Historical Society offers free program April 20

The Historical Society met at the Cedar County Museum in Stockton on March 27. Those present were: President Judy Nichols, Vice President Judith Cain, Secretary Connie Maupin, Treasurer Anna Hopkins, Luella Phipps, Sharyl Henry, Virginia Barber, Chris Barber, Ellis Benham and Bob Phillips.
Judy Nichols reported on the printing and self-printing costs of Civil War and Stockton Lyceum books and explained the changes to the books. Fifteen Civil War Lyceum books and ten Stockton Lyceum books have been added to the book inventory. The Bear Creek Lyceum book is still being edited for reproduction by Bob Phillips and Judy. They are working on adding more old photos, the schools and several maps of the community that will show the location of businesses and homes.
Bob Phillips shared some interesting information on the three schools located in the Bear Creek community. He also shared old photos and year books centered around those schools. Bob Phillips and Vice President Judith Cain attended the rock school at Bear Creek that closed in 1969.
The Cedar County Library is offering a free program, “The Buffalo Soldiers,” to be presented on Thursday, March 30th at 3:30 p.m. at the El Dorado Springs branch and at 5:30 p.m. at the Stockton branch.
President Judy Nichols gave a synopsis of the society board meeting that occurred on March 16, 2023, with the following information: Board Members attending were: Judy Nichols, Judith Cain, Connie Maupin, Anna Hopkins and Bob Phillips, along with society members, Program Coordinator Chris Barber and Assistant Coordinator, Virginia Barber.
> Chris and Virginia Barber have scheduled the next society program: Author and Civil War Reenactor, Ken Draper, will orate, “The Civil and the Uncivil War.” The FREE program will be held at the Boathouse Restaurant banquet room (south door) at 7 p.m. Thursday, April 20. Draper will have several tables of Civil War memorabilia on display, share stories, little known facts about the war and show a video. The Boathouse Restaurant is located about 2 miles south of Stockton on 39 Highway.
Board members agreed that Chris and Virginia could possibly schedule four programs per year and try to hold most at the museum. They have several interesting programs in mind for the future.
A lengthy discussion was held about replacing the older metal chairs in the museum with heavier, more suitable seating. Members voted to purchase 20 new heavy-duty chairs.
Chris and Virginia Barber have agreed to manage the booth at the Black Walnut Festival again, in September.
Board members approved the Shady Hill Club’s request to hold a summer meeting in the museum. End of board meeting information−
Charles Skaggs plans to donate the history, copies of photos and two bibles from the Methodist Church in Jerico Springs. The church is no longer being used for services.
The society is still collecting Best Choice and Clearly Organic food labels and used HP printer cartridges.
The “Niche” continues to grow, thanks to those who have generously donated items. Items donated MUST be clean and usable. Electrical items must be in working order. Donations are greatly appreciated.
Thanks to Ellis Benham and Chris Barber, who repaired and adjusted the museum entry door. Another Thanks goes to the ladies who bring the tasty treats to the meetings.
Donations: A 2023 Cedar County Plat book by an anonymous donor. A 1908 Cedar County Plat book, by John Neal. A hand truck with pneumatic tires for use in moving large items in the museum, by Chris and Virginia Barber.
The next meeting will be held on Monday, April 24th. at 1 p.m. at the museum. If meetings are canceled due to bad weather conditions, a message will be sent by E-mail, Facebook or a phone call.
The Cedar County Museum’s spring opening will begin on Saturday, April 15, from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. and admission is always FREE. The museum is located at 106 West Davis St. in Stockton and meetings are open to the public. For information, appointments or to purchase publications call 417-276-1142, by email at cedarcomohistsoc@gmail.com on Facebook at “Cedar County Mo Historical Society” or by mail at P.O. Box 111, Stockton, MO 65785.