newsletter 2-4

Three more Wood County preservationists were honored at the 2007 Vaughan Awards/ Heritage Day Banquet. Vaughan Awards are given in memory of Jim Vaughan, founder of our historical society, who passed away in February of 2000.
In the category of Building Preservation, Rob Tebay was recognized for his extensive restoration efforts of the red-brick building at Fourth and Juliana Streets. The building that now houses Tebay’s law office was built circa 1840 by George Neale, Jr. Tebay has also restored the historic Cook house on Core Road where he now lives.
Honoree in the category of Arts and Letters was Jim Miracle. Jim, who is chairman of the Wood County Historic Landmarks Commission, was honored for his book, Beechwood, The Saga of a Steel Community on the Ohio.
The Promotion of History award was presented to Gary Farris, for his years of efforts in establishing the Veteran’s Museum of the Mid-Ohio Valley.
It is hoped that over time, all of the “preservationists” who have made major contributions toward “preserving our past for the future” can be recognized.
Guest speaker for the event was our own David McKain who combined the Civil War with two other of his favorite topics, oil and West Virginia statehood, in a most interesting presentation.

In an effort to protect one of our historic cemeteries, the board of directors elected to proceed with raising funds to install new 4’ chain-link fencing around the cemetery. Readers may recall that several years ago the WCHPS received approximately $1,600 from the then last trustee of the old Tavenner Cemetery Association, with the stipulation that it sometime be used for new fencing. New fencing with top-rail, gates, etc, will cost $6,850. The cemetery was last fenced in 1952.
The board may also proceed with having new trustees named for Tavenner Cemetery as well as Dils Cemetery. Will you donate to this worthy cause? Checks are being accepted!!!

Certainly to be included as one of Parkersburg most historic cemeteries, Riverview (also known as the Cook Cemetery), is also probably the most beautiful.
In mid-June portions of the cemetery, with strong support from Leavitt Funeral Home, who are this year celebrating their 100th year of service to the community, the Wood County Historic Landmarks Commission and many volunteers hours, portions of this lovely old burying ground were beautified and preserved for what will hopefully be many more years.
In September this cemetery will once again show signs of life.