephens City, Virginia, died
Thursday, July 9, 2009, in his home.
Mr. Clevenger was born in 1920, in
Frederick County, Virginia, the son of
the late Frank A. and Mamie R.
Clevenger. He was a Machinist with
Big A, retiring after thirty-four years of
service in 1986. He was also owner
and operator of NR Clevenger Repair.
Mr. Clevenger was a master carpenter, building six homes and
assisting with countless others. He was a member of Fairview
United Methodist Church in Stephens City, Virginia. Mr.
Clevenger was a Veteran having served in the United States
Army during World War II in Germany and during the Korean
War, achieving the rank of Master Sergeant.
He married Frances Welsh in Hagerstown, Maryland.
Surviving with his wife are his son, Nelson Clevenger, Jr.,
and wife Barbara, daughter, Robin Clevenger Greene and
husband Jim all of Stephens City, Virginia; five grandsons; eight
great grandchildren; and his sister, Mary Clevenger Ritenour of
Stephens City, Virginia.
Two sisters, Edna McCauley Ritenour, Mildred Clevenger
Shepherd and one brother, John William Clevenger preceded
him in death.
A funeral service will be conducted at 2:00 PM on Monday at
Omps Funeral Home, Amherst Chapel, with Reverend John
Locke and Reverend Allen Welsh officiating. Interment will be
in Mount Hebron Cemetery, Winchester, Virginia with Military
honors afforded by VFW Post 2123.
Pallbearers will be Mr. Clevengers grandsons, Matthew
Greene, Sam Greene, Ritter Clevenger, III, David Clevenger,
and Thomas Clevenger.
Honorary pallbearers will be Mr. Clevengers nephews.
The family will receive friends on Sunday evening from
6:00-8:00 PM at Omps Funeral Home, Amherst Chapel.
In lieu of flowers memorial contributions may be made to a
charity of the donors choice.
Lois L. Ervin
(From The Wilmington News Journal
dated Saturday 5 Sep 2009.)
Lois L. Ervin, 88, of Dayton, died Thursday afternoon (Sept.
3, 2009) at Heartland of Centerville. She was preceded in death
by her husband, Duane Ervin, who died April 24, 2009.
Mrs. Ervin was born May 24, 1921, in New Burlington,
daughter of Albert E. and Ada Mills McKay. She retired in 1981
from Dayton Press. She was a member of Belmont United
Methodist Church, New Burlington Lodge 363 and the Order of
Eastern Star. She was an avid golfer and bowler.
She is survived by a daughter, Bonnadine Ervin of Kettering
and Daniel L. (Alice) Ervin of West Carrollton; five
grandchildren, Elizabeth Quinn, David (Molly) Ervin, Christie
(Mark) Kelly, David Michael (Dee) Batson and Kevin S.
(Heather) Batson; 11 great-grandchildren; three sisters,
Jeannette (Vernon) Musser of Worthington, Rosalie (John)
Beers of Xenia and Rita (John) Howell of Wilmington; three
brothers, Robert (Anna Mae) McKay of Colorado Springs,
Colo., Donald Dick (Joan) McKay of Hillsboro and Frank
(Judy) McKay of New Burlington; 19 nieces and nephews; and
several great-nieces and great-nephews.
In addition to her husband, she was preceded by a brother,
Wilbur E. McKay.
Services will be held 12:30 p.m. Thursday at NEELD
FUNERAL HOME, 1276 N. Detroit St., Xenia, the Rev. John
Beers officiating, with burial in New Burlington Cemetery.
Visitation will be from 5 to 8 p.m. Wednesday at the funeral
home, where an Eastern Star service will be held at 7:30 p.m.
Wednesday. Memorial contributions may be made to Belmont
United Methodist Church.
20
people on the lawn, when suddenly she was seized with thirst
and excusing herself went to the well back of the house to get a
drink. The sight of the well seemed to allay her former appetite,
and like a bird she flew to her lover about one-half mile distant.
The young man had the horse and buggy in readiness and no
time was lost in getting away.
By 10 oclock that night they were in Berkeley Springs, where
they changed horses and proceeded on to Hancock, where they
took the train at 12 oclock. Here the trail was lost and the girls
father was cut short in his pursuit and returned home, arriving
about noon on Monday.
July 27, 1909
Debbie Ann Namack McKay
(From The Wilmington News Journal
dated Tuesday 26 May 2009 at 1:05 a.m.)
Debbie Ann Namack McKay, 54, of
New Burlington Road, Wilmington,
died Saturday (May 23, 2009) at
Bethesda North Hospital, Cincinnati,
surrounded by her family. She is
survived by her husband, Tom. They
were married for almost 35 years.
Mrs. McKay was born Tuesday,
Nov. 2, 1954, in Ft. Lewis, Wash.,
daughter of Donald and Ann Marshall
Namack of Wilmington. She lived full
of vibrancy and life. She worked several jobs, including several
years at Airborne Express in Wilmington and most recently as a
server at Roberts Centre, also in Wilmington. She thoroughly
enjoyed all things related to cooking and gardening. Her
culinary skills were enjoyed by all and she found therapy in
spending time outdoors. However, her greatest accomplishment
and pride in her life was her family. She encouraged her sons
throughout their schooling and related activities in 4-H, soccer,
football and any other activities they may have participated in.
She loved annual activities with her boys, such as dying Easter
eggs and carving pumpkins. When her grandkids began arriving,
she began pouring her time and energy into them. She often
went significantly out of her way to provide for them and any
special needs they may have had.
In addition to her husband and parents, she is survived by
three sons, Ben (Michelle) McKay of St. Paris, Spencer McKay
of Wilmington and Roger McKay of Wilmington; four
grandchildren, Michael, Manna, Adeline and Audrey; and two
sisters, Georgeann (Gary) Quallen of Wilmington and Donna
(Paul) Burgan of Powell.
Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated 10:30 a.m.
Thursday at St. Columbkille Catholic Church, Wilmington,
Father James M. Wedig officiating, with burial in New
Burlington Cemetery. Visitation will be from 6 to 8 p.m.
Wednesday at FISHER-EDGINGTON FUNERAL HOME, 97
W. Locust St., Wilmington. Memorial contributions may be
made in her memory to the American Cancer Society, Southwest
Regional Office, 2808 Reading Road, Cincinnati, 45206. For
more information and to access the funeral homes online register
book, visit http://www.edgingtonfuneralhomes.com.
72nd Annual Collett-McKay Picnic Is Held (1938)
***
The 72nd annual Collett-McKay picnic was held on the
grounds owned and dedicated to the family meeting, which are
beautiful land dotted with shade trees. An imposing entrance
with memorial plates on the gateway marks the grounds.
Two tables of photographs and curios, which created keen
interest, were on display. There are never any programs at the
picnic, no election of officers, or selecting a date for meeting.
The families assemble the second Saturday in August, so that
relatives and friends from all over the states know when and
where it will be held each year.
The time is spent in visiting and many linger on the grounds
until almost dark.
Those who registered this year were Mr. and Mrs. James J.
Deady, Laura Kelly Pogue, Washington, D. C.; Mrs. W. H.
Cossum, Sterling, Ill.; Ruth Haines, Brook, Ind.; Harriet Haines,
Grand Rapids, Mich.; Mr. and Mrs. W. W. Cossum, David,
Harriet, Gene, Carolyn, and Edward, Columbus; William
Howard Miller, Loudonville; Mr. and Mrs. Wallace Edwards,
Carolyn and Lilia, G. C., Patricia, and James E. Baugh, Rowen
Baugh, Frank L., Eliza H., James H. and Mary Emily Graham,
Springfield; Warren and Emily I. Kester, Glendale; Charles,
Emma, Lois Swindler, Louie, Henrietta, John and Mary Magee,
Esther Darst, Mary Jane McKay, Virginia Magee, Edward,
Helen, and Ruth Donohue, Dayton; Herbert and R. B. McKay,
E. Collett and Martha Gastineau, Everett, Leigh, Velma, and
Ellen Smith, Xenia; Daniel Collett, Edith Collett Scott, Milford.
Hugh and Dr. George Collett, Crawfordsville, Ind.; Margaret
Collett, Xenia; Mr. and Mrs. J. N. Jerome and Dudley Inwood,
Middletown; Dianne Nickerson, Miamisburg; John C. Gertrude,
Mary Elizabeth, and Fannie Browning, Washington C. H.;
Homer G. and Merle M. and Dorothy M. Curless, Blanchester;
Mary and Ella McKay Rowe, Jamestown; Howard, Edith,
Robert T. R. Dale, Ila H. Evelyn, Donald S. and Harold McKay,
Oregonia; Mary McCune Doster, William S., Esther, Howard
and Robert Doster, Mr. and Mrs. Robert Collett, Donald,
Charles, and Eugene Collett, A. S. Cassie, Robert Collett, Ella
Howard, Bertha and James H. Shambaugh, Waynesville; Byron,
Hattie, Joan, Marilyn, and Nancy Leaser, Clarksville; Alice D.
Collett, Noel, Virginia Collett Haines, Mary Virginia, Harriet
Ann, and Robert Haines, Sabina; Mrs. Alice McKay Haines.
Anna M. Collett, Estelle M. Haines, Eva McKay Kirk,
Howard Lane, Howard Collett, Mr. and Mrs. Charles Babb, Mr.
and Mrs. Emery R. Bales, Rev. and Mrs. R. T. Stimmel, Dr.
Elizabeth Shrieves, Bess Ireton, Mr. and Mrs. George Pidgeon
and daughter, Ellen Carter, Mr. and Mrs. H. H. Magee, Mr. and
Mrs. George M. Denny, John Denny, E. B. McKay, Mr. and
Mrs. J. W. Collett, Mr. and Mrs. Eldon R. Haines, Arthur
Webster Haines, Robert M., Lucile M., and Roderick A.
Hackney, Everett and Elizabeth Magee, Everett L. Baugh,
Mabel Baugh, Mr. and Mrs. Clint Sherman, Gusta A. Sherman,
Mrs. Abbie Haddock, Mr. and Mrs. E. E. Terrell, Mary M.
Terrell, Ella Pidgeon, Mr. and Mrs. Harry McKay, Mrs.
Clarence T. Telfair.
OUT OF THE PAST
Miss Nenah Whitacre elopes with Mr. Maynard Baker
(From The Winchester Star dated
Monday 27 July 2009 'Out of the past' section.)
WHITACRE--Miss Nenah Whitacre, daughter of Mr. T.A.
Whitacre, eloped with Mr. Maynard Baker on Sunday evening
about 7 oclock. Mr. Baker works in Pittsburgh and is a carpenter
by trade. He came in the neighborhood Saturday evening,
presumably driving a team, from Berkeley Springs and stopped
with a relative, Mr. J.W. Mauzy.
He secreted his horse and buggy in a deep grown-up hollow
near the house and patiently awaited developments all alone,
Mr. Mauzy and family having attended an all-day meeting at
Ebenezer.
It is evident that she was apprized by friends of her lovers
whereabouts and tarried behind the family upon departing for
home.
Mr. Clinton Johnson brought her home, but thought they
would drive past and spend a few social hours with her uncle,
Mr. G.S. Whitacre, and then go home.
She was deeply immersed in the enjoyment of several young
21
Newsletter Now Online ……………………....................... 1
Ethel McCoy, Maynard McKay, Mr. and Mrs. Horace Ellis,
Willard and Dale Inwood, Lucile T. Gano, Everett Terrell, Jr.,
Harold S. Hackney, Mr. and Mrs. Wallace T. Collett and
Jonathan, Flora Tibbals, Robert B. Hackney, Ruth Magee, Mary
Catherine Magee, Phoebe Hudson, Joe Baugh, Rev. J. P.
Thornbury and daughters, Barbara and Helen Rea, Mr. and Mrs.
Charles Doster, James and Clifford Doster, Mary Haines, Janet
Doster, Mr. and Mrs. Charles T. Smart, Ernestine Moore,
Harveysburg; Mr. and Mrs. C. F. Ferguson, Hazel and Nancy
Jane Lundy, Esther and Ann Mitchner, Harold N. and Marjorie
Stanfield, Mrs. Hattie N. Inwood, Charles T., Ann, Mary E.,
Kathleene Inwood, Amy C. McIntire, Mr. and Mrs. Lester
Stanfield, Helen, Marjorie, and Harold Stanfield, Mr. and Mrs.
Ralph Haines, Mr. and Mrs. Clarence McKay, Mr. and Mrs.
Bernard McKay, Mr. and Mrs. Albert McKay, Jeanette, Lois,
Rosalie Ellen, Donald R., Lucy, and Robert McKay, Mr. and
Mrs. W. V. Lackey, Mae McKay, Laura McKay, Mr. and Mrs.
Vernon Inwood, Mrs. Mary E. Sayers, Anna E. Sayers,
Clarence, Eugene, Leland, and Ada L. Graham, L. G.
Shambaugh, Raymond Shambaugh, Georgia M., Elizabeth, and
Maxine Keiter, Charles and Donald W. Haines, New Burlington;
Donald Conklin, Wilmington.
***
Annual Virginia McKay Reunion ……………………… 1
(McKay-Sowers-Kerfoot)
Collett-McKay Picnic …………………………………….. 1
Bethel Memorial Inc. Meetings ………………………… 1
Past Reunion News ………………………....................... 1-3
64th Annual Robert McKay Clan Reunion
(McKay-Sowers-Kerfoot)
144th Collett-McKay Picnic
News from Cards and Letters …………....................... 3-5
News Items ………………...………………………...….. 5-17
Lessons and Carols at Old Bethel …………………………. 5
McKay Home Fire ………………………………………… 6
Historic McKay house burns in weekend blaze ………….... 6
McKay House solution ………………………………….. 6-7
McKay House stable ………………………………………. 7
McKay in Farm Service loan training program …………… 7
WHS students of the month ……………………………….. 7
'Raise the Roof' to help restore Old Bethel ……………… 7-8
7 little maids chosen …………………………………….. 8-9
Court of Queen Shenandoah LXXXIII ……………………. 9
Barn quilt is one of the stars ………………………………. 9
‘Berry Basket’ on Center Road ………………………... 9-10
‘Berry Basket’ on Center Road ………………………….. 10
'Providence' quilt graces Gurneyville Road ……………… 10
Six and Twenty Club conducts ……………………….. 10-11
first meeting of new year
Chester meeting and cemetery topic for program ………... 11
WHS students honored …………………………………... 11
$68,786 donated in ‘real rescue effort’ ……………….. 11-12
for Greenway Court
Hopewell Friends celebrates 275th ……………………. 12-13
It’s 275 years and counting at Hopewell ……………... 13-14
Marking 275 years of Quaker worship in the Valley ……. 14
Author will pay tribute to creator of apple culture …… 14-15
Isaac Hite reaches new heights …………………………... 15
Son born to McKays ……………………………………... 15
Collett to meet at 3 M Club ……………………………… 15
Course spotlight: Majestic Springs ………………………. 16
Majestic Springs raises more than ……………………. 16-17
$1,000 to battle breast cancer
Farm Fun Day group pushes local produce ……………… 17
LeHew McKay & company in Montana
This photo was taken somewhere in Montana ca. 1909 with
your editor’s great-grandfather, LeHew McKay (standing next to
horse with man on his shoulders). To see a larger version of this
photo visit this URL:
http://www.robertmackayclan.com/rmc/images/montana2.jpg
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the entire Robert Mackay family from Virginia to
Ohio and beyond. If you would like to donate to help
with our expenses please send a cheque to: The
Robert Mackay Clan
% Michael L. McKay
115 Morgan St.
Winchester, VA 22601-3829
Obituaries ………...……………………………………. 17-21
Patsy Dee Hopgood Shipp ……………………………. 17-18
Douglas R. 'Doug' McKay 1954-2010 …………………… 18
Virginia Atkinson Miller Griesheimer …………………… 18
Ella "Kay" Corso ……………………………………... 18-19
Stanley M. Walker ……………………………………….. 19
Laura Louise McKay …………………………………….. 19
Charles "Chuck" Luby ………………………………... 19-20
Lois L. Ervin ……………………………………………... 20
Duane L. Ervin …………………………………………… 20
Nelson Ritter Clevenger Sr. 1920 – 2009 ………………... 20
Debbie Ann Namack McKay ……………………………. 21
NEXT ISSUE
Spring 2011
Out of the Past ……………………….….…………….. 21-22
TABLE OF CONTENTS
Miss Nenah Whitacre elopes with Mr. Maynard Baker …. 21
72nd Annual Collett-McKay Picnic Is Held (1938) ….. 21-22
LeHew McKay & company in Montana …………………. 22
Greetings …………………………………………………… 1
22