Cedar County Historical Society’s first meeting of the year

The Cedar County Historical Society’s first meeting of the year was held at the Cedar County Museum and Research Center in Stockton. Those present were: President Judy Nichols, Vice President Chris Barber, Secretary Connie Maupin, Treasurer Anna Hopkins, Judith Cain, Sheila Griggs, Sharyl Henry, Virginia Barber, Bob Phillips, Bob Estes, Ellis Benham and Frank Stranimier.

Long time society member, Claud Hoffman, passed away Dec. 7, 2024. Former Treasurer, Kay Snow, died Nov. 18, 2024.

Chris and Virginia Barber have a program in the works but were not far enough along to make a report yet.

The price for the 1961 Stockton Lake overlay map has been raised from $8 to $10 due to rising printing costs.

The society will be closing the little Niche sales area, storing all donated items and will hold the annual white elephant sale during the Walnut Festival. This will free up some much needed space for display of items donated to the museum.

Judy Nichols gave a rundown of the board meeting held earlier in the day: An awning for the front door, replacement of a weather seal along the front of the museum, display racks, shelving, an 8 foot table, several chairs for the meeting area, a new book stapler and supplies were approved. The need for a podium with sound system for programs and a laptop or desktop computer were discussed. Several books will need to be reprinted before the Walnut Festival.

Bob Phillips gave a quick talk about the ever decreasing number of original pioneer families in the Bear Creek area.

Donations: A photo of Ephraim and Miriam West by Virginia Barber. A color copy of a photo of the old Silas Martin log cabin near Arnica, by Bob Estes.

The museum will begin regular open hours in April, weather permitting. Open dates will be the first and third Saturday of the month from Noon to 4 p.m. Meetings will be held on the last Monday of each month at 1 p.m. and the museum will be open from 1 p.m. to 4 p.m. on those days.

The society’s historical books, maps, CDs and member published books make great gifts for those who are interested in Cedar County history.

The Cedar County Museum and Research Library is located at 106 West Davis Street in Stockton and admission is Free. For information, appointments or to purchase publications call: 417-276-1142, email at cedarcomohistsoc@gmail.com, on Facebook at “Cedar County Mo Historical Society” or by mail at P.O. Box 111, Stockton, MO 65785.