Yalobusha Historical Society Minutes – Dec. 17, 2009
The beautifully-decorated Presbyterian Church, the headquarters of the Yalobusha Historical Society, was scene of a wonderful holiday gathering on Dec. 17 for the 40 members and guests of the YHS who were present. Former church member, Dot Criss, did a fantastic job of decorating the Church, inside and out, as usual, with some assistance from Julia Fernandez. Opal Wright did a splendid job, again, of decorating the dining hall. Thanks, ladies!!
President Mike Worsham’s first order of business, after welcoming everyone, was to introduce some very special guests, three members of the Coffeeville Masonic Lodge #83. They were: J. T. Martin, (Secretary) Todd Hughes (Master) and Ricky Koonce.( also an officer) The Masonic Lodge building is right next door to the Society headquarters. They had come to make the announcement that the Coffeeville Lodge had voted in late 2009, to close the building, and, at a meeting, voted to DONATE the building to the Historical Society. Secretary Martin read a prepared statement, a copy of which will be included in the YHS minutes to be placed on file.
Secretary Martin spoke of the long history of the Coffeeville Lodge, which was established in February of 1847, meaning it will be 163 years old this coming February. It has a long and varied history, and Mr. Martin said that they thought it only fitting that the building be given to the Historical Society. Incidentally, the history of the Presbyterian Church goes only two years further back than that of the Lodge, the first congregation being organized in 1845. It is indeed an honor for the Society to be entrusted with the Lodge building, and we are very grateful to the Lodge members for their generosity. The resounding applause from the audience when the deed was handed to Mike, an indication of the significance of this gesture. Thanks to all the members of Lodge #83. We will certainly try our best to preserve the building for posterity, just as we are doing for the Church. The building fills our need for additional library space and will be a great place to do research. And we hope to see the Lodge members join us in our meetings any time they can!! Thanks again.
Mike had some sad news to share: the husband of one of our members, Rosemary Sinquefield, of Senatobia, passed away Dec. 13. He also spoke of the serious illness of another member, Herschel Saucier, who remains in critical condition in the hospital in Tupelo. A member of our Board of Directors, Harold Jones, has been having health problems and unable to come to the meetings. His wife, Lena, is recovering from a broken leg. We send our condolences to all the bereaved and get-well wishes to those who are ill.
Mike stated that the Society has received around $400.00 in donations in memory of Janie Riddick, whose funeral was held in the Church recently. Thanks to all those who have contributed to the Society in any way.
The day’s program was done by our “Society Songbird,” Jackie Austin Weibley, accompanied by Morris “Sonny” Hubbard, both very talented entertainers. They were both born in Grenada, went to school there. Upon graduation, they went their separate ways. Jackie enjoyed a long career as a singer, and Sonny as a pianist. Both returned to their hometown when they retired, and some time later, began performing together. They have performed for the Society in years past, and are always a hit. (Jackie’s singing career included stints at Radio Station WNAG in Grenada, and also WMPS in Memphis)
Jackie began the program with the singing of “Hark, the Herald Angels Sing.” Opal Wright then read the biblical account of the birth of Christ. She then read a timely poem. Jackie’s other songs included “My Hometown,” No Place Like Home for the Holidays,” “What Are You Doing New Year’s,” “White Christmas,” “Silver Bells” and other favorites. One, of course, was “Jingle Bell Rock.” Jackie led in group-singing of some of the songs. She also sang some new songs, and one was a whimsical song about a little girl who felt cheated at Christmas because her birthday fell on that day, and she felt that she was not getting her share of gifts. Thanks, again, Jackie and Sonny for another outstanding program. Thank you, Dick for being their capable assistant.
Following the program, the group enjoyed a festive array of holiday refreshments. The January meeting will be given by Keith Spence, of Grenada. He will speak on “The Life of Davey Crockett.” The public is always invited to all Society meetings.
ATTENDING: Pat Brooks, Tom and Alma Moorman, Thelma Roberts, Jimmie and Francine Pinnix, Julia Fernandez, Sarah H. Williams, Eddie Nelson, Raymond Bruner, Mary A. Minnix, Mary Lucia Holloway, Mary Ann Wood, Bill Hamilton, J. L. and Margie Crawford, Lois Mitchell, Sue T. Fly, Richard and Betty LaMantia, J. T. and Sarah Martin, Ricky Koonce, Todd Huges, Carl and Mae Vick, Lawanda Vick-Ingram, Lawrence and Bettie Litten, Dick and Jackie Weibley, Sonny Hubbard, James Person, Dave Hovey, Helen Jones, Joy Herron, Dot Criss, Mike Worsham, Betty R. Miller and Opal Wright.
Betty R. Miller
226-6975
