Winter is fast approaching and I want to delay it as long as I can. Nancy and I agreed we could use a short diversion before winter sets in, we decided on a trip offered by Sunshine Tours. It was for five days and headed to warm, sunny, San Antonio, Texas. Nancy has visited the area before but it would be a new experience for me.
We met in Springfield on November 29th and spent the night at the Plaza Hotel so we only had to cross the parking lot in the early morning. Our tour coach departure was for 6AM.
The first day was mostly spent in travel, the first break was in Pryer, Oklahoma at a truck stop. It was said to have the largest McDonald restaurant in the country. It is also the first town in Oklahoma to have electricity and also where Will Rogers was raised. Google is also to come here and will bring 100's of jobs to the area. After a late afternoon break, we ended the day at the Hampton Inn in Waco, Texas.
After a nice courtesy breakfast in a rather pretty lounge of the hotel, we were on the road for San Antonio. We arrived at the Club Plaza for an elegant buffet lunch. At our table, we met a couple from Mountain Home, Arkansas, as well as a nice 91 year old and her daughter, that joined our tour in Joplin. Everyone is friendly and easy to talk with. After this delicious lunch, we traveled to the Tower of Americas. This was built in 1968 for the World's Fair. The elevators to take you to the 750foot high observation deck are on the outside walls so you can see out as you go up to the deck. I was able to get interesting pictures of the San Antonio area from up there as well as pictures of the beautiful water falls around the plaza leading to and from the tower.
We then drove to down town San Antonio and our hotel, The Emily Morgan. It was once a hospital, then offices before becoming a hotel in the 1970's. It is now part of the Hampton Inn Company. We were right across the street from the Alamo and on the other street we faced the courthouse and post office. We were on the 10th floor in a large, comfortable room. We were later told by two different parties sharing the elevator, that our floor is known to be haunted. We did not see any ghosts, but who knows who were the people talking to us or the family that just sat in the chairs near the elevators the second night.
After a freshen up, we wandered over to the Alamo. There was a tour going on so we wandered around the 4.2 acre complex on our own. It is impressive to think that this represents 300 years of Texas history. Built in 1718, then in the 1800's it was under Spanish rule, it is part of the original Mission San Antonio De Valero, built by Spanish Friars to minister to Native Americans. The Battle of Bexar in 1835 and The Texas Revolution, the Battle of the Alamo in 1836. Walking through the area, I was impressed with the wrought iron work you would see on the doors, windows and in the hanging lamps. The trees were another thing that impressed me. Everywhere we went, the Alamo, the River Walk, the parkways and everywhere else, there were large, bent and gnarled trees. I do not know what type they are, possible cotton Woods?
After a great buffet breakfast, we drove to the Hill County" where we toured the ranch of Lyndon B. Johnson, our 36th President, called "The Texas White House' We were met by a National Park Service Guide, he is a very enthusiastic, informative man who loves this history and his job of telling about it. He walked us into "the office", there was a piano, desks, telephones, TV's and a fireplace. We were told LBJ liked the 50's Pop Music and tuned into that all the time. This station now plays hard rock on the LBJ-FM radio station, wouldn't LBJ be surprised?
As we went to the other rooms we were told the three TV's in each room would all be turned on if the president were in the room. He watched the news all the time and the three would be because at that time had ABC, CBS and NBC as the only networks. The dinning room was set up for dinner, because Lady Bird Johnson liked color, the dishes reflected this. The dishes were of Mexican pottery, brightly colored floral design with the center of each depicting an animal. It was not overly fancy for this was their home away from Washington DC. Outside we saw the airstrip and the airplane used to transport the president and his wife. There were also buildings with his cars on display. We visited the home where the president was born as well as the family cemetery on the way out. There were pecan trees around the area as well as long horn cattle, bison and white-tailed deer and a man plowing a nearby field.
We left the ranch and traveled to Fredericksburg, an old town of German and frontier heritage dating back to the 1840's. There were many shops, galleries, boutiques as well as lots of old buildings to see. We ate at a nice outdoor restaurant, hearing how generous there meals are, Nancy and I shared the burger and fries, but each had our own bread pudding dessert before our meal. . After shopping, we all boarded the coach and headed for a trip through the hills to Bandera, "Cowboy Capital of the World:. We went to a ranch for a hay ride, a Texas style Bar-B-Q and a "Roper" for entertainment. The roper, Kevin Fitzpatrich, was a fun, informative man. He knew more trivia about past cowboys and horse and roping history than you can imagine. He is also champion roper. He did all his roping tricks while standing on his horse, Bullwhip. He did the Butterfly, the Rollovers, Wedding Ring, Cowboy Hopscotch, Jump Through's and the Texas Skip. I ended up getting roped as did our guide. Kevin ended by telling a story about his 94 year old father that was there with him. His father was a world champion roper, he was given one of the first gold belt buckles 30 plus years ago to signify his achievement. After many years of the buckle being missing, only a few weeks earlier, a man called from California to inquire about his father. It turns out that someone came into this mans pawn shop with this buckle, the store owner wanted to check it out. A few days later, Father had his belt buckle in hand, the store owner sought him out and mailed it to him. That made us all feel good, what a nice ending to a great day.
Friday morning we were met at the tour coach by a walk-on tour guide. He was interesting, informative and fun. Our first stop was the Town Hall then we walked across to the San Fernando Cathedral that was founded in 1731. It is one of the oldest structures in San Antonio. It marks the original geographic center of the city. The original church is made of adobe and the rest in old rock style. This church is still active with weekly services. It was beautiful inside, a beautiful pipe organ, brightly colored stained glass windows and a beautiful alter. The metal marker is in the church marking the center point of San Antonio, we walked over it to leave. We drove through many old parts of town and learned a lot. We went on to visit the San Jose Mission, this too is still having weekly services. The original walls and building foundations still exist. Parts of the church are being preserved and is in tack. Drove through areas of town and saw one of the oldest and still working mills, makers of White Wing Flour, saw one of the three Air Force Bases in Texas and other things of interest as we drove to the SAS (San Antonio Shoe) Shoe Factory for time to shop.
We got back to the hotel early afternoon and Nancy and I chose to eat at the hotel restaurant. It was the best Italian Pasta meal I have had in years. Nancy actually finished her meal too, so you know it was good. We met some of our traveling group and went together for our barge ride at the River Walk. The young man who captained the barge also gave a very informative history of the river walk, the buildings, etc. Nancy and I walked around the area then drove the street cars around to check out the rest of the town. We returned to the river walk at dark to photograph the beauty of the Christmas lights hanging from the trees and the luminaries that lit the whole River Walk and all the many bridges over the river.
Saturday we started the ride back to Springfield, we drove to Austin and got out at the State Capital for picture taking and a short walk around. Then drove on to Irving for our night stay. We arrive in time for the courtesy buffet they set up for the guests at our hotel.
Sunday we drove into Oklahoma, our first break and I bought coffee and a local newspaper. Another lady and I went into a separate area where gambling machines were set up. We asked how to play the quarter machines, a lady showed us how and on my third spin, i won, Three Dollars, Wow, first time to gamble and I won, I will quit while I am ahead, it was fun. My partner lost two dollars but also had fun. Further down the road we stopped at a community run farm, they offered lessons in weaving, carpentry, home schooled their children and farmed, gardened and did it all. We were all in shock at the prices of all their merchandise, most of us looked but did not buy. On down the road we in the middle and back heard a small bang then another. Then we heard some rumbling. Soon a white car drove up side us then dropped back soon they drove up front and held up a sign that said flat tire. They pulled over and so did Rory, out coach owner/driver. It turns out that they both are coach drivers, deadheading back to their base and noticed one of the inside back tires flat. Our guide called the emergency road number Rory had and they led her to a nearby company that could meet us at our lunch stop to change the tire. When we pulled in for lunch, the tire truck was there. After a nice farewell lunch, we had fun singing the Twelve days of Christmas. Nancy's part was Five Golden Rings, mine was Eight Ladies Dancing. It was a good time for all.
The trip was fun. While down loading the 500 plus pictures I took, it brought back just how much we did see and how much fun it was. I am so glad we went and now I will get through this winter with ease. Marge
Thursday, December 23, 2010
Friday, December 10, 2010
A note from Bruce & Nancy's response...
9 December 2010 email from Bruce:
Aunt Nancy, I see I mis spelled "bearing" in the last sentence and Martha Ray should be Raye...
@ Nancy: Since I cannot 'cut & paste' everything is re-transcribed by me so the errors in your story are my fault. My efforts to 'edit' were useless. Sorry, Bruce. I'll try to do better on the next one...nktc [
Aunt Nancy, I see I mis spelled "bearing" in the last sentence and Martha Ray should be Raye...
@ Nancy: Since I cannot 'cut & paste' everything is re-transcribed by me so the errors in your story are my fault. My efforts to 'edit' were useless. Sorry, Bruce. I'll try to do better on the next one...nktc [
Thursday, December 9, 2010
Thatcher Magazine - December 2010
FAMILY HISTORY
My Christmas 1966 by Bruce Thatcher
I was raised in what was the small town of Lombard, Illinois. My parents and I regularly went to the church at the First Congregational Church in town. Seven years after graduating from high school I was in Vietnam.
I was an artillery forward observer attached to the rifle company in the 1st Air Cavalry Division. We were operating in an area called the Centeral Highlands. We were helicoptered to a stone quarry where the engineers made their gravel to be used for roads and runways. What we liked was the engineers had cooks and hot food. Hot food was a rarity for us. The following happened on Christmas 1966:
On Christmas Eve all was quiet until about 10:00 PM when all kinds of gunfire came from a pacified village. We went up to the village only to find the newly elected mayor and a female school teacher killed and beheaded by the NVA.
Christmas morning we went to the Martha Ray Bowl, a small landing zone near Pleiku. The stage was made out of used 105 mm shell boxes. On the stage were two ministers, Bishop Sheen, and Rev. Billy Graham. They presided over the best nondenominational Christmas services that I have ever seen. They did this while being protected by only two platoons. I sent a picture of the two of them to the Billy Graham library at Wheaton College. Their records said that he was at An Khe, the base camp for the 1st Air Cavalry Division and didn't realize that they took a trip out to the bush.
The Army gave us the first hot meal in over two weeks. It was great. The enlisted men ate first, then the noncommissioned officers, and finally, if anything was left, the officers ate. There was plenty of hot food that day and even some extra hotdogs. There is something in our gene pool that makes us fishermen. I brought a very small survival kit from home which was always with me. It included, among other things, 6 lb. monofilament line, size 8 hooks and some split shot. With hot dogs as bait and a 10 foot piece of green bamboo for a pole, I went fishing in the creek. Heck, even caught some white catfish.
I had a wonderful christmas. I was not on patrol. I saw Billy Graham. I ate a great hot meal. I went fishing. Most importantly, I thanked God that I was alive.
I got a letter about two weeks later from my Dad. In the letter he informed me that the youth minister in his Christmas sermon named me and four other church members who were in Vietnam as baby killing, women raping, drug addicts. My Dad and several of the other members of the congregation then started a new Congregational Church in Glen Ellyn.
Last year was my 50th high school reunion. I turned the corner onto Main Street of the huge town of Lombard and everything had changed except that beautiful church steeple on the Congregational Church. We got a guided tour of the old church. The doors are always locked and you need a password to get in now. There is new carpet on the floor but the floor boards still squeak in the same places. What was said here on Christmas Eve, 1966, no longer has any beaing on me.
FAMILY NEWSLETTER - by Nancy
I collected three more writing awards. The first was from The Springfield
Writers' Guild, on October 23, 2010, for the Essay/Opinion Piece entitled "O! Say Can You See" (which appeared in the 2010 Family History News). On November 19, 2010, I received two awards from the five I submitted to the Ozark Writers League Competition. One was fiction: the Gene Andereck Award for "The Red Box" (the original version in FHN several years ago), and one for Dan Saults Essay Award entitled "Just Add Water" about our need for greater awareness of the diminishing supply of potable water on planet Earth.
Also, my creative non-fiction story entitled, "Laurel & Hardy" was published in the 2010 Ozark Writers League anthology, Echoes of the Ozarks, vol. VI. I'm proud to say this is the third year in a row OWL has published one of my stories.
THE SISTERS
Marjorie and I had such a nice time touring Washington DC during the Cherry Blossom Festival this past spring that we decided to take another tour - this time to San Antonio, Texas. We were there for the first Christmas lights - the first weekend of December - which included candle luminaries lining the entire River Walk as well as long strings of lights dangling from trees overhanging the river, the walk, bridge overpasses, restaurants, and streets jammed with people ready to begin this holiday season. Marjorie took notes and will give you 'the scoop' in her own words.
INSPIRATION
For this holiday season, I cannot think of anything more inspirational than Bruce's Christmas 1966!
I do hope we each remember to be grateful this holiday season and every day for simple things that make our lives valuable: for family, friends and neighybors of good will; for food, freedom and a fishing pole. May we remember our military who ensure our peace.
I wish you a very Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year.
the BLOG
Family members are welcome to contribute to this BLOG by accessing the editor through either 'comment' space on this blogsite or by emailing nktcerny@suddenlink.net or phoning (870) 425-8264. You can use snail mail if you prefer. to day, I know only how to manage tr=anscribed print information (no pictures, cut and paste or fancy formatting).
OK - I'm sitting here waiting to hear from you! Nancy y Te \
My Christmas 1966 by Bruce Thatcher
I was raised in what was the small town of Lombard, Illinois. My parents and I regularly went to the church at the First Congregational Church in town. Seven years after graduating from high school I was in Vietnam.
I was an artillery forward observer attached to the rifle company in the 1st Air Cavalry Division. We were operating in an area called the Centeral Highlands. We were helicoptered to a stone quarry where the engineers made their gravel to be used for roads and runways. What we liked was the engineers had cooks and hot food. Hot food was a rarity for us. The following happened on Christmas 1966:
On Christmas Eve all was quiet until about 10:00 PM when all kinds of gunfire came from a pacified village. We went up to the village only to find the newly elected mayor and a female school teacher killed and beheaded by the NVA.
Christmas morning we went to the Martha Ray Bowl, a small landing zone near Pleiku. The stage was made out of used 105 mm shell boxes. On the stage were two ministers, Bishop Sheen, and Rev. Billy Graham. They presided over the best nondenominational Christmas services that I have ever seen. They did this while being protected by only two platoons. I sent a picture of the two of them to the Billy Graham library at Wheaton College. Their records said that he was at An Khe, the base camp for the 1st Air Cavalry Division and didn't realize that they took a trip out to the bush.
The Army gave us the first hot meal in over two weeks. It was great. The enlisted men ate first, then the noncommissioned officers, and finally, if anything was left, the officers ate. There was plenty of hot food that day and even some extra hotdogs. There is something in our gene pool that makes us fishermen. I brought a very small survival kit from home which was always with me. It included, among other things, 6 lb. monofilament line, size 8 hooks and some split shot. With hot dogs as bait and a 10 foot piece of green bamboo for a pole, I went fishing in the creek. Heck, even caught some white catfish.
I had a wonderful christmas. I was not on patrol. I saw Billy Graham. I ate a great hot meal. I went fishing. Most importantly, I thanked God that I was alive.
I got a letter about two weeks later from my Dad. In the letter he informed me that the youth minister in his Christmas sermon named me and four other church members who were in Vietnam as baby killing, women raping, drug addicts. My Dad and several of the other members of the congregation then started a new Congregational Church in Glen Ellyn.
Last year was my 50th high school reunion. I turned the corner onto Main Street of the huge town of Lombard and everything had changed except that beautiful church steeple on the Congregational Church. We got a guided tour of the old church. The doors are always locked and you need a password to get in now. There is new carpet on the floor but the floor boards still squeak in the same places. What was said here on Christmas Eve, 1966, no longer has any beaing on me.
FAMILY NEWSLETTER - by Nancy
I collected three more writing awards. The first was from The Springfield
Writers' Guild, on October 23, 2010, for the Essay/Opinion Piece entitled "O! Say Can You See" (which appeared in the 2010 Family History News). On November 19, 2010, I received two awards from the five I submitted to the Ozark Writers League Competition. One was fiction: the Gene Andereck Award for "The Red Box" (the original version in FHN several years ago), and one for Dan Saults Essay Award entitled "Just Add Water" about our need for greater awareness of the diminishing supply of potable water on planet Earth.
Also, my creative non-fiction story entitled, "Laurel & Hardy" was published in the 2010 Ozark Writers League anthology, Echoes of the Ozarks, vol. VI. I'm proud to say this is the third year in a row OWL has published one of my stories.
THE SISTERS
Marjorie and I had such a nice time touring Washington DC during the Cherry Blossom Festival this past spring that we decided to take another tour - this time to San Antonio, Texas. We were there for the first Christmas lights - the first weekend of December - which included candle luminaries lining the entire River Walk as well as long strings of lights dangling from trees overhanging the river, the walk, bridge overpasses, restaurants, and streets jammed with people ready to begin this holiday season. Marjorie took notes and will give you 'the scoop' in her own words.
INSPIRATION
For this holiday season, I cannot think of anything more inspirational than Bruce's Christmas 1966!
I do hope we each remember to be grateful this holiday season and every day for simple things that make our lives valuable: for family, friends and neighybors of good will; for food, freedom and a fishing pole. May we remember our military who ensure our peace.
I wish you a very Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year.
the BLOG
Family members are welcome to contribute to this BLOG by accessing the editor through either 'comment' space on this blogsite or by emailing nktcerny@suddenlink.net or phoning (870) 425-8264. You can use snail mail if you prefer. to day, I know only how to manage tr=anscribed print information (no pictures, cut and paste or fancy formatting).
OK - I'm sitting here waiting to hear from you! Nancy y Te \
Saturday, November 27, 2010
Thatcher Magazine - November 2010
FAMILY HISTORY
The Family History News was born in the Spring 1986. Frank R. Speer displayed his writing talent, wit and skill to create FHN, Vol. I, issue #1. The first issue and several following were designed on the theme of the Thatcher Family railroaders - complete with a silhouette logo of an old steam-engine train and coal car. The first issue begins "All 'Board ! ! ! Welcome aboard the first issue of the Family History News. Trains will be leaving our station and heading to all points back into Thatcher History. Tickets Ready???"
-And so the Thatcher Family History magazine was born - thanks to Frank R. Speer.
.
Frank Speer continued as FHN editor from 1986 through 2008 - 14 years - with each issue growing in skill and size. He had begun to work on the 2009 issue so that Marjorie (Frank's wife, who had been Frank's assistant over the years) and I (sister-in-law Nancy Cerny, who knew nothing about putting together FHN) were able to follow in his tradition with the 2009 issue. Marjorie stepped up to Editor in Chief to produce the beautiful and impressive 2010 edition.
.
Here are some snippets from Vol. I, issue #1:
-Number one train out will be the "Thatcher Express" loading now for an excursion around Thatcherland for a joyful trip into the past. marjorie Ann Thatcher Speer will be your engineer and sight-seeing hostess...
==THATCHER EXPRESS (Marjorie spent many, many hours searching libraries, Soundex and notebooks in preparation for her DuPage, IL project): The Thatcher family has been approved for a Pioneer Certificate from the DePage Historical Society. To be eligible, we had to send proof to link one generation to another and relatives must have been living in the DuPage county in the year of 1850 or earlier. To do this I had to put our files in order, have the library order the U.S. Census for the years 1840 to 1850 ... We are lucky in having so many scrap books to use for this project. "DuPage county, Illinois: The year was 1845 and the month of October when Nathaniel Redinghouse Thatcher, his wife, Lydia Carpenter thatcher and his daughter, Jennie May, arrived in Warrenville, DuPage county, IL. This was to join a brother of Nathaniel (who we must find more inforamtion about). In the year of 1848 Nathaniel and fmaily moved to Naperville, DuPage county, IL. This is where Nathaniel joined Lewis Ellsworth in the nursery business known as both DuPage Nurseries and also as Ellsworth & Co. Nurseries. this partnership lasted until 1874 when the partnership broke up and Natyhaniel and family purchased land in LaGrange (then called West Lyons), Cook county, IL. they took most of their nursery stock to LaGrange to start their own business."
This kind of news articles, copies of census and obituaries helped prove residence and qualify our family to pioneer status in DuPage County. (by Marjorie thatcher Speer).
==WINTON FLYER Today we are going to start out by learning about the "Zouaves" (zoo-av) and how they held a big part in our family history: Luther Winton was a brother to Grandma Minnie Thatcher, he ws a popular young man as the following article attests. "Luther "Wint" Winton, a member of the Aurora Zouaves, lives at 103 North Lincoln Avenue in Aurora, was voted 3rd place in a contest of the most popular Union men in Aurora. He was a member of the Machinists Union. He worked in the shops of the CB&Q RR as a machinist at the locomotive shops then at the standard Pneumatic Tool Company. He is said to be an expert Machinist. A member of the Creamer Lodge, Int'l. Assoc. of Machinistsm of which he was president i 1900. In 1898 Winton was among the "Zoos" that went to New York's Madison Square Garden for a month of shows. In February 1901, left for Germany with the 'Zoos." We believe older brother Frank was also a member of the Aurora Zouaves. The Zouaves were precision drill teams of the National Guard. They represented different cities and states. Zouaves from all major cities held competition exhibits of their skills. The Aurora Zouaves were organized in June 1887 by Capt. A. Hurd. They had a reputation of eing one of the finest fancy drill teams in the country. They first entered a competitive drill at Kansas city in 1890, taking third money. The Chicago Zouaves taking first and the famous Walsh Zouaves of St. Louis second. In 1891 the Aurora Zouaves drill team captured first money, $1000, at Indianapolic. The principal attraction of a Zouaves drill team are the movements and quickness of execution, the drill is a constant succession of surprises to the spectators. The drill concludes with a charge upon a wooden fort constructed especially for the purpose.
The men scale the walls of the fort, mounting on each others shoulders, and pulling the last man up by his gun. The complete drill usually takes 20 to 25minutes of fancy gun and foot movements ... The Aurora Zouavwes Champions of the US, who won fame on many a drill field and have enjoyed ovations in many big cities across the country, joined Buffalo Bill's Wild West in New York for two years... The roster of the company included Lute (Luther) Winton. The Aurora Zouaves execute 165 movements per minute which, heretofore, has awakened keen admiration among the thousands of soldiers who came to New York for ahte Grant Tomb Ceremonies and and visited the Col. Cody Show when the Zouaves were also called "Red-Legged Centipedes: because of their colorful uniforms and their precision drills. The members of this group traveled around the country and also amde a trip to Europe with the Barnum & Bailey Great American Circus. The Aurora Zouaves were reorganized for a short time in 1937 for the Aurora Centennial Celebration.
--all information from news articles printe din the Aurora Beacon News newspaper at the time.) FHN article by Marjorie Thatcher Speer.
NOTE; Future issues of Thatcher Magazine will contain additional family history transcriptions - such as these from vol. I, issue #1 @ nktc, BLOGeditor .
FAMILY NEWS
THE SISTERS
.The sisters will be traveling by bus for the second time this year (2010). This time they are going to San Antonio, Texas to walk in the footsteps of ancestors (probably not blood related, however) at the Alamo, on the River Walk and at LBJ ranch, among other tours. Marjorie will tell you all about it in the next issue of Thatcher Magazine.
.Nancy had some nice results on writing recently as she walked away with three award certificates, publication in Echoes of the Ozarks, VOL VI (2010) and was guest speaker, November 24, 2010, for the Friends of the Library at the brand new multi-million dollar library in Mountain Home (just opened in September).
INSPIRATION
Contented cats purr -
All snug and warm on the hearth
- no mouse in this house!
(In honor of Nancy's fat cat, Daphne-Dum-Dilly and Carol's sleek cat, Galaxy Star Chaser).
INTERESTING STUFF
-from page 3 of FHN Vol I, issue#1:
SHIPS IN THE NIGHT
April 20, 1944 . . WWII . . Pacific Ocean
Clarence Thatcher Jr. aboard the U.S.S. Teton: It's early morning when a mate shook "Clitz" and said "you have a visitor." And there stood Ralph thatcher, the youngest brother. He came aboard Clitz's ship to pick up radio parts for his ship, the L.C.S. #31. A pleasant hour spent in the Pacific by two brothers. "Hi, Ralph" "Hello Clitz"
the BLOG:
Family members are welcome to contribute to this BLOG by accessing the editor through either 'comment' space on thus bogstie or by emailing nktcerny@suddenlink.net or phoning (870)425-8264. You can use snail mail if you prefer. To date, I know only how to manage transcribed print information (no pictures, cut-paste or fancy formatting.
OK - I'm sitting here waiting to hear from you! Nancy y Te \
The Family History News was born in the Spring 1986. Frank R. Speer displayed his writing talent, wit and skill to create FHN, Vol. I, issue #1. The first issue and several following were designed on the theme of the Thatcher Family railroaders - complete with a silhouette logo of an old steam-engine train and coal car. The first issue begins "All 'Board ! ! ! Welcome aboard the first issue of the Family History News. Trains will be leaving our station and heading to all points back into Thatcher History. Tickets Ready???"
-And so the Thatcher Family History magazine was born - thanks to Frank R. Speer.
.
Frank Speer continued as FHN editor from 1986 through 2008 - 14 years - with each issue growing in skill and size. He had begun to work on the 2009 issue so that Marjorie (Frank's wife, who had been Frank's assistant over the years) and I (sister-in-law Nancy Cerny, who knew nothing about putting together FHN) were able to follow in his tradition with the 2009 issue. Marjorie stepped up to Editor in Chief to produce the beautiful and impressive 2010 edition.
.
Here are some snippets from Vol. I, issue #1:
-Number one train out will be the "Thatcher Express" loading now for an excursion around Thatcherland for a joyful trip into the past. marjorie Ann Thatcher Speer will be your engineer and sight-seeing hostess...
==THATCHER EXPRESS (Marjorie spent many, many hours searching libraries, Soundex and notebooks in preparation for her DuPage, IL project): The Thatcher family has been approved for a Pioneer Certificate from the DePage Historical Society. To be eligible, we had to send proof to link one generation to another and relatives must have been living in the DuPage county in the year of 1850 or earlier. To do this I had to put our files in order, have the library order the U.S. Census for the years 1840 to 1850 ... We are lucky in having so many scrap books to use for this project. "DuPage county, Illinois: The year was 1845 and the month of October when Nathaniel Redinghouse Thatcher, his wife, Lydia Carpenter thatcher and his daughter, Jennie May, arrived in Warrenville, DuPage county, IL. This was to join a brother of Nathaniel (who we must find more inforamtion about). In the year of 1848 Nathaniel and fmaily moved to Naperville, DuPage county, IL. This is where Nathaniel joined Lewis Ellsworth in the nursery business known as both DuPage Nurseries and also as Ellsworth & Co. Nurseries. this partnership lasted until 1874 when the partnership broke up and Natyhaniel and family purchased land in LaGrange (then called West Lyons), Cook county, IL. they took most of their nursery stock to LaGrange to start their own business."
This kind of news articles, copies of census and obituaries helped prove residence and qualify our family to pioneer status in DuPage County. (by Marjorie thatcher Speer).
==WINTON FLYER Today we are going to start out by learning about the "Zouaves" (zoo-av) and how they held a big part in our family history: Luther Winton was a brother to Grandma Minnie Thatcher, he ws a popular young man as the following article attests. "Luther "Wint" Winton, a member of the Aurora Zouaves, lives at 103 North Lincoln Avenue in Aurora, was voted 3rd place in a contest of the most popular Union men in Aurora. He was a member of the Machinists Union. He worked in the shops of the CB&Q RR as a machinist at the locomotive shops then at the standard Pneumatic Tool Company. He is said to be an expert Machinist. A member of the Creamer Lodge, Int'l. Assoc. of Machinistsm of which he was president i 1900. In 1898 Winton was among the "Zoos" that went to New York's Madison Square Garden for a month of shows. In February 1901, left for Germany with the 'Zoos." We believe older brother Frank was also a member of the Aurora Zouaves. The Zouaves were precision drill teams of the National Guard. They represented different cities and states. Zouaves from all major cities held competition exhibits of their skills. The Aurora Zouaves were organized in June 1887 by Capt. A. Hurd. They had a reputation of eing one of the finest fancy drill teams in the country. They first entered a competitive drill at Kansas city in 1890, taking third money. The Chicago Zouaves taking first and the famous Walsh Zouaves of St. Louis second. In 1891 the Aurora Zouaves drill team captured first money, $1000, at Indianapolic. The principal attraction of a Zouaves drill team are the movements and quickness of execution, the drill is a constant succession of surprises to the spectators. The drill concludes with a charge upon a wooden fort constructed especially for the purpose.
The men scale the walls of the fort, mounting on each others shoulders, and pulling the last man up by his gun. The complete drill usually takes 20 to 25minutes of fancy gun and foot movements ... The Aurora Zouavwes Champions of the US, who won fame on many a drill field and have enjoyed ovations in many big cities across the country, joined Buffalo Bill's Wild West in New York for two years... The roster of the company included Lute (Luther) Winton. The Aurora Zouaves execute 165 movements per minute which, heretofore, has awakened keen admiration among the thousands of soldiers who came to New York for ahte Grant Tomb Ceremonies and and visited the Col. Cody Show when the Zouaves were also called "Red-Legged Centipedes: because of their colorful uniforms and their precision drills. The members of this group traveled around the country and also amde a trip to Europe with the Barnum & Bailey Great American Circus. The Aurora Zouaves were reorganized for a short time in 1937 for the Aurora Centennial Celebration.
--all information from news articles printe din the Aurora Beacon News newspaper at the time.) FHN article by Marjorie Thatcher Speer.
NOTE; Future issues of Thatcher Magazine will contain additional family history transcriptions - such as these from vol. I, issue #1 @ nktc, BLOGeditor .
FAMILY NEWS
THE SISTERS
.The sisters will be traveling by bus for the second time this year (2010). This time they are going to San Antonio, Texas to walk in the footsteps of ancestors (probably not blood related, however) at the Alamo, on the River Walk and at LBJ ranch, among other tours. Marjorie will tell you all about it in the next issue of Thatcher Magazine.
.Nancy had some nice results on writing recently as she walked away with three award certificates, publication in Echoes of the Ozarks, VOL VI (2010) and was guest speaker, November 24, 2010, for the Friends of the Library at the brand new multi-million dollar library in Mountain Home (just opened in September).
INSPIRATION
Contented cats purr -
All snug and warm on the hearth
- no mouse in this house!
(In honor of Nancy's fat cat, Daphne-Dum-Dilly and Carol's sleek cat, Galaxy Star Chaser).
INTERESTING STUFF
-from page 3 of FHN Vol I, issue#1:
SHIPS IN THE NIGHT
April 20, 1944 . . WWII . . Pacific Ocean
Clarence Thatcher Jr. aboard the U.S.S. Teton: It's early morning when a mate shook "Clitz" and said "you have a visitor." And there stood Ralph thatcher, the youngest brother. He came aboard Clitz's ship to pick up radio parts for his ship, the L.C.S. #31. A pleasant hour spent in the Pacific by two brothers. "Hi, Ralph" "Hello Clitz"
the BLOG:
Family members are welcome to contribute to this BLOG by accessing the editor through either 'comment' space on thus bogstie or by emailing nktcerny@suddenlink.net or phoning (870)425-8264. You can use snail mail if you prefer. To date, I know only how to manage transcribed print information (no pictures, cut-paste or fancy formatting.
OK - I'm sitting here waiting to hear from you! Nancy y Te \
Thursday, October 28, 2010
Thatcher Magazine - October 2010
HAPPY HALLOWEEN!
On Halloween night
Amid costumed gouls and witches,
Toothless pumpkins grin
Haiku by Nancy Thatcher Cerny
FAMILY NEWSLETTER - Nancy's Journal
My favorite season is here again. I love the colors of autumn, pumpkin pies and candy corn. I can even dress in my black witch's costume and pointed hat - without being too obvious.
October has been a month of ups and downs.
-On the up side, I did win one writing contest - the essay entitled O! SAY CAN YOU SEE. (It is published in the 2010 Family History news.)
-On the down side, the Cerny family lost Clarence's brother Ed in June and Diane Cerny this October. Carol and I were able to attend Diane's memorial service - and meet with relatives, friends and neighbors I hadn't seen in many years. I am the only Cerny of that sibling-and-spouse group still living.
-Another up side was when Christy brought the children to Nancy's house on Saturday afternoon. I had time to become reacquainted with great-grand children Zach, Nate and Zoyie (after five years!) We hugged and chatted and played Bingo together. Nice!
-Just to keep from losing some old skills, I joined the Toastmasters Intl. Probably a good thing I did because one week after I attended my first meeting, I was asked to speak in November "On Writing" at the Friends of the Library meeting in the beautiful new library. I'm looking forward to that. (I was afraid I'd have nothing to do and noody to do it with when I gave up being president of TLW -- I was wrong!)
-As you can see, I've been enjoying writing some Haiku and winning an essay contest (I'm hoping to hear I won one in November as well). I'm trying to find art classes to attend so I'll not only be putting words on paper but pictures as well. (Whether words or designs, I'll just call it Scribble and more scribble.)
FAMILY HISTORY - Ira Carpenter saga continues
Bruce and Shirley took a trip to Hillsdale, Michigan. They were on a treasure hunt to dig up the bones of Ira Carpenter (one of great-grandma Lydia Thatcher's brothers). They visited the library, talked with people who knew the area and the genealogy records - and the well-kept cemetery with their headstones. If we can come up with more stories about that part of our family, I'll have to rewrite my blacksmith biography one more time before it is republished. Since Bruce and Shirley are Michiganers, they have the pass-key to access data - and hopefully newspaper archives as well... It's like a treasure hunt all over again...
THE SISTERS
Marjorie and I enjoyed our bus tour to Washington DC for the Cherry Blossom Festival so much we are talking about taking another tour to San Antonio, Texas - the Alamo and the River Walk. We are both ready to enjoy stepping back in history -- Texas style....
EDITOR'S NOTE, AND ABOUT THIS BLOG...
This BLOG is intended as a magazine with monthly editions including Family History, Family Newsletter, The Sisters (Marj and me), Stories to Share and Other Interesting Stuff.
Family members are welcome to contribute to this blog by contacting the me at nktcerny@suddenlink.net or (870) 425-8264 or snail mail. I know only how to manage print information at this time (no photos, cut/paste or sophisticated presentations).
OK. I'M JUST SITTING HERE WAITING TO HEAR FROM YOU.... Nancy y Te.
On Halloween night
Amid costumed gouls and witches,
Toothless pumpkins grin
Haiku by Nancy Thatcher Cerny
FAMILY NEWSLETTER - Nancy's Journal
My favorite season is here again. I love the colors of autumn, pumpkin pies and candy corn. I can even dress in my black witch's costume and pointed hat - without being too obvious.
October has been a month of ups and downs.
-On the up side, I did win one writing contest - the essay entitled O! SAY CAN YOU SEE. (It is published in the 2010 Family History news.)
-On the down side, the Cerny family lost Clarence's brother Ed in June and Diane Cerny this October. Carol and I were able to attend Diane's memorial service - and meet with relatives, friends and neighbors I hadn't seen in many years. I am the only Cerny of that sibling-and-spouse group still living.
-Another up side was when Christy brought the children to Nancy's house on Saturday afternoon. I had time to become reacquainted with great-grand children Zach, Nate and Zoyie (after five years!) We hugged and chatted and played Bingo together. Nice!
-Just to keep from losing some old skills, I joined the Toastmasters Intl. Probably a good thing I did because one week after I attended my first meeting, I was asked to speak in November "On Writing" at the Friends of the Library meeting in the beautiful new library. I'm looking forward to that. (I was afraid I'd have nothing to do and noody to do it with when I gave up being president of TLW -- I was wrong!)
-As you can see, I've been enjoying writing some Haiku and winning an essay contest (I'm hoping to hear I won one in November as well). I'm trying to find art classes to attend so I'll not only be putting words on paper but pictures as well. (Whether words or designs, I'll just call it Scribble and more scribble.)
FAMILY HISTORY - Ira Carpenter saga continues
Bruce and Shirley took a trip to Hillsdale, Michigan. They were on a treasure hunt to dig up the bones of Ira Carpenter (one of great-grandma Lydia Thatcher's brothers). They visited the library, talked with people who knew the area and the genealogy records - and the well-kept cemetery with their headstones. If we can come up with more stories about that part of our family, I'll have to rewrite my blacksmith biography one more time before it is republished. Since Bruce and Shirley are Michiganers, they have the pass-key to access data - and hopefully newspaper archives as well... It's like a treasure hunt all over again...
THE SISTERS
Marjorie and I enjoyed our bus tour to Washington DC for the Cherry Blossom Festival so much we are talking about taking another tour to San Antonio, Texas - the Alamo and the River Walk. We are both ready to enjoy stepping back in history -- Texas style....
EDITOR'S NOTE, AND ABOUT THIS BLOG...
This BLOG is intended as a magazine with monthly editions including Family History, Family Newsletter, The Sisters (Marj and me), Stories to Share and Other Interesting Stuff.
Family members are welcome to contribute to this blog by contacting the me at nktcerny@suddenlink.net or (870) 425-8264 or snail mail. I know only how to manage print information at this time (no photos, cut/paste or sophisticated presentations).
OK. I'M JUST SITTING HERE WAITING TO HEAR FROM YOU.... Nancy y Te.
Saturday, October 16, 2010
IT CANNOT BE OCTOBER ALL READY!
It started in July, Roy and Kathy came for the 4th of July weekend. We had a good time together and also spent a day visiting Branson. We had not gone to Branson in about 5 years, we had just driven through a few times. We went down under the Route 65 bridge that goes over the river. We took pictures of the old bridge which is being replaced with a newer, wider one. While there we also took pictures of the old railroad trestle then a train came through to make it even better. We later walked up to the new shopping center that runs along the river. We then went to the old train depot and got tickets to ride the old train that takes you a few miles into Arkansas. We didn't get to sit up in the observation seats so we did not get to see much more than trees and leaves. Keep this in mind if you ever take this trip, be the first 50 or you won't get seats on top. It was still a lot of fun. We then walked up to the old original business part of Branson and went to the famous Dick's 5 & 10 store. It is a store filled with a little bit of everything and anything you might ever need. Back to the shipping center and time to eat supper, we choose the newly opened Chicago Pizza Place. We then stopped at the river to watch the water and fire show that goes every hour on the hour while the National Anthem plays. This time of night there is more to the water and fire and lots of music, it was spectacular. Kathy was able to get some beautiful pictures of this unusual display.
On the 17th of July, I met Bob in Alton, Illinois at the Alton Marina. Today Beth was having a book signing and Child's fun day. The marina is so pretty and many of the boat owners came by with their children to color pictures, blow bubbles, have cake and hopefully have the parents buy a book. Bob and I were to have met a week earlier to surprise Beth at an art show in St. Louis. Beth was having some of her art work shown in the gallery. As it turned out, Bob had an apartment fire the night before and was out buying clothes and getting a motel for temporary living. Bob and I went off later in the afternoon with our cameras in hand and got some nice pictures of the marina area and the beautiful bridge that takes you into St. Louis. We were also enjoying spending time with Brad that day as well as at dinner that night. That evening we all went out for dinner and then on Sunday, we shopped with Beth and the boys after having a lunch at a local restaurant. That evening after a pizza party at Beth's apartment complex we had fun playing with the boys in the park that is across the road. The boys are growing fast and I wish I were closer and could spend more time with them.
On the 23rd of July, I met Roy and Kathy at a beautiful hotel in Peoria, (just like the one Nancy and I stayed overnight at in Springfield, Missouri). We walked the river walk to a local restaurant for dinner than walked back to the hotel. Saturday we went to the Princeville Historical Museum and met Uncle Roy Mueller, cousin Charles and his son Jason, Bob, Beth and the boys. We had a good day checking out the old school, old farm equipment, the fire department demonstration and all the activities going on. That night we were all guests of Uncle Roy Mueller at a dinner and lots of fun talk. Sunday morning found Kathy, Roy and me walking a nature trail and checking out the birds, with cameras in hand. We had our morning walk so we were now ready to leave and head out on our own directions home.
Next thing I know is, it is August, that means it is reunion time. I had been working on the Thatcher Family News but knew I had to finish that up. Roy and I had been busy keeping the grass mowed, the animals cared for and some new fencing electrified, a gate installed to keep the horses in their field and generally having all in good shape. I started cooking up the reunion stand-bys, Farmers Beans, Taco Soup, getting the beets pickled, the onions pickled and buying brats, hamburgers and what ever else we might need. What a good time to see everyone again. It was great we can all get together, tell stories, sing along and just have fun, time seems to slip by so fast.
Nancy and I met in Branson for an OWLS meeting, they had good speakers and it was a nice day getting together. I was sorry that Doris did not get to join us for lunch. It is the only time we get together in the past year or so.
I signed up and took a CCW course so I am now qualified to carry a concealed weapon. I don't know what good it is when I travel to Illinois or Wisconsin, for these states do not have or honor conceal & carry weapon laws. This is the area where I would be traveling alone most of the time. I do feel good about knowing I know how to handle and shoot a pistol, I had never touched one until that day.
September and I am packed and ready for a trip to Florida and Disney. Roy and Kathy made all the arrangements but I still had to fly alone, not only that but transfer in Atlanta, GA to another flight to Orlando, FL. I did ok for I met Roy and Kathy as I got off the plane and entered the baggage area. We had a great nine days. We stayed in a Tree House, it had three bedrooms, a fully equipped kitchen, a dinning room, front room and two large bathrooms. It could sleep 10 people if a family rented it. There was extra bedding in one closet, the couch could sleep two, the two chairs slept one each, and there were bunk beds in the third bedroom. The first day we checked in and went to Magic Kingdom, had a great dinner and saw the parade and fireworks. The second day we went to another park in the morning and were off to another park when I missed the step getting onto the bus and down I went. I cut my leg but thought nothing of it for I cut and bruise easily. Kathy saw that the leg needed attention so we headed back to the tree house while Roy went for first aid supplies. What a dumb thing to do, but it didn't keep us from going every day to something new as well as repeat areas we really enjoyed. The nine days went fast and it was time for the return trip. We left and at the airport, Roy explained what area was my security check-in and what uni-rail to take to get to my terminal. They left for their plane and I people watched for awhile. I then went through security and put on my shoes, picked up my purse and bag, and followed the crowd for the uni-rail. After getting off, I realized I was in the wrong place, back on the uni-rail to the terminal and then I saw the place that Roy said I was to go. When I reached the Nashville, TN airport, to transfer to Springfield, MO, I had to almost run the length of the concourse, turn right and all the way down to the last boarding spot. Two men were standing there, I asked if it was loading 1st class at this time, they said everyone is loading, go ahead. I got on and the two men came behind me and the door was closed. That sure was close, I would not have liked staying overnight. It was a fun time and I am so glad Roy and Kathy included me in their vacation. I am also happy to know that I am able to get around by myself, so I took a few scenic routes, I made it!
At the farm, Roy and I have spent some time trying to get some of the equipment to work, we did get one field of hay in, the rest of it is still in the field. Roy did get the sickle bar working on the tractor, we got it lined up and attached to the tractor and he cut a few rows and it looked good. We trimmed trees, bushes and put up part of the corral that he and Carol took down a few weeks ago. He needed to brush hot around that area and get it ready so he can ship off some of the young bulls. Roy's friend, Verle, finished putting up the corral and he will get the bulls in there and load them up for market.
I have started digging up some gardens so I can let them go to grass, it is too hard to keep the flower gardens nice as well as keep up with the grass and house. I may not get it done this fall, but I am working on it.
Last Saturday I went to Mt Vernon, MO to the Apple Butter Days. This is one of the largest celebrations in the area. Frank and I went to many of the different fairs, even this one years ago, but I don't remember any being so big. There had to be hundreds of crafters and food booths all over town. I did buy three jars of apple butter for the three ladies at work. It was about 12 or 13 blocks to my car and I did that trip twice, once when I got there and another to put the jars of apple butter and my top shirt in the car, then to leave about three hours later. I got home fixed a sandwich, put my feet up and read a book for the rest of the afternoon. So there we are, into OCTOBER ALL READY! Hope you are all busy and enjoying the fall weather
On the 17th of July, I met Bob in Alton, Illinois at the Alton Marina. Today Beth was having a book signing and Child's fun day. The marina is so pretty and many of the boat owners came by with their children to color pictures, blow bubbles, have cake and hopefully have the parents buy a book. Bob and I were to have met a week earlier to surprise Beth at an art show in St. Louis. Beth was having some of her art work shown in the gallery. As it turned out, Bob had an apartment fire the night before and was out buying clothes and getting a motel for temporary living. Bob and I went off later in the afternoon with our cameras in hand and got some nice pictures of the marina area and the beautiful bridge that takes you into St. Louis. We were also enjoying spending time with Brad that day as well as at dinner that night. That evening we all went out for dinner and then on Sunday, we shopped with Beth and the boys after having a lunch at a local restaurant. That evening after a pizza party at Beth's apartment complex we had fun playing with the boys in the park that is across the road. The boys are growing fast and I wish I were closer and could spend more time with them.
On the 23rd of July, I met Roy and Kathy at a beautiful hotel in Peoria, (just like the one Nancy and I stayed overnight at in Springfield, Missouri). We walked the river walk to a local restaurant for dinner than walked back to the hotel. Saturday we went to the Princeville Historical Museum and met Uncle Roy Mueller, cousin Charles and his son Jason, Bob, Beth and the boys. We had a good day checking out the old school, old farm equipment, the fire department demonstration and all the activities going on. That night we were all guests of Uncle Roy Mueller at a dinner and lots of fun talk. Sunday morning found Kathy, Roy and me walking a nature trail and checking out the birds, with cameras in hand. We had our morning walk so we were now ready to leave and head out on our own directions home.
Next thing I know is, it is August, that means it is reunion time. I had been working on the Thatcher Family News but knew I had to finish that up. Roy and I had been busy keeping the grass mowed, the animals cared for and some new fencing electrified, a gate installed to keep the horses in their field and generally having all in good shape. I started cooking up the reunion stand-bys, Farmers Beans, Taco Soup, getting the beets pickled, the onions pickled and buying brats, hamburgers and what ever else we might need. What a good time to see everyone again. It was great we can all get together, tell stories, sing along and just have fun, time seems to slip by so fast.
Nancy and I met in Branson for an OWLS meeting, they had good speakers and it was a nice day getting together. I was sorry that Doris did not get to join us for lunch. It is the only time we get together in the past year or so.
I signed up and took a CCW course so I am now qualified to carry a concealed weapon. I don't know what good it is when I travel to Illinois or Wisconsin, for these states do not have or honor conceal & carry weapon laws. This is the area where I would be traveling alone most of the time. I do feel good about knowing I know how to handle and shoot a pistol, I had never touched one until that day.
September and I am packed and ready for a trip to Florida and Disney. Roy and Kathy made all the arrangements but I still had to fly alone, not only that but transfer in Atlanta, GA to another flight to Orlando, FL. I did ok for I met Roy and Kathy as I got off the plane and entered the baggage area. We had a great nine days. We stayed in a Tree House, it had three bedrooms, a fully equipped kitchen, a dinning room, front room and two large bathrooms. It could sleep 10 people if a family rented it. There was extra bedding in one closet, the couch could sleep two, the two chairs slept one each, and there were bunk beds in the third bedroom. The first day we checked in and went to Magic Kingdom, had a great dinner and saw the parade and fireworks. The second day we went to another park in the morning and were off to another park when I missed the step getting onto the bus and down I went. I cut my leg but thought nothing of it for I cut and bruise easily. Kathy saw that the leg needed attention so we headed back to the tree house while Roy went for first aid supplies. What a dumb thing to do, but it didn't keep us from going every day to something new as well as repeat areas we really enjoyed. The nine days went fast and it was time for the return trip. We left and at the airport, Roy explained what area was my security check-in and what uni-rail to take to get to my terminal. They left for their plane and I people watched for awhile. I then went through security and put on my shoes, picked up my purse and bag, and followed the crowd for the uni-rail. After getting off, I realized I was in the wrong place, back on the uni-rail to the terminal and then I saw the place that Roy said I was to go. When I reached the Nashville, TN airport, to transfer to Springfield, MO, I had to almost run the length of the concourse, turn right and all the way down to the last boarding spot. Two men were standing there, I asked if it was loading 1st class at this time, they said everyone is loading, go ahead. I got on and the two men came behind me and the door was closed. That sure was close, I would not have liked staying overnight. It was a fun time and I am so glad Roy and Kathy included me in their vacation. I am also happy to know that I am able to get around by myself, so I took a few scenic routes, I made it!
At the farm, Roy and I have spent some time trying to get some of the equipment to work, we did get one field of hay in, the rest of it is still in the field. Roy did get the sickle bar working on the tractor, we got it lined up and attached to the tractor and he cut a few rows and it looked good. We trimmed trees, bushes and put up part of the corral that he and Carol took down a few weeks ago. He needed to brush hot around that area and get it ready so he can ship off some of the young bulls. Roy's friend, Verle, finished putting up the corral and he will get the bulls in there and load them up for market.
I have started digging up some gardens so I can let them go to grass, it is too hard to keep the flower gardens nice as well as keep up with the grass and house. I may not get it done this fall, but I am working on it.
Last Saturday I went to Mt Vernon, MO to the Apple Butter Days. This is one of the largest celebrations in the area. Frank and I went to many of the different fairs, even this one years ago, but I don't remember any being so big. There had to be hundreds of crafters and food booths all over town. I did buy three jars of apple butter for the three ladies at work. It was about 12 or 13 blocks to my car and I did that trip twice, once when I got there and another to put the jars of apple butter and my top shirt in the car, then to leave about three hours later. I got home fixed a sandwich, put my feet up and read a book for the rest of the afternoon. So there we are, into OCTOBER ALL READY! Hope you are all busy and enjoying the fall weather
Monday, September 13, 2010
Thatcher Magazine - September 13, 2010
FAMILY HISTORY:
The weather cooperated with a bearably hot Thatcher Family Reunion in August, 2010.
- There were plenty of tents for shade and food, food and more food.
- Marjorie had made trips earlier to the farm to help Roy with mowing and weed whacking, among other chores, then
- Jim arrived a week early - and Tom was there early, too, before the invasion of aunts and cousins and more food.
- Marjorie was editor, designer, writer-in-chief and producer as she put together a really nice 2010 Family History News. Kudos to Marge! Robert was there and provided copies of Beth Speer's newly published children's book - which she wrote and illustrated. Congratulations Beth!
- Roy and Roy provided us with entertainment and sing-alongs. We were so proud of our brother Roy - as he was proud of himself - for not only singing along in excellent voice, but in harmony! He also showed us his unusual military records - and one of Dad's ping pong medals...
-Bill and Ruth Stamm were not able to attend this year. We missed them and John, too.
-We missed our seeing Joyce (don't know that she had ever missed a reunion before) and were really glad the rest of the family could attend: Helen, Arthur, Sandy, Lainey and Violet. Arthur related his story of traveling to the farm with grandma Thatcher the summer following 8th grade; he was about thirteen years old.
- Susan and Gene came in on their motorcycles. "Happy trails, you'all..."
- As he does every year, Wayne drove to Arkansas to pick me up and escort me to the reunion; Carol drove me home. Nancy and Rich generally arrived on Friday.
- Bruce and Shirley brought their musical instruments and fishing poles. (You can pick out those Thatchers anywhere.) With subsequent emails, Bruce is going to search Michigan for information on Ira Carpenter - our blacksmith from HIllsdale, MI. He's the one who loaded up his wife in a four-horsedrawn wagon and set out for California just after the gold rush - his daughters following in his adventurous footsteps by trekking to the Yukon during the next gold rush. I am anxious to hear what Bruce can add to our Ira family advemtires.
FAMILY NEWSLETTER
After four years, I gave up being president of my local writer's group. Although I am still involved, I found blank spots in my life - so I decided to add some new interests, like music (so I purchased an electronic keyboard), art classes ($5 a lesson at the Senior Citizen's Center), and Toastmasters, Int'l. Now I ask you, "Isn't life funny?" I attended my first Toastmasters meeting on September 1st. On September 8th, I got a phone call from the Friends of the Library program chairman who inviting me to be the speaker at their November meeting - at newly built (won't be open till late September), multi-million-dollar library! Guess I'll have to go to the next Toastmasters meeting on September 15th and learn ASAP how to give a talk on writing. I'll also need to figure out where they built this wonderful new library...
THE SISTERS
Marjorie, who has never been to Florida (though she and I planned to go last spring before the storms, rain and BP oil spill) flew off to Disneyworld with Roy and Kathy. I wonder if she enjoyed the Castle, rode in a teacup and got to meet the Seven Dwarfs (I think they're related to us, too). Hope she gets home soon so I can ask her...
INTERESTING STUFF
I mistakenly Googled 'ThatcherFamily' instead of 'ThatcherMagazine.' A whole page of listings jumped onto the screen. Of course, I had to take a look at some of them - most of which were about PM Margaret Thatcher. There was A genealogy Forum, Thatcher Crest, Family Origin Info, complaints about Meryl Streep not playing Marg. Thatcher to their liking, lots of photos and some blog writings by one Grant Thatcher from the UK - very interesting...
. The one site I found interesting has a listing of "Some noteworthy people of the name Thatcher:"
-David J. Thatcher b.1921, American flight engineer/gunner, recipient of the Silver Star, the Distinguished Flying Cross, Air Medal.
-George Thatcher 1754-1824, American lawyer, jurist and statesman.
-Henry Knox Thatcher 1806-1880, American admiral in the United States Navy during the American Civil War.
-Roland Churchill Thatcher IV b.1977, an American PGA professional golfer.
-Maurice Hudson Thatcher 1870-1973, U.S. Congressman.
-Prime Minister Margaret Hilda Thatcher LG, OM, PC, FRS b.1925, English PM of United Kingdom from 1979 to 1990 and recipient of the Presidential Medal of Freedom.
-Heather Thatcher 1896-1987, an English actress.
-Wilbert Ross Thatcher PC 1917-1971, Canadian premier of Saskatchewan, Canada, 1964-1971.
-Benjamin David Thatcher b.1975, Welsh professional footballer.
-Torin Thatcher 1905-1961, British actor.
(If you would like to be included in this listing, please notify me and I will pencil you in.)
INSPIRATION
An autumn sunset,
Changing, moment to moment,
Fascinates and awes.
HAIKU ~ by Nancy Thatcher Cerny ~
The BLOG
Family members are welcome to contribute to this blog by accessing the editor through blogsite, email at nktcerny@suddenlink.net, phone (870)425-8264 or snail mail.
To date, I know only how to manage transcribed print (no pictures or cut-paste). If there are any brain cells left, I may stuff them with how to accomplish those sophisticated talents.
Thanks - Nancy y Te \
The weather cooperated with a bearably hot Thatcher Family Reunion in August, 2010.
- There were plenty of tents for shade and food, food and more food.
- Marjorie had made trips earlier to the farm to help Roy with mowing and weed whacking, among other chores, then
- Jim arrived a week early - and Tom was there early, too, before the invasion of aunts and cousins and more food.
- Marjorie was editor, designer, writer-in-chief and producer as she put together a really nice 2010 Family History News. Kudos to Marge! Robert was there and provided copies of Beth Speer's newly published children's book - which she wrote and illustrated. Congratulations Beth!
- Roy and Roy provided us with entertainment and sing-alongs. We were so proud of our brother Roy - as he was proud of himself - for not only singing along in excellent voice, but in harmony! He also showed us his unusual military records - and one of Dad's ping pong medals...
-Bill and Ruth Stamm were not able to attend this year. We missed them and John, too.
-We missed our seeing Joyce (don't know that she had ever missed a reunion before) and were really glad the rest of the family could attend: Helen, Arthur, Sandy, Lainey and Violet. Arthur related his story of traveling to the farm with grandma Thatcher the summer following 8th grade; he was about thirteen years old.
- Susan and Gene came in on their motorcycles. "Happy trails, you'all..."
- As he does every year, Wayne drove to Arkansas to pick me up and escort me to the reunion; Carol drove me home. Nancy and Rich generally arrived on Friday.
- Bruce and Shirley brought their musical instruments and fishing poles. (You can pick out those Thatchers anywhere.) With subsequent emails, Bruce is going to search Michigan for information on Ira Carpenter - our blacksmith from HIllsdale, MI. He's the one who loaded up his wife in a four-horsedrawn wagon and set out for California just after the gold rush - his daughters following in his adventurous footsteps by trekking to the Yukon during the next gold rush. I am anxious to hear what Bruce can add to our Ira family advemtires.
FAMILY NEWSLETTER
After four years, I gave up being president of my local writer's group. Although I am still involved, I found blank spots in my life - so I decided to add some new interests, like music (so I purchased an electronic keyboard), art classes ($5 a lesson at the Senior Citizen's Center), and Toastmasters, Int'l. Now I ask you, "Isn't life funny?" I attended my first Toastmasters meeting on September 1st. On September 8th, I got a phone call from the Friends of the Library program chairman who inviting me to be the speaker at their November meeting - at newly built (won't be open till late September), multi-million-dollar library! Guess I'll have to go to the next Toastmasters meeting on September 15th and learn ASAP how to give a talk on writing. I'll also need to figure out where they built this wonderful new library...
THE SISTERS
Marjorie, who has never been to Florida (though she and I planned to go last spring before the storms, rain and BP oil spill) flew off to Disneyworld with Roy and Kathy. I wonder if she enjoyed the Castle, rode in a teacup and got to meet the Seven Dwarfs (I think they're related to us, too). Hope she gets home soon so I can ask her...
INTERESTING STUFF
I mistakenly Googled 'ThatcherFamily' instead of 'ThatcherMagazine.' A whole page of listings jumped onto the screen. Of course, I had to take a look at some of them - most of which were about PM Margaret Thatcher. There was A genealogy Forum, Thatcher Crest, Family Origin Info, complaints about Meryl Streep not playing Marg. Thatcher to their liking, lots of photos and some blog writings by one Grant Thatcher from the UK - very interesting...
. The one site I found interesting has a listing of "Some noteworthy people of the name Thatcher:"
-David J. Thatcher b.1921, American flight engineer/gunner, recipient of the Silver Star, the Distinguished Flying Cross, Air Medal.
-George Thatcher 1754-1824, American lawyer, jurist and statesman.
-Henry Knox Thatcher 1806-1880, American admiral in the United States Navy during the American Civil War.
-Roland Churchill Thatcher IV b.1977, an American PGA professional golfer.
-Maurice Hudson Thatcher 1870-1973, U.S. Congressman.
-Prime Minister Margaret Hilda Thatcher LG, OM, PC, FRS b.1925, English PM of United Kingdom from 1979 to 1990 and recipient of the Presidential Medal of Freedom.
-Heather Thatcher 1896-1987, an English actress.
-Wilbert Ross Thatcher PC 1917-1971, Canadian premier of Saskatchewan, Canada, 1964-1971.
-Benjamin David Thatcher b.1975, Welsh professional footballer.
-Torin Thatcher 1905-1961, British actor.
(If you would like to be included in this listing, please notify me and I will pencil you in.)
INSPIRATION
An autumn sunset,
Changing, moment to moment,
Fascinates and awes.
HAIKU ~ by Nancy Thatcher Cerny ~
The BLOG
Family members are welcome to contribute to this blog by accessing the editor through blogsite, email at nktcerny@suddenlink.net, phone (870)425-8264 or snail mail.
To date, I know only how to manage transcribed print (no pictures or cut-paste). If there are any brain cells left, I may stuff them with how to accomplish those sophisticated talents.
Thanks - Nancy y Te \
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