As anyone that has known me for very long, they know I do not often stumble when I am walking through a cemetery. However, yesterday (23 April 2016), I was in a cemetery I have never been in before. I was not there looking for family members. I could not help myself, though, to look around at the tombstones and marvel at the history behind each and every stone.
My wife, Becky, and I traveled to Logan County, Kentucky to honor a Revolutionary War Patriot who fought in that war. I do this as a member of the Sons of the American Revolution Color Guard. We are generally invited by the family of a RW patriot to honor and mark the grave as an American hero. We carry many Colonial flags and place wreaths as part of the ceremony. A well-documented biography is read to those in attendance. With much fanfare including music and musket salute, we honor that true patriot of American Independence. I belong to the Ohio Valley Chapter that meets at Willard Library in Evansville, Indiana. I descend from a Revolutionary War Patriot Thomas West, Jr. who migrated from Chatham County, NC around 1807 and settled in northeastern Christian Co., KY in the area known as the Ovil Community. My father, Gaither Glennis West, was born there in 1918.
Logan County & Christian County are separated by Todd County. There are some of Dad's family buried in Logan County, but not in the area of where we went yesterday, at least as far as I knew. With my family being in Christian County since the very early 1800s, I have many relatives with many surnames living there with some buried in Christian, Todd & Logan counties. Some of the surnames of my direct ancestors are: Ragers, Phipps, Flatt, Martin, Williams, Rogers, Woodis, Blalock, Black, Buckner, Simpson, as well as West. In addition I have kinfolks with surnames of Henderson, Cannon, Powell, O'Daniel, Tucker, Dossett, Hightower, Morris, Perkins - just to name a few! Okay, I need to get to the point of this blog. My 2nd. great grandmother was Margaret G. Woodis the daughter of William H. Woodis who was 95 when he died in 1913.
Now, back to yesterday's trip to Lewisburg, KY in the Mt. Pleasant Cemetery where we were honoring Reuben Browning of the Rev. War, we parked a little distance away from where the ceremony was to be held. Becky and I carried several items like the wreaths and the Indiana State Flag that I would be carrying as part of the Color Guard of 16 SAR men from Tennessee and Kentucky (I was the only Hoosier). We walked along this one roll of graves several times to get everything to where it was needed. One trip, I stumbled as I stepped into a mole trail. As I recovered, I almost stumbled over a grave marker with the name Woodis!!! Thomas A. Woodis (and his wife Martha C. Woodis) born in 1852 making him about the right age to be Margaret's brother. I would have to check my records! This Thomas died in 1950 making him 98 years old when he died!!!
When I got home I checked my files finding many years earlier I had discovered that Thomas A. Woodis was living in Lewisburg, KY when his father had died. And, that I found where he had died in 1950 and was buried in Mt. Pleasant Cemetery! I had this information for over 20 years and did not realize that he or any of my family would be buried in this cemetery. I am known as Indiana Bones, a cemetery geek... I guess that is why I nearly stumbled over this grave marker! Indiana Bones (AKA: John G. West)
Showing posts with label Becky West. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Becky West. Show all posts
Sunday, April 24, 2016
Saturday, August 25, 2012
"Message to Heaven"
'
The following message to my birth mother was written almost 48 years after my birth. At that time she had no choice about my adoption. She had too many kids, little help from my father; she did as best as she could. I was taken from her at birth (17 Nov 1949). I finally learned about my birth family on 1 Jan 1992 (I was 42). By 4 Jan 1992, I knew 5 generations of most of my birth family, both my birth parents had already died (in the late 1970's). I went to visit the gravesites in January 1992. Now, each year I visit the graves and leave flowers on Memorial Day. Their names are: Lucinda Aurelia Peach (b. 20 Feb 1915 - d. 14 Mar 1978) who married (9 Feb 1935) Robert H. Meredith (b. 30 May 1907 - d. 2 Jun 1977). Then in 1997, five years after learning about my birth family, I felt the need to send this message to my birth mother, Lucinda Aurelia. - Written by Rebecca L. West
I want to thank you, Mother
For bringing me into this world
Even though you didn't know me
I am still your little girl
You were not there to nurse me when I was sick
Or dry my tears when I cried
But, I wish I could have hugged you
Just once before you died
I wanted to touch your gentle hand
Put my arm around your shoulder
I wish we could have been together
To watch each other grow older
I wanted to see your smiling eyes
To hear your gentle voice
But, Mother, I truly understand
You really had no choice
Mother, even though we were not together
You have a special place within my heart
And when I see you in Heaven
We will never again have to part
Copyright 31 May 1997 by Rebecca L. West
The following message to my birth mother was written almost 48 years after my birth. At that time she had no choice about my adoption. She had too many kids, little help from my father; she did as best as she could. I was taken from her at birth (17 Nov 1949). I finally learned about my birth family on 1 Jan 1992 (I was 42). By 4 Jan 1992, I knew 5 generations of most of my birth family, both my birth parents had already died (in the late 1970's). I went to visit the gravesites in January 1992. Now, each year I visit the graves and leave flowers on Memorial Day. Their names are: Lucinda Aurelia Peach (b. 20 Feb 1915 - d. 14 Mar 1978) who married (9 Feb 1935) Robert H. Meredith (b. 30 May 1907 - d. 2 Jun 1977). Then in 1997, five years after learning about my birth family, I felt the need to send this message to my birth mother, Lucinda Aurelia. - Written by Rebecca L. West
Message to My
|
I want to thank you, Mother
For bringing me into this world
Even though you didn't know me
I am still your little girl
You were not there to nurse me when I was sick
Or dry my tears when I cried
But, I wish I could have hugged you
Just once before you died
I wanted to touch your gentle hand
Put my arm around your shoulder
I wish we could have been together
To watch each other grow older
I wanted to see your smiling eyes
To hear your gentle voice
But, Mother, I truly understand
You really had no choice
Mother, even though we were not together
You have a special place within my heart
And when I see you in Heaven
We will never again have to part
Copyright 31 May 1997 by Rebecca L. West
Thursday, July 26, 2012
Tombstone Thursday - Moore
Oak Hill Cemetery
Evansville, Indiana
Lucinda Aurelia Peach
wife of Morris E. Moore
1915-1978
Birth Mother of Rebecca L. Meredith
Becky West is a TSGS Board Director
[Becky's father was Robert H. Meredith, Lucinda's first husband.]
[Tombstone Thursday is dedicated
in memory of Donald G. West 1952-2000]
Thursday, June 21, 2012
Tombstone Thursday - Bentle
Oak Hill Cemetery
Evansville, Indiana
Jack Bentle
1927-1990
Sylvia Bentle
1933-2010
[Tombstone Thursday is dedicated in memory of
Donald G. West 1952-2000]
Tuesday, June 12, 2012
TSGS Meeting Tonight!
'
Tri-State Genealogical Society
(TSGS) Meeting Notice!
When: Tuesday 12 June 2012 - 7:00 PM
Where: Willard Library - 2nd. Floor
What: Monthly Meeting
Becky West, TSGS Program Chair, has announced that the program will feature "A Little Genealogy Humor" with a special appearance by Indiana Bones presenting "Field Trip Health & Safety."
This is a program you don’t want to miss, we will be looking forward to seeing you at the meeting and enjoying a very interesting and entertaining program.
You do not have to be a member to come and participate at the society’s monthly meetings.
Don Counts,
TSGS President
Sunday, June 10, 2012
TSGS Meeting Program
'
Tri-State Genealogical Society
(TSGS) Meeting Notice!
When: Tuesday 12 June 2012 - 7:00 PM
Where: Willard Library - 2nd. Floor
What: Monthly Meeting
Becky West, TSGS Program Chair, has announced that the program will feature
"A Little Genealogy Humor" and an appearance by Indiana Bones. This will be Indiana Bones first public appearance. Indiana Bones (aka: John G. West) is a self-proclaimed "Cemetery Geek" as published in the Evansville Courier & Press recently. Indiana Bones will briefly show some suggested items that would be good to take on any field trip, especially a genealogical trip or "cemetery hopping!" He will have some tips on how to maintain good health and be safe. Indiana Bones will provide everyone with a list of important things to include in a First Aid Kit and a cemetery bag to help you find the graves you are looking for. Hopefully the program will be entertaining and give you some ideas to use on your next field trip!
During the short meeting, members will elect officers for 2012-2013.
Don Counts, TSGS President
Tri-State Genealogical Society
(TSGS) Meeting Notice!
When: Tuesday 12 June 2012 - 7:00 PM
Where: Willard Library - 2nd. Floor
What: Monthly Meeting
Becky West, TSGS Program Chair, has announced that the program will feature
"A Little Genealogy Humor" and an appearance by Indiana Bones. This will be Indiana Bones first public appearance. Indiana Bones (aka: John G. West) is a self-proclaimed "Cemetery Geek" as published in the Evansville Courier & Press recently. Indiana Bones will briefly show some suggested items that would be good to take on any field trip, especially a genealogical trip or "cemetery hopping!" He will have some tips on how to maintain good health and be safe. Indiana Bones will provide everyone with a list of important things to include in a First Aid Kit and a cemetery bag to help you find the graves you are looking for. Hopefully the program will be entertaining and give you some ideas to use on your next field trip!
During the short meeting, members will elect officers for 2012-2013.
Don Counts, TSGS President
Friday, June 8, 2012
TSGS Meeting Notice!
'
Tri-State Genealogical Society
(TSGS) Meeting Notice!
When: Tuesday 12 June 2012 - 7:00 PM
Where: Willard Library - 2nd. Floor
What: Monthly Meeting
A drawing for an attendance prize will be awarded at the close of the meeting... you must be present to win.
The Tri-State Genealogical Society will have a brief business meeting including Election of Officers and Installation for the forthcoming fiscal year, followed by our program:
Becky West, TSGS Program Chair, has announced that the program will feature
"Genealogy Humor" and an appearance by Indiana Bones.
This is a program you don’t want to miss, we will be looking forward to seeing you at the meeting and enjoying a very interesting and entertaining program.
You do not have to be a member to come and participate at the society’s monthly meetings (except, no meetings in July and August).
IMPORTANT NOTICE: This time of the year, weather conditions may cause the society to cancel meetings... the decision to cancel usually is determined the day of the meeting, providing short notice. Since a bad weather system may develop later in the day (or that night), check our blog (http://tsgsblog.blogspot.com/) for cancellation notice or call Willard Library (812-425-4309).
Don Counts,
TSGS President
Tri-State Genealogical Society
(TSGS) Meeting Notice!
When: Tuesday 12 June 2012 - 7:00 PM
Where: Willard Library - 2nd. Floor
What: Monthly Meeting
Becky West, TSGS Program Chair, has announced that the program will feature
"Genealogy Humor" and an appearance by Indiana Bones.
This is a program you don’t want to miss, we will be looking forward to seeing you at the meeting and enjoying a very interesting and entertaining program.
You do not have to be a member to come and participate at the society’s monthly meetings (except, no meetings in July and August).
IMPORTANT NOTICE: This time of the year, weather conditions may cause the society to cancel meetings... the decision to cancel usually is determined the day of the meeting, providing short notice. Since a bad weather system may develop later in the day (or that night), check our blog (http://tsgsblog.blogspot.com/) for cancellation notice or call Willard Library (812-425-4309).
Don Counts,
TSGS President
Monday, June 4, 2012
Marker/Plaque/Monument Monday
During Memorial Day weekend...
Becky & I were out decorating family graves with flowers in the area cemeteries, as we do each year. Mom and Dad are buried in Alexander Memorial Park Cemetery along with four of Mom's brothers. We have cemetery plots for us there, as well. Memorial Park provides some cookies and something to drink and a nice room to get cool after being in the hot, sunny outdoors, plus restrooms! TSGS member Jill Brinkley works there. Jill along with Chad Williams were TSGS Seminar Co-Chairs for several years. When we got to the office, Jill was running around helping a visitor find someone buried there. While standing in the office waiting for her return, I noticed these very attractive and unusual plaques on the wall.
A few years back, Jill was a singer and sang with the Don Lee Trio. Don Lee is the husband of TSGS member Judy Foreman Lee and fellow Orange County, North Carolina researcher.
Sunday, May 27, 2012
From the First Mate's Photo Album
Oh, Deer!!!
And I do mean deer, White-tailed Deer roaming around grazing in Oak Hill Cemetery! Superintendent Chris Cooke sent me a photo of these deer that were right in front of the Administration Office Building early yesterday morning. I went by the cemetery to finish decorating graves for Becky's family. And, there they were just walking around like they owned the place. Chris said he had seen some deer over the last few years, but mostly when it was a little colder. These look like they are young... short and slender.
Saturday, May 26, 2012
"Cemetery Geek!"
What in the world is a "Cemetery Geek?"
Last Sunday, I attended the Oak Hill Cemetery Walking Tour led by Dennis Au, Shawn Dickerson & Chris Cooke. A newspaper reporter was asking several people why they came out for this tour. When she asked me that question... I could not think of a good answer. My thoughts were in the notion of who wouldn't want to be in this tour! As a genealogist, most of us love cemeteries, as we do courthouses, libraries, genealogy web sites, family photos and records of any sort.
I told the young reporter that as a genealogist I could not help but be here... I guess I am a "cemetery geek!" I could not think of anything else to describe why I came out for this tour!!! Well, that got into the newspaper story, in fact it was the first paragraph about the tour. I was listed as a "self-proclaimed cemetery geek." http://www.courierpress.com/news/2012/may/21/oakhill-tour-line-p/?print=1
Being highly interested in science, math, etc., the term "geek" (to me) is basically a positive adjective of a person's in-depth interest or involvement in a particular subject. I have always been interested in seeing these little monuments (often called grave markers) to people's lives since I was a kid of about 12-13 years of age.
My mother was an avid fan of Memorial Day, a time to remember our American soldiers and family members. Mom would make Dad drive her around to all of the cemeteries with family to decorate their graves with flowers. After a time, it was hard to tell who wanted to do this the most. Of course, us kids were dragged along, too. I started to get curious about all of these graves... who were these people to us. That and a 5th. Grade English assignment to make a 4-generation family chart got me interested in my family history. Shortly after I got out of service, my father died which made grave visitations a little more important to me. The next Memorial Day and many years afterwards, my younger brother Don and I took turns taking Mom around to decorate the graves. Mom's Aunt Maggie Wood decorated graves, too. Don & I began putting out flowers, too. Then, suddenly in about 2 years time - Mom, Aunt Maggie & Don were no longer with us and there really was no one else alive to decorate the graves or know where most were buried. So, this became my primary "duty!" We decorate my wife Becky's family, too. Becky has a birth & adopted family to remember.
I have become a volunteer for a web site called "Find-A-Grave" to take grave marker photos to post online for others to be able to see their family's markers. On this blog I have a feature called "Tombstone Thursday" that I post interesting or unusual grave markers that I find from time to time. I even have a photo album on FaceBook called "Cemetery Hopping" (going from one cemetery to another & posting photos from each!). Yesterday, I told my friend Jill Brinkley who works at Alexander Memorial Park Cemetery that we were out cemetery hopping decorating family graves... she said you are always going to cemeteries! I guess she is right!
I guess cemeteries have become a part of my life... I was once even in charge of Evansville's City owned cemeteries - Oak Hill & Locust Hill. In the Sons of the American Revolution, I travel around with other members dressed in Revolutionary War uniforms serving in Color Guards to honor the graves of Revolutionary War Soldiers.
OK, it appears that I am a "cemetery geek!" for sure. I do think of the term as a good thing. Writing this blog, I thought I should check to see what the definition of a cemetery geek might be. I went to Google to search for the term. What came up was that news article about me being a cemetery geek... there was no other use of the term except in describing me!!! I may have coined a new term. One related to genealogy, at that! How many of our readers might be able to proudly call themselves "Cemetery Geeks?" You would not have to be as extreme as me to qualify. There are at least 3 qualifiers, however. One you must know that the word "cemetery" does not have an "a" in it and that (two) you must actually go to a cemetery to see all of its glory from time to time. Three, you must feel strongly about cemetery vandalism as being one of the lowliest things people can do. Don't be shy or modest, please let me know if you are or want to be a cemetery geek!!!
- Compiled by JGWest (AKA: Cemetery Geek)
Last Sunday, I attended the Oak Hill Cemetery Walking Tour led by Dennis Au, Shawn Dickerson & Chris Cooke. A newspaper reporter was asking several people why they came out for this tour. When she asked me that question... I could not think of a good answer. My thoughts were in the notion of who wouldn't want to be in this tour! As a genealogist, most of us love cemeteries, as we do courthouses, libraries, genealogy web sites, family photos and records of any sort.
I told the young reporter that as a genealogist I could not help but be here... I guess I am a "cemetery geek!" I could not think of anything else to describe why I came out for this tour!!! Well, that got into the newspaper story, in fact it was the first paragraph about the tour. I was listed as a "self-proclaimed cemetery geek." http://www.courierpress.com/news/2012/may/21/oakhill-tour-line-p/?print=1
Being highly interested in science, math, etc., the term "geek" (to me) is basically a positive adjective of a person's in-depth interest or involvement in a particular subject. I have always been interested in seeing these little monuments (often called grave markers) to people's lives since I was a kid of about 12-13 years of age.
My mother was an avid fan of Memorial Day, a time to remember our American soldiers and family members. Mom would make Dad drive her around to all of the cemeteries with family to decorate their graves with flowers. After a time, it was hard to tell who wanted to do this the most. Of course, us kids were dragged along, too. I started to get curious about all of these graves... who were these people to us. That and a 5th. Grade English assignment to make a 4-generation family chart got me interested in my family history. Shortly after I got out of service, my father died which made grave visitations a little more important to me. The next Memorial Day and many years afterwards, my younger brother Don and I took turns taking Mom around to decorate the graves. Mom's Aunt Maggie Wood decorated graves, too. Don & I began putting out flowers, too. Then, suddenly in about 2 years time - Mom, Aunt Maggie & Don were no longer with us and there really was no one else alive to decorate the graves or know where most were buried. So, this became my primary "duty!" We decorate my wife Becky's family, too. Becky has a birth & adopted family to remember.
I have become a volunteer for a web site called "Find-A-Grave" to take grave marker photos to post online for others to be able to see their family's markers. On this blog I have a feature called "Tombstone Thursday" that I post interesting or unusual grave markers that I find from time to time. I even have a photo album on FaceBook called "Cemetery Hopping" (going from one cemetery to another & posting photos from each!). Yesterday, I told my friend Jill Brinkley who works at Alexander Memorial Park Cemetery that we were out cemetery hopping decorating family graves... she said you are always going to cemeteries! I guess she is right!
I guess cemeteries have become a part of my life... I was once even in charge of Evansville's City owned cemeteries - Oak Hill & Locust Hill. In the Sons of the American Revolution, I travel around with other members dressed in Revolutionary War uniforms serving in Color Guards to honor the graves of Revolutionary War Soldiers.
OK, it appears that I am a "cemetery geek!" for sure. I do think of the term as a good thing. Writing this blog, I thought I should check to see what the definition of a cemetery geek might be. I went to Google to search for the term. What came up was that news article about me being a cemetery geek... there was no other use of the term except in describing me!!! I may have coined a new term. One related to genealogy, at that! How many of our readers might be able to proudly call themselves "Cemetery Geeks?" You would not have to be as extreme as me to qualify. There are at least 3 qualifiers, however. One you must know that the word "cemetery" does not have an "a" in it and that (two) you must actually go to a cemetery to see all of its glory from time to time. Three, you must feel strongly about cemetery vandalism as being one of the lowliest things people can do. Don't be shy or modest, please let me know if you are or want to be a cemetery geek!!!
- Compiled by JGWest (AKA: Cemetery Geek)
Wednesday, May 9, 2012
TSGS News
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TSGS May 2012 Meeting Highlights
President Don Counts opened the meeting
with some brief business. John West, Nominating Committee Chair,
announced the slate of candidates for the 2012-13 year: President –
Don Counts; Vice-President – John G. West; Treasurer – Diana
Davis; Recording Secretary – Kim Nightingale; Corresponding
Secretary – Sue Hebbeler; Packet Editor – Brenda Legate; Program
Chair – Bettie Cummings Cook, CG with the following Directors: Rena
Goss, Larry Goss, Becky West, Karin Maria Kirsch, Mary Lou Bevers.
In the absence of the current Program
Chair Becky West, John West introduced the guest speaker... Jeannie
Browning Hester, CEO & Owner of Browning Funeral Home. Jeannie
presented a slide presentation that was followed by a live online
demonstration of the Browning Genealogy Online Database. Several new
features were shown with examples of information on some of our TSGS
members that can be found on this database. Perhaps the most used is
the obituary collection from the Evansville newspapers from 1900 to
the present that were compiled by Charles H. Browning over most of
his life. There was lots of interaction throughout the program of
the near 20 persons present.
After the program, the Browning family
gave everyone a delicious cookie for attending, plus they donated a
restaurant gift certificate for a drawing... with Carol Lantaff
winning it. Another drawing for a genealogy T-shirt donated by Gloria Strott was won by Betty Counts! [Corrected donation of T-shirt from Gloria Strott... thanks, Gloria!]
- Compiled by JGWest
Saturday, April 28, 2012
TSGS Meeting Announcement
'
the Tri-State Genealogical Society will have the honor of having Jeannie Browning Hester as the guest speaker. She will present an overview of the Browning Online Genealogical Database and give some tips on how to get the most from the site. Through this site the Browning family has made a major contribution to regional history & genealogy; and, it is being updated daily! The TSGS meeting begins at 7PM with a brief business meeting followed by this program. Location is the second floor of Willard Library. You do not need to be a member to attend the TSGS meetings. Anyone interested in genealogy or history will want to see this program.
Announced by Becky West, TSGS Program Chair
On Tuesday Night...
08 May 2012
the Tri-State Genealogical Society will have the honor of having Jeannie Browning Hester as the guest speaker. She will present an overview of the Browning Online Genealogical Database and give some tips on how to get the most from the site. Through this site the Browning family has made a major contribution to regional history & genealogy; and, it is being updated daily! The TSGS meeting begins at 7PM with a brief business meeting followed by this program. Location is the second floor of Willard Library. You do not need to be a member to attend the TSGS meetings. Anyone interested in genealogy or history will want to see this program.
Announced by Becky West, TSGS Program Chair
Wednesday, April 18, 2012
"Earth Day at the Zoo" 22 April 2012
'
Earth Day...
the one day a year that we give a little attention to home!
This year we can celebrate the planet earth at the Zoo with its "Rain Barrel Decorating Program Auction Event" on Sunday 22 Apr 2012
[Click on sign below to better read the details.]
Today as Becky & I were walking at Washington Square Mall, we came upon this display of rain barrels decorated for Earth Day! We seem to find all kinds of things when we go on our walks. This reminded me of the times that Judi Reininga & I would oversee our Vanderburgh County 4-H Conservation Club's Earth Day Booths in Garvin Park with about 8-12 4-H members.
These two photos give a view of these neat rain barrels that will be auctioned off on Sunday.
Here is another view below... the music ones are neat!
Below is my favorite painted Red, White & Blue.
Becky's favorite is this one "Peace at Home" with its white picket fence.
We both liked the one below... "Saving the Earth, One Drop at a Time!"
Throughout history, man (our ancestors) have defended their land & homes, as well as, their country land; however, we have been short on protecting our world. Earth Day is a great opportunity for us to remember that this old planet is our home and we need to take care of it. Most of us had ancestors that were farmers. I had ancestors that were tobacco farmers in North Carolina that migrated in the early 1800's to Kentucky to obtain land to raise tobacco crops. Like many who raised tobacco for a living, they planted their crops and harvested the leaves to feed & support their families, but little nutrients were added back into the soil and after a time the soil was depleted of nutrients and became barren land for productive crops. In the very early years of the 1900's, it was obvious by the U.S. Department of Agriculture that something was needed to help all of these farmers learn good agriculture practices of fertilizing the soil for better & continued crop production. One way was the creation of the 4-H Clubs as a way to teach kids that in turn would teach the parents to be better at using the land. Conservation efforts for our natural resources is important to replenish the earth's quality of land, air, water, wildlife & plants. Our future descendants are depending on us to keep their home a nice planet to live on.
- Written by JGWest - Photos taken & submitted by JGWest
Monday, April 16, 2012
Marker/Plaque/Monument Monday
'
Commemorative Gazebo
Located north of the Evansville State Hospital and just east of the Buffalo Trace Boy Scout Headquarters by the Lloyd Expressway.
The Gazebo is in the beautiful gardens of the Southwestern Indiana Master Gardner Association, Inc. In pic below Becky West is standing in the Gazebo that is dedicated to the Physicians & Staff of Welborn Clinic.
- Photos taken & submitted by JGWest
Sunday, April 15, 2012
TSGS Annual Dinner Re-Cap
'
Here is a brief summary of our TSGS Annual Dinner...
for those who could not attend.
The dinner was held at the Sirloin Stockade on Bellemeade Avenue near Green River Road on Tuesday evening, 10 April 2012.
Those awarded Certificates of Appreciation for presenting a program at one or more of our monthly membership meetings were: Stan Schmitt, Kim Nightingale, Peggy Gilkey, Mary Alice Springer, John G. West, Becky West and Terry Hughes. Three TSGS members were recognized by President Donald Counts with Certificates for their contributions to the Tri-State Genealogical Society: Becky West, Kim Nightingale and Larry Goss. Our guest speaker for the night was Terry Hughes who presented a slide program about the First Indiana Calvary Regiment formed in Evansville, Indiana in 1861 during the Civil War.
Monday, April 9, 2012
Marker/Plaque/Monument Monday
'
This very nice Veterans Memorial is located on the grounds of the Evansville State Hospital that Becky & I discovered while walking in the park area (a great place for walkers who need the exercise). Through the archway is a dock that goes out over the lake (it can be seen by clicking on the photo to get a larger image). This area seems to always attract people to it.
Through the generosity of Pearl Morris this memorial is to honor the armed forces veterans who receive care at this state hospital. 
Below is the dedication plaque of the Veterans Memorial on 03 September 1982.
This plaque is to recognize those who serve the hospitalized Veterans.
- Photos taken & submitted by JGWest
Sunday, April 8, 2012
Happy Easter!
'
The Tri-State Genealogical Society wishes everyone a very Happy Easter, today!
The photo below is a giant Easter Bunny at Washington Square Mall where Becky & I have been taking our 45-minute walks. Becky is standing in front of this big stuffed rabbit.
Remember that TSGS will meet at Sirloin Stockade on Tuesday night instead of Willard Library for our Annual Dinner Meeting. It is a buffet style restaurant, so we suggest for everyone to arrive no later than 6PM with the informal brief meeting beginning at 7 followed shortly with our guest speaker Terry Hughes.
Wednesday, March 14, 2012
From the First Mate's Photo Album...
'
A few photos from Tuesday night's TSGS meeting with Stan Schmitt speaking on the Civil War in Evansville. Becky West (right - standing) is introducing our guest speaker to those in attendance.
[Photos are kind of dark, click on them to enlarge each one for a better picture.]
Stan with his arms stretched out was saying that at a previous TSGS meeting, he had been interrupted by a new young security guard because it was almost 8 PM, the normal closing time for the library. The guard asked everyone to leave in 5 minutes... the librarian and I quickly informed the guard that we were conducting a meeting and he just interrupted the guest speaker. We also told him that we generally ran over about 1/2 hour over the normal closing time. The security guard was nick-named "Skippy" by several un-named TSGS members! Stan then quickly wrapped up his program in a few minutes, although he had about 15 to 20 minutes more to finish. Everyone present enjoyed Stan's program very much and wanted him to return "to finish the war!"
As Stan is speaking those in attendance were listening very closely. Stan is a good speaker with an interesting subject. He finished the war for us and everyone enjoyed his program very much! We ended with having two very good programs from Stan Schmitt. Thanks, Stan!
Photo of the audience for Stan's program... a few present are not shown (they were seating just right of the edge of this picture). TSGS President Don Counts is to the left of this photo with Mrs. Browning seated at the other end of the same table (lower center).
- Photos taken by JGWest
Sunday, February 26, 2012
A Tribute to George Rogers Clark & the Capture of Fort Sackville
'
TSGS President Don Counts & I drove up to Vincennes, Indiana on Saturday 25 Feb 2012 (along with our wives, Betty Counts & Becky West) for Don & I to participate in the 233rd. Anniversary Commemoration of the capture of Fort Sackville. [Click on photos to enlarge images.]
On the morning of 25 Feb 1779, Colonel George Rogers Clark and his small force of frontiersmen received the surrender of Fort Sackville from British Lt. Governor Henry Hamilton. Clark's great triumph at the now site of the George Rogers Clark Memorial in downtown Vincennes, was achieved only after an incredible 18-day midwinter journey through the icy floodwaters of the Illinois country. Above is the bronze statue in the rotunda that stands from the floor 12.5 feet tall, weighing about 12 tons. The exterior of the memorial building is 80 feet tall and 180 feet across at the base. Inside of the rotunda are seven murals, each created on a single piece of Belgium linen 16 feet wide by 28 feet tall.
Above is a photo of the Indiana Society Sons of the American Revolution (INSSAR) Color Guard. Representing the Ohio Valley SAR chapter & who are also members of TSGS are (from right): Ken Gilkey, President Don Counts, Vice-President John G. West.
Above: during the Pledge of Allegiance & singing of the Nation Anthem, the Color Guard was at "Present Arms" with the red & green striped George Rogers Clark flag dipped. John G. West was given the honor to carry the George Rogers Clark flag!
The ladies above attended dressed in Colonial period dress. They are members of the INSSAR Ladies Auxiliary. Two of them are members of TSGS - Peggy Gilkey on the left & Betty Counts on the right. Not pictured was TSGS Program Chair Becky West.
This beautiful wreath of flowers was placed by two very small students of the South Knox Elementary School. Patriotic songs & music was provided by the St. John Folk Group of St. John Catholic Church.
It was a very cold & windy day with snow flurries. Inside it was warm, but the marble benches that circle around the rotunda were very cold! But, the ceremony warmed our hearts and reminded us of what many of our ancestors endured 233 years ago!
- Compiled by JGWest
TSGS President Don Counts & I drove up to Vincennes, Indiana on Saturday 25 Feb 2012 (along with our wives, Betty Counts & Becky West) for Don & I to participate in the 233rd. Anniversary Commemoration of the capture of Fort Sackville. [Click on photos to enlarge images.]
On the morning of 25 Feb 1779, Colonel George Rogers Clark and his small force of frontiersmen received the surrender of Fort Sackville from British Lt. Governor Henry Hamilton. Clark's great triumph at the now site of the George Rogers Clark Memorial in downtown Vincennes, was achieved only after an incredible 18-day midwinter journey through the icy floodwaters of the Illinois country. Above is the bronze statue in the rotunda that stands from the floor 12.5 feet tall, weighing about 12 tons. The exterior of the memorial building is 80 feet tall and 180 feet across at the base. Inside of the rotunda are seven murals, each created on a single piece of Belgium linen 16 feet wide by 28 feet tall.
Above is a photo of the Indiana Society Sons of the American Revolution (INSSAR) Color Guard. Representing the Ohio Valley SAR chapter & who are also members of TSGS are (from right): Ken Gilkey, President Don Counts, Vice-President John G. West.
Above: during the Pledge of Allegiance & singing of the Nation Anthem, the Color Guard was at "Present Arms" with the red & green striped George Rogers Clark flag dipped. John G. West was given the honor to carry the George Rogers Clark flag!
The ladies above attended dressed in Colonial period dress. They are members of the INSSAR Ladies Auxiliary. Two of them are members of TSGS - Peggy Gilkey on the left & Betty Counts on the right. Not pictured was TSGS Program Chair Becky West.
This beautiful wreath of flowers was placed by two very small students of the South Knox Elementary School. Patriotic songs & music was provided by the St. John Folk Group of St. John Catholic Church.It was a very cold & windy day with snow flurries. Inside it was warm, but the marble benches that circle around the rotunda were very cold! But, the ceremony warmed our hearts and reminded us of what many of our ancestors endured 233 years ago!
- Compiled by JGWest
Sunday, February 19, 2012
Warrick County 4-H Awards Banquet 2012
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TSGS President Don Counts & TSGS Vice-President John G. West present the Glenda K. Trapp Memorial Award Certificate to a very proud young lady - Madison McClane. The award is sponsored by the Tri-State Genealogical Society. Madison was recognized for her achievement in the 4-H Genealogy Project in Warrick Co., Indiana. John as the TSGS 4-H Coordinator presents this award in Vanderburgh and surrounding counties each year.
John also serves as the Indiana Society Sons of the American Revolution state chair of the 4-H Youth Awards Program and annually presents an SAR Outstanding Citizenship Lapel Pin. This year's winner is Abigail Clark pictured below. John & Don also serve as state officers for the Indiana SAR Society. For many years John wore his Revolutionary War uniform to present this award. Then when presenting the TSGS genealogy award, John would say "switching hats" but did not have a different hat. This year John wore western attire (as did President Counts) to have a hat that might better match 4-H and then when awarding the SAR Citizenship award John put on a tri-corn hat worn by the Colonist during the Revolutionary War.
TSGS members: Ken Gilkey, Peggy Gilkey, Betty Counts & TSGS Program Chair Becky West attended the awards event, as well.
TSGS President Don Counts & TSGS Vice-President John G. West present the Glenda K. Trapp Memorial Award Certificate to a very proud young lady - Madison McClane. The award is sponsored by the Tri-State Genealogical Society. Madison was recognized for her achievement in the 4-H Genealogy Project in Warrick Co., Indiana. John as the TSGS 4-H Coordinator presents this award in Vanderburgh and surrounding counties each year.
John also serves as the Indiana Society Sons of the American Revolution state chair of the 4-H Youth Awards Program and annually presents an SAR Outstanding Citizenship Lapel Pin. This year's winner is Abigail Clark pictured below. John & Don also serve as state officers for the Indiana SAR Society. For many years John wore his Revolutionary War uniform to present this award. Then when presenting the TSGS genealogy award, John would say "switching hats" but did not have a different hat. This year John wore western attire (as did President Counts) to have a hat that might better match 4-H and then when awarding the SAR Citizenship award John put on a tri-corn hat worn by the Colonist during the Revolutionary War.
TSGS members: Ken Gilkey, Peggy Gilkey, Betty Counts & TSGS Program Chair Becky West attended the awards event, as well.- Photographers were Ken & Peggy Gilkey and Betty Counts
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