Volume 1, Number 12 - Summer 1964


PRESIDENT'S MESSAGE
President Claude Hibbard

President Claude Hibbard

When an Individual wastes and spends lavishly his inheritance, we usually say that he is foolish, a prodigal and a wastrel. We refer to the parable of the Prodigal Son to illustrate how foolish the individual was, but we have let a valuable inheritance all but get away from us through neglect--- an Inheritance rich beyond words in legend, folklore and priceless early local history. Most of us are guilty of this neglect.

Our ancestors were largely pure Anglo-Saxon stock who trekked with ox teams from Kentucky, Virginia, Tennessee and other eastern states to these hills. They brought, largely in their minds, their customs, legends, songs, superstitutions and history with them, much of which had been brought from Europe in the same manner by their ancestors. In the rush of modern times, with the great scientific advancements in transportation and communication, we have lost much of this legacy that gives the interest, coherence and continuity to our history. We are still losing it.

We would not wish to detract in the least from progress in physical or social science, but deplore the loss of much that would enrich our local history. There is a great deal we can do yet to preserve this type of history which exists in the minds of our elderly people and in the pictures, letters, stories, diaries, etc., to be found in the often-forgotten treasures in the attics and old trunks. No land is richer in such treasure than the area covered by the White River Valley. We must not let it be lost.

The White River Valley Historical Society has made rapid growth since its conception, but it should at least double its number of members during this year. We hope each member will feel responsible for bringing two new members to our group. I here and now pledge to do so. Let's make this and each succeeding year the best to date. It takes all of us, and your part is Important. I can speak for every officer of this organization when I say that we will greatly appreciate your help, your suggestions and your attendance at meetings. The members of any society are the most important part of that society. The officers merely do certain things to keep things together, it is the members that makes things roll. We believe the membership of this Society will make it the best and most active historical society in the State.

C. H. Hibbard
Courtney Drive, Branson Missouri.

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