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Tuesday, October 15, 2024

Interview with Tom Herold [1/12/2003]

 


 

https://www.loc.gov/resource/afc2001001.07916.sr0001001/?
00:00
38:32

Interview with Tom Herold [1/12/2003]

Hallie Herold
I am interviewing Tom Herold, a Vietnam Veteran, born February 9, 1946. His current address is Rt. 2, Box 113 Marlinton, WV 24954. Attending the interview are Hallie Herold and Tom Herold.

Hallie Herold
What war did you serve in?

Tom Herold
Vietnam

Hallie Herold
 Were you drafted or did you enlist?

Tom Herold
I enlisted but I was also drafted. If you were in college at the time you had a deferment but they would still call you up for a physical so I went for physicals two different times and each time I was deferred because I was a student. When I was out of college I got drafted and I went to another physical. The third time was a charm and I would have been drafted and gone into the Army but I enlisted in the Navy rather than be drafted into the Army.

Hallie Herold
Were you scared to go and be in the Navy?

Tom Herold
No. I wasn't necessarily scared, apprehensive, wondering what was going to happen, where I was going to go, and things like that.

Hallie Herold
Where did you go?

Tom Herold
Well, I went to boot camp in the Great Lakes and that was in the winter time. That wasn't much fun. I got orders for Pearl Harbor in Hawaii and caught my first ship.

Hallie Herold
Did you travel around a lot or did you stay in one place?

Tom Herold
Well, I traveled a lot, the first ship I was on was the USS Goldsboro. It was home ported in Pearl Harbor and when I got there I was in what they call intransit waiting for a ship. The Goldsboro was on a shakedown cruise and when it came back in I reported aboard and that was all new and being in the Navy was a different experience.

Hallie Herold
How old were you when you enlisted?

Tom Herold
Twenty one.

Hallie Herold
What did you do on the ship?

Tom Herold
As a new recruit they put you on the deckforce so they call you a deck ape. Your duties are chipping paint and painting and general maintenance on the ship. Later on I got in supply.

Hallie Herold
Were you a prisoner of war?

Tom Herold
No

Hallie Herold
Did you write letters or keep in touch with people?

Tom Herold
 Yea I wrote letters home to my relatives. Getting mail was really important because when you went to sea for months at a time that was about the only thing you had to look forward to was getting mail.

Hallie Herold
Did you make any friends on the ship?

Tom Herold
 Yea, you have to. The living conditions on the ship were really close, so you know, people have to really get along and yea I made lot of friends on the ship and some I still keep in contact with.

Hallie Herold
What did you do to entertain yourselves in the time you didn't have to paint or whatever?

Tom Herold
 I read a lot, but you see you have to understand the duties of a ship like I was on. It was a guided missile destroyer and we primarily had two duties. Either we were off the coast of Vietnam and bombarding certain places and you always had a general quarter station where you went and my general quarter station was called directorfire. Directorfire is a coordination between the guns and a visual station. 
The director sat on top of the ship, it was like a little round capsule big enough for two men to sit in and in order to work in there you had to see in 3-d sort of, because you would sit for your watch or the time you were in your general quarters. It was sort of like a big pair of binoculars and you could see the coast and sometimes our Captain would get in real close to the coast and they would turn the guns over to manual and that's what we done manual direct fire and if they gave us a coordinate and we would actually shoot the guns at the target.
 We were looking at most of the targets, two or three miles inland and they had little spotter planes who would call in coordinates to the ship and the ship would fire. Sometimes we'd be on the firing line two or three days. Sometimes we'd be firing four or five hours without ever stopping. Every time they would fire the ship would vibrate, sort of like go back in the water so to speak. We'd do this and then we'd go back out to open sea and refuel, get more ammo and then go back to the firing line. Sometimes we would be within oh, 2,000 yards of the coast if the water was deep enough for the ship. This got really monotonous for the fact that no one really knew what was going on, as far as you know what we were shooting at.
 You know I had always thought that it was like shooting in the blind, like we didn't know where the enemy was, and the only thing you had to rely on was that the Captain would tell us. The other duty we would do would be as escorts for carriers. Whenever carriers were on duty stations they had three or four ships our size that would follow the carriers because the carriers were sending planes inland. 
Sometimes the pilots would come back and maybe have an accident and end up in the water and it was our duty to pick them up. Of course you have to understand how big these carriers are, compared to our ship, and our ship was a lot closer to the water so we could get to those people in the water very quickly. I probably saw four or five planes go in. Some of them we rescued the pilots of the plane, and sometime they were lost. We would stay on these duty stations with these carriers. One time we stayed for like 90 days which was a very long time. 
Most of the time they were two months and then we would leave station and go back to some port, usually in the Philippines. We'd hit Subic Bay and if there were any problems with the ship or if we needed more supplies that is where we'd get them. That was pretty much my duty, to keep supplies on the ship. I would make out requisitions for personal things for people. We had a little store on the ship that sold those personal things like shaving cream and cologne and all those sort of things. I would go on base to make sure all those things were delivered. We'd have to get enough stuff to last for another three months. 
Sometimes at sea we'd run out of things but that's just the way it was. As far a danger went, just being in the military is dangerous. There were a lot of deaths just because of carelessness or human error. You didn't necessarily have to be on a battlefield to get killed. I saw several people get killed on the ship I was on. What was your question again?

Hallie Herold
What did you do to entertain yourselves in your free time but I think you've covered that mostly. What other kind of things did you do on the ship?

Tom Herold
Sailors were involved in all aspects of the ship. You know as far as traditions go, the US Navy is not doubt the most traditional branch of the service, and they are the most disciplined. Every person, in their duties, has to be disciplined or things don't work out. For example everybody has to go through drills and everybody has to be on station for general quarters. I guess the thing I think about most is the fact when you say "what are the things that I did on the ship?" Well for example whenever we'd refuel, that meant our ship pulling up next to an oiler. 
Everybody had a specific duty to do, regardless of what your real job was on the ship. In those situations you did another job. When we'd refuel it was my job to stand on the focle with a pair of headphones on and talk to the ship that was refueling us. They would tell me whenever they would shoot a rope across from one ship to the other. It was really a very coordinated effort just to refuel at sea because the ships had to be going at a certain speed both of them together and they were pretty close to one another and they would shoot a line across from one ship to the other and bring over the hose to refuel. Diesel fuel is what they used. Another job on the ship would be pulling up to an ammo ship and transferring ammo which would be an all day job, you could imagine. 
On the ship we had 6 inch guns which doesn't sound very big, but they were big projectiles. We would spend the day moving projectiles from that ship to our ship, then down into the magazines. That's where the shells were stored and I remember those days how you would stand forever in line passing powder and shells and that was a job. Everybody stood watch on a ship, for example if you had what they called the night shift you would go topside and what they called look for boogies. You'd stand in a certain position for two hours and sometimes four hours, depending what schedule you were on. We would look for unidentified air craft or unidentified ocean craft. When I was in Vietnam I made 3 cruises and for a four year hitch three cruises is quite a bit. That means I served three hitches in Vietnam, not actually on land but at sea. The only time I went on land was when I was like a mail coordinator and they would pick us up. We had a boat on a the ship that would take us over and we would be in Denang. 
Denang Harbor is a big harbor off the coast of Nam. We would go over and pick up mail, and things that we needed on the ship. Mostly the mail was the big thing and you weren't allowed topside whenever we were in port because the Vietcong would bomb and mortar us out in the harbor so there were only certain people that went above decks. That was to protect the crew. We would go over and get mail and bring it back. Our Captain would go over and have meetings and he would come back and then we would go back to sea on the firing line. I did it for so long and so much of it that it all sort of runs together so I don't remember any specific dates or times. We operated quite a bit around the DMZ and the DMZ was an invisible boundary line across Vietnam where it separated North Vietnam from South Vietnam. I remember once being on the line and we had these real powerful binoculars on the focel well actually it was on the second deck up under the pilot, under the quarter-deck. I remember looking through the binoculars on watch because somebody would always stand there and seeing this huge North Vietnamese flag.
 I was probably looking two miles inland but I could see this flag and it was bigger than a house flying in the air. still that just sticks in my mind to think that anybody could have a flag that big. Well I'm sort of jumping around from spot to spot because when you do three tours it's hard to keep everything str;liqh.t, exactly times and dates. I guess the only real date that sticks in my mind, and this doesn't have a lot to do with the war, but it's really strange. The same time that the war was going on was when they had the Apollo Eleven, the moon shot, and they pulled us off the firing line and sent us in another direction. It was a relief in a way to get off the firing line but they sent us to and area in the Pacific ocean. Someplace I've got it written down, exactly what the coordinates were, because I used to liked to go up on the quarter deck and look at the maps to see exactly where we were and how many hours it would be to a certain spot _ Anyway we were sent to this spot and another ship came up beside us and it had a crane that lifted a piece of equipment over and it was attached to our fantail. This other ship had a dummy capsule, this was a capsule the same size as what the astronauts would corne back to earth in when they returned from the moon. I look back to it today that it was probably the most interesting thing that ever happened to me. At the time it was just another duty, you didn't pay that much attention to it, but anyway we would practice. 
This other ship would drop off the capsule in the water and the piece of equipment they gave us was used to pick up the capsule out of the water and put it on the deck. In other words they knew pretty much exactly where the capsule was going to hit the water. When it came back from the moon. The thing we were afraid of was it might, because of the weather conditions whenever the capsule came back from the moon, end up in a different spot and they had five other ships besides us in certain designations because the Russians at the time had several battle ships and destroyers in the same area because the Russians were thinking that they might be able to get out capsule. 
Well I never read about this anywhere since this has happened but we were scared that the Russians would get the capsule and our moon men and everybody was very very tense. The people who were in charge of this mission, I mean you know we just don't go to the moon everyday and then come back to earth. Someplace I have a whole lot of photographs of that, I should get those out and show them to you. Anyway after we practiced for probably five or six times of picking up the capsule the other ship would go out and drop the capsule. We'd corne back and get the capsule, put it on deck, then we'd drop the capsule, turn around go back pick it up, put it on the deck, and everybody had to know exactly what to do to get the capsule back on the deck. I didn't have anything to do with picking up the capsule, but I was on watch so I had a set of headphones on and I sort of felt important you know, 'hey I get to stand out here while they're doing this.' 
Unfortunately, when the day came when the capsule did come back and officer took my place and had the headset so I didn't get to talk to anybody. Needless to say the Russians would follow us everywhere we went. We could see them, they were so close to us that we could wave at them. And the Russians also it is terrible to say how much trash is in the ocean but anyway everything that came off of the ship went into the ocean, everything. And we threw all of our garbage in the ocean and the Russians would come behind us all these ships there were like five of them as escorts and they these net things that would reach down and pick up our garbage, so they would collect everything that we threw over board that they could get because the cold war was still going on and the cold war, you understand what the cold war was?
 But at the time it was pretty tense in some places from what I've read. It was fun though because guys would take glass bottles and they'd put Playboy Magazines in them and throw them out and we could watch with binOCUlars those soviet sailors would pick up those bottles and get those magazines. It was fun but it was also sort of scary in a way. I guess you could think of it that way because you know these people may have you know fired on us to get the capsule. Back to the end of the story. The day comes that capsule coming back, everybody is out and everybody's looking. 
The main carrier is out there that picked it up. I thing it was the Hornet but it was probably a quarter of a mile off our starboard bow and there was a ship to the port and then there was one that you could hardly see alt all. It was pretty far out, but we were all close enough it was like if this thing came back and it hits one of the ships what would we do then? A lot of people talked about that but anyway the day it came back the Captain was on the intercom talking and he was also talking to the carrier who was the main radio contact for this capsule coming back.
 We seen it come through our atmosphere like a big poof and then it opened up a parachute and parachuted down in the ocean and right when it hit here came Navy frogmen and climbed up on it and opened it up and we saw the astronauts get up, stick their heads up out of the capsule and wave.
 They toted over to the carrier and had a crane pick it up and put it on the carrier and we could watch. On the carrier they had a decontamination unit where they put the moonmen in it. That was sort of exciting. We ended up gong back to Pearl Harbor for a while after that and we escorted that aircraft carrier back. The moonmen made it back and they put them in this big plastic dome on the carrier and the carrier was in port, you could go up so far and look at them and see them in there. They were in there for a couple days, it seems like because I was pretty interested in that. I wish now that I would have taken more pictures than I did because we may never go back to the moon again. Back to the war, besides the things I've told you tons and tons of ammunition being shot at the vietnamese and God knows who we killed, But I don't even want to think about that. It was like killing ants with a sledge hammer.
 We were at a war at a distance because lets face it they didn't have a Navy. The North vietnamese had an Airforce, they had Soviet migs and we experienced some of that because you know like on watch you would watch for unidentified aircraft and I guess if they wanted to bomb us they could have but they never did. As far as you say did we receive awards and things, yeah we did sometimes. I always figured there was some old man with a rifle that probably went out an shot at us and hit the ship because they said they had areas on the side of the ship one night where somebody fired at us because we were so close to the beach and whenever you're fired upon you get accommodation medals and things like that.
 I was never really into winning medals or anything but they gave everybody on the ship one because you were part of the war and it seemed like Navy officers like this a lot more than some of the enlisted men. Captains like to think that they're more a part of the war than they actually were. You know we lost that war, there's not many military people who will say that but we did. We lost that war and I spent 4 years of my life and I had a chance not to go when I was San Francisco. 
We were in transit, I was there getting my paperwork to go over seas and they were having some kind of a festival in Ashberry, it's where kids could trade in their war weapons for toys that were non-aggressive toys and it was a flower power, flower children and all those hippie things. you see in the news and I remember walking around with my hair peeled off and everybody was long haired but no one ever said anything to me. I don't know there was probably other military people there but I was by myself and the weirdest thing happened.
 When I was in college I had met a girl who was from Washington DC and just out of the blue there she was. She came over and asked me and said the typical 'Do I know you?' and I said yeah I know you and her name was Wendy, a nice hippie name. Anyway she invited me back to where she was living and she asked me if I would like to get out of the military because she hated the military and I said no. I had signed up for it and her friends came over and said that they could take me to Canada today if I wanted to go.
 Well it's not a new story, the story's been out there with hundreds and hundreds of different people and she would have taken me to Canada but I signed up for it and I think a lot about what my life would have been like if I would have gone. I didn't have any commits., it wasn't like I had a wife or children or anything at home. I didn't have to go back to the ship.
 I could have gone to Canada and been AWOL and I don't remember how many years it was before they pardoned all the Vietnam people who went to Canada and lived but there was a lot of people. I think it was Ford who was President when they pardoned them but anyway I didn't go and that is the end of that but I had the opportunity and didn't take it.
 I think how about what's going on and I have two boys who are of draft age. Billy's 19 and Sam's 21 and if they start to draft again I don't know. I want to say come on boys I'm gonna take you to Canada. No I don't think I'll do that, they can make up their own mind. Every young man has to have his war. OK do you have any more questions?

Hallie Herold
Do you remember the day that your service ended?

Tom Herold
Yes, I do very much.

Hallie Herold
Do you remember the date?

Tom Herold
 Well, at the time they had some type of a back to school deferment and you could get out 6 months early and I was all excited about it and I come to find out that I didn't get it and I've always wondered why. I remember I can see my military ID card. I can see it in my mind and I can see the date on it July the 19th 1972. I didn't get out 6 months early like a lot of people did, got out on July the 1st 1972. 
I went to TOY and was setting in the barracks, my paperwork and a big smile on my face and went over to the all these initialed things. I can't remember but wherever you went to get mustered out and the guy took my paperwork and looked at it and pulled my file out and looked at my file and he said 'sailor you owe us seventeen days' so I still owed them days because I had gotten into trouble and put in the brig you know what the brig is? It's sort of like going to jail and when you go in the brig you have to pay the Navy back those days that you were in the brig and that was the end of that.
 I ended up getting out of the Navy on July the 16th 1972 and I went over to my friend Hovey's place. He lived in Orange County California. He was married and I slept on his floor for about two days and his wife saw enough of me and told me to go, so I went out and stuck my thumb out and hitchhiked to Alaska. That's another story anyway, ask me another question.

Hallie Herold
Did you join a Veteran's organization.

Tom Herold
Have I? Yes.

Hallie Herold
What organization?

Tom Herold
Well actually I never paid money or anything, so maybe I didn't, the Veterans of Foreign Wars, you ever heard of that?

Hallie Herold
Yeah.

Tom Herold
They send me a magazine and they send me an ID card and said I'm a member so I don't quite understand why they keep sending me this because I never paid them money to join. The VFW were mostly made up of World War II Vets., it seems and even Korean Vets. You don't see many Korea Vets. but I don't know maybe today there is more Vietnam Vets. 
The Vietnam war left a bad taste in everyone's mouth. It was the first time the United states ever lost a war and you just wanted to forget it. World War II Vets and Korean Vets, they were proud to come home and America was proud of them. 
They had parades and they clapped them on the back and they said 'here boy have another beer'. Vietnam Vets didn't get that, not at all, because I remember coming in on leave one time and being in Chicago and this girl and this boy came up to me and said 'You killed any babies lately?' I just looked at them and said 'no I don't kill babies.' but it didn't dawn on me until they walked away. As far as organizations go, no I'm not too excited about going to anybody, going somewhere and talking about my war experiences.

Hallie Herold
What did you go on to do as a career after the war?

Tom Herold
I became a teacher.

Hallie Herold
OK Thank you for your time.
 
-------------------------------------
https://www.loc.gov/resource/afc2001001.07916.sr0001001/?

Monday, October 14, 2024

Well-known American poet visits Marlinton

 


 

Margaret Elizabeth Sangster


BornMargaret Elizabeth Munson
February 22, 1838
New Rochelle, New York, U.S.
DiedJune 3, 1912 (aged 74)
South Orange, New Jersey, U.S.
Pen nameAunt Marjorie
Occupation
  • Poet
  • author
  • editor
LanguageEnglish
NationalityAmerican
Spouse
George Sangster
(m. 1858; died 1871)

Margaret Elizabeth Sangster (pen name, Aunt Marjorie;[1] February 22, 1838 – June 3, 1912) was an American poet, author, and editor. Her poetry was inspired by family and church themes, and included hymns and sacred texts. She worked in several fields including book reviewing, story writing, and verse making. For a quarter of a century, Sangster was known by the public as a writer, beginning as a writer of verse, and combining later the practical work of a critic and journalist. Much of her writing did not include her name.[2]

Her literary productions were numerous, and she was a regular contributor to many of the leading periodicals. She gradually drifted into editorial work, and in 1871, she became the editor of Hearth and Home. In 1873, she took an editorial position on the Christian at Work, which she held for six years. In 1879, she joined the staff of the Christian Intelligencer, and served as assistant editor until 1888. In 1882, she added to her work the editing of Harper's Young People, then starting. In 1890, she became the editor of Harper's Bazar. During these busy years, she also wrote poetry. Her miscellaneous work included stories, sketches, essays, editorial comment, criticisms, and other writing implied in the journalistic positions she held. Her published books are Manual of Missions of the Reformed Church in America (New York, 1878); Poems of the Household (Boston, 1883); Home Fairies and Heart Flowers (New York, 1887), and a series of Sunday school books.[3]

Early years and education

Margaret Elizabeth Munson was born February 22, 1838, in New Rochelle, New York,.[4] She was the daughter of John Munson of Ireland and Margaret Chisholm of New York City. Her father was in the marble industry in New York City. Margaret and her younger sister Isabell grew up in a very religious household.

She was educated principally at home, in Paterson, New Jersey, and at Williamsburgh.[4] In childhood she was precocious and gave signs of her literary talents.[3]

Career

Her literary career began in her seventeenth year, when she wrote and published a book—a child's story—called Little Jamie. Before that, however, she had written verses, competed for prizes (and won them) with essays and other writings. For seventeen years she has entirely supported her family by journalistic work. In the beginning of her career, she was connected with Hearth and Home, an attractive but rather short-lived paper.[5]

Sangster held editorial positions with a number of periodicals including, The Christian at Work, Harper's Young People and eventually became an editor at Harper’s Bazaar from 1889 to 1899. At Harper's Young People, she was known among the young readers as "The Little Postmistress."[5] Other than Harper’s Bazaar, she contributed to Ladies' Home Journal, Hearth and Home, and the Christian Intelligencer, The Christian Union (later became The Outlook), The Congregationalist and The Christian Herald. Sangster also wrote a 3-column, full page spread for Woman's Home Companion entitled "Mrs. Sangster's Home Page" which often included a double-paged layout folio of contemporary photographs of women-at-work, internationally, as well as a follow-up page called Mrs. Sangster's "Answers to Correspondents" published in 1907. Through her work, she became acquainted with notable people of her era, including Mark Twain and Helen Keller.[6]

Sangster in 1904

Among Sangster's prose works are several volumes of stories for children, and of these, Little Jamie was written when she was seventeen years old. Hours with Girls and Winsome Womanhood were her most popular works. Her volumes of poetry include, Poems of the Household, Home Fairies and Heart Flowers, On the Road Home and Easter Bells. Sangster grew up a devout member of the Dutch Reformed Church and wrote many hymns and sacred texts. These include a setting of the Te Deum Laudamus and a hymn called, Thine is the Power, which gained a fair degree of popularity in its time.[6][7] For fifteen years, she contributed largely to religious periodical literature.[4]

Most of her writing as of 1889 was for the newspapers, and without her name. In speaking of her profession as a journalist she once said :—" I love it with all my heart, and would not exchange it with all its drudgery for any other position of which I can dream. Everything about it suits me and charms me. More, perhaps, than anything else, I value the opportunity it gives me to say helpful words, and reach a cordial hand to the struggling of my sex."[5] In 1902, Sangster wrote the introduction to the book, Happenings in Our Home, a book where a family could record the important events in their lives such as births, deaths, weddings, vacations, and holidays. She published her autobiography in 1909.[8]

Personal life

She married George Sangster, of Williamsburgh, New York,[4] in 1858, and accepted the care of a family of children, and was a successful stepmother. She had one child of her own, a son, George Sangster, a journalist, later becoming a grandmother to Margaret E. Sangster, a writer and magazine editor.[9] She made her home in Brooklyn, where she was active in connection with church and Sunday-school work.[5] She essentially gave up writing until after his death in 1871; she never remarried.

Sangster was a member of the Woman's Board of Foreign Missions of the Reformed Church in America,[1] as well as being fond of music and society. She was a conspicuous personage in the literary and social circle of New York, her home being in Brooklyn.[3] Sangster died in South Orange, New Jersey, June 3, 1912.[10] Her nephew, Charles Chisholm Brainerd, was married to the author Eleanor Hoyt Brainerd.

Style and themes

Her verses are full of tender, often religious, sentiments and her stories are bright and well told.[5] The themes of Christian devotion and homely wisdom were often mingled together.[10]

Selected works

  • Little Knights and Ladies (1895) Harper & Brothers
  • Village Life in America, 1852–1872, including the period of the American Civil War as told in the diary of a school-girl by Caroline Cowles Richards
  • An Experience
  • Lyrics of Love of Hearth and Home & Field and Garden (1901)
  • Eleanor Lee (1903)
  • From My Youth Up
  • Winsome Womanhood; Familiar Talks on Life and Conduct
  • Fairest Girlhood
  • The Women of the Bible: A Portrait Gallery
  • Cheerful To-days and Trustful To-morrows
  • The Little Kingdom of Home
  • Radiant Motherhood; A Book for the Twentieth Century Mother
  • The Art of Being Agreeable
  • Vacation Time
  • The Story Bible (1905) Moffat, Yard & Co. of New York
  • The Sin of Omission
  • The Birthday
  • Happy School Days(1909)


How the Arrival of the “Algerine” Affected Pocahontas County

 


How the Arrival of the “Algerine” Affected Pocahontas County

The arrival of Selim, also known as "the Algerine," in Pocahontas County, Virginia, around 1760, had a significant cultural and religious impact on the community. The sources present Selim’s story as a remarkable tale of survival, religious conversion, and cultural exchange.

  • The “Algerine” was found near death, naked and starving, hidden in a treetop near Big Spring on the Elk River by a hunter named Col. Givens. This suggests that he had been through a traumatic experience, possibly involving conflict with Native Americans, as it was noted that he was taken prisoner during the French and Indian War.

  • The people of the Cow Pasture River settlements took Selim in and cared for him despite not understanding his language. This act of kindness reflects the compassionate nature of the community.

  • Selim's inability to communicate with the settlers highlights the language barrier that existed between the European settlers and individuals from other cultures. The community was not equipped to understand or integrate someone with such a different linguistic background.

  • Selim was eventually taken to the Old Stone Church settlement near Staunton, Virginia, where the pastor, Rev. Mr. Craig, a French scholar, could understand him. This event underscores the importance of education and cultural knowledge in bridging communication gaps and fostering understanding.

  • Selim's conversion to Christianity under Rev. Mr. Craig's guidance indicates the influence of religious leaders in shaping the beliefs and values of individuals and communities. Selim’s conversion also suggests that he found solace and acceptance within the Christian faith.

  • Selim's later travels to Richmond and Philadelphia, where he gained recognition and had his portrait painted by a "great painter," showcase his integration into colonial society and his ability to transcend cultural boundaries.

Selim's story provides valuable insights into the cultural and religious landscape of Pocahontas County during the 18th century. His arrival exposed the community to a different language and culture, prompting them to extend compassion to a stranger in need. The community's efforts to communicate with Selim and his subsequent conversion to Christianity reveal the influence of religion and the role of individuals like Rev. Mr. Craig in shaping the social fabric of the time. Finally, Selim's acceptance and recognition in larger cities like Richmond and Philadelphia illustrate the complexities of cultural exchange in colonial America.

The West Virginia Prohibition Amendment.

 


 

A. Dennis Williams, of Marlinton, West Virginia, introduced the "dry amendment," also known as the West Virginia Prohibition amendment.

 Williams was a prominent orchardist and one of the state's most prominent wool growers. He stated that he first introduced the amendment in 1900 when he was elected as a member of the House of Delegates from Pocahontas County. 

The amendment remained as he had written it except for the date change. It was brought up again in 1911. Although Williams expected a small majority, he stated that the overwhelming majority came as a surprise.

Saturday, October 12, 2024

We Want America Back

 


We Want America Back
 
The Steeles
 
Something is wrong with America.
She once held the Bible as her conscience and guide.
But we've allowed those who hold nothing to be sacred,
Like Sodom of old, to push morals aside.
Where are the men who once stood for right?
And the women who championed their cause?
We must return to the values we left,
Before this country we love is totally lost.
We want America back.
We want America back,
From those who have no self-control,
We want America back.
This nation is like a runaway train,
Headed down the wrong track,
It's time for the army of God to arise,
And say we want America back.

Narrative to be used (before singing Stanza#2): 

I love America. But I do not love what she has become. 

When our government can pass out contraceptives to children is school with out parental consent, and yet the Gideons can no longer pass out the Bible on campus... something is wrong. 

When our leaders can tell your children and mine that premarital s is alright as long as it's safe... yes... something is wrong. And I for one am ready for a change. I will say to my government, "I'm not raising dogs at my house; I'm raising children... created in the image and likeness of almighty God. 

And I'm going to teach them the Bible. If the Bible says it's right... it's right.

And if the Bible says it's wrong... it's wrong." 

The only hope that America has is that Godly men and women of character
will stand together as one might army and declare to the immoral, the impure, the obscene and the foul, 

"Your days of unlimited access the minds of America are over. 

The army of God, that has been silent for too long, is taking America back!" 

Stanza#2: 

We want America back.
We want America back,
From those who have no self-control,
We want America back.
This nation is like a runaway train,
Headed down the wrong track,
It's time for the army of God to arise,
And say we want America back.
It's time for the army of God to arise,
And say we want America back!!

Mortality Notes 1

 


Marvin Helmick's survivors as of April of 1972 when he died: [1, 2]

  • His wife, Leta (Marshall) Helmick
  • Two daughters: Mrs. Frances Murphy, of Baltimore, Maryland, and Mrs. Jean Borook, of Broadway, Virginia
  • Three sons: William Marvin Helmick, who was serving with the U. S. Army at Fort Bragg, North Carolina, Harry Helmick of Chillicothe, Ohio, and Robert Helmick of Souderton, Pennsylvania.
  • His mother: Lona Winner, of Windber, Pennsylvania.
  • One brother: Ezra Helmick, of Windber, Pennsylvania
  • One sister: Mrs. Paul (Hazel) Winner, of Windber, Pennsylvania.
  • One grandchild

New Saved Note

The sources do not state when Ward McNeil graduated from West Virginia University.

  • Ward McNeil, 75, died on Saturday, April 14, 1979, at his home in Buckeye. [1]
  • He was a graduate of West Virginia University. [1]
  • McNeil was a teacher and manager in Pocahontas County. [1]
  • Later in life, he moved to Columbus, Ohio, where he was a State statistician for the Agricultural Soil and Conservation Service until his retirement. [1]

New Saved Note

The sources state that the Rev. Randy Benson conducted Florence (Price) Randolph McNeil's funeral service at the Marlinton Presbyterian Church on Monday at 2 p.m. [1, 2]. She was buried at the Oak Grove Cemetery in Hillsboro. [1, 2] The sources do not indicate if Floyd Price McNeil was the same person as Florence (Price) Randolph McNeil.

New Saved Note

W. W. McCloud's Church

W. W. McCloud was a member of the Methodist Church [1, 2]. The sources do not provide the specific name of the Methodist church he attended.

New Saved Note

Thomas Leo McGee was born in Uniontown, Pennsylvania. [1] He died on November 2, 1983, in Petersburg, after suffering a heart attack at work. [1] McGee was 49 years old at the time of his death. [1]

New Saved Note

William Ward McCloud's Occupation

William Ward McCloud was a retired farmer [1, 2]. He was a member of the Methodist Church [1, 2]. McCloud was born on August 22, 1882, in Pocahontas County and died at the age of 85 in 1968 [1, 2].

New Saved Note

L. W. McCoy died in the year 1945. [1] He was a farmer and postmaster of Spice, West Virginia. [1] McCoy died of a heart attack on Friday evening, November 20, 1945. [1]

New Saved Note

Stanley Mason Loudermilk lived in Buckeye, Virginia. [1] He died on Monday, April 8, 1991, at the age of 69 after surgery at the University of Virginia Medical Center in Charlottesville, Virginia. [1] He was a former State Bee Inspector. [1]

New Saved Note

Carl Edward Reed died on May 15, 1980. [1] He suffered a heart attack on May 1. [1] Reed was a veteran of World War II. [1] He was retired and had worked for 32 years as an operator for the Los Angeles Transit Co. [1]

Reed was born on October 22, 1916. [2] He was the son of Mr. and Mrs. Edmund C. Reed. [2] He and his wife, Mabel Beverage Reed, lived in Colton, California. [2]

A memorial service was held at his daughter's home in Loma Linda, California on May 18, 1980. [2] His family made a promise to his mother, Mrs. Margaret Beverage, of Huntersville, to take his remains back to West Virginia. [2]

New Saved Note

Lanty Roscoe Hefner died in Neola, West Virginia. [1] He was 73 years, 2 months, and 8 days old. [1]

New Saved Note

Lettie Parker Jones was buried in Mountain View Cemetery.

  • Lettie Parker Jones, 34, of Charles Town, died on August 14, 1976, at Denmar State Hospital. [1]
  • She had been a patient there since 1961. [1]
  • Graveside services were held in Mountain View Cemetery Tuesday morning by the Rev. Sanford Boggs. [1]

New Saved Note

Lea Anderson was buried in Ridgecrest Memory Gardens in Dover, Ohio. [1]

Lea F. Anderson, 88, died on Friday, July 12, 1985 at Union Hospital in Dover, Ohio. [1] Her obituary states that burial was in Ridgecrest Memory Gardens in Dover, Ohio. [1]

New Saved Note

Rev. Larry Hinkle officiated at her funeral service at the Otterbein United Methodist Church in New Philadelphia, Ohio [1, 2]. Burial took place at Ridgecrest Memory Gardens in Dover, Ohio [1, 2]. Lea F. Anderson, 88, died on Friday, July 12, 1985 at Union Hospital in Dover after a month's illness [2]. She was the wife of the former Tossie E. Gibson [1, 2].

New Saved Note

Lea Anderson died in Tidipakson, near Huttonsville, West Virginia at her home. [1] Lea F. Anderson, 88, died on Sunday, June 28, 1987. [1] She was the wife of the former Tossie E. Gibson. [1]

New Saved Note

The oldest person mentioned in the sources is Mrs. Sarah Elizabeth Mann Perkins, who died at the age of 103 years old [1].

New Saved Note

Causes of Death in the Obituaries

The sources, a collection of obituaries, reveal various causes of death, some more frequently mentioned than others.

  • Heart attacks appear as a prominent cause of death throughout the obituaries. [1-20]
  • Long illnesses are also frequently cited, though the specific illnesses are not always mentioned. [21-34]
  • Accidents represent another category of death, including fatal car accidents and a gunshot wound. [35-43]
  • Other causes of death include pneumonia, carbon monoxide poisoning, uremic poisoning, cerebral hemorrhage, meningitis, heart conditions and strokes. [23, 44-50]
  • Some obituaries provide less specific details, mentioning deaths occurring after short illnesses or in their sleep. [51-54]

While the sources do not offer precise statistics, they highlight heart attacks as a leading cause of death among the individuals memorialized. This observation aligns with the historical context of the 20th century, where heart disease became a significant health concern in the United States.

New Saved Note

Locations of Individuals in Provided Obituaries

The sources provided are a collection of obituaries, and many of the individuals mentioned lived in West Virginia, often in smaller towns.

  • Several obituaries mention individuals residing in Marlinton, West Virginia [1-16].
  • Other West Virginia towns mentioned include Dunmore [17-22], Hillsboro [23-28], Buckeye [29, 30], Renick [31, 32], Edray [30, 33-36], Cass [37], Seebert [32], Arbovale [38], Frankford [39], Mill Point [40, 41], Green Bank [42, 43], Linwood [27, 43] and Huntersville [22, 44].
  • Some individuals lived in other states, including Pennsylvania, Maryland, Ohio and Florida [20, 40, 45-60].
  • A few obituaries mention international locations like Canada [40] and San Juan, Puerto Rico [42].

The sources provide a glimpse into the lives of individuals who lived and passed away primarily in West Virginia. Their obituaries offer details about their families, residences and in some cases, their occupations.

New Saved Note

Changing Social Attitudes Towards Death

The provided obituaries, spanning from 1935 to 1999, offer insights into evolving social perspectives on death. While direct commentary on changing attitudes is absent, certain trends emerge through the information included (or omitted) in the notices.

  • Cause of death is frequently mentioned in earlier obituaries, even in cases of suicide, such as the 1933 notice for Alex Puffenbarger [1]. Later notices tend to omit this detail, as seen in the 1998 obituary of Freda Estola Ferrell [2] and the 1979 passing of Clyde E. Poage [3].
  • Detailed familial relationships are consistently present throughout the obituaries. This suggests a sustained societal emphasis on family connections in relation to death. Examples include Erma S. Horner's 1966 notice listing 29 grandchildren [4] and Lanie Galford's 1976 obituary mentioning 10 great-grandchildren [5].
  • Religious affiliation and funeral rites are consistently noted across the time span. This indicates the enduring significance of faith and communal mourning rituals. Examples include Melvin Sharp's 1957 notice specifying services at Mt. Zion Church [6] and Pearl Gay's 1963 obituary mentioning membership in the Frost Methodist Church [7].
  • The inclusion of personal details like occupation or community involvement, such as Marvin J. Galford's retirement from Armour Meat Packing Company [8] or William K. N. Good's membership in the Odd Fellows Lodge [9], appears more common in earlier notices. This shift could reflect a growing emphasis on privacy or a move away from defining individuals solely by their worldly roles.
  • Notably, expressions of personal sentiment appear more frequently in later obituaries. Examples include Willard Smith's 1984 notice stating he was a "good faith" man who believed he was "going home to God" [8] and Henry Poage's 1933 obituary expressing a belief in a "sunny clime of sweet deliverance" [10]. This suggests a possible trend towards more open emotional expression and individual beliefs about the afterlife.

These observations highlight some potential shifts in how death was addressed and perceived over time. However, it's crucial to recognize that these are inferences drawn from a limited set of obituaries. Broader research and contextual understanding of the historical period are necessary for a more comprehensive analysis of changing social attitudes towards death.

New note

Timeline of Events

Please note: This timeline is based on the provided obituaries and does not represent all events in these individuals' lives. It focuses on deaths, funerals, and a few major life events mentioned.

Year Unknown:

  • Marriage of L.D. Sharp: L.D. Sharp marries his first wife, Laura Jane Moore. She precedes him in death.

1881:

  • March 23: Lizzie Morrison (later Mrs. John M. Pritt) is born in Pocahontas County.

1888:

  • April 10: Joseph S. Hiner is born in Highland County, Virginia.

1895:

  • February 17: Jordan David McMillian is born in Renick.

1901:

  • June 29: Delbert Warick Ray is born near Boyer.
  • July 11: Dock Robert Hannah is born near Slatyfork.

1903:

  • July 19: Richard Alton Gibson is born in Frost.

1906:

  • September 12: Harper (last name unclear, likely Barrett or similar) is born.

1907:

  • December 18: Mrs. Cora Lee Hill Kinnison is born.

1910:

  • February 6: Merle K. Nottingham is born.
  • August 28: Delmar L. Hammonds is born.

1911:

  • June 13: June W. Riley is born in Arbovale.

1912:

  • July 12: Bruce Kerr Nottingham is born.
  • September 12: Freda Hoover (later Mrs. Chase Marshall) is born in Mill Point.

1915:

  • October 8: James W. Shreve is born in Elkins.

1916:

  • April 17: Denzel Marsh Wolfe is born.
  • November 29: Denzel M. Wolfe is born.

1919:

  • July 10: Hansford Hall is born in Removal.

1920:

  • August 28: Delmar L. Hammonds is born.

1921:

  • May 19: Murl Vernon Hill is born.

1922:

  • October 16: James Roy Slaven is born.

1925:

  • November 22: Robert Preston Russell is born in Newark, New Jersey.

1928:

  • October 30: Mrs. Sallie Slaven is born.

1929:

  • June 4: Emma Kelley Hodge is born.
  • May 19: Charles and Minnie Eubank's daughter (later Diana Mae Hall) is born.

1930s:

  • During the 1930s: H. Neville Hunsicker works as a state F.F.A advisor in West Virginia.

1932:

  • June 26: William Joseph “BJ” Johnson is born in Wheeling.

1934:

  • September 7: Robert J. Neighbors is born.

1936:

  • March 28: Virginia K. Hamrick is born.

1937:

  • September 9: George Frederick Phillips is born.

1939:

  • July 17: Lenard Jacob Boggs is born.

1940s:

  • During the 1940s: Denzil R. Hines works at the Tygart Hotel and Blackwater Falls State Park.

1941:

  • June: James L. Green marries his first wife, Elsie Elmore.

1945:

  • March 15: Edward Arbuckle Hudson and Clara Kirkpatricks's son is killed in action.

1948:

  • July 2: Samuel C. Hill marries Beth Buckskin.

1950:

  • June 3: Stephen H. Hiner, Jr. marries Olive Caplinger.

1960:

  • Dr. J.W. Price receives national recognition: Receives a study grant from the National Science Foundation.

1961:

  • March 29: H.G. Roby dies.
  • April 12: Mrs. Irula Waugh Mckenney passes away in St. Joseph’s Hospital.

1962:

  • April 15: Lizzie Morrison Pritt dies in Culpeper, Virginia.

1963:

  • January 27: Frank Morrison dies.

1967:

  • August 20: Richard P. Jones dies.

1968:

  • August 16: Harper Barrett dies.

1969:

  • May 13: Dennis Edward Nelson dies.

1970:

  • Sometime in 1970: Clara Gay Hill dies.

1972:

  • August 4: E.P. Ruckman passes away in Denver.
  • May 9: Joseph O. Jordan dies.
  • March 17: Murl Vernon Hill dies.

1973:

  • December 27: Richard Alton Gibson dies.

1974:

  • November 6: Jack L. Jordan dies.

1975:

  • February 2: Brown C. Shanklin dies.
  • April 28: Mrs. Elizabeth Hoover Moyers dies.

1976:

  • November 28: Frederick R. Hill dies.

1977:

  • March 3: Delbert Warick Ray dies.

1978:

  • May 25: I.O. Gragg dies.
  • November 25: James DeWitt Hankins dies.

1979:

  • March 12: Edward Arbuckle Hudson dies.

1980:

  • May 5: William Ward "Bill" McCloud dies.

1981:

  • May 23: Merle K. Nottingham dies.

1982:

  • June 21: Stephen H. Hiner, Sr. dies.

1983:

  • August 5: June W. Riley dies.
  • September 28: Hubert Harry Hannah dies.
  • November 25: James R. "Bob" Liggett dies.

1984:

  • January 7: Frank Hannah dies.
  • July 11: Jordan David McMillian dies.

1985:

  • August 15: George Frederick Phillips dies.

1986:

  • August 15: Basil M. Gum dies.
  • July 7: Dock Robert Hannah dies.

1987:

  • August 4: Dr. James L. Hamner dies.
  • May 8: Delmar L. Hammonds dies.
  • November 6: George Robert “Pat” Gay dies.

1988:

  • September 16: Merrill W. Hodges dies.
  • July 7: Dock Robert Hannah dies.
  • August 19: Marcus Mark Newsom dies.

1989:

  • April 29: David Dunnington, brother of Ruth D. Dunnington Ghigo, passes away.

1990:

  • Sometime in 1990: Stephen H. Hiner, Jr. and Olive Caplinger divorce.

1991:

  • Sometime in 1991: L.D. Sharp dies.

1992:

  • Sometime in 1992: Mrs. Clara Gay Hill dies.

1993:

  • Sometime in 1993: Oscar Kyle Robinson dies.

1994:

  • January 24: Virgil B. Hamrick passes away in Gainesville, Alabama.
  • October 22: Harley S. Knight dies.
  • October 24: Denzil R. "Jake" Hines dies in Sarasota, FL.

1995:

  • January 12: James A. Irvine, Jr. dies.
  • November 22: H. Neville Hunsicker dies.

1996:

  • November 18: Diana Mae Hall dies in Clarksburg.
  • September 26: Denzel M. Wolfe dies.

1997:

  • April 12: Dorothy B. Hamrick dies.
  • August 15: Ruth Dilley Lovejoy dies.
  • May 8: James L. Green of Columbus, Georgia, passes away.
  • September 21: Jack L. Jordan dies.
  • November 9: Ernest Randolph Fisher dies.
  • December 13: Ward F. Hill dies.
  • May 13: Howard Jordan, Sr. passes away.

1998:

  • May 27: Sgt. Robert J. Neighbors dies.
  • September 19: James W. Shreve dies.
  • February 2: Ruth D. Ghigo dies.
  • July 2: Stephen H. “Boo” Hiner, Jr. dies.

1999:

  • August 5: Seth Daniel Marks dies.
  • May 2: Grey Landis dies in Clifton Forge, Virginia.
  • March 22: Vernon Tate McLaughlin dies.
  • May 9: Margaret Marie Turner Hill passes away.
  • October 3: Robert Preston Russell dies.

Cast of Characters

Please note: Information is limited to what is provided in the obituaries. Relationships are deduced and may not be exhaustive.

A

  • Arbogast, Mrs. Edith (deceased): Wife of E.L. Arbogast. Mother of Della Whitecotton and two other daughters.

B

  • Barrett, Harper (1906-1968): A resident of Minnehaha Springs, he worked as an electrician for Denmar State Hospital. He was a member of the Minnehaha Springs Methodist Church and a Mason.
  • Baker, Mrs. Dorothy: Daughter of Delbert Warick Ray, residing in Zelienople, PA.
  • Boggs, Lenard Jacob (1939-2000): Formerly of the Poe Run community, later of Elkins and Canton, Texas. He was a former employee of the Georgia Pacific Paper Mill in Ohio. He was an antiques dealer and a Protestant.
  • Brown, Mrs. Clara R. W. (deceased): Died at age 89 in 1976. A devout Christian, she was a member of the Methodist Church.
  • Bright, Mrs. Mamie: Sister of Delbert Warick Ray, residing in Akron, Ohio.
  • Burroughs, Carol: Great-granddaughter of Nelson Varner Harris.
  • Burroughs, Brenda: Granddaughter of Nelson Varner Harris.

C

  • Caplinger, Olive (deceased): First wife of Stephen H. Hiner, Jr. They married in 1950 and she preceded him in death in 1990.
  • Clary, Melinda: Daughter of Lenard Jacob Boggs, residing in Elkins.
  • Cleary, Tammy: Daughter of Lenard Jacob Boggs.
  • Cleary, Clay: Grandson of Lenard Jacob Boggs.
  • Copen, John: Son of Jordan David McMillian and Nellie, residing in Mill Point.
  • Copen, Floyd: Son of Jordan David McMillian and Nellie, residing in Akron, Ohio.
  • Copen, Jimmy: Son of Jordan David McMillian and Nellie, residing in Mill Point.
  • Copenhaver, Mrs. Cora: Sister of Richard P. Jones, residing in Topeka, Kansas.
  • Cowger, Mrs. Denzil (Rose Ann): Daughter of Nelson Varner Harris, residing in Hacker Valley.
  • Cowger, Charles J.: Husband of Denzil (Rose Ann) Cowger, residing in Hacker Valley.
  • Cullip, Sherd: Brother of Ellen C. Cullip Hollansworth, residing in Barracksville.
  • Cullip, Willis: Brother of Ellen C. Cullip Hollansworth, residing in Renick Valley.
  • Cuskey, Mrs. Joan: Daughter of Frank Morrison, residing in Fort Wayne, Indiana.

D

  • Dilley, Paul Andrew: Brother of Ruth Dilley Lovejoy.
  • Dilley, Joseph Butler: Brother of Ruth Dilley Lovejoy.
  • Dodd, D.M.: Likely a Reverend, officiated at the funeral of I.O. Gragg.
  • Doyle, Mrs. Louise: Daughter of Jordan David McMillian and Nellie, residing in Akron, Ohio.
  • Droop, Mary: Daughter of Lizzie Morrison Pritt and John M. Pritt.
  • Dunnington, William: Brother of Ruth D. Dunnington Ghigo, residing in Malletts Bay, Vermont.
  • Durbin, Mrs. Barbara A.: Daughter of I.O. Gragg, residing in Cumberland, Maryland.

E

  • Eubank, Minnie Garvin (deceased): Wife of Charles Eubank, mother of Diana Mae Hall.

F

  • Fisher, Charles A.: Brother of Ernest R. Fisher, resided in Knoxville, Tennessee.
  • Fisher, Ernest R. (1906-1997): Of Mt. Storm, he was a mechanic for Bell Taxi Cab Company in Washington D.C. for 30 years and then for Mt. Storm Taxi Company. He was a member of the Mt. Storm United Methodist Church and the Mt. Storm Volunteer Fire Company.
  • Flynn, Mrs. Arbogast (deceased): Wife of the late E.L. Arbogast.
  • Flynn, Mrs. Evelyn: Second wife of E.L. Arbogast.
  • Foster, Mrs. Marguerite: Daughter of Mrs. Jasper C. Pritt, residing in Maryland.

G

  • Garrett, Susan Cochran (deceased): Mother of Harper Barrett.
  • Garrett, Nell McLaughlin: Wife of Harper Barrett.
  • Garrett, John: Brother of Harper Barrett, residing in Clintwood, Virginia.
  • Garrett, Mrs. Frank: Sister of Harper Barrett, residing in Hagerstown, Maryland.
  • Gay, Mrs. (deceased): Mother of Kent Galford.
  • Gay, Richard A. (deceased): Father of Kent Galford.
  • Gay, Leona Blendrith (deceased): Wife of Kent Galford.
  • Gay, Marguerite: Daughter of Kent and Leona Galford.
  • Ghigo, Ruth D. Dunnington (deceased): Died in Huntersville, North Carolina in 1998. Originally from Niagara Falls, Canada, she moved to Virginia as a child. She attended Randolph-Macon College and Longwood College, earning a BS degree. She married Dr. Francis Ghigo and they lived in North Carolina from 1959 onward. She worked as a secretary and was a member of the Davidson Presbyterian Church.
  • Gibson, Richard Alton (1903-1973): A lifelong resident of Marlinton, he was a retired farmer and the first president of the First National Bank in Marlinton. He was an elder of the Presbyterian Church, a Mason, and a member of the Eastern Star.
  • Gragg, I.O. (deceased): Died at age 80 in 1978. Formerly of Durbin, he was a deputy sheriff of Pocahontas County and a clerk at the Tallman store in Durbin before retiring.
  • Green, James L. "Retired" (1918-1997): A resident of Columbus, Georgia, he served in the US Army for 26 years, including time in World War II. He drove a taxi in Cowen and worked as an insurance agent before retiring. He was a Protestant and a member of the V.F.W. and NCOA.
  • Gum, John E. (deceased): Considered a pioneer of Pocahontas County. He had a son, Warwick, and two daughters, one of whom was Mrs. O.L. Ralston of Green Hill, VA.
  • Gum, Warwick: Son of the late John E. Gum, he was an engineer on the B&O Railroad.
  • Gum, Basil M. (deceased): Died of a heart attack in Marlinton in 1986. He was a welder at the National Radio Astronomy Observatory in Green Bank, a veteran of the U.S. Navy, and a member of the Methodist Church.
  • Gum, Mrs. (deceased): Wife of the late Basil M. Gum.
  • Gay, Olita Moore (deceased): Daughter of Edray and oldest daughter of Mr. and Mrs. John T. Gay.
  • Gay, Agnes (deceased): Daughter of Mr. and Mrs. John T. Gay.

H

  • Hall, Hansford (1919-1997): Of Guardian Drive, Diana, he was a postmaster and storekeeper. He served in the Merchant Marines and was a member of the V.F.W.
  • Hammonds, Delmar L. (1920-1987): He served in the U.S. Army in Europe during World War II. He had a trucking business and resided in Baltimore, Maryland.
  • Hammonds, Mrs. Opal Moats: Wife of the late Delmar L. Hammonds. Formerly of Dailey.
  • Hammer, Dr. James L. (deceased): Died in 1987. A general practitioner in Amelia County, Virginia, for nearly 60 years. He started his practice in 1920 and was named General Practitioner of the Year in 1952. He served as a medical officer during World War II.
  • Hannah, Dock Robert (1901-1988): A lifelong resident of Marlinton, he was a retired cashier and member of the Board of Directors for the Bank of Marlinton. He was a member of the Marlinton United Methodist Church and the Masonic Lodge.
  • Hannah, Hubert Harry (deceased): Died in 1983 from injuries sustained in a tractor accident. He was in the lumber manufacturing business, involved with Hannah Flying School from 1948-52, and operated the Hannah Monterey Airport.
  • Hannah, Mrs. Grace V.: Wife of the late Hubert Harry Hannah.
  • Hannah, Samuel B. (deceased): Father of Dock Robert Hannah.
  • Hannah, Amanda Moore (deceased): Mother of Dock Robert Hannah.
  • Hannah, Frank (deceased): A lifelong resident of Slatyfork, he was a retired farmer. He was a member and treasurer of the Slatyfork United Methodist Church for many years.
  • Hiner, Stephen H. (deceased): Father of Stephen H. Hiner, Jr.
  • Hiner, Annie Morris (deceased): Mother of Stephen H. Hiner, Jr.
  • Hiner, Stephen H. “Boo”, Jr. (1915-1998): Of Elkins, he served with the US Army's 99th Division in Europe during World War II and also during the Korean Conflict. He worked as an inspector for Commercial Interteck in Youngstown, Ohio, and was a Protestant.
  • Hines, Denzil R. “Jake” (deceased): Died at age 89 in Sarasota, Florida. He was a veteran of World War II, a member of the American Legion, the VFW, the Elks, and the Masonic Lodge. He was also a member of the Emeritus Club of Webster Springs.
  • Hodges, Merrill W. (deceased): Of Hillsboro, he died in 1988. He was a member of the West Creek (West Hidey) Baptist Church and a retired employee of Clark Controllers Company in Cleveland.
  • Hollansworth, Ellen C. Cullip (deceased): Wife of Nathaniel Hollansworth of Spice.
  • Hoover, Charles (deceased): Brother of Freda Hoover Marshall.
  • Hoover, Russell (deceased): Brother of Freda Hoover Marshall.
  • Hoover, Rodney (deceased): Brother of Freda Hoover Marshall.
  • Hudson, Edward Arbuckle (deceased): Died in Green Bank at age 74 in 1979. He was a retired teacher and citizen of Cass. He was a member of the Methodist church.
  • Hunsicker, H. Neville (deceased): Died in 1995 at age 86. He was a retired official of the U.S. Department of Education and served as the North Atlantic region director for the department’s vocational education program.
  • Hill, Samuel C. (deceased): Died at the age of 72 in Hillsboro on June 5, 1982. He was a retired engineer for the Chesapeake and Potomac Telephone Company. A member of the Oak Grove Presbyterian Church and Rotary Club, and a veteran of World War II.
  • Hill, L.D. "Retired" (deceased): Died at the age of 90 in 1991 after a brief illness. He was a farmer and a veteran of World War II. He was also a musician, known for playing the fiddle.

J

  • Johnson, William Joseph “BJ” (1932-1998): Of Marlinton, he was a veteran of the Korean and Viet Nam Conflicts. He co-owned and operated Daril and with his wife in Marlinton.
  • Jones, Richard P. (deceased): Of Marlinton, he died of a heart attack in 1967. He was the superintendent of the International Shoe Company's tannery, a member of the Marlinton Presbyterian Church, and a Mason.
  • Jordan, Jack L. (deceased): Died in 1997 at age 74. A resident of Ceredo, formerly of Kenova, he was a retired engineer who worked with the US Army Corps of Engineers. He was a veteran of World War II.
  • Jordan, Howard, Sr. (deceased): Died in 1997 at the age of 67 in Gainesville, Virginia. A resident of Lower Lick Run, he was a retired heavy equipment operator. He served in the U.S. Army during the Korean War.

K

  • Keeling, Bruce: Reverend at the Keller Funeral Home in Dunbar, officiated at the funeral of Dannie L. Lacy.
  • Kelley, Cecil Howard (deceased): Husband of Emma Kelley Hodge.
  • Kerr, Goldie Gaye: Sister of Dock Robert Hannah, residing in Barboursville.
  • Kinnison, Mrs. Cora Lee Hill (1907-1980): Resident of Lobelia, passed away in May. She was a member of the Eastern Star.
  • Kirkpatrick, Clara: Wife of Edward Arbuckle Hudson.
  • Knight, Harley S. (deceased): Died in 1994 at age 90. A resident of Clarksburg, he was a retired coal miner who worked for the Linchfield Coal Corporation. He was a member of the United Mine Workers of America and a Baptist.

L

  • Lacy, Dannie L. (deceased): Of St. Albans, he died in 1997. He was a carpenter and a member of Pleasant Hill Baptist Church.
  • Landis, Grey (1920-1999): Of Covington, Virginia, he was a retired insurance agent for Allegheny Highlands Company. He was a member of Faith Baptist Church.
  • Landis, Samuel P. (deceased): Father of Grey Landis.
  • Landis, Stella Weiford (deceased): Mother of Grey Landis.
  • Landis, Elsie Elmore (deceased): First wife of Grey Landis. She passed away in 1982.
  • Landis, Delores (deceased): Second wife of Grey Landis. She passed away in 1987.
  • Liggett, James R. "Bob" (deceased): Of Huttonsville, he died in 1983. He was a farm owner and operator of Liggett Feed and Farm Supply of Mill Creek. He was a veteran of World War II.
  • Lilly, Donald V. (deceased): Died in 1998 at the age of 74. A resident of Beckley, he was a veteran of World War II, having served with the US Marine Corps. He was a retired sergeant from the West Virginia State Police and a retired chief adult probation officer from the 10th Judicial Circuit.
  • Lovejoy, Ruth Dilley (deceased): Died in 1997 at age 82 in Oakland, California. Born in Pocahontas County, she was a cosmetologist.
  • Lynch, Bertie (deceased): Sister of Ernest R. Fisher.

M

  • Mann, Diana Stalnaker: Daughter of Dannie L. Lacy, residing in St. Albans.
  • Mann, Shirley Smith: Daughter of Dannie L. Lacy, residing in St. Albans.
  • Marks, Seth Daniel (deceased): Of Mount Nebo, he was a disabled miner at the time of his death in 1999. He was a member of Mount Gilead Baptist Church of Pool.
  • Marks, Helen L. Dean (deceased): Of Gassaway, she died in 1997 at the age of 71.
  • Marshall, Freda Hoover “Sis” (1912-1999): A resident of Hampton, Virginia, she was a retired clerk for Chesapeake and Ohio Railway. She was a member of Marvin Chapel United Methodist Church.
  • McCloud, William Ward "Bill" (deceased): A retired farmer, he passed away in 1980.
  • McLaughlin, Vernon Tate (1935-1999): A lifelong resident of Mountain Grove, he was a pulpwood cutter and farmer. He was a member of Mountain Grove United Methodist Church.
  • McMillian, Jordan David (deceased): A resident of Mill Point, he died in 1984. He was a retired timberman and a World War I veteran.
  • McMillian, Nellie (deceased): Wife of Jordan David McMillian.
  • McNeill, William C. (deceased): A resident of Swago, he passed away at his home at the age of eighty-seven. He was a farmer and a devout Christian.
  • Morrison, Frank (deceased): Died in 1963. He was a farmer and resident of Lobelia, and was the Sunday School Superintendent for 30 years.
  • Moyers, Mrs. Elizabeth Hoover (deceased): Died in 1975 at age 79 in Moyers, Virginia. She was a member of St. Paul Lutheran Church.
  • Markley, Rev. Sherman: Officiated at the services for Harper Barrett.

N

  • Neighbors, Sgt. Robert J. (1934-1998): Of Big Springs, Texas, he was a graduate of Cass Grade School and Green Bank High School. He served in the US Air Force for over 20 years.
  • Nelson, Dennis Edward (deceased): Died in Elkins in 1969 at age 76. A resident of Durbin, he was a retired tannery worker and a member of the Brethren church.
  • Nottingham, Merle K. (1909-1983): Of Jamestown, Pennsylvania, he was a farmer and a life-long resident of Jamestown. He was a member of the Jamestown United Presbyterian Church.
  • Nottingham, Bruce Kerr (1912-1978): A lifelong resident of Durbin, he worked at NARO Electrical Equipment. He was a member of the Durbin United Methodist Church.
  • Newsom, Marcus Mark (deceased): Died in 1988 at age 64. A resident of Petersburg for 24 years, he was a retired manager at the Petersburg Coca-Cola plant. He was a veteran of the US Army Air Force.

O

  • Osborne, Mrs. Bertie: Sister of Harper Barrett.

P

  • Parrish, William: Brother of Seth Daniel Marks, residing in Marlinton.
  • Phillips, George Frederick (1937-1988): Of Boyer, he was a graduate of Fairmont State College and West Virginia University. He was a teacher at Maryland, for fourteen years, and at Green Bank Middle School for the last eleven years. He was also the owner and restaurateur of the Boyer Motel.
  • Price, Dr. J. W. (deceased): A former resident of Elkins, he passed away in 1962. A noted citizen, he taught for many years and also served in the West Virginia legislature.
  • Pritt, Lizzie Morrison (1881-1962): Of Pocahontas County, she died in Culpeper, Virginia. She was a member of the Steenburg United Church.
  • Pritt, John M. (deceased): Husband of Lizzie Morrison Pritt.
  • Pritt, Mrs. Cassie Mary (deceased): Died in 1961 at the age of 53 in Joppat, Maryland. She was a resident of Greenbrier County for most of her life.
  • Pritt, Jasper G. (deceased): Husband of Mrs. Cassie Mary Pritt.

R

  • Ralston, Mrs. O.L.: Daughter of the late John E. Gum, resided in Green Hill, Virginia.
  • Ray, Delbert Warick (1901-1977): Of Clammath Falls, Oregon, he died at home in 1977 after several months' illness.
  • Riley, June W. (1911-1983): A lifelong resident of Pocahontas County, he died in Elkins, WV. He was a retired teacher and a member of the Methodist Church and the Masonic Lodge.
  • Roby, H.G. (deceased): Died in 1961 at the age of 66.
  • Robinson, Oscar Kyle (deceased): A noted Fayette County businessman and educator, he died sometime between 1992 and 1994. He was very active in his community.
  • Ruckman, E.P. (deceased): A minister, he passed away in 1972 in Westminster, Colorado.
  • Russell, Robert Preston (1925-1997): A resident of Marlinton, formerly of Ohio, he was retired from RAM Automotive in Canton, Ohio. He was a veteran of World War II.

S

  • Sharp, L.D. (deceased): A resident of Slatyfork, he passed away sometime between 1990 and 1993 at the age of 90. He was a farmer and businessman, one of the first to ship cattle from Millboro, VA.
  • Shanklin, Brown C. (deceased): Died in Huntington at the age of 73. A resident of Marlinton, he was the assistant postmaster of Huntington and a former cafe owner.
  • Shreve, James W. (1915-1998): Of Elkins, he passed away at Davis Memorial Hospital. He was a dentist and veteran of World War II.
  • Simmons, William A. (deceased): A 41-year-old veteran of the US Air Force, he was known for his musical abilities. He died in 1978.
  • Slaven, James Roy (deceased): Of Marlinton, he died in 1982. He had worked for the West Virginia Pulp and Paper Company.
  • Slaven, Mrs. Sallie (1928-1982): Of Green Bank, she was a member of the Green Bank Methodist Church.
  • Smith, Mrs. Olive: Sister of Delbert Warick Ray, residing in Fort Barnard.
  • Stone, Mrs. Mary Stone: Daughter of I.O. Gragg, residing in Dundalk, Maryland.

W

  • Whitecotton, Mrs. Della: Daughter of Mrs. Edith Arbogast and E.L. Arbogast, residing in Green Bank.
  • Wilfong, Nellie (deceased): First wife of L.D. Sharp.
  • Wolfe, Denzel Marsh (1916-1996): Of Ravenswood, he was a retired mining supervisor for the Polan Industries. He was a veteran of World War II.
  • Wolfe, Geneva (deceased): Wife of Denzel M. Wolfe.

New note

FAQ

What kind of information can be found in these documents?

These documents contain obituaries from what looks to be the early to mid 1900's, possibly from a local newspaper in West Virginia.

What are some common themes found in these obituaries?

The obituaries often mention the deceased's occupation, military service, religious affiliation, and family members. They also frequently highlight the character of the deceased, using phrases like "good man," "loving mother," or "pillar of the community."

What can you tell about the community these obituaries represent?

Based on the obituaries, the community appears to be close-knit, with many individuals spending their entire lives there. Religion, particularly the Methodist and Presbyterian churches, seems to play a significant role in the lives of community members.

What are some common occupations mentioned?

The obituaries mention a range of occupations common for the time period, such as farmers, carpenters, homemakers, teachers, and factory workers. Some individuals held prominent positions like postmaster, bank president, and superintendent.

Did many residents serve in the military?

Yes, a significant number of obituaries mention military service, particularly in World War I and World War II. This suggests that military service was a common experience for men in this community during these periods.

Are there any recurring family names?

Yes, some family names like Hannah, Jordan, Hill, and McLaughlin appear repeatedly throughout these obituaries. This further indicates a strong generational presence in the community and possibly close family ties.

What can you learn about the lives of women in this community?

While many women are described as homemakers, some held jobs as teachers, clerks, and even business owners. Their obituaries, like those of men, often emphasize their religious devotion and community involvement.

Is there any information about how the community has changed over time?

While the documents primarily focus on individual lives, some obituaries indirectly hint at changes. For example, mentions of "retiring from" certain professions suggest shifts in the local economy and job market. However, the obituaries don't provide explicit details about broader community transformations.

New note

FAQ

Who was Harper Barrett and when did he pass away?

Harper Barrett, a resident of Minnehaha Springs, died at the age of 72 on August 1, 1968, at Pocahontas Memorial Hospital. He was an electrician at Denmar State Hospital before falling ill three years prior. Mr. Barrett was a member of the Minnehaha Springs Methodist Church and a Mason.

What information is available about the life and passing of Clara Brown?

Mrs. Clara Brown (nee Hudson) died at age 59 at her home in Arbovale on Thursday, May 8, 1947. A devout Christian, she was an active member of the Methodist Church. Mrs. Brown was predeceased by her husband, Letch Kirk, and their daughter, Gilda, who passed away at age six. She was also predeceased by her parents and several siblings. Surviving family members include her sons, Roscoe and Lake, and several grandchildren.

What can you tell me about the life and death of Ernest R. Fisher?

Ernest Randolph Fisher, of Mt. Storm, died at the age of 91 on Monday, November 10, 1997, at Heartlands of Keyser, where he resided. Mr. Fisher, a mechanic for the Bell Taxi Cab Company in Washington, D.C., for three decades, was a member of the Mt. Storm United Methodist Church and volunteered with the Mt. Storm Fire Company for many years. Dorothy Jackson, his daughter, survives him.

What information is available about James "Bob" Liggett's life and passing?

James "Bob" Liggett of Huttonsville died at the age of 63 at United Hospital Center in Clarksburg on November 25, 1983. He was survived by his wife, Nellie; son, Jedson; and numerous other relatives. Mr. Liggett was the owner and operator of Liggett Feed and Farm Supply of Mill Creek. A veteran of World War II, he was an active member of the community, belonging to several organizations, including the American Legion, VFW, and the Royal Order of Moose.

What information can be found on Merle K. Nottingham's life and family?

Merle K. Nottingham, 81, of Jamestown, Pennsylvania, died on May 23, 1983, at Greenview Hospital following a prolonged illness. Mr. Nottingham, a lifelong farmer in the Jamestown area, was a member of the United Presbyterian Church and had many surviving family members.

Can you provide information on the life, profession, and family of poet James Laughlin?

James Laughlin, 83, died following a stroke. He was a poet and nearing publication of a new book. In 1936, he founded the influential publishing company New Directions Publishing Corp. He is known for showcasing new writers and for publishing 50 anthologies that included writers like Dylan Thomas and Vladimir Nabokov.

Where and when did O.K. Robinson live, and what is known about his professional life?

Oscar Kyle Robinson died at age 57 at his home near Montgomery, West Virginia. Mr. Robinson was a prominent educator and businessman in Fayette County. His roles included district manager for Pure Oil Company and superintendent of schools for Montgomery. Active in civic life, he was a member of the Methodist church, Rotary Club, and a 50-year member of the Masonic Order.

What were some of the civic and community activities of Luther D. Sharp?

Luther D. Sharp, a lifelong resident of Slatyfork, died at the age of 90. He was the last surviving member of the first group of deputy fire wardens in the area. Mr. Sharp also served as one of the first game protectors in Pocahontas County. An active member of the community, he helped organize the Slatyfork Methodist Church and choir.

 

AI-Subject to error.

Interview with Tom Herold [1/12/2003]

    https://www.loc.gov/resource/afc2001001.07916.sr0001001/? 00:00 38:32 ...