Smithville Community Historical Society honors Joseph W. Irvin

  • January 11, 2010
  • 719
                        
The Smithville Community Historical Society (SCHS) met Jan. 4, at 7 p.m., in The Historic Church of God. The program was A Celebration of Service to honor Joseph W. Irvin, who was instrumental in organizing the society in 1990 and served as president for 20 years. Harold Downey, current president, welcomed everyone. The new speaker system was used for the first time. Bob Welker, society treasurer prior to his death, had provided funds to purchase a sound system for the church. Ralph Smucker, membership chair, reached the goal of 250 members by the end of 2009. Paul Locher provided a list of remembrances in working with Irvin. Locher discovered that Irvin knew a lot about history. He stated that Irvin is a dedicated and effective leader, and his leadership has resulted in a spectacular campus of historical buildings and a very active society. Irvin attends numerous auctions to purchase local antiques so that they remain in the area. He takes lots of photos of antiques that are of historical value, and contributed his knowledge to the written History of Smithville and Surrounding Area. Locher and Irvin have many telephone conversations and each phone call begins where the previous one ended. A number of guests gave tributes to Irvin’s service. Mayor Snyder presented the Smithville Village Proclamation. Wayne Leichty, Kidron Historical Society, told how Irvin has helped their society in many ways, including help in starting the organization. Leichty presented Irvin with a framed certificate and another years’ subscription to an antiques magazine. Dave Broehl, Wayne County Historical Society, emphasized Irvin’s contribution to the work of their society in forming the representative group of historical societies within the county and the wealth of knowledge shared with the Wayne County Historical Society. Broehl presented Irvin with a plaque. Herb Berry, representing the Wayne County Fair Board, presented Irvin with a plaque and credited him and Paul Locher for starting the antique display at the Wayne County Fair and their continuing active roles in the annual fair exhibit. The Hysterical Choralettes, Pat Chambers, Kathy Meitzler, and Lyn Miller, sang a tribute in song with special lyrics Lyn wrote for the occasion. Harlene Steiner, SCHS secretary, presented a wooden plaque containing Irvin’s picture and a written tribute which will be hung on the wall of honor in the reception center. Dave Evans, first vice-president, presented a framed certificate proclaiming Irvin’s status as President Emeritus. It contained signatures all the current SCHS board members. Margaret Hostetler, publicity chair, presented a bouquet of flowers to Joyce Irvin for her partnership with Joe, her diligent and dedicated service as the first acquisitions chair, and her long service on the acquisitions committee. Downey and Locher asked Irvin to unveil the enlarged cover of the new book that is being published and will be available in the spring of 2010. Joseph Irvin and Paul Locher wrote The Furniture Heritage of Ohio’s Amish Country: Wayne County Cabinet Makers 1806 to 1900. This new book represents more than 350 cabinet makers who have worked in the Wayne County area. The special surprise to conclude the formal program was the arrival of their son, Mark, who came from Washington State. Cake, punch, and nuts were served by Nita Downey, Beverly Maasz, Kathy Meitzler, Ruth Peterman, and Harlene Steiner. Everyone had an opportunity to greet Joe, Joyce, and Mark. Anyone interested in the new book could sign up for a copy. A table at the back of the church had pictures of Joe and Joyce, publications, and a memory book for people to view. The next meeting will be Monday, Feb. 1, at 7 p.m., in the Reception Center, 381 E. Main St., Smithville.


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