dycusburg.com

Frances High School Sweethearts Celebrate 60 Years of Wedded Bliss

2012-01-20T17:38:00.003-05:00

Bruce and Charlotte (Dycus) Ordway

On December 18, 2011 at the First Presbyterian Church in Merrillville, IN, Bruce Ordway originally of Crayne, KY, and Charlotte Dycus Ordway originally of Dycusburg, KY, renewed their vows in a 60th wedding anniversary ceremony along with 135 of their closest friends and family.

The couple was married in a small Mississippi town where they ran off as young adults madly in love to elope on January 20, 1952. Charlotte Dycus Ordway is the only daughter of the late Mark and Geneva (Cooksey) Dycus of Dycusburg. Bruce Ordway is the youngest son of four children born to the late Robert and Imogene Ordway of Crayne, KY.

Charlotte, also known as “Candy,” was a Frances High School cheerleader who went on to attend college at Murray State. Bruce is a recent Frances High Basketball team Hall of Fame member who went to the Navy. The couple relocated to Northwest Indiana in the late 1950s where they worked and raised their family, daughter Renee Ordway Connelly of Merrillville, IN, and son Greg (wife Sharon) Ordway of Portage, IN.

Both Charlotte and Bruce retired in the 1980s. Charlotte was employed by the telephone (merged multiple times and now AT&T). Bruce retired as a senior analyst from DuPont. The couple stayed in Merrillville until the millennium when they decided to split time between the Ordway farm in Crayne and their home in Daytona Beach Shores, FL.

Mr. and Mrs. Ordway now reside full time in Florida. The couple says everyone in their old home town growing up said their marriage "wouldn’t last 6 months" ... and here they are today, happy and in good health, celebrating being together 60 years later.

The couple is an inspiration to many, the rock of their family, and have affected so many people with their love and friendship over the years. Bruce and Charlotte thank God for being blessed with such a wonderful life, good health and a loving family (including many nieces, nephews, and cousins, five grandchildren, and three, soon to be four great grandchildren). Bruce is also thankful for the beautiful woman he married, who he looks forward to spending every day with for the rest of their lives.

If you would like to get in touch with the couple, they are on Facebook under the name BruceandCharlotte Ordway, and their email address is bcordie2@yahoo.com.

1940 Census Goes Digital in April

2012-01-07T11:26:00.003-05:00

Via Mashable.com:
Following a 72-year wait period, The National Archives and Records will release the 1940 U.S. Census in April and make the search for information about ancestors easier than ever with free online access from any computer.

Genealogists will have digital access to the 1940 Census when the report is released on April 2. This is a big step toward making the archives more accessible to the public through technology. The most recent census — which covers the 1930s — is available through the libraries via microfilm that usually has to be reserved and ordered.

However, as of now, the 1940 Census will not include a name index, so users will have to know the enumeration district in which the person they are searching for lived in 1940. The National Archives provides maps with the numbers on its website.

Read more ...

Obituary: Ann Howard Stoehr, 70

2012-01-02T23:58:00.004-05:00

EDDYVILLE — Mrs. Ann Howard Stoehr, 70, of Eddyville, passed away Saturday, December 31, 2011, at her residence in Eddyville surrounded by family and friends.

Mrs. Stoehr retired from ATO-FINA Chemical Plant in Calvert City as an engineering secretary with 20 years of service. She was a member of Eddyville United Methodist Church.

She is survived by her husband of 15 years, Gene Stoehr Sr.; one son, Brad Hunt and his wife Elizabeth of Iuka; one daughter, Kristi Spedding and her husband Rob of Eddyville; and the delights of her life, her two grandchildren, granddaughter, Carlyann Spedding and grandson, Connor Spedding, both of Eddyville. Other survivors include a brother, John Howard and his wife Becky of Eddyville; a cousin, Ronnie Marshall and his wife Ruth of Marion, Ky.; and several stepchildren and stepgrandchildren.

She was preceded in death by her parents, Carlon and Ruby Marshall Howard.

Services are scheduled for 2 p.m. Tuesday, January 3, 2012, at Lakeland Funeral Home Chapel in Eddyville with the Rev. Jack Larwa officiating. Burial will be in Dycusburg Cemetery in Dycusburg, Ky.

Visitation will be 5-8 p.m. Monday, January 2, 2012 at Lakeland Funeral Home in Eddyvillle.

Condolences may be sent to www.lakelandchapel.com.

Source: The Paducah Sun, Jan. 1, 2012

Obituary: Parker Lynn Holsapple, 81

2011-12-27T21:40:00.003-05:00

Parker Lynn Holsapple, 81, of Marion died Saturday at Western Baptist Hospital in Paducah.

Mr. Holsapple was retired from U.S. Steel- Gary Tube Works, a member of Emmaus Baptist Church and Liberty Lodge F&AM 580.

He was preceded in death by his wife, Patricia Lou Holsapple; one granddaughter; and his parents, James and Lillie Winters Holsapple.

He is survived by two sons, Jimmy Holsapple of Chesterton, Ind., and Rickey Holsapple of Dycusburg; one daughter, Darlene Peterson of Chesterton; two brothers, Jim Holsapple of Seville, Fla., and Jerry Holsapple of Crescent City, Fla.; one sister, Elouise Truitt of Crescent City; five grandchildren; and seven great-grandchildren.

Services will be at 11 a.m. Wednesday at Myers Funeral Home in Marion with the Rev. Lonnie Knight officiating. Burial will follow in Asbridge Cemetery.

Friends may call from 5-8 p.m. Tuesday at the funeral home. Masonic services will be at 6:30 p.m. Tuesday.

Source: The Paducah Sun, Dec. 18, 2011

Obituary: Harold Wesley Wring, 76

2011-12-27T21:33:00.003-05:00

Mr. Harold Wesley Wring, 76, of Salem, Ky., passed away Saturday evening at his home.

He was a member of Pinckneyville Baptist Church where he was a song leader for over 30 years. Mr. Wring was a member of the Laymen Quartet, and loved to sing. He often said, “I will sing at the drop of a hat ... and I’ll drop the hat.” He was an avid St. Louis Cardinals and University of Kentucky Wildcat fan. He loved spending time with his grandchildren which were his pride and joy.

He is survived by his wife of 44 years, Clara Marlene Wring; six children, Katherine Blanton of Leesburg, Fla., Deborah Loyd of Burna, Ky., Cheryl Driver of Salem, Ky., Lola Nelson of Leesburg, Fla., and Kevin Wring of Salem, Ky., and Eric Wring of Salem, Ky.; two sisters, Louise Kitchens of Salem, Ky., Donna Faye Vanhooser of Newburgh, Ind.; and one brother Tom Wring of Salem, Ky. Grandchildren, Angel Vines, Amanda Hunter, A.J. Blanton, Justin Loveless, Wesley Wring, Elijah Wring, Isaac Wring, Lauren Wring and Logan Wring; great-grandchildren, D.J. Vines, Destiny Vines, Monty Nelson and Jaycee Nelson.

He was preceded in death by his parents, James V. and Gladys P. Patton Wring; and two grandchildren, Chad and Josh Nelson.

Funeral services will be Tuesday at 2 p.m. in the chapel of Boyd Funeral Directors with the Revs. Leslie Joyce and Jim Wring officiating. Burial will follow in Tyners Chapel Cemetery. Friends may call after 5 p.m. Monday in the chapel of Boyd Funeral Directors.

Condolences may also be left online at boydfuneraldirectors.com.

Source: The Paducah Sun, Dec. 19, 2011

Dycusburg Gets New Telephone System Installed

2011-11-28T13:57:00.004-05:00

After some twenty years without telephone service in and around Dycusburg, Ky., the people are again able to call up their neighbors for a chat or call a doctor by long distance.

The Salem Telephone Company has a newly installed line to Dycusburg which at present has ten subscribers and more to be added later as material becomes available.

The Salem Company is planning to install some hundred or more telephones in that community and are also planning on a dial system which will make service more prompt and also make it possible to serve more subscribers. The telephone company is owned by Bill Boswell and William Butler who service and install their own equipment. They have a very efficient Mrs. Boswell as operator at the board.

Source: Livingston Leader, Thurs., 28 Aug 1947 - page 1
Photo source: Seattle Municipal Archives from Seattle, WA (used for illustrative purposes only)

Thanks to Brenda Joyce Jerome for supplying this article. Visit her blog here: http://wkygenealogy.blogspot.com/

Obituary: Steve Oliver

2011-11-23T13:37:00.002-05:00

Steve Oliver
March 3, 1952 - November 17, 2011

Mr. Steve "Pee Wee" Oliver, 59, Fredonia, KY died Thursday, November 17, 2011 at 11:57 AM at the Caldwell Medical Center ER. He was a carpenter, formerly the fire chief of Fredonia and a member of Southside Baptist Church.

Steve is survived by his mother, Geraldine Riley Olver, Marion, KY, son and daughter-in-law: Zak and Kelly Oliver, Caldwell County, KY, daughter and son-in-law: Darrah and Rusty Crawford, Paris, TN, brother, Michael Oliver, sister, Lori Tyson, Greenwood, IN and seven grandchildren, Laynee Thornton, Aden Crawford, Greyson Crawford, Levin Crawford, Alex Oliver, Isaac Fraliex, Mia Oliver.

He was preceded in death by his father, Kenneth Oliver.

Funeral services will be held Monday at 11:00 AM at Morgan's Funeral Home with Bro. Gerald Cannon officiating. Visitation will be from 4 to 8 PM Sunday at Morgan's Funeral Home. Burial will be in the Rowland Cemetery in Caldwell County.

Genealogy Query: Andrew Jackson Fincher

2011-11-02T20:06:00.001-04:00

I have a letter dated October 11, 1889 on stationery from the Marion Roller Mills, office of J.B. Kevil and A. U. Lamb. The letter is from my great-great grandfather, Andrew Jackson Fincher to his wife concerning the condition of his son, John.

John's legs had been crushed in an accident and he died on Oct. 15, 1889. I can only guess that the accident happened at the Marion Roller Mills since the letter is on their stationery.

Does anyone know if there was a newspaper in the area at this time? Maybe there was an article about the accident or his death. I've so far not been able to find any death or burial records for John. He was from Robertson County, Tennessee.

I would appreciate any help or information. Contact me at goad@bellsouth.net. Thanks!

Lamb Family Reunion (2011)

2011-10-27T15:04:00.002-04:00

Obituary: Cecil Wayne Travis, 81

2011-10-16T15:00:00.001-04:00

MARION — Cecil Wayne Travis, 81, of Marion died Saturday at Livingston Hospital and Healthcare Services in Salem.

Mr. Travis was a laborer in the manufacturing industry.

He is survived by his wife, Connie Travis; one sister, Laverne James of Marion; and several nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by two brothers. His parents were Herman and Rosa Duvall Travis.

Services will be at 1 p.m. Tuesday at Myers Funeral Home in Marion. Burial will be in the Asbridge Cemetery.

Friends may call from 11 a.m. until the funeral hour Tuesday at the funeral home.

Source: The Paducah Sun, Oct. 16, 2011

Obituary: Naomi Ruth Turley

2011-10-09T15:40:00.002-04:00

(September 17, 1941 - August 27, 2011)

Naomi Ruth Turley, 69, beloved wife of the late Rev. Thomas Turley. Loving mother of Robert (Kyoko Suzuki), Michael (Karen), Timothy and the late Thomas, Jr. Grandmother of Kayla, Kert and Reina. Sister of Maxine Akers, Vivian Hamood, Lewis Gentry, Deborah Gentry and Rhonda Gentry.

Lamb Family Reunion

2011-07-19T11:54:00.000-04:00

PRINCETON, KY -- A Lamb family reunion will be held on Saturday, Oct. 8, at noon at Princeton Tourist Welcome Center. Descendants of Thomas and Alice (Longshore) Lamb are welcome to join us for a fun afternoon of visiting and fellowship, meeting new family members and sharing genealogical information.

Longshore and Sarah (Lee) Lamb and their nine children migrated from Spartanburg County, SC to Caldwell County, KY in the early 1800's and were among the earliest settlers of Caldwell County. Longshore's younger brother John Lamb, his wife Sarah (Fincher) Lamb, and their four children also migrated to Caldwell County, KY in the early 1800's.

Several descendants of Longshore's older brother Thomas Lamb and his wife Sarah (?) migrated first to Tennessee and then into counties in the Jackson Purchase area of Kentucky.

Afternoon activities will include a short program by Sharon Lamb Davis and a talk by historian Odell Walker who will speak about life in Caldwell County during the early Lamb years.

Come join us, bring your old Lamb family photos, family histories, and any family heirlooms that you would care to share with us.

What: Lamb Family Reunion
When: Saturday, October 8, 2011, at noon
Where: Princeton Tourist Welcome Center, 201 E. Main St., Princeton, KY 42455

A catered Southern style lunch will be served. The price for the meal is $15.00 per person.

For more information please contact:
Matthew T. Patton
4798 Abberley Lane
Johns Creek, GA 30022
215-285-0920
matthewtpatton@yahoo.com

Obituary: Lafe Kenneth Linzy, 86

2011-06-13T15:03:00.004-04:00

MARION — Lafe Kenneth Linzy, 86, of Marion died Friday at Crittenden County Hospital.

He is survived by his wife, Inez Linzy; seven children, Darrell Linzy, Donna Haire, both of Marion, Danny Linzy of Carmi, Ill., Marlon Linzy of Henderson, Phyllis O’Neal of Marion, Rita Templeton of Clay, and Deitra Beavers of Marion; three sisters, Juanita Green of Lyon County, Betty June Young and Mary LeFan, both of Marion; 23 grandchildren, and 31 great-grandchildren.

He was preceded in death by three brothers. His parents were Ray and Vada Linzy.

Services will be at 1 p.m. Monday at Gilbert Funeral Home. Interment with military rites will be at Mapleview Cemetery.

Source: The Paducah Sun, June 12, 2011

Obituary: Maxine Matthews, 84

2011-05-12T10:17:00.000-04:00

DYCUSBURG — Maxine L. Matthews, 84, of Dycusburg died at 8:25 p.m. Monday at Christian Care Center in Kuttawa.

She was a member of Frances Baptist Church.

Survivors include five sons, Timmy Matthews and Jerry Matthews, both of Princeton, Charles Matthews and Jeff Matthews, both of Dycusburg, and Howard Matthews of Tiline; two daughters, Frances Holloman of Princeton and Patricia Szarka of Jewett City, Conn.; one sister, Kathleen Matheny of Shelbyville, Ill.; four half sisters; 20 grandchildren; 28 great grandchildren; and two great great grandchildren.

She was preceded in death by her parents, Perce and Neva Holder; her husband, Laymon Matthews; one son, David Matthews; two daughters, Sheila Matthews and Cindy Smith; one grandson, Raymond Matthews; two brothers, three sisters and one half sister.

Services will be held at 1 p.m. Thursday at Dunn’s Funeral Home in Eddyville with Rev. Lonnie Knight officiating. Burial will follow in Dycusburg Cemetery. Friends may call after 5 p.m. today at the funeral home.

Dycusburg News: March 3, 2011

2011-03-06T17:27:00.002-05:00

By Matthew T. Patton

This week, the area lost two men from the generation that newscaster Tom Brokaw appropriately coined "The Greatest Generation." We extend our sympathies to the family of William T. "Skee" Kinnis, PFC Army, 1942-45 Germany 83rd Div. Kinnis, 90, died on Saturday. Burial in Asbridge Cemetery.

Also, on Sunday, another veteran from Crittenden County passed away: William T. "Muff" Griffin, age 85, SSL 3/C Navy, S Pacific, 1944-1946. Burial in Dycusburg Cemetery.

A birthday party for Lola Mae Patton was held Saturday, Feb. 5 at the Seven Springs fellowship hall with nearly 85 in attendance. She turned 90 on Feb. 3. The family extends a warm thanks to everyone who attended and brought gifts.

The Dycusburg Community Group is gathering public commentary about a newly instituted project in Dycusburg. The DCG was approached to spearhead an effort to extend the guard rail or similar barrier at the bottom of the hill on SR 70 adjacent to the Cumberland River. Extending the guard rail, the group feels, is a necessary preventive measure. To weigh in with your comments, please e-mail dycusburg@yahoo.com or find Dycusburg.com on Facebook.

Share your news by e-mailing matthewtpatton@yahoo.com.

Genealogy Query: William David Wells

2011-03-06T17:21:00.001-05:00

Query: Seeking info on great-grandparents, Wm. David Wells, born Dycusburg Oct. 16, 1850. His father: David Henry Wells; mother unk. Apparently gfather orphaned/left w/relatives - in 1860 census with aunt/uncle, S.P. and Elizabeth (Duncan) Weldon, Carrsville, Livingston Co. According to my father, his dad lived w/Weldons until after Civil War when he left on horseback for TX. E-mail Jeanne Smith smithv@clearwire.net

Death Notice: William T. "Mutt" Griffin

2011-02-27T22:03:00.004-05:00

DYCUSBURG, KY - William Thomas "Mutt" Griffin, 85, of Dycusburg, passed away Sunday, February 27, 2011 at his residence in Dycusburg. He was preceded in death by his wife of 62 years, Mary Lou (Ramage) Griffin, who died June 15, 2007 in Dycusburg.

He was preceded in death by a son, Dennis Lee Griffin.

Arrangements are incomplete at Lakeland Funeral Home In Eddyville.

Burial at Dycusburg Cemetery will follow services.

Obituary: William Thomas "Skee" Kinnis, 90

2011-02-27T20:27:00.003-05:00

William Thomas "Skee" Kinnis (Nov. 1, 1920-Feb. 26, 2011)

William Thomas "Skee" Kinnis, 90, of Marion, KY died Saturday at Crittenden County Hospital in Marion, KY. He was an Army Veteran and member of Seven Springs Baptist Church.

Surviving is his wife, Lillie Edna Kinnis of Marion, KY; daughter, Becky (Chuck) Conner of Marion, KY; grandson, Charles (Julie) Conner of Marion, KY; great grandchildren, Faith and Alexzander Conner of Marion, KY; sisters, Wilma Stromatt and Gladys Donahue both of Lake Village, IN and Lena Miller and Sandy Martin both of Marion, KY; brothers, Barney John Kinnis of Dycusburg, KY, Arthur Ray Kinnis of Lake Village, IN and Elvis Kinnis of Hopkinsville, KY.

He was preceded in death by his son, Randall Dowell Kinnis; parents, Thomas Liner and Rose Kinnis and three brothers. Services are scheduled for 1 PM Tuesday at Gilbert Funeral Home in Marion, KY with interment in Asbridge Cemetery.

The family will receive visitors from 5-8 PM Monday at the funeral home. Military rites will be given at the cemetery on Tuesday.

Lola Mae Patton Celebrates 90th Birthday

2011-02-07T17:13:00.003-05:00

Lola Mae Patton (born Feb. 3, 1921) celebrated her 90th birthday on Saturday, Feb. 5 at Seven Springs Baptist Church with a crowd of nearly 85 people consisting of children, grandchildren, great-grandchildren, great-great grandchildren, cousins, nieces, nephews and family and friends. Lola Mae is the daughter of Francis Marion Doom and Addie Lee (Duncan) Doom. Her husband of 56 years, Denver Patton, died in 2006.

She's pictured here with Cullen Beckner, son of Spud and Stacie (Holder) Beckner.

Livingston History Book Now Available

2011-01-03T15:08:00.002-05:00

The Livingston County Historical and Genealogical Society has announced the publication of their new book, Livingston County, Kentucky Family History Book, Vol. II. A limited number of books is available now. The book is $59.95 (Kentucky residents please add sales tax for a total of $63.55) plus $6.00 for mailing and can be ordered from the Society at P.O. Box 138, Smithland, KY 42081. For more information, contact the society at 270-928-4656 in the afternoons.

The book is entirely new and includes information on Calamities, Community Histories, Legends and Landmarks and much more plus over 1,000 photographs of life in Livingston County.

Membership in the Society remains $10 per year. Current officers are Judy Wasko, President; Barbara Riley, Vice President; Mary Lou Smith, Secretary and Corresponding Secretary; Jim Edmonds, Treasurer.

Source: Western Kentucky Genealogy Blog (http://wkygenealogy.blogspot.com/). Image source: University of Kentucky.

Dycusburg News: Dec. 9, 2010

2011-01-02T00:21:00.001-05:00

Submitted by Matthew T. Patton

Lafe Linzy, son of Ray and Vada (Ralston) Linzy, turned 86 on Nov. 25. He spent the day with his daughter, Donna Haire, and family. Those who are familiar with Dycusburg's history know Linzy operated the ferry at Dycusburg for some time. Johny Brown sold the ferry to Linzy on March 17, 1949. Linzy was called back into the Navy to help retrieve the Marines trapped in Korea and closed the operations and sold his ferrying equipment.

Happy birthday wishes are extended to Brad Hunt (Nov. 1), Amber Granstaff (Nov. 2), Jake Selph (Nov. 8), Wanda Hodge (Nov. 12), Tony Maxfield (Nov. 13), Becky Brightwell Howard (Nov. 19), Rick Holsapple (Nov. 19), Shirley Sosh (Nov. 20), Chris Elder (Nov. 21), Shawn Stinnett (Nov. 23) and Zack Brantley (Nov. 29).

Do you know how Seven Springs got its name? Go to dycusburg.com and click on “Dycusburg Newsroom” on the right to find the answer.

George and Carolyn Strilko of New Lenox, IL, enjoyed a visit to the flea market in Nashville with Carol's sister, Barbara Ethridge. They were joined in Nashville by Gary, Gina, McKenzie and Justin Noffsinger of Owensboro.

Barbara Ethridge hosted Thanksgiving dinner at her house on Thursday with 30 in attendance.

Congratulations to Travis Sosh and Jenny Patton who were wed on Saturday, Nov. 27 in Caldwell County with Rev. Danny Starrick officiating. We wish the newlyweds a long and happy life together.

102 Years Ago in Dycusburg: Henry Bennett Sues for Sum of $100,000

2010-10-27T19:14:00.005-04:00

Henry Bennett, of Dycusburg, has filed suit against the parties, whom he names, and alleges burned his factory and distillery at Dycusburg, last Febuary [sic], and at the same time abused him unmercifully. The suit is filed against near one hundred citizens, of Trigg, Lyon and Caldwell counties and is for the sum of one hundred thousand dollars.

Source: Oct. 29, 1908 Crittenden Record Press, p. 5

Preserve the Courthouse: Smithland Event to Raise Awareness, Support Preservation Movement

2010-10-27T18:35:00.007-04:00

IN THE WORKS: The new county office building is under construction in this photo dated Sept. 2010. Courtesy/Brenda Joyce Jerome.

The Livingston County Historical and Genealogical Society and its Preservation Committee are planning a Halloween event at the Livingston County Court House in Smithland on Friday, Oct. 29, 2010. The theme is "Haunting Tales From the Past." The evening will begin with music at 5 p.m., followed by stories of the Night Riders, murders and Civil War activities in Smithland and other stories of the area. Kentucky Supreme Court Justice Bill Cunningham will be on hand for a book signing. The Livingston County High School FFA will have food available for purchase.

The new Livingston County Justice Center opened in 2009 and a new County Office Building, which will contain the county clerk's office, is currently being constructed next to the old Court House. When this happens, the old Court House will be empty for the first time since it was built in 1845. The purpose of this Halloween event is to make residents aware of the movement to preserve the Court House and adjoining old clerks' offices (built circa 1853) and provide the opportunity to contribute to the future of the Court House. This is the perfect way to have a family-friendly good time and support the preservation movement.

(Editor's Note: This post was used with permission from http://wkygenealogy.blogspot.com, a site dedicated to history and genealogy from Western Kentucky).

Dycusburg News: Oct. 28, 2010

2010-10-27T18:28:00.002-04:00

Submitted by Matthew T. Patton

The L.B. and Sarah (Parsley) Patton reunion was held on Sunday, Oct. 10, at the Fredonia Lion's Club Building with many descendants in attendance. The family has been gathering for many years, always enjoying an afternoon of visiting and fellowship. The Pattons moved to Crittenden County in 1878 from Laurel County, Ky.

This Saturday (weather permitting), the Dycusburg Community Group (DCG) will clean the town of Dycusburg, starting at 10 a.m. Those who wish to help should meet at the site of the future park. The DCG will provide bags and bottled water. If you live in Dycusburg and you need help removing trash, debris or other items from your property, please call 988-2758 or meet the group at the site and they will direct their efforts as they are able.

Volunteers are also still needed to help with the set up of the park, particularly after the land survey is done and after the drainage culvert is installed. Until those items are complete, the park construction cannot begin. In the meantime, be thinking about ways you can volunteer to help the community.

Share your news by e-mailing matthewtpatton@yahoo.com.

Dycusburg News: Oct. 14, 2010

2010-10-27T18:22:00.000-04:00

Submitted by Matthew T. Patton

Parker Holsapple was honored with an 80th birthday celebration at the Dycusburg Baptist Church fellowship hall on Saturday with a large crowd in attendance.

Owen Matthews, son of Chase and Jennifer Matthews, was treated to a first birthday party at the Calvary Baptist Church in Crayne on Saturday.

Dycusburg Day, sponsored by Dycusburg Ladies Auxiliary, will be held at the Dycusburg Baptist Church from 2-4 p.m., Oct. 16. There will be a cake walk, two-liter ring toss, games, gospel singing and country music street dance. "Homecooking on the Cumberland" cookbooks will also available for $10. A large yard sale will also be held that day in Dycusburg.

Are you missing a dog? Star Mahns found a small, black dog with a collar and no tags on Brown Mines Rd. Call 988-3004 to claim her.

Our sympathies are extended to the families of Rhea Stinnett, Carlos Bailey and Ann Tabor.

Share your news by e-mailing matthewtpatton@yahoo.com.

Dycusburg Park on WPSD

2010-10-21T09:20:00.001-04:00

Dycusburg News: Sept. 16, 2010

2010-09-21T20:50:00.001-04:00

By Matthew T. Patton

The Dycusburg cookbook, compiled by the Dycusburg Ladies Auxiliary, has arrived from the printer. The beautifully bound book, with 208 recipes, titled "Homecooking on the Cumberland: The Love and Traditions of Dycusburg, Kentucky" is $10. It's available for purchase at Dycusburg Grocery. For more info, call Starlena Mahns at 988-3004.

The next Dycusburg Community Group meeting (an informational meeting on park plans and future group initiatives) will be Monday, Sept. 20 at 6 p.m. at the grounds of the future park adjacent to the Baptist church fellowship hall. In the event of rain, it will be held at the home of Michelle Henderson.

Mark your calendars: Dycusburg Day is slated for Saturday, Oct. 16. A community yard sale will also be held in conjunction with the festivities that day. Vendors, live music, crafts, a BBQ, fire department activities and several other events are in the works. Anyone who would like to get involved can call 988-3004.

Carol and George Strilko recently visited the area from the Chicago suburbs.

Dan and Michelle Henderson and Jake and Jody Selph and several of their friends enjoyed a camping trip to Land Between the Lakes during Labor Day weekend.

Only two copies of "Dycusburg, Kentucky: A Glance at Her Past" are available from the most recent reprint. Copies are $75 and should be reserved by e-mailing matthewtpatton@yahoo.com or calling 215-285-0920.

A family reunion for the descendants of L.B. and Sarah (Parsley) Patton will be held Sunday, Oct. 10 at the Fredonia Lion's Club Building. A potluck lunch will be served around noon. Family members are encouraged to bring photos to share. Friends of the family are also welcome to attend.

An October family reunion (date TBD) is also in the works for the Ollie and Emma (Bennett) Matthews family. For more information, e-mail michrehend@yahoo.com or call 988-2758.

Share your birthdays, anniversaries, news and other items by e-mailing matthewtpatton@yahoo.com.

Dycusburg News: Aug. 26, 2010

2010-08-24T19:46:00.000-04:00

By Matthew T. Patton

Gail Bannister asked us to share this news: The Dycusburg School Reunion will be at the Dycusburg Methodist Church grounds on Sept. 5 at 1 p.m. It is potluck with barbecue and soft drinks will be provided. Please bring your lawn chairs and old photos. All students and their families are invited. Friends of former students are also encouraged to attend. Bannister said this will be an event with lots of good food, good people and good memories.

Becky Stinnett Jarrett asked us to share the following: The Stinnett-Travis Reunion will be coming up Oct. 10 with lots of games, prizes and an auction. Jarrett said the reunion will be "lots of fun and good food." She also wrote, "Don't miss Jimmy Stinnett calling out the Bingo numbers, also live music from Tony Stinnett and Gage Hill from North Carolina."

Gearldine Shouse reported that the Tabor reunion was held in late July with several in attendance. Penny Christman reported that the Holder family reunion was also held in late July with more than 80 in attendance. The family, descendants of Perce James and Mary Belle Holder, covered five generations of the Holder family.

Dan Linzy reported that he took his father (Lafe Linzy) to Dycusburg on Sunday, Aug. 22. Dan wrote, "We made several stops and visited. We also made a run through the cemetery and had a great day."

Martha Stinnett reported that Rodney Stinnett came in 1st place in his division for the 5K run at BBQ on the Barkley. Several from the area enjoyed attending the festivities in Kuttawa during the weekend.

A Dycusburg cookbook has been compiled by a few residents of Dycusburg and is available for $10. Proceeds will benefit next year's fireworks show and other upcoming projects according to Peggy Johnson and Star Mahns. For more information, call the Dycusburg Grocery at 988-3004.

The health, safety and general welfare of the residents of this area would improve by significantly reducing the number of stray dogs and cats. Not only is it cruel for the animals, but the town of Dycusburg has also used county funds and donations from several residents to clean up our little village on the river. Unfortunately, stray dogs are ruining the cleaning efforts in the early morning hours before the trash company comes, leaving yards full of garbage for residents to clean up. Help end this vicious cycle of irresponsible pet owners who allow their dogs and cats to run wild and breed uncontrollably by calling the
county dog catcher.

Share your news by e-mailing matthewtpatton@yahoo.com.

Dycusburg School Reunion Slated for Sept. 5

2010-08-17T20:30:00.002-04:00

Gail Bannister posted the following:
The Dycusburg School Reunion will be at the Methodist Church grounds on Sept. 5 at 1 p.m. It is potluck with barbecue and soft drinks provided.

Please bring your lawn chairs and old photos. All students and their families are invited.

We also welcome friends of former students. This will be an event with lots of good food, good people and good memories! Hope to see you all there!

Dycusburg News: July 22, 2010

2010-07-22T13:35:00.000-04:00

By Matthew T. Patton

A dedication of a shooting deck at the Henderson cabin was held July 4 in memory of Rick Fondaw who passed away on May 17. He was honored with a 21-gun salute. More than 300 were in attendance throughout the weekend.

Our sympathy is extended to the family of Pat Holsapple, 76, who died on June 18.

The Dycusburg community was saddened when Travis Conditt, 19, drowned in the Cumberland River on June 23. Recovery crews found his body only a few feet from where he went under while swimming with a friend.

As part of a community grant, the Dycusburg Community Group will be building a park in town within the next 1-2 months, including concrete picnic tables and grills. The equipment has been delivered, but due to the extreme heat, construction will begin at a later date. For progress details, visit www.dycusburg.com or find us on Facebook by searching "dycusburg.com."

Copies of "Dycusburg, Kentucky: A Glance at Her Past" are available for purchase at $75. To order a copy, mail a check or money order to: Matthew T. Patton, 4798 Abberley Ln., Johns Creek, GA 30022. Questions? E-mail matthewtpatton@yahoo.com.

If you haven't checked out the Dycusburg Facebook fan page, you're missing out. Scores of historic photos have recently been added. A special thanks to Becky Brightwell Howard for her hard work on getting these photos added. Find the link for the page at www.dycusburg.com.

Obituary: Pat Holsapple, 76

2010-06-25T12:32:00.001-04:00

Pat Holsapple, 76, of Marion died Friday, June 18 at Lourdes Hospital in Paducah.

She was a homemaker and member of Emmaus Baptist Church.

Surviving are her husband of 59 years, Parker Holsapple of Marion; a daughter Darlene Peterson of Chesterton, Ind.; sons, Jimmy Holsapple of Chesterton and Rickey Holsapple of Dycusburg; five grandchildren and five great-grandchildren.

She was preceded in death by her parents, Litt and Pauline Mittchel Ferguson, a brother and one grandchild.

Funeral services were Sunday, June 20 at Myers Funeral Home in Marion with Rev. Lonnie Knight officiating. Burial will be in Asbridge Cemetery.

Source: The Crittenden Press, June 24, 2010

Drowning in Cumberland River at Dycusburg

2010-06-25T12:28:00.004-04:00

DYCUSBURG - Rescue personnel from several area agencies are at Dycusburg, dragging the Cumberland River for the body of 19-year-old Travis Conditt of Marion, who is believed to have drowned while swimming with a friend Wednesday afternoon.

Conditt and 19-year-old Jordan Wadsworth of Marion were swimming in the river near the boat ramp while two friends, Jacob Pitman of Possum Trot and Stormy DePriest of Benton were sitting on rip rap on the riverbank.

The boys had been swimming in the area for about 30 minutes when they tried to swim to a green buoy marking the river channel, about 100 feet from shore. Conditt was the first to reach the buoy, and as the two turned to swim back, he began to cramp. His companion tried coaxing him onto his back in a floating position, but Conditt went under. Pitman went into the river, but the victim was already under water.

Wadsworth got out of the water called 911 and tried to crank a small boat parked nearby but it would not start.

The boys had been swimming in that part of the river before, just three days earlier.

Rescue personnel say that with the water temperature of the river at 88 degrees, the victim's body should come to the surface within about 24 hours if he is not found sooner. The Area 2 Dive Team was expected to arrive and begin searching at about 7 p.m.

From The Crittenden Press Breaking News blog (used with permission)

Travis Sosh: Candidate for Magistrate District 5

2010-05-10T23:17:00.004-04:00

Magistrate Candidate Travis Sosh coordinated the sandbag effort at Dycusburg last week to prevent the Dycusburg Baptist Church and fellowship hall from flooding. Pictured here is Travis hard at work (courtesy of The Crittenden Press).

Dycusburg Ferry

2010-05-09T21:33:00.004-04:00

Click image for larger version.

Brenda Underdown shared this photo with Larry Bragdon who e-mailed it to share on this site. It is from the Crittenden County Pictorical History Book. Brenda wrote: "Marian Hina Stuart submitted the picture when we did the book. She lived somewhere in Tennessee then. She was from the Hina family that lived at Lafayette Heights during the Lafayette Mines era."

Behind the tree is the Dycusburg ferry. Year unknown.

Neighbors Helping Neighbors

2010-05-08T23:28:00.002-04:00

Jerry Marshall (L) and Danny Sharp await their next passenger on a flooded section of KY 295/Dycusburg Road just south of the Dycusburg community in southern Crittenden County.

Cumberland River floodwaters have turned an area along the Crittenden-Lyon County line into an island. The two ways in and out are covered by water. Marshall and Sharp are using a Jon boat to help their neighbors get in and out to go to and from work.

Genealogy Query: Lyon

2010-04-22T22:51:00.001-04:00

"Looking for info/documentation about Thompson A Lyon b. 1833or 1835 in Eddyville d. 1899 m. Julia Frost. I believe he was a child of Chittenden Lyon and his second wife.

"Also info/documentation for the son of Thompson A Lyon a Wallace Chittenden Lyon born in Paducah KY-9 March 1893. Married Emma then moved to Hyattsville MD/Family did stained glass windows.. I have other Lyon information and would appreciate any assistance. My email has changed so please respond to ac@solucian.com."

Dycusburg News: April 15, 2010

2010-04-15T09:00:00.000-04:00

By Matthew T. Patton

Our sympathies are extended to the family of Helen Brasher Ramage, 87, of Murfreesboro, Tenn., formerly of Dycusburg, who died March 22. She was the wife of J.B. Ramage, who died just a month before on Feb. 22.

We also extend our sympathies to the family of Jamie K. "Pug" LaRue, 38, of Dycusburg who died on March 17. Both were buried at the Dycusburg Cemetery.

Happy birthday to Mike Tosh (4/3); Brandee Bowman (4/3), Jody Beth Selph (4/8); Justin Noffinger (4/17); Regina Matthews (4/18); Justin Sutton (4/21); Jeannie Griffin (4/22), Amanda Oliver and Dylan Strilko (4/23); Bobbie Davenport (4/25); and Dennie Davenport (5/2). Share your birthdays and anniversaries by e-mailing matthewtpatton@yahoo.com.

As part of a community grant, the Dycusburg Community Group will be building a youth park in town within the next 1-2 months. For starters, the group desperately needs volunteers for labor to help construct and place playground equipment. Please consider investing your time in the youth of the area by helping. If you're interested, please call the DCG at 988-2758.

If you haven't checked out the Dycusburg Facebook fan page, you're missing out. Scores of historic photos have recently been added. Find the link for the page at www.dycusburg.com.

Crossing From Crittenden Into Lyon County, KY (Hwy. 295)

2010-04-08T11:08:00.004-04:00

Filmed April 5, 2010

Cumberland River at Dycusburg

2010-04-08T11:06:00.004-04:00

Filmed April 5, 2010

Dycusburg Baptist Church

2010-04-08T11:04:00.001-04:00

Filmed April 5, 2010

Dycusburg Methodist Church

2010-04-08T11:01:00.003-04:00

Filmed April 5, 2010

Dycusburg News: March 18, 2010

2010-03-22T10:33:00.003-04:00

By Matthew T. Patton

I received a few e-mails regarding the ferry at Dycusburg after posting a query in last week's issue. If anyone has photos or information, several are eager to learn about the ferry and its operation at Dycusburg. Please e-mail matthewtpatton@yahoo.com to share what you know.

A historic photo of John Anthony Greenlee and Lurie Emeline (Doom) Greenlee was added to dycusburg.com last week. The couple are ancestors or relatives of many people in this area.

Happy belated birthday to Star Mahns (Feb. 19) and Jennifer Matthews (Mar. 14). They were accidentally omitted in last week's issue.

Get well wishes are sent to Randy Rushing, Lonnie Knight, J.E. Brasher and Parker Holsapple. Also, Patty Walker submitted this notation on the Dycusburg Facebook page: "Hadley Beth Peek, daughter of Todd and Ginny Beth Peek needs all the prayers we can send her. Her grandparents Steve and Eunice Peek are from Dycusburg." For more information about Hadley's condition, visit www.jesus313.com/?p=454.

Congratulations to Heather and Perry McDowell on the birth of their daughter, Eryn McDowell and to Misty and Brad McDowell on the birth of their son, Lucas J. McDowell.

We extend our sympathies to the family of Bobbie Jean Ramage, 76, who died Thursday, March 4. Burial was at Dycusburg Cemetery. We also received word at this writing that Millie Cole passed away on Monday morning.

Share your news by e-mailing news@dycusburg.com.

Death Notice: Jamie "Pug" LaRue, 38

2010-03-18T21:34:00.001-04:00

RIP Jamie "Pug" LaRue, 38, of Dycusburg who died March 18, 2010

Greenlee Photo

2010-03-11T19:27:00.004-05:00

Click image for larger version.

John Anthony Greenlee and Lurie Emeline (Doom) Greenlee, daughter of Chittenden Lyon Doom and Mary Ana (Templeton) Doom.

Lurie was born 3/29/1868. John was born 10/28/1853. They were married (at Chittenden and Mary's home) August 8, 1886. (Crittenden County, Kentucky Marriages Vol. II 1866-1886, pg. 166)

They had 15 children, including 2 sets of twins.

Arnie Harrison Greenlee (1888)
Gladys Hartland Greenlee (1890)
Mount Etna Greenlee (1891)
City Zimmru Greenlee (1893)
Halbert Greenlee (1896)
Homer Greenlee (1896)
John Hulet Greenlee (1899)
Alonzo Oatman Greenlee (5/30/1903)
Malissa Oatman Greenlee (5/30/1903 - 3/17/1981)
Norvel Anthony Greenlee (1905)
Harley Hodge Roosevelt Greenlee (1907)
Hugh Siasby Greenlee (1910)
Clara Greenlee (1911)
Amazi Greenlee
Eulessess Greenlee

Photo and information provided by Diana Hollingsworth who is a Greenlee and Doom family researcher. Contact her at ddhollings@hotmail.com.

Dycusburg News: March 11, 2010

2010-03-11T15:04:00.002-05:00

By Matthew T. Patton

Birthday wishes are extended to Barbara Ethridge (Feb. 7); Anna Patton (Feb. 22); Donna Davenport-Walker (Feb. 13); Courtney Smith (Mar. 1); Brad McDowell (Mar. 3); Verna Mae Kinnis (Mar. 5); Demetrius Kinnis (Mar. 6); Juana Mae Stone (Mar. 6); Wilma Allen (Mar. 10); Robert Millikan (Mar. 12); Samson Pleasant (Mar. 13); Tyler Guess (Mar. 15); Melissa Asbridge (Mar. 18); Joann Peek (Mar. 20); Connie Travis (Mar. 24). Anniversaries celebrated this month are: Ronnie and Phyllis Blake (Mar. 7), Lonnie and Helen Travis (March 15) and Bob and Shelia Wilkinson (Mar. 23). Was someone left out? Send an e-mail to news@dycusburg.com for inclusion.

Sympathies are extended to the families of J.B. Ramage who died Feb. 22 and Howard "Pluto" Martin who died Feb. 27. Both were buried at Dycusburg Cemetery.

A reader of dycusburg.com was inquiring about the ferry at Dycusburg. If anyone has any news articles or photos of the ferry, please contact Matthew T. Patton by e-mailing matthewtpatton@yahoo.com. The site is updated frequently with news and updates.

Obituary: J.B. Ramage, 87

2010-02-25T13:29:00.001-05:00

J.B. Ramage, 87, of Murfreesboro, Tenn., formerly of Dycusburg, died Monday, Feb. 22, 2010 in Alvin C. York VA Medical Center in Murfreesboro.

He was retired from Kentucky Stone in Livingston County, was a member of Dycusburg Baptist Church, a member of Dycusburg Masonic Lodge 232 for 50 plus years and a World War II U.S. Navy veteran, who served on the USS Bennington.

Surviving are his wife of 61 years, Helen Brasher Ramage; one daughter, Michele Manning of Murfreesboro; two grandchildren, Shelby and Davis Manning, both of Murfreesboro; one sister-in-law, Bobbie J. Ramage of Marion; and several nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by his son-in-law, Chris Manning; three sisters, Ardell Myers Johnson, Rudell Myers Baker and Ada Mae Ramage Belt; three brothers, Charles Myers, Fred A. Ramage and Chuck Ramage. His parents were Frank Ramage and Zemrhu Greenlee Ramage.

Funeral services at 11 a.m., Friday, Feb. 26, 2010, at Lakeland Funeral Home Chapel in Eddyville with Dr. Mark Gregory and Rev. James Oates officiating. Burial will be at Dycusburg Cemetery with graveside military rites.

Visitation will be 5-8 p.m., Thursday at the funeral home with Masonic rites at 7 p.m.

Online condolences may be sent to the family at lakelandchapel.com.

Genealogy Query: Wells Family

2010-02-22T16:37:00.002-05:00

The Rev. William Jasper Wells fought for the Union, enlisted at Smithland, Kentucky, December 10, 1861 as a Private in Co I, 41st Illinois Volunteer Infantry and was discharged June 18, 1862 at Corinth, Mississippi. He was a Baptist preacher. He first married Henrietta McKee on October 14, 1863 in Crittenden, Kentucky and secondly married Mary Jane Grace on November 9, 1871 in Christian County, Kentucky. Mary Jane Wells passed away in 1899 in Dycusburg, Crittenden, Kentucky. Later he married Cleopatra Lindsey Ball, the daughter of Aaron Lindsey and widow of William Ball. Jasper was admitted to the Western State Hospital in Hopkinsville, Crittenden County Kentucky on May 20, 1915 for Ivy Psychosis related to bipolar mania and died there on May 29, 1915. He was buried in the cemetery land beside the Hospital, at one time there were wooden markers marking the graves that were made by some of the patients, but a fire swept through the cemetery and now no marker marks his or any other grave. Cleopatra Lindsey Ball Wells died on April 26, 1918.

The ministerial directory of the Baptist churches in the United States of America
By George William Lasher
Published: Ministerial directory co., 1899
Wells, William Jasper, Kelsey (Fredonia), Ky. - Born, Farmington, St Francois County, Missouri.; Licensed 1875, Ordained Dec. 29, 1889, Dycusburg Church, Dycusburg, Crittenden County, Kentucky.; South Dycusburg, Crittenden County, Kentucky; Hebron, Boone County, Kentucky; Liberty, Casey County, Kentucky; Caldwell, Caldwell County, Kentucky; Macedonia, Jackson County, Kentucky; Fredonia, Caldwell County, Kentucky; Emmaus.

Contact: Jason Townsend: JTownsend@memc.com.

Dycusburg News: Jan. 21, 2010

2010-01-21T17:46:00.000-05:00

Submitted by Matthew T. Patton

Mary (Linzy) LeFan was the honoree of a surprise 80th birthday luncheon on Saturday, Jan. 9 at the Christian Activities Center at Mexico Baptist Church, with approximately 40 in attendance. Mary was the daughter of Ray and Vada (Ralston) Linzy. Her late husband is Sanders "Cotton" LeFan.

Attending were her sons and their wives: Philip and Jeretta LeFan; Dennis LeFan and Jamie King; and Kevin and Vivian LeFan; grandchildren: Jessica and James Gibbs; Paige and Daniel Adams; and Alison LeFan; and her siblings: Lafe Linzy and wife Inez; Juanita Green; and Betty Young.

Other family and friends included Donna and Larry Haire; Rita and Mike Templeton, Hunter and Molly; Phyllis O'Neal; Deitra Beavers; Marilyn and Katie Jones; Mary Helen Christian; Ella Mae Mitchell; Anna Lois Campbell; Mabel Campbell; Linda McGuckin; and Bro. Tim, Joyce, Jonathon and Lydia Burdon.

The Dycusburg Grocery will now be open for adjusted winter hours: Tuesday-Friday, 7 a.m. to 6 p.m. Normal hours will resume in the Spring.

Michelle Henderson and Makanda Rolfe went on a week-and-a-half vacation to visit Dan Henderson and Jason Smith while they are working on a job in Corpus Christi, Texas. They also visited with John, Pati and Emily Floyd from Texas and some other friends from Illinois. They visited South Padre Island and toured the aquarium and the U.S.S. Lexington. On the return back home, they stopped in Hot Springs, Ark.

Birthday wishes are extended to: Livinia McGinnis (Jan. 11), Jason Smith, Jr., (Jan. 14), Levi Burris (Jan. 13), Travis Sosh (Jan. 16), Ethan Paddock (Jan. 21), James Artist (Jan. 24), Cheyenne Burris (Jan. 24), Jenny Patton (Jan. 26) and Gina Noffsinger (Jan. 29).

We extend our sympathies to the families of Betty Glenn and James Robert Dorroh.

Please share your community news by e-mailing news@dycusburg.com.

Obituary: Betty Glenn, 70

2010-01-16T14:16:00.001-05:00

Betty Lou Glenn, 70, of Marion died Thursday at her home.

Mrs. Glenn was a member of Seven Springs Baptist Church.

Surviving are one daughter, Tammy Brantley of Marion; two sons, Kenneth Penn and James Penn, both of Marion; two sisters, Loisteen Canada of Princeton and Thelma Lynn Brown of Marion; eight grandchildren; and 13 great-grandchildren.

She was preceded in death by her husband, Virgil Glenn; three brothers; and two sisters.

Services will be at 2 p.m. Sunday at Seven Springs Baptist Church. Burial will be at Asbridge Cemetery.

The family will receive visitors from 5 to 9 p.m. today at Gilbert Funeral Home in Marion.

Expressions of sympathy may take the form of contributions to Seven Springs Baptist Church, 219 Seven Branch Church Road, Marion, KY 42064.

Source: The Paducah Sun, Jan. 16, 2010

Digging for Roots: Local Residents Provide Genealogy Tips

2010-01-07T20:30:00.002-05:00

By Matthew T. Patton

Fredonia resident Pamela Faughn has always been interested in family history and enjoyed hearing her grandparents tell stories about their own childhoods.

“I always loved projects in school where you had to make a family tree. I was so excited to go to my parents and grandparents to get names of people I wished I could have known personally. I always thought someday I would learn more about them. But with other life obligations, I never seemed to get around to fulfilling that wish,” she said.

In 1994, with a little push from her mother, Dot Rogers, Faughn’s wish came true. That year, First Baptist Church of Fredonia was celebrating its 100th anniversary. Rogers was compiling a booklet about the charter members of the church for its centennial celebration.

“I agreed to help her research the charter members. I remember my first trip to the George Coon Library Genealogy Room in the basement of the library. I loved finding bits and pieces of history about our charter members long hidden away,” Faughn recalled. “As soon as I finished the research for the members, I began researching my family nonstop. I spent every spare minute at the library, cemeteries, courthouses and on my computer. It was this great big puzzle, and I thought I had to find every piece.”

Faughn is among the thousands across the world known as genealogists, those who study families and trace their lineages and history.

Getting Started
Brenda Joyce Jerome, CG, is a certified genealogist and avid Caldwell County researcher who has authored several books on the county and region, including compilations on marriages, births, deaths, vital statistics, court orders, wills and estate records.

To begin, Jerome suggested asking questions of older family members. “Record everything you are told and list who told you, where (by phone, in person at what location), and the date plus the age of the person,” she explained. “This may play a part in the validity of the information.”

She noted other documents may provide a name, date or location (such as a Bible record, school report card, newspaper obituary or baby book). “Always begin with yourself and obtain copies of all records (e.g., birth, marriage, confirmation records). Then work backwards to your parents and then grandparents to get started. When you have done as much as possible on your own, it is time to start checking census records,” Jerome said.

Most importantly, Jerome stressed new researchers should not believe everything family members say. “Oral tradition often is based on a bit of fact, but you will need to do some research to learn what is fact and what is not,” she said.

Jerome also suggested beginners “write down where you found every bit of information.” She recommended rather than writing something generic, like “Marriage Record, Caldwell County” that researchers instead document the book and page number and the title of the book, plus the location of the record. “If the record was in the county clerk’s office, state that. If the record was read on microfilm at the library, state that,” she said.

Additionally, genealogists should photograph tombstones and record every word of the inscription, along with the date of the photo. “Old tombstones have a way of disappearing and you never know if the stones for your ancestors will be there later,” Jerome said.

Faughn added that one of the best pieces of advice she received is to always validate Internet information.

“The Internet is valuable and gives us access to much more information than researchers could access years ago. However, there is a much greater likelihood it may not be accurate,” she said. “It is imperative to document the sources for every piece of information you find. I have seen information printed in books for which I have documents to prove its inaccuracy. But once the error is out there, it is perpetuated by others for generations.”

She also warned against “chasing rabbits.” In other words, don’t get sidetracked when you’re researching. “Have a plan when you go to the library or courthouse or archives and stick with it,” Faughn said.

Rewards and Progress
When it comes to repositories for local genealogical information, Caldwell County ranks high among Kentucky’s counties, according to some historians and genealogists. Understandably, maintaining its treasure chest of material requires teams of both paid and volunteer genealogists.

Linda Ward is a Caldwell County genealogy assistant at the Glenn Martin Genealogy Center along with Jane VanHooser. “We both help people research their family history. We also answer questions and help search for pictures and historical facts concerning this area,” Ward said.

She also offered tips for beginning genealogists. “Don’t try to walk before you can crawl. In other words, start with what you know: yourself, your parents and grandparents and then continue working back. Remember, only to a genealogist is a step backwards considered progress,” she said.

For Faughn, progress is “when you discover a missing piece of the puzzle or when you find a photograph of your great-great grandfather or when you discover, as I did, an ancestor who has the same name as you do. Those kinds of things are adrenalin rushes for a genealogist.”

Meeting new cousins is also rewarding. “Through genealogy, I’ve met countless people who have turned out to be distant cousins I would never have met were it not for being a genealogist,” Faughn said.

Ward did offer up a caveat. She said beginning genealogists should understand information about your ancestors may not be revealed through documents. Agreeing with Faughn, she reminded, “Everything is not on the Internet, and what is there is not always correct.”

Ward also gave one final warning: “Beware. Genealogy is addictive.”

Matthew T. Patton descends from the Lamb family, one of the earliest families to settle in Caldwell County. He is a journalist living in Philadelphia and has written several books on his family and the local area.

Genealogy Query: Yearout/Stinnett

2010-01-04T18:45:00.001-05:00

I am trying to find where Harriett Stinnett was after the 1870 census in Crittenden Co. She and her husband Wm. Stinnett had gone to the Union area to visit her brother and family (My g grandfather John Joseph Yearout) and were there during the time of the 1870 census.

I then find William back in Blount Co., TN on the 1880 census rolls, but nothing anywhere on Harriett at all in Blount Co., or Seiver Co., TN. No obits, burial records, nothing. It's like she disappeared off the face of the earth, so I thought I would try here and see if maybe she had passed away in Crittenden Co., while out here visiting g. grandfather, and maybe was buried out here.

If any one might have any info where I might start to look I would really appreciate it. This has become a big "thick brick wall" for me. My e-mail is one.lynn@yahoo.com.

Thank you in advance for your help.
Martha Stokes

Waiting for 3G

2010-01-03T18:53:00.002-05:00

By Adam Shull (ashull@paducahsun.com)

Having an iPhone and not having 3G service for it is like having a Ferrari but not the keys.

At least that’s how Alex Roman of Paducah feels.

“You can still do all the same stuff on your phone but with the 3G it’s so much better,” Roman said.

But iPhone users, and other AT&T customers, in Paducah will have to wait a little longer for 3G to come around.

Paducah and the surrounding area does not receive 3G service from AT&T and won’t until sometime in 2010, according to Cathy Lewandowski, AT&T spokeswoman.

“We plan to launch 3G in Paducah in 2010,” Lewandowski wrote in an e-mail. “We’ve been working for several years to bring 3G to our customers in Paducah.”

Lewandowski said she couldn’t comment on exactly when the service will be available in Paducah.

She said part of the reason it is not offered now is because of Federal Communications Commission guidelines that kicked in after the merger of Cingular and AT&T Wireless in 2005.

“We would have launched Paducah sooner, but we were required by the FCC to divest part of our spectrum, at the time of the Cingular-AT&T Wireless merger, and we did not have enough spectrum remaining to launch 3G even though Paducah was high on our priority list.”

Cell phone companies pay for rights to use the finite spectrum of wireless frequencies, and the FCC regulates how much of the spectrum companies own as part of anti-trust laws.

The 3G service from AT&T is available in most major cities, and as close to Paducah as Hopkinsville, Madisonville and Cape Girardeau, Mo.

It takes its name from being a third generation telecommunications service. It allows people to download and upload photos and video via the Internet with their mobile phones at speeds consistent with a cable modem. It also uses a larger network of cell phone towers to prevent dropped calls and enhance the voice quality during calls.

Verizon Wireless began offering 3G service in Paducah in November 2007, according to Michelle Gilbert, Verizon Wireless spokesperson.

But the iPhone, created by Apple, is only offered on the AT&T network. The phone revolutionized the way people access the Internet and share multimedia data with phones, which is what drew Roman to the iPhone.

“I bought my first (iPhone) in early 2008,” Roman said. “I work at Regions Bank and use the mobile banking where I can go online (on the phone) and check my balance and send e-mails.”

Roman can access the phone’s functions without 3G, just at much slower speeds.

“Speed is the biggest issue,” Roman said. “When you go to Nashville (Tenn.) or Atlanta, which have 3G, the Internet works so much faster. It’s so much nicer.”

Some iPhone users in the area are particularly irked since their phones, costing between $100 and $300, are marketed to take advantage of Web applications and Internet browsing, functions that require longer download times if not operated on a 3G service. One iPhone model even carries the 3G title in its name, the newer Apple iPhone 3GS.

Matthew T. Patton wouldn’t have an iPhone without 3G service.

Patton, who lives in Philadelphia, visits family in Crittenden and Lyon counties.

“I travel home to Kentucky to visit my family several times a year,” Patton wrote in a message on Facebook.

“The lack of 3G service (on his iPhone) is incredibly frustrating when I’m there. It’s nearly impossible to conduct any type of data transaction like sending an e-mail or uploading a photo to Facebook.”

“Certainly, if I moved back to Kentucky, I think it would be impossible to have an iPhone since I’m so used to using it with a 3G network.”

The good news for Patton and local AT&T customers is that 3G is coming sometime in the next 365 days.

Lewandowski said AT&T will also either upgrade or install new equipment in the Fremont area and just southwest of Lovelaceville in 2010 to enhance cell phone coverage.

Contact Adam Shull, a Paducah Sun staff writer, at 270-575-8653.

(Source: The Paducah Sun, Jan. 2, 2010. Photo by John Wright. Used with permission).

Dycusburg News: Jan. 7, 2010

2009-12-28T21:52:00.001-05:00

By Matthew T. Patton

Dorothy Dean (Shewcraft) Young was surprised with an 80th birthday party on Nov. 28. The party was held at the Christian Church Community Center in Owensboro, KY. Party was given by her daughters Kathy Ellis and Ann Yaudes. Friends and family attended with entertainment by Betty Shewcraft Hodges, Matthew and Mandy Hodges. She was also honored by the United Daughters of the Confederacy.

Dot, as she is called by her family and friends, is known for her humor and good deeds for others. Stories were told by family and friends of their most cherished memories with her. She grew up in the Frances and Mexico community. Her parents were Luther Frances and Oda Lee (Patton) Shewcraft. Her siblings Edna Macon, Betty Hodges, Carolyn DeSpain, Carlton Shewcraft, Minnie Nell Martin (deceased) and Keith Shewcraft (deceased).

We received the following Crittenden County genealogy query: "As a sixth descendant granddaughter of Joseph Newcom and Esther Dudley, I am trying to locate any data before Joseph Newcom immigrated to the U.S. Parents, siblings, POB, residence, etc. I would also like to obtain photos of this family pre and post immigration and family information. Contact Denise Newcomb at deedeenew@yahoo.com."

An interesting tidbit to report for genealogists: The Glenn Martin Genealogy Library in Princeton has received a wonderful Christmas gift in the form of a donation of the research files of the late Willis "Pat" Oliver, a native of Lyon County. The files were donated by Pat's widow, Trevah, and will be available for use by other researchers after they have been sorted and catalogued. Pat, a long time genealogist, was the original county coordinator of the Livingston, Caldwell, Crittenden, Lyon and Trigg County KYGenWeb sites. Among the families he researched were Oliver, Galusha, Parent, Throop, Chittenden and McCracken. (Source: Western Kentucky Genealogy Blog at wkygenealogy.blogspot.com).

December birthdays to report include Helen Travis (12/3), Angie Beverly Way (12/5), Chanda Guess Ortt (12/6), Clara Brown (12/8), Bobby Waters (12/9), J.R. Blake (12/11), Lonnie Travis (12/13), Matt Maxfield (12/13), C.T. Conner (12/14), Emily Smith (12/16), DeLois Paddock (12/17), Heather Guess Franklin (12/17), Travis Boone (12/19), Raymond Guess (12/24), Ryan Downing (12/27), Wade Brasher (12/30) and Jonathan Millikan (12/31).

If you haven't already, become a fan of dycusburg.com on Facebook. News, photos and historical items are posted regularly at the site.

To share information for this column, please use this new e-mail address: news@dycusburg.com. Best wishes to everyone for a Happy New Year.

Obituary: Ruth Hard Rodgers, 94

2009-12-07T11:08:00.002-05:00

Ruth Hard Rodgers, 94, of Princeton, died Nov. 29, 2009 at Rivers Bend Retirement Community.

She was a homemaker and was the oldest member of First Baptist Church of Fredonia where she taught Sunday school for many years before moving to Princeton in 1985.

Surviving are two daughters, Nita Rogers Thompson of Bloomfield Hills, Mich., and Rita Rogers Oldham of Princeton; three grandchildren; and six great-grandchildren.

She was preceded in death by her husband, Eugene Franklin Rogers; a son, Eugene Franklin Rogers Jr.; a brother, William Duke Hard; and two sisters, Sallie Irene Hard Dillon and Mary Augusta Hard Cranor.

Her parents were William Roland and Nellie Coleman Smith Hard.

Funeral services are at 10:30 a.m., Thursday, Dec. 3 at Morgan's Funeral Home with Dr. Jerrell White officiating, assisted by Dr. Gary Frizzell. Burial will be at Fredonia Cemetery.

Memorial contributions may be made to Fredonia Valley Cemetery, c/o Hannah Brasher, Fredonia, KY 42411.

Homes for Our Troops Honors Injured Vet

2009-11-23T21:12:00.001-05:00

Dycusburg News: Nov. 27, 2009

2009-11-23T18:26:00.003-05:00

By Michelle Henderson

Happy Birthday to: Stephanie Peek Williams and Becky Howard on November 19.

Congratulations to Chase and Jennifer Matthews and their children, Sarah and Owen. The family received the keys to their new home from “Homes for our Troops” on Monday, November 23 at 11:00 am. Several people were in attendance for the heartwarming event. Their new home is beautiful, spacious, and equipped so that Chase can enjoy doing everyday tasks and spending time with his family. Chase grew up in the Dycusburg area. The whole community is so happy for them. A very special thanks to all those who helped make this possible! For more information on Homes for Our Troops and more information and pictures of the Matthews’ home, visit the website www.homesforourtroops.com. (Above photo by Michelle Henderson)

There were 17 in attendance at the Dycusburg Methodist Church on Sunday. The Kentucky Supreme Court Justice, Bill Cunningham led the service.

Brother James Oates filled his regular appointment at the Dycusburg Baptist Church on Sunday. Several were in attendance.

The Dycusburg Community Group would like to wish everyone a safe and Happy Thanksgiving.

Quote of the week: “Fast is fine, but accuracy is everything.” -- Wyatt Earp

Riddle of the week: I am bushy headed yet I have no hair. I have no eyes but have seen many a year. Moisture cannot penetrate my flaky skin but it’s really good at keeping it in. What am I?

Last week’s riddle answer: What English word means burning wood when you take away the first letter of the word? Member becomes ember. Gina Noffsinger of Owensboro, KY was the first person to come up with the correct answer.

Send your questions, news, birthdays, births, anniversaries, riddle answers, your own riddles or quote of the week to Dycusburg@yahoo.com

Dycusburg News: Nov. 19, 2009

2009-11-19T06:00:00.000-05:00

By Michelle Henderson

Happy Birthday to: Patsy Stephens on Nov. 15 and Shawn Stinnett on Nov. 23.

The Dycusburg Community Group held a meeting on Friday, Nov. 13. Plans for the opening of the Dycusburg Community Park in the spring of 2010 were discussed. The group would like to thank all those who have recently made donations. If you would like to make a tax deductible contribution, mail it to: Dycusburg Community Group, P.O. Box 112, Dycusburg KY 42037.

Hometown hero McKenzie Noffsinger of Owensboro, KY was commissioned a Kentucky Colonel by the Commonwealth of Kentucky Governor Steven L. Beshear on Oct. 16, 2009 for her dedication to volunteering in the community. The award was presented by Air Force Brigadier General Michael J. Dornbush at the Hermitage Care and Rehabilitation Center on Tuesday November 10, 2009. Her parents are Gary and Gina Noffsinger. Barbara Ethridge is her grandmother. McKenzie is 18 years old and has volunteered to help the elderly since she was 9 years old. She is an example worth following.

Donna Walker would like to offer her thanks to the community of Dycusburg for the dinner held after the death of her brother, Teddy Davenport. She would also like to express thanks to the Dycusburg Community Group for acquiring Davenport's land for the Dycusburg Community Park.

Quote of the week: “The most practical, beautiful, workable philosophy in the world won’t work – if you don’t” by Zig Zigler

Riddle of the week: What English word means burning wood when you take away the first letter of the word?

Last week’s riddle answer: Two fathers and two sons go fishing at a lake. In the lake, there are only three fish but each person goes home with a fish. How is this possible? A man takes his son and grandson. The grandfather is a father. The son is a son and a father. The grandson is a son. The first person with the correct answer was Betty Miller of Hebron, IN.

Send your questions, news, birthdays, births, anniversaries, riddle answers, your own riddles or quote of the week to dycusburg@yahoo.com.

Foundation Approves Three Grants: Matthews Cemetery, Library, Museum Funded

2009-11-11T23:10:00.006-05:00

By Brenda Underdown

A rural family cemetery left wrecked after last winter's ice storm will be revitalized as one of three projects funded through the trust fund of a late benefactor of Crittenden County history and genealogy.

Matthews Cemetery in Frances, the final resting place of a few dozen people, including at least one veteran of a war fought nearly 150 years ago, was buried itself last January under broken limbs and trees weighed down with ice.

With no cemetery association to fund or oversee maintenance of the graveyard, the debris made regular upkeep by volunteers a daunting task.

A $500 grant approved last week by the Braxton McDonald Foundation Board of Directors will help families of the deceased pay for removal of the debris and a new sign identifying the cemetery located on Ky. 855 South, about a half-mile from its junction with Ky. 70.

Other awards made with investment income earned from the McDonald endowment include $1,200 to Crittenden County Public Library for its annual subscription to the online genealogical research tool Ancestry.com, and $7,000 for annual operating expenses of the Crittenden County Historical Museum.

In 1999, Braxton McDonald, a former county educator, left as his legacy a substantial amount of money in a will to form a trust fund to benefit local history and genealogical preservation projects.

Each year, the board of his namesake foundation awards grant money to help fund such projects. “We are glad to be able to continue carrying out the final wishes of a man who sought to keep history alive in Crittenden County,” said board member Faye Carol Crider.

Another board member, Daryl Tabor, who has ancestors buried at Matthews Cemetery, said “Assisting those families who wish to return the cemetery to a proper memorial for the deceased is a fine example of how he intended his trust to be utilized.”

While the library and museum have benefited from the annual grants in the past, the Frances Cemetery is a first-time recipient.

“Since a Civil War veteran, as well as World War I and World War II veterans are buried here, I feel we should try to keep up the cemetery,” wrote Rita Travis of Marion in the grant application submitted on behalf of the burial ground.

By awarding the funds, the Braxton McDonald Foundation's generosity will unlock two other contributions toward the effort. Judge-Executive Fred Brown has pledged donated use of a county-owned wood chipper. Billy Fox of Henry and Henry Monuments has also agreed to help volunteers reset fallen monuments at the site.

(Source: The Crittenden Press, used with permission)

Dycusburg News: Nov. 12, 2009

2009-11-11T23:03:00.001-05:00

Happy birthday to Tony Maxfield on Nov. 13, Rick Holsapple on Nov. 19. Happy belated birthday to Jake Selph whose birthday was November 8.

We send our get-well wishes to Daniel Patton who had an accident and broke his left arm in two places. After a short stay and surgery at the hospital, he's on the road to recovery.

Dan and Michelle Henderson had a gathering at their cabin over the weekend. Visitors included Kevin, Jeff, Danny, Matt, and Ben Ogle; Pat Dresser; Juretta Fletcher; Cindy and Jacob Feltner; Barbara Ethridge; Rick Fondaw; Chase and Jennifer Matthews and their children, Owen and Sarah; Amanda Oliver and Makanda Rolfe.

The Dycusburg Community Group will have a meeting on Friday, Nov. 13 at 6:30 p.m. at 45 Hilltop Drive in Dycusburg. The officers need to be there at 6:00 pm. The topic of discussion will be plans for the recently purchased property that the Group plan to make the “Dycusburg Community Park.” Everyone is welcome to attend at 6:30 pm.

The Dycusburg Community Group would like to thank all those who have recently made donations. If you would like to make a tax deductible contribution, mail it to: Dycusburg Community Group, P.O. Box 112, Dycusburg KY 42037.

Barbara Ethridge’s granddaughter, Mckenzie Noffsinger won the “Volunteer of the Year” award from the Hermitage Rehabilitation Center in Owensboro, KY.

Quote of the week: “You get the best out of others when you get the best out of yourself.” - Harvey S. Firestone

Riddle of the week: Two fathers and two sons go fishing at a lake. In the lake, there are only three fish but each person goes home with a fish. How is this possible?

Last week’s riddle answer: What is yours but your friends use it more than you? The answer is your name. The first person to correctly answer the riddle was Amanda Oliver.

Send your questions, news, birthdays, births, anniversaries, riddle answers, your own riddles or quote of the week to Dycusburg@yahoo.com.

Meeting to Discuss New Park at Dycusburg

2009-11-09T16:01:00.002-05:00

The next meeting of the Dycusburg Community Group will be held Nov. 13 at the home of Michelle Henderson (41 Hilltop Drive) at 6:30 p.m. The public is invited to learn about the new park located on what's commonly known as the "back hill" at the property previously owned by Teddy Davenport.

Among the plans is a basketball court and other exciting initiatives that will be discussed at the meeting. Public response and input is important and welcomed.

The officers of the DCG will meet beforehand at 6 p.m.

Questions can be directed to dycusburg@yahoo.com.

Dycusburg News: Nov. 5, 2009

2009-11-04T15:56:00.003-05:00

By Michelle Henderson

Congratulations to Travis Sosh and Jenny Patton on the birth of their daughter, Marlee Kay Sosh, born October 27 at 11:05 a.m. at Western Baptist Hospital in Paducah. She weighed 7 lbs., 5 oz. and was 18 in. long. She is welcomed to the world by big sisters Aliyah and Emma.

The Dycusburg Community Group would like to announce the addition of a Community Park to the Dycusburg area. The group plans to open the park in early spring 2010. Plans for the park will be discussed at next meeting, held later this month. Watch this column for date, time and location. If you would like to make a tax deductible contribution, mail it to: Dycusburg Community Group, P.O. Box 112, Dycusburg, KY 42037.

The “Trunk or Treat” at the Dycusburg Baptist Church on Halloween was a big success. Several children came by to get their treats.

Quote of the week: I’m a great believer in luck and I find the harder I work, the more I have of it. – Thomas Jefferson

Get well wishes are extended to Rick Fondaw.

Riddle of the week: What is yours but your friends use it more than you?

Last week’s riddle answer: What is open when it is closed and closed when it is open? A drawbridge.

Send your questions, news, birthdays, births, anniversaries, riddle answers, your own riddles or quote of the week to Dycusburg@yahoo.com.

Dycusburg News: Oct. 29, 2009

2009-10-29T17:00:00.000-04:00

By Michelle Henderson

Chase and Jennifer Matthews’s son and Sarah’s little brother, Owen Lee Matthews, was born October 19, 2009. He weighed 7 lbs. and 14 oz. He was born at Lourdes Hospital in Paducah on the couple’s first wedding anniversary.

Happy Birthday to Vanessa Werner on October 21, Danny Ogle on October 26, Marlin Patton on October 28, Joe Bennett and Sherry Peek on October 31.

The Fall Festival at the Dycusburg Baptist Church on Friday, October 23 had a good turnout and was enjoyed by all who attended.

For Halloween, the Dycusburg Baptist Church will host a “Trunk or Treat” at 4:30 pm on October 31 in the parking lot.

The Dycusburg Community Group would like to thank those who recently made donations for future purchases to improve our community. If you would like to make a tax deductible contribution, mail it to: Dycusburg Community Group, P.O. Box 112, Dycusburg KY 42037.

Quote of the week: “One man has enthusiasm for 30 minutes, another for 30 days, but it is the man who has it for 30 years who makes a success of his life.”-Edward B. Butler

Riddle of the week: What is open when it is closed and closed when it is open?

Last week’s riddle answer: What eats to live but never drinks? A fire. Carol Strilko of New Lenox, IL was the first to give a correct answer.

Send your questions, news, birthdays, births, anniversaries, riddle answers, your own riddles or quote of the week to Dycusburg@yahoo.com.

Dycusburg News: Oct. 22, 2009

2009-10-22T18:15:00.001-04:00

By Michelle Henderson

Happy anniversary to Chase and Jennifer Matthews on October 19.

Happy birthday to Dylan Phelps October 26.

There will be a Fall Festival on Friday, October 23 at 6:00 pm at the Dycusburg Baptist Church. All are invited to attend.

Fall Revival with Brother Mark Gill will be held Oct 25 – Oct 28 at the Dycusburg Baptist Church. Everyone is encouraged to attend.

Fourteen states were represented at the Longshore and Sarah (Lee) Lamb memorial dedication: Kentucky, Tennessee, Virginia, Illinois, Pennsylvania, Michigan, Georgia, Indiana, Mississippi, Kansas, Missouri, Texas, Oregon and Washington.

Eleven people attended the L.B. and Sarah (Parsley) Patton family reunion on Sunday, Oct. 11 in Fredonia.

Bobby Mayes and family visited with his grandmothers, Evelynn Mayes and Mev Crick in Louisville, KY last weekend.

Quote of the week: "Any change, even a change for the better, is always accompanied by drawbacks and discomforts." -- Arnold Bennett

Riddle of the week: What eats to live but never drinks?

Last week’s riddle answer: What gets wet as it dries? A towel

Send your questions, news, birthdays, births, anniversaries, riddle answers, your own riddles or quote of the week to Dycusburg@yahoo.com.

Lamb Family Dedicates Memorial Marker

2009-10-19T10:05:00.003-04:00

By Matthew T. Patton and Linda Lamb Monticelli

Nearly 100 descendants and friends of the Lamb family gathered Saturday, Oct. 10, 2009 at Cedar Hill Cemetery in Princeton, Kentucky, to honor Revolutionary War patriot Longshore Lamb (ca. 1748 – ca. 1828) and his wife, Sarah (Lee) Lamb (ca. 1760 – ca. 1844).

The day began at noon with a welcome speech by Matthew T. Patton of Phoenixville, Pennsylvania. Patton submitted a supplemental application for Longshore Lamb in 2008 to the Sons of the American Revolution. His early research was aided by fellow Lamb descendant Janet Humphreys, the first to join the Daughters of the American Revolution under Longshore Lamb.

The program also consisted of a flag presentation, including ten flags associated with the early Lamb family, as well as a large flag flown over the United States Capitol on June 15, 2009. A certificate accompanying the flag states, “At the request of the Honorable Jim Gerlach, Member of Congress, this flag was flown for Caldwell County Settler and Revolutionary War Patriot Longshore Lamb, who assisted in establishing American Independence.”

Following the pledge of allegiance to the flag, Tyler Clay Collins played “Taps.” Afterwards, attendees joined to recite a tribute to Longshore and Sarah and to “all of the men and women who have served the United States with integrity and devotion.” After the Lamb memorial marker was unveiled, Matthew T. Patton and Linda Lamb Monticelli placed a red, white and blue wreath at the memorial site. Patton and Monticelli organized the day’s events, which also included a family reunion reception catered by Riverside Café of Dycusburg, Kentucky.

Caldwell County resident Richard P’Pool secured a government-issued marker from the United States Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) and placed the stone at the site. P’Pool, also a Lamb descendant, was honored in 2003 for his efforts to place markers for U.S. veterans. P’Pool has helped apply for and received more than 300 markers from the VA at his own expense. This process requires hours of tedious and detailed research because the documentation required, including the muster rolls and the extracts from State files or land warrants, is often not readily available. The marker reads, “Longshore Lamb. Pvt SC Militia. Revolutionary War. 1748-1828.”

Longshore Lamb was the son of Thomas Lamb and Alice Longshore; he was born sometime between 1747 and 1754 in Bucks County, Pennsylvania or about 1755 in Fairfax County, Virginia. The Lamb family lived in Bucks County from 1744 until 1754 when they moved to Fairfax County, Virginia. The Quaker Fairfax Monthly Meeting was located on the east side of the Blue Ridge Mountains south of the Potomac River. The Fairfax Meeting was located in Fairfax County until 1757 when they divided Fairfax County leaving Fairfax Meeting in Loudon County. In June 1766, the Lamb family moved from Loudon County, Virginia to Kershaw County, South Carolina.

On October 30, 1779, the Friends at the Bush River Monthly Meeting, located in Newberry County, South Carolina, disowned Longshore Lamb who was a member of the Padget’s Creek Meeting house, located in eastern Union County, for marrying someone who was not of the Quaker faith. Since the state of South Carolina had no laws requiring marriage licenses or registration until 1911, we use the date of October 30, 1779 as the marriage date for Longshore Lamb and Sarah Lee, daughter of Michael Lee.

In late spring or early summer of 1780, Colonel Thomas Brandon, who was camped five miles south of the present town of Union, South Carolina was in the process of recruiting volunteers to support the Patriot cause. It was sometime after the fall of Charleston on May 12, 1780, that Longshore Lamb was recruited into the Second Spartan Regiment of Militia under Colonel Thomas Brandon in Union County, South Carolina. Longshore’s brother William Lamb was also in this same Second Spartan Regiment of Militia under Colonel Brandon.

It is not known how many or which military engagements Longshore Lamb may have actually been involved in while serving under Colonel Brandon. These militiamen served for 4 months, oftentimes working one day and fighting the next. The Patriot militia spent much of their time protecting the local rebel population from the Indians and the many Tory loyalists in the area. On June 12, 1786, Longshore Lamb received ten pounds, two shillings, and ten pence farthings for Militia duty after the fall of Charleston in Brandon’s Regiment. Longshore Lamb signed his full name on this receipt for his service during the American Revolution.

On September 13, 1788, Longshore Lamb purchased 163 acres on Frenchman’s Creek of the Enoree River in Ninety Six District, present day Union County, South Carolina. It is possible that Longshore used at least some of the money he received for his military duties to purchase this land.

Between 1779 and 1800, Longshore and Sarah Lamb had nine children: Mary, Elizabeth, Levi, William, Margaret, Jane, John, Moses, and Martin. All of these children were born in South Carolina. After Longshore Lamb and Sarah Lee were married they lived first in Union County, South Carolina and then in Spartanburg County, South Carolina before finally settling in Caldwell County, Kentucky by 1809 or 1810. Longshore Lamb and his family and Longshore’s son-in-law William Crow and his family were among the very early settlers of the Lewistown community in Caldwell County, Kentucky.

Longshore’s mother, Alice Longshore Lamb, died about 1791 in Union County, South Carolina and his father, Thomas Lamb, died in early August 1800 in Union County, South Carolina. Sarah’s father, Michael Lee, died in early December 1807 in Union County, South Carolina. We do not know who Sarah’s mother was; some researchers say that Michael Lee’s wife was Drusilla Murphy.

Longshore Lamb died intestate sometime from about 1826 to about 1828 in Caldwell County, Kentucky. His wife, Sarah Lee Lamb, remained a widow for the next 16 years or so until her death about 1844 in Caldwell County, Kentucky. Martin Lamb, the youngest child of Longshore and Sarah, and his family moved into his father’s home after his father’s death to care for his mother.

The exact location of the graves of Longshore and Sarah remains unknown, there has never been any grave marker found for either Longshore or Sarah and there are no records known to exist indicating where the graves of Longshore and Sarah Lamb are actually located.

Fourteen states were represented at the reunion: Kentucky, Tennessee, Virginia, Illinois, Pennsylvania, Michigan, Georgia, Indiana, Mississippi, Kansas, Missouri, Texas, Oregon and Washington. Sharon Lamb Davis traveled from Redmond, Washington to the ceremony to honor her great-great-great-great grandfather. “If he hadn’t joined so many others to fight for our future we would not be where we are today. And I am thankful that I live in this free country,” Davis said. “Also, of course, because of the 13 years I have communicated with fellow Lamb researchers Linda Lamb Monticelli and Janet Humphreys, I had a need to meet them face to face and cement our family relationship and thank them for the work they have done over so many years.”

She added, “We are who we are, in part, because of our ancestors and what they passed from generation to generation. I truly believe the morals, integrity, and respect that we may possess is a direct link to our ancestors’ beliefs.”

Because the exact burial location is not known, the memorial, funded by donations from descendants and friends of the family, was placed in the Princeton city cemetery because of its ensured perpetual care.

“By erecting this Lamb memorial marker, the descendants of Longshore and Sarah have marked a spot, if not their final resting place, then at least a place in Caldwell County where Longshore and Sarah Lamb’s journey upon this earth ended,” Linda Lamb Monticelli explained.

Dycusburg News: Oct. 15, 2009

2009-10-15T13:06:00.002-04:00

By Michelle Henderson

Happy birthday to the following: Bobby Mayes Oct. 12, Carol Carroll Oct. 13, and Jeff Winding on Oct. 17.

The Dycusburg Community Group did not do the scheduled clean up on Oct. 9 due to rainy weather. Members did an impromptu clean up on Saturday morning. If interested in volunteering your time or money for cleaning supplies, please call 988-2758 before 5 p.m., or e-mail at Dycusburg@yahoo.com. All donations to the group are tax deductible.

For interesting information on Dycusburg, visit Dycusburg.com.

Brian Coleman, son of Jim and Debbie Richardson, left for Fort Leonard Wood, Mo. on Oct. 13. He is joining the Army National Guard. Debbie visited with her daughter, Christina Stempien, in Las Vegas Sept. 2–16. Debbie is still recovering from her surgery earlier this month. The community extends get well wishes to her.

Fall Revival at the Dycusburg Baptist Church will be held Oct. 25–28. All are invited to attend.

The Longshore Lamb Memorial Ceremony was a big success. Approximately 100 people came to the event. It was reported that people from at least 14 different states were represented.

A baby shower was held on Sunday, Oct. 11 at the Calvary Baptist Church for Chase and Jennifer Matthews. Refreshments were served and games were played by several in attendance.

In last week’s article, I made an error reporting the time of the singing and supper for Justin O’Bryan’s benefit. The chili supper was at 4 p.m. and the singing at 6:30 p.m. I’d like to apologize for any inconvenience this error may have caused. There was a nice turnout and the family would like to thank everyone for their generosity. Please mail any donations to help pay medical and travel expenses to Richard and Teresa O’Bryan, P.O. Box 59, Dycusburg, KY 42037. According to family members, Justin has had glaucoma since he was about three months old.

Quote of the week: “Without history, we are the prisoners of the accident of where and when we were born,” - Donald Kagan.

Riddle of the week: What gets wet as it dries? Last week’s riddle answer: Imagine you are in the middle of a forest surrounded by tigers you have nothing to defend yourself, what do you
do? Stop imagining.

Send your questions, news, birthdays, births, anniversaries, riddle answers, your own riddles or quote of the week to Dycusburg@yahoo.com.

Dycusburg News: Oct. 8, 2009

2009-10-15T13:00:00.002-04:00

By Michelle Henderson

Happy belated birthday to George Strilko of New Lenox, IL. His birthday was Sept. 29.

The Dycusburg Community Group is planning another clean up on Friday, Oct. 9. If interested in volunteering your time, please call 270-988-2758.

Debbie Richardson is home after a short stay in the hospital. The community wishes her a speedy recovery.

Revolutionary War veteran Longshore Lamb and his wife Sarah will be honored with a dedication ceremony at noon on Saturday, Oct. 10 at Cedar Hill Cemetery in Princeton. Longshore is being recognized over 220 years after his service in the war. A reception will follow at the Princeton Tourist Welcome Center at 201 E. Main St.

There will be a benefit singing Saturday, Oct. 10, and a chili supper, at the Dycusburg Baptist Church’s Fellowship Hall for Richard and Teresa O’Bryan’s son, Justin, who was diagnosed with glaucoma at the age of six months. The Hamptons will be singing. The proceeds will go to help with medical and travel expenses.

Rick Bowman and Barbara Ethridge met Gary, Gina, Mckenzie, and Justin Noffsinger on Saturday, Oct. 3 for the annual craft show which is held at the Audubon National Park in Henderson. They enjoyed looking at all the beautiful crafts and sampling the delicious foods.

Quote of the week: "Democracy is a process by which people are free to choose the man who will get the blame." - Laurence J. Peter

Riddle of the week: Imagine you are in the middle of a forest surrounded by tigers you have nothing to defend yourself, what do you do?

Last week’s riddle answer: What has a mouth but cannot eat, what moves but has no legs, and what has a bank but cannot put money in it? The answer is a river. The first correct answer was received from Barbara Ethridge.

Send your questions, news, birthdays, births, anniversaries, riddle answers, your own riddles and thoughts of the week to Dycusburg@yahoo.com.

Dycusburg News: Oct. 1, 2009

2009-10-05T12:32:00.002-04:00

By Michelle Henderson

Juanita Green and Curtis Griffin both celebrated their birthdays on Sept. 27.

Rick and Debbie Holsapple celebrated their 37th anniversary on Sept. 27.

The 45th annual L.B. and Sarah A. (Parsley) Patton Family Reunion will be held Sunday, Oct. 11 at the Fredonia Lion’s Club Building, next to the water tower in Fredonia. A potluck lunch will be served at 12:30 p.m.

The speaker at the Dycusburg Baptist Church on Sept. 27 was the director of missions, Bro. Rodney Cude.

The fall revival at the Dycusburg Baptist Church will be held Oct. 25-28.

Paul and Faye Stinnett attended the free Kevin Skinner concert in Mayfield. Skinner is the America’s Got Talent $1 million winner. It was reported that more than 6,000 people attended the concert.

The American Legion in Kuttawa hosts bingo on the second and fourth Tuesdays of each month. For more information contact Liz Wadlington at 388-2179. Money raised in the month of September was donated to Homes for our Troops recipient Chase Matthews.

Quote of the week: "If you don't like something, change it. If you can't change it,
change your attitude." - Maya Angelou

Riddle of the week: What has a mouth but cannot eat, what moves but has no legs, and what has a bank but cannot put money in it? Last week’s riddle answer: When asked how old she was Suzie replied in two years I will be twice as old as I was five years ago. How old is she? The first correct answer came from Gail Bannister. Suzie is 12.

Send your questions, news, birthdays, births, anniversaries, riddle answers,
your own riddles and thoughts of the week to Dycusburg@yahoo.com.

Dycusburg News: Sept. 24, 2009

2009-10-05T12:23:00.004-04:00

By Michelle Henderson

Recent and upcoming birthdays include: Ian Aldridge on Sept. 11, Linda Sutton on Sept. 17, Curtis Griffin on Sept. 27 and Cierra Simpson on Sept. 28.

Anniversaries include: Tom and Shelly Gould, Sept. 11 and Gary and Sue Bailey, Sept. 17.

The Dycusburg Community Group will pick up trash on the sides of several streets in town this week and will clean around the Veteran’s Memorial Marker and Chase Matthews Park. If interested in volunteering your time, please call or email Dycusburg@yahoo.com or 270-988-2758.

Paul and Faye Stinnett enjoyed an outing to Sharon, Tenn., Friday and Saturday to attend an equipment auction.

Jeff Winding of Belknap, Ill., visited with several friends in the area this past week. He took a boat ride on the Cumberland River with Curtis and Jeannie Griffin while in town.

Makanda Rolfe spent the night with her great grandmother, Barbara
Ethridge, Sept. 20.

Virginia Lee Jewell (Ginalee) of Dycusburg passed away Sept. 15. Services were held at Lakeland Funeral Home. She was buried in the Dycusburg Cemetery.

Homecoming at the Dycusburg Baptist Church was held Sept. 20. Bro. Randall Rogers was the guest speaker. There was a delicious meal served in the fellowship hall following the service. Several people attended.

There were 14 in attendance at the United Methodist Church.

Quote of the week: “Always remember that the future comes one day at a time.” – Dean Acheson

Riddle of the week: When asked how old she was, Suzie replied in two years I will be twice as old as I was five years ago. How old is she? Send your questions, news, birthdays, births, anniversaries, riddle answers, your own riddles and thoughts of the week to Dycusburg@yahoo.com.

Build Brigade Makes Strides

2009-09-28T13:34:00.006-04:00

Photo: Members of the Build Brigade were hard at work on Thursday, not pausing even for a photo opportunity. Photo by Rae Wagoner/The Herald Ledger

By Rae Wagoner

When Homes for Our Troops project manager Rick Goyette told members of American Legion Post 68 and volunteer contractors and laborers “we’ll have this house under roof and weatherized by nightfall Saturday,” some thought he was being a little optimistic. After all, he made that statement on Wednesday night. But with this being the 40th home the organization has coordinated for wounded veterans, Goyette and his team have had some practice. With what they call a “Build Brigade,” good weather and a whole lot of hard work by skilled carpenters, that’s exactly what happened.

Goyette took a few minutes away from swinging his hammer on the home HFOT is building for local wounded veteran Chase Matthews last Thursday to bring dignitaries and the media up to date. Invited guests Bill Simmons and Debby Epperson of the US Department for Veterans Affairs regional office in Louisville may have been the most popular attendees – they brought a $60,000 check to help with expenses for this wheelchair-accessible home.

Homes For Our Troops was founded in 2004, Goyette said, when Massachusetts contractor John Gonsalves heard of a disabled soldier coming home and thought “I wonder what his hometown is doing for this guy.” The answer, sadly, was “nothing.”

“What could be more fundamental about a homecoming,” Goyette said, “than having a home you can come home to?” In Matthews’ case, the mobile home shares with his growing family is far from able to accommodate his needs. His wife Jennifer said that because of the narrow doorways and halls, Matthews is confined to the kitchen and living room while in his wheelchair. Extensive use of his prosthetic legs causes him pain and tires him quickly, she added.

“This is all really overwhelming,” Jennifer said. “Chase is a quiet guy and he’s not used to all this attention, and neither of us can quite get over everything the community is doing for us.” When asked what the greatest part of the new home will be, Jennifer had a ready answer. “Chase will be able to go anywhere he wants to in his own home without having to ask for help.”

Along about October, that will include visiting the nursery the Matthewses will prepare to welcome their newest addition, or stopping in to say goodnight to stepdaughter Sarah in her room.

“They think the house will be ready in time for us to bring the baby here when we come home from the hospital,” Jennifer said, “and that is just amazing to me. It’s amazing that people would do this for Chase, for our family, and I’ve seen houses being built before but nothing like this fast.” She noted that at 8 a.m. on Thursday the foundation and subfloors were finished, “and it was a big flat floor, like an empty stage,” and by the time the ceremony got underway shortly after 2 p.m. that day, crews had walls up and were setting trusses as fast as they could go.

General contractor Keith Young was notably impressed with the quality of volunteer help he had. “These guys really know what they’re doing,” he said in a rare break from the action. Young said he is honored to serve as general contractor on the project. “I have known Chase since he was a kid and I am glad to be able to help out with this.”

Among the dignitaries present was Senator Ken Winters, who served 2 tours of active duty in the Army and serves on the Senate Veterans’ Affairs Committee. He expressed his gratitude for Matthews’ service and wished him well. Michael Pape stood in for Congressman Ed Whitfield and presented Matthews, Legion Post 68, and the Homes for Our Troops Organization with American flags that have flown over our nation’s capitol. Kuttawa Mayor Butch McCollum was also present and extended his hope that “many happy memories will be made in this home.”

Two key people were noticeably absent from the podium. Rick Gill, Post 68 Vice Commander, has worked tirelessly organizing fundraisers and working as a liaison with the HFOT organization. His granddaughter sustained multiple injuries in an auto accident in Texas on Wednesday. He and his wife, post adjutant Pat Gill, immediately flew to her side and left matters in the capable hands of Commander Bill Howard. Howard emceed the ceremony, profusely thanking those who have contributed to the project with materials, labor, donations, and, in the case of Neda and Lonnie Bauer, donuts to feed the masses of men who volunteered their time and talents.

Howard reminded those present that Post 68 has undertaken the challenge of raising a minimum of $10,000 with which to furnish the new home. The next fundraiser will be held on Saturday. Making use of the Legion’s charitable gaming license, a Mega-Bingo event will be held beginning at 1 p.m. in the outlet mall. The former Polo building is set to be the site of a bingo event with enough seating for 300 people, and Howard said all the proceeds (after generous payouts) will go the the furniture fund. In addition, the post is planning a 4-hour live radio auction in partnership with Princeton’s WAVE-J radio 104.9 for October. Any individual or business with items to donate should contact any member of American Legion Post 68.

Present but not taking the microphone was one woman without whom this home might only be a wish. Marty Kares, who is employed by The Crittenden Press but is functioning in her capacity as a board member of the Three Rivers Homebuilders Association, has not only been a staunch supporter of this project, but has functioned as “coordinator-in-chief” on the local front. Kares comes from a long line of servicemen, and has said on numerous occasions “this is a cause that’s close to my heart.” She declined to take the stage, preferring instead to work behind the scenes.

Behind the scenes or in front of a microphone, there is still much to do for this home to become a reality. For more information on Homes For Our Troops and the Matthews home in particular, visit www.homesforourtroops.org.

Reprinted with permission from the Lyon County Herald Ledger

Dycusburg News: Sept. 17, 2009

2009-09-19T10:00:00.003-04:00

(Editor's Note: Michelle Henderson began writing "Dycusburg News" beginning with the Sept. 17, 2009 issue of The Crittenden Press. It will be reprinted with permission on this site. Be sure to share your news by e-mailing dycusburg@yahoo.com).

By Michelle Henderson

Congratulations to Bobby and Linda Mayes on the birth of their daughter, Evelynn Grace (Eve). She was born Sept., 9, 2009. She weighed seven pounds, 13 ounces and was 18.5 inches long. She is the granddaughter of Curtis and Jeannie Griffin.

Congratulations to Jake and Jodie Selph on the birth of their daughter, Annie Marie. She was born July 1.

Recent birthdays include: Keith Ethridge Aug. 14, Mckenzie Noffsinger Aug. 21, Rick Bowman and Mason Stinnett Aug. 26, Chase Matthews and Johnnie Lindsey Sept. 1.

Recent anniversaries include Curtis and Jeannie Griffin July 4, Bobby and Linda Mayes Sept. 2.

Rick Fondaw is home and feeling better after a short stay in the hospital.

The Dycusburg Community Group had an impromptu roadside trash pick up on Tuesday, Sept. 8. Members gathered several bags of trash alongside Dycus Road, Hilltop Drive, parts of Owens Road and parts of Ky. 295.

If interested in volunteering your time, please call or email Dycusburg@yahoo.com or 270-988-2758. The group plans to pick up trash on other streets in the coming weeks.

The group would like to thank those who have made donations recently. There are a lot of projects in the planning stage. A meeting will be held soon in which details will be given. Watch this column for date, time and location. All interested are welcome to attend.

Carol and Nathan Carroll and their children, Christian, Shawn and Kaleb of Louisville, along with Cierra Simpson and Kylie McGowen of Paducah visited with Curtis and Jeannie Griffin and Bobby and Linda Mayes the last week of August.

Homecoming at the Dycusburg Baptist Church will be held Sept. 20.

Quote of the week: “Do not pray for easy lives. Pray to be stronger men! Do not pray for tasks equal to your powers. Pray for power equal to your tasks.” – Phillips Brooks

Send your questions, news, birthdays, births, anniversaries, riddle answers and your own riddles and thoughts of the week to dycusburg@yahoo.com.

Obituary: Virginia Jewell, 75

2009-09-16T22:34:00.003-04:00

DYCUSBURG, KY - Mrs. Virginia Jewell (Ginalee), 75, of Dycusburg, passed away at 10:55 p.m., Tuesday, September 15, in Lourdes Hospital in Paducah.

Mrs. Jewell was retired from the former Shawnee Plastics Company in Kuttawa and was a homemaker. She was a member of Dycusburg United Methodist Church in Dycusburg and a member of Princeton Eastern Star Chapter #315.

Survived by two sons and daughters-in-law, Billy and Jewell Jewell of Caldwell County and Ed and Donna Jewell of Crittenden County; 5 grandchildren, 3 great-grandchildren, 2 step great-grandchildren; one brother, Gordon Travis of Paris, TN; two sisters, Lucille Bingham of Hobert, IN and Shirley McAllister of Princeton, Ky.

She was preceded in death by her husband of 49 years, Clarence "Junior" Jewell; two sons, Ricky Darel Jewell and Donald Wayne Jewell; one sister, Barbara Epperson; one brother, Virgil Travis and her parents, Elvin Travis and Gertie Henry Travis.

Services will be 2:00 P.M. Friday, September 18, 2009 at Lakeland Funeral Home Chapel in Eddyville with Rev. Jessie Johnson and Rev. Mitch Coomer officiating.

Burial will be in Dycusburg Cemetery in Dycusburg, KY.

Visitation will be 5:00-8:00 P.M. Thursday, September 17, at Lakeland Funeral Home in Eddyville.

Memorials may be made to: Dycusburg United Methodist Church, P.O. Box 34, Dycusburg, KY 42037.

Lamb Family to Memorialize Revolutionary War Ancestor, Longshore Lamb

2009-08-09T18:49:00.001-04:00

PRINCETON, KY – A Revolutionary War veteran will finally be recognized for his service more than 220 years after the war ended.

A dedication ceremony will be held Saturday, Oct. 10, at noon at Cedar Hill Cemetery in Princeton to recognize Longshore Lamb as a Revolutionary War patriot, as well as his wife, Sarah (Lee). Descendants will unveil a memorial marker at the cemetery for the couple at the cemetery. No records exist of the actual burial site for the early Caldwell County settlers from South Carolina.

Longshore’s service has been documented and recognized through both the Sons of the American Revolution (SAR) and the Daughters of the American Revolution (DAR). Descendants proving their ancestral lineage to Longshore are eligible for membership.

“We are so excited about this day that also serves as a family reunion,” said Linda Lamb Monticelli, a descendant and long-time genealogist who has studied the family extensively. “It’s a dream come true to have this marker. Not only does it memorialize our ancestors, but it’s also a genealogical gem because of the information it will provide for future researchers.”

Lamb descendants will travel from all over the country for the dedication ceremony. A reception will follow immediately at the Princeton Tourist Welcome Center at 201 E. Main St. Everyone, including the general public, is invited to attend.

WHAT: Dedication Service for Longshore Lamb, Revolutionary War Patriot, and his wife, Sarah (Lee) Lamb
WHEN: Saturday, Oct. 10, 2009, at noon
WHERE: Cedar Hill Cemetery, Princeton, KY, with reception following immediately at Princeton Tourist Welcome Center, 201 E. Main St., Princeton

July 4 Fireworks Show a Success!

2009-07-26T22:23:00.005-04:00

We received this note from Starlena Mahns, owner of Dycusburg Grocery:

Approximately 250 people gathered to watch our fireworks at Dycusburg for a show lasting about 1 hour and 15 minutes! We were also fortunate to have a live band that played for about 2 hours before the fireworks and 1 hour after.

This completely community supported day was started by Dycusburg Grocery in 2005, sponsored by the grocery and residents of Dycusburg who pitch in to help out. It is a tradition we plan to continue every year as long as the community and the people help us raise the money to put on such a fun day!

We would like to extend a special thanks to our sponsors: Henry and Henry Monuments, Bobby Stinnett's Used Cars, Just-a-Burger, Fred Brown, Wayne Agent, Mike Cherry and all of the generous others who donated money, bought raffle tickets or otherwise made our wonderful day possible. We'll see you next year!

--Starlena Mahns, Owner, Dycusburg Grocery

Obituary: Clara Oakley, 81

2009-07-26T22:21:00.001-04:00

Clara Oakley, 81, of Princeton died at 6:40 a.m., Saturday, June 6, 2009 at Caldwell County Hospital.

She was retired with 29 years service as a practical nurse for Dr. Kenneth L. Barnes in Princeton. Oakley was a member of Second Baptist Church in Princeton.

Suvivors include her husband, Wes Oakley; a son, John R. Teer of Princeton; a step-son, John Oakley of Benton; a brother, Vernon “Cap” Stinnett of Crittenden County; and four grandchildren.

She was preceded in death by three brothers, Roy, Sammy and Percy Stinnett; a sister, Anna Patton; and by her parents, Bill Stinnett and Macie Travis Stinnett.

Funeral services were Tuesday, June 9 at Lakeland Funeral Home Chapel in Eddyville with Rev. Darrell Eldridge officiating. Burial was at Dycusburg Cemetery in Dycusburg.

Source: The Crittenden Press, June 11, 2009

Obituary: Catherine Delores Cole, 73

2009-07-26T22:16:00.001-04:00

Catherine Delores Cole, 73, of Marion died Monday, July 6, 2009 at her residence.

She was a homemaker and attended Miracle Word Church in Salem.

Survivors include her husband, James R. Cole of Marion; sons, Jonathan F. and wife Occie Cole of Marion and Joseph A. Cole of Louisville; a sister, Wanda Bryant, and a brother, Albert Jaggers, both of Louisville; four granddaughters, Dorreatha Stephen of Brandenberg, Ky.; Erica Houck of Bloomington, Ill.; Laura Doom of Gilbertsville, Ky., and Kelly Kinnes of Marion; and four grandsons, James and Douglas Tababen, both of Louisville, David Kinnes of Burna and Danny Kinnes of Marion; and seven great-grandchildren.

She was preceded in death by her parents, Oscar Russell and Catherine Florence Gregory Jaggers.

Graveside services were Thursday, July 9 at the Dycusburg Cemetery with Rev. Howard Jones officiating. Myers Funeral Home in Marion was in charge of arrangements.

Source: The Crittenden Press, July 9, 2009 issue

Obituary: John Brown, 80

2009-07-26T22:08:00.000-04:00

John G. Brown, 80, of Marion died Sunday, July 12, 2009 at Crittenden Hospital. He was a member of Calvary Baptist Church, Frances Masonic Lodge No. 580 and a veteran of the U.S. Army.

Survivors include his wife, Thelma Brown of Marion; children, Bruce and wife Suzzanne Brown of Marion, Wayne and wife Joyce Brown of Eddyville and Delores Sunderland of Marion; a brother, Chester Brown of Marion; sisters, Bobbie Brasher of Marion, Betty Jean Fitzgerald of Marion and Ada Nell Peek and Cathy Nelson, both of Indiana; six grandchildren; and 10 great-grandchildren.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Ross and Naomi Cox Brown and six sisters.

Funeral services were Wednesday, July 15 at Gilbert Funeral Home in Marion. Burial was at Frances Cemetery. Masonic Rites were given at the funeral home Tuesday and military rites were given at the cemetery on Wednesday.

Source: The Crittenden Press, July 16, 2009

Obituary: Dorothy Bennett, 88

2009-07-26T22:06:00.001-04:00

Dorothy Bennett, 88, of Eddyville died Monday, July 20, 2009 at Lourdes Hospital in Paducah. She was a homemaker and a member of Dycusburg United Methodist Church.

Survivors include a daughter, Sheila Endsley; a grandson, Brian Endsley of Richmond, Ky., and a great-granddaughter, Mia Katelyn Endsley of Richmond.

Bennett was preceded in death by her husband of 61 years, Howard "Chick" Bennett and her mother, Harvel Edmondson.

Services are at 11 a.m., Thursday, July 23 at Lakeland Funeral Home Chapel in Eddyville with Rev. Jessie Johnson officiating. Burial will be at Dycusburg Cemetery. Visitation was from 5 to 8 p.m., Wednesday at Lakeland Funeral Home in Eddyville.

Source: The Crittenden Press, July 23, 2009 issue

Southern Crittenden County News: June 18, 2009

2009-07-26T15:10:00.001-04:00

By Matthew T. Patton

Dear readers and friends: This is the last edition of Southern Crittenden County News. We have enjoyed writing the column and producing community news, but other commitments mean we are unable to continue this column. Thank you to everyone who provided supportive words (and thanks, too, to those who provided criticisms, even if not always constructive). All told, we were happy to have the opportunity to write this column.

To learn more about Dycusburg history and genealogy, visit www.dycusburg.com. The site is updated weekly with interesting historical tidbits about the area. Also, additional copies of "Dycusburg, Kentucky: A Glance at Her Past" will be printed late summer. To obtain a copy, e-mail matthewtpatton@yahoo.com.

Donations for the "Thunder Over the River" July 4 fireworks event at Dycusburg can be made at the Dycusburg Grocery. For more information, call 988-3004.

Last week's riddle was: "Paul’s height is six feet. He’s an assistant at a butcher’s shop, and wears size 9 shoes. What does he weigh?" Linda Waters and Lauren Beavers e-mailed the correct answer: "Meat."

The descendants of Longshore Lamb, a Revolutionary War soldier who settled in Caldwell County near Claxton before 1810, are raising funds to erect a marker in his memory at the Lamb Cemetery. Longshore and his wife, Sarah Lee, had the following children: Mary (Polly) Lamb-Crow; William Lamb; Elizabeth Lamb-Reaves-Vaughn; Levi Lamb; Margaret (Peggy) Lamb-Farmer; Jensey Jane Lamb-Clayton; John Lamb, Sr.; Moses Lamb and Martin Lamb. Unfortunately, Longshore’s exact burial location is unknown, but a memorial marker will be erected during a ceremony on Oct. 10, 2009.

If you are a Lamb descendant and would like to make a donation toward this monument, please send a check or money order to: Matthew T. Patton, 509 Onward Ave., Phoenixville, PA 19460-5932. For more information, e-mail matthewtpatton@yahoo.com.

Southern Crittenden County News: June 11, 2009

2009-07-26T15:06:00.000-04:00

By Michelle Henderson and Matthew T. Patton

Donations have started coming in for the "Thunder Over the River" fireworks display at Dycusburg on July 4. Maybe we will have a great show after all! We will keep you posted on the progress. Keep those donations coming by sending a check or money order to: DCG, P.O. Box 112, Dycusburg, KY 42037. Donations are tax deductible.

Aliyah Frutiger celebrated her 5th birthday with a party at her mother's house near Dycusburg. Several friends and family were in attendance. Making a surprise appearance was SpongeBob Squarepants.

Happy third birthday to Makanda Rolfe (June 8) and to Shirley Stinnett. Happy anniversary to Dan and Michelle Henderson (June 14).

Quote of the Week: "You can either give negativity power over your life or you can choose happiness instead. Take control and choose to focus on what is important in your life. Those who cannot live fully often become destroyers of life.” (Anais Nin).

The answer to last week’s riddle, "how far can a dog run into the woods?" is "half way, then he’s running out of the woods." (Linda Waters, Mike Kinnis and Lauren Beavers e-mailed us last week with the correct answer).

This week's riddle: Paul’s height is six feet. He’s an assistant at a butcher’s shop, and wears size 9 shoes. What does he weigh? Send your answers to dycusburg@yahoo.com.

If you live in, work in, or know someone in Southern Crittenden County and would like to have something like a birthday or upcoming event mentioned in this column, please e-mail us at dycusburg@yahoo.com.

Southern Crittenden County News: June 4, 2009

2009-06-03T14:05:00.003-04:00

By Michelle Henderson and Matthew T. Patton

Four students from the Dycusburg area graduated from Lyon County High School on Saturday, May 23: Shelby Peek, James Jasis, Allison LeFan and Brandon O'Bryan. All graduated with honors and received several scholarships at Class Night on May 21.

Don’t forget to hang up your hummingbird feeders. The birds are returning from the Southern states. An inexpensive mixture that attracts them and is easy to make consists of sugar, water and red food coloring. Alternatively, you can buy the concentrate or ready-to-use mix at retail locations.

Barbara Ethridge returned home from a visit with her sister, Carol Strilko of New Lenox, IL. Carol and her husband, George drove her home and will be visiting for a while.

All donations to the Dycusburg Community Group are tax deductible, including any donations for the gazebo or the fireworks display on the Fourth of July at Dycusburg’s "Thunder Over the River" Celebration.

The answer to last week's riddle was "a coffin." Once again, Linda Waters e-mailed with the right answer. This week’s question: "How far can a dog run into the woods?" E-mail dycusburg@yahoo.com with your guesses.

Natalie Tabor and her daughter, Shelby Peek, spent Spring Break in Puerto Rico, reporting a fabulous trip. They stayed in San Juan and spent most days on the beach doing absolutely nothing. The weather was mostly sunny and about 90 degrees every day. They visited Old San Juan where they toured the historic district (including the capitol and Castillo de San Felipe del Morro) and enjoyed shopping. They went to dinner with friends from Paducah also vacationing in Puerto Rico and ate at a reportedly wonderful restaurant, Marisqueria Atlantica.

The BODIES exhibition was on display and Shelby, a future doctor, had to go see it. Natalie said, "We joked that we had to go all the way to Puerto Rico just for this exhibit since we missed it when it was in St. Louis!"

The highlight of the trip for Shelby was touring the El Yunque Rainforest. Natalie said, "while she had moaned and complained about having to get up early to go with 'a bunch of old people' to the Rainforest, her whole attitude changed when she learned Johnny Depp was filming a movie there. At that point, her mission became to find him! As we were winding up through El Yunque (which reminded me of The Smokies, but with palm trees), we rounded a curve and there he was! He was filming a scene with Aaron Eckhart. After blowing kisses at Johnny for an hour and taking his picture, she spent the next ten hours texting, Facebook-ing and calling all of her friends to gloat!"

If you live in, work in, or know someone in southern Crittenden County and would like to have something such as a birthday or upcoming event mentioned in this column, please e-mail dycusburg@yahoo.com.

Quote of the Week: "Opportunity is missed by most because it is dressed in overalls and looks like work," attributed to Thomas Alva Edison.

Southern Crittenden County News: May 28, 2009

2009-06-01T23:10:00.002-04:00

By Michelle Henderson and Matthew T. Patton

We send our get well wishes to Jim and Debbie Richardson and to Curtis Griffin who fractured his ankle in a fall.

We regret that the Dycusburg Community Group (DCG) will not be able to fund a fireworks show this Independence Day in Dycusburg. Unfortunately, our calls for donations have heeded next to nothing. The economy has impacted all of us, including our little group. That said, Dycusburg Grocery (Riverside Café) owner Star Mahns has stepped up to the plate and is organizing a "Thunder Over the River" fireworks show she hopes will be better than ever. To make a donation to the fireworks fund, now stop by the store or send your donations directly to: Star Mahns, 9728 State Route 70, Dycusburg, KY 42037. For more info, call 988-3004.

In related news, the DCG is in the market for a gazebo for the Dycusburg Area Veteran's Park. If you have suggestions on where to purchase a gazebo or would like to offer some physical labor to help build it, call 988-2758 or e-mail dycusburg@yahoo.com.

The descendants of Longshore Lamb, a Revolutionary War soldier who settled in Caldwell County near Claxton before 1810, are raising funds to erect a marker in his memory at the Lamb Cemetery. Longshore and his wife, Sarah Lee, had the following children: Mary (Polly) Lamb-Crow; William Lamb; Elizabeth Lamb-Reaves-Vaughn; Levi Lamb; Margaret (Peggy) Lamb-Farmer; Jensey Jane Lamb-Clayton; John Lamb, Sr.; Moses Lamb and Martin Lamb. Unfortunately, Longshore's exact burial location is unknown, but a memorial marker will be erected during a ceremony on Oct. 10, 2009.

If you are a Lamb descendant and would like to make a donation toward this monument, please send a check or money order to: Matthew T. Patton, 509 Onward Ave., Phoenixville, PA 19460-5932. For more information, e-mail matthewtpatton@yahoo.com.

Last week's riddle asked: "The poor have it. The rich need it. It's greater than God. It's worse than the devil. If you eat it you will die." The answer? Nothing. Linda Waters e-mailed us with the correct response.

This week's riddle: "The man who invented it doesn't want it. The man who bought it doesn't need it. The man who needs it doesn't know it. What is it?" E-mail dycusburg@yahoo.com and we'll publish the names of those who solve the riddle.

Obituary: Philip Buchanan, 68

2009-05-29T13:11:00.002-04:00

DYCUSBURG, Ky. — Mr. Philip Buchanan, 68, of Dycusburg passed away at 3:54 p.m. Wednesday, May 27, 2009, at Lourdes hospital in Paducah.

He was a graduate of the College of Lake County, Ill., School of Nursing and was a retired nurse for Winchester House of Libertyville, Ill. He was of the Baptist faith.

Mr. Buchanan is survived by one son and daughter-in-law, Jason Wade and Ann Buchanan of Mayfield; one daughter, Becky Buchanan of San Antonio, Texas; two grandchildren, Chelsea Buchanan of Wisconsin and Carl Buchanan of Murray; one brother and sister-in-law, Harold and Teresa Buchanan of Crittenden County; four sisters and brothers-in-law, Dixie and Charlie Ray of Paducah, Darlene and Bill Tabor of Crittenden County, Nancy Buchanan of Boaz and Rosalee Wallace of Crayne; and nieces and nephews, Mike, Ricky, Joe, Angie, Kim, Maryanne, Starla, Darren, Sherry, Linda, Tina, Rodney, LeeAnn and Kristi.

He was preceded in death by one brother, Wendell Buchanan; two sisters, Norma Nichols and Jeanette Sutton; and his parents, Roy Buchanan and Lula Martin Buchanan.

Graveside services will be at 11 a.m. Saturday, May 30, 2009, at Dycusburg Cemetery in Crittenden County with the Rev. David Sphnix officiating.

There will be no visitation. Lakeland Funeral Home in Eddyville is handling arrangements.

Source: The Paducah Sun (www.paducahsun.com)

Southern Crittenden County News: May 21, 2009

2009-05-24T13:33:00.001-04:00

By Michelle Henderson and Matthew T. Patton

The weather in the area has been beautiful for several days in a row, giving people a chance to mow their yards and to plant and maintain flowerbeds. We would like to remind everyone to be careful if you still have broken limbs on trees. You might not be able to see the broken limbs once the newly sprouted leaves cover them.

Seven Springs is again searching for a pastor as Bro. Pleasant submitted his resignation.

The Dycusburg Community Group (DCG) needs volunteers for its annual town clean up next month. The DCG is still in the planning stages and needs your help. If you are unable to volunteer time but would like to make a contribution, please mail to Dycusburg Community Group, P.O. Box 112, Dycusburg, KY 42037. As we stated in last week's issue, funding for the July 4 fireworks show is nearly non-existent. We fear a show may not happen in 2009 unless someone steps up to the plate and donates money for the fireworks.

Get well wishes are extended to Jim and Debbie Richardson and to Parker Holsapple.

The day started a little chilly but warmed up nicely for the Sunday fish fry at Dycusburg Methodist Church on May 17. Several people came and the food was delicious. Proceeds benefit the Dycusburg Cemetery. If you were unable to attend but would like to donate, please send a check to Dycusburg Cemetery Fund, P.O. Box 4, Dycusburg, KY 42037. To view some photos of the event, look for "Dycusburg.com" on Facebook.com (you will need to create an account to view the photos).

Josh and Star Mahns recently hosted visitors: Josh's father, Jeff Mahns and grandfather, Walter.

Travis and Emma Sosh, Jenny Patton and Aliyah Frutiger had dinner on Saturday night with Chase and Jennifer Matthews at Lambert's Cafe in Sikeston, Mo. (According to the restaurant's Web site, Lambert's served 48,409 lbs. of fresh Mississippi pond raised catfish last year. That's a lot of fish! That's not all: The restaurant is known for their "throwed rolls." Last year, they served 2,246,400 individual rolls!)

The "Almost Home" band played at the Riverside Café in Dycusburg on Friday. The store has been host to tons of great musical talent recently.

Happy birthday to Dan Henderson (May 25), Aliyah Frutiger (May 27), Michael McKinney (May 20) and Mitchell McKinney (May 20).

We're going to start including a "Riddle of the Week." Here's the first one: "The poor have it. The rich need it. It's greater than God. It's worse than the devil. If you eat it you will die." E-mail your answers to dycusburg@yahoo.com.

Southern Crittenden County News: May 14, 2009

2009-05-14T23:17:00.000-04:00

By Michelle Henderson and Matthew T. Patton

We hope everyone had an enjoyable Mother's Day. Bless all of the mothers for their hard work, and bless all of those fathers who served double duty.

The Cumberland River is covering the boat dock area, including over the Chase Matthews Pavilion. It's also approaching the bottom area on Hwy. 295 near Owen Road.

Our sympathies go out to the family of Joyce Fitts, 73, of Eddyville who passed away on May 4 after a battle with cancer. She was a daughter of Raymond and Mary Dean (Hobson) Patton. She was buried at New Bethel Cemetery.

Graveside services will be held Thursday, May 14 at 2 p.m. for Russella Sue Peek. A luncheon will follow at the Dycusburg Methodist Church.

Final reminder: The annual fish fry to benefit the Dycusburg cemetery fund will be held Sunday, May 17 at 1 p.m. It is planned for the Methodist Church lot unless it rains. In that case, it will be held at the Baptist fellowship hall. Please bring a donation to help keep the cemetery clean and beautiful.

Vacation Bible School will be held June 8-12 at Mexico Baptist Church. For more information, call 270-965-4059.

As we stated in a previous edition, the fireworks at Dycusburg will not be even remotely as nice as they were last year without donations. Please consider sending a monetary donation to the Dycusburg Community Group, P.O. Box 112, Dycusburg, KY 42037. We know everyone enjoyed the show last year, and we're hopeful the community will pitch in to celebrate Independence Day again in 2009.

The Dycusburg Grocery (aka Riverside Cafe) had its biggest crowd ever recently, with scores of people inside and out. Several bands and individuals sang and played instruments. It was a great night, enjoyed by all. It's nice to have such phenomenal talent tucked away in the tiny village of Dycusburg.

Birthday wishes are extended to Daniel Patton (May 26) and Justin Peek (May 30).

Dan Henderson recently enjoyed a trip to Havre, Mont. Although it was a short trip, he enjoyed seeing the landscape created by glaciers and snow covered mountaintops.

Barbara Ethridge enjoyed her visit with her nephew, Matthew. She dog sat while he traveled to Europe, visiting London, Amsterdam and Oslo. He thoroughly enjoyed traveling around the beautiful cities across the pond. He landed in London where he spent the night and then took a cruise from Harwich, England to Amsterdam then to Oslo, where he flew back to London and on to the United States.

Special thanks to the person who mowed and cleaned up around the Dycusburg Area Veteran's Memorial Marker recently. It is much appreciated by the community.

Jeannie Griffin reports that Bobby and Linda Mayes are having a girl. Congratulations!

As the warmth of the summer months begins to draw people outdoors, we want to take this opportunity to remind our readers to protect themselves from ticks. The nasty little buggers seem to be thicker this year than in years past.

We close this week with a quote from Mark Twain: "The best way to cheer yourself up is to try to cheer somebody else up."

Share your news by e-mailing dycusburg@yahoo.com.

Photo: Weird Fish at Dycusburg!

2009-05-11T15:42:00.003-04:00

Lawrence Lynn Davenport with a fish he caught in Dycusburg when the Cumberland River was flooded (May 1955). Note that the fish has eyes ... in its mouth! Click image for larger version.

Photo: Davenport Homeplace

2009-05-11T15:38:00.003-04:00

Teddie, Denny, Debbie and Robbie Davenport and the Willie Davenport homeplace near Dycusburg. Photo courtesy of Donna Walker. Click image for larger version.

Southern Crittenden County News: May 7, 2009

2009-05-11T15:34:00.001-04:00

By Michelle Henderson and Matthew T. Patton

The fish fry for the Dycusburg Cemetery Fund will be May 17, at the Methodist Church. In case of rain, it will be held in the fellowship hall of the Baptist Church. Mark your calendars! Proceeds benefit the perpetual care of the cemetery. If you are unable to attend, please consider mailing a donation to Dycusburg Cemetery Fund, c/o Faye Stinnett, P.O. Box 4, Dycusburg, KY 42037.

Sue Peek passed away on April 30. She is survived by her husband, Neil, and their two children, Donnie and Susan, and grandchildren. We send our condolences.

We also extend our condolences to the family of Agnes Louise (Meeks) Givens. Ms. Givens passed away at her residence in Marion on April 26.

Our sympathy goes out to Josh Mahns and family. They traveled to Indiana for Josh's mom, Debbie's, funeral. Josh's grandfather will be visiting Kentucky from Washington State for a few days of fishing in the lakes area.

While on a business trip to Minneapolis MN, Gary and Gina Noffsinger, of Owensboro ran into Carl and Angie McLevein, of Lyon Co. and Troy and Stacie Belt, of Frances, while shopping at the Mall of America. The ties they all have to Southern Crittenden County show how small the world really is!

The Mexico Baptist Church is having its Mexican Celebration on Saturday, May 9. It starts at 5 p.m. and will end with fireworks. Everyone is invited to attend.

The Dycusburg Grocery Store ( Riverside Cafe ) had another "standing room only" crowd Friday night. The patrons enjoyed music performed by local talent. There are various musicians at the store every Friday night. All are welcome to attend.

If you have news or event dates in our area, call Michelle Henderson at 988-2758 or e-mail to dycusburg@yahoo.com. Visit www.dycusburg.com for area information.

Southern Crittenden County News: April 23, 2009

2009-05-01T06:00:00.002-04:00

By Michelle Henderson and Matthew T. Patton

Our sympathy is extended to the family of Eddie Wilford who died last week. We also extend our sympathies to Josh Mahns whose mother, Debbie, died on Monday.

The annual fish fry to benefit the Dycusburg cemetery fund will be held Sunday, May 17 at 1 p.m. It is planned for the Methodist Church lot unless it rains. In that case, it will be held at the Baptist fellowship hall.

Birthdays celebrated last week include Justin Noffinger (4/17), Regina Matthews (4/18), Justin Sutton (4/21), Jeannie Griffin (4/22), Amanda Oliver and Dylan Strilko (4/23).

We are glad to hear Phillip Buchanan is home from the hospital and feeling better.

Faye Stinnett and Barbara Ethridge visited Rhea Stinnett, Joy Ferguson, Millie Cole and Sue Peek at Springlake Nursing Home in Salem. When they left, Faye went on to Marion to pick up new eyeglasses while Barbara stopped at Livingston Hospital to give blood. They encourage anyone with extra time to visit or make a phone call to the sick, shut-ins and elderly. It is truly a blessing to both parties.

The yard sale at Michelle Henderson's home was succesful at Dycusburg but contributions to the DCG and Homes for Our Troops, the organization building Chase Matthews and his family a new home, fell short of expectations.

If you attended the Fourth of July celebration, "Red, White and Boom," last year at Dycusburg, we encourage you to send a donation to buy fireworks for this year's celebration. Without donations, a spectacular fireworks show will not be possible. Donations may be sent to: Dycusburg Community Group, P.O. Box 112, Dycusburg, KY 42037 (write "fireworks" in the memo area of your check). Watch this column for developments.

Share your Dycusburg, Frances, Caldwell Springs, Seven Springs and other Southern Crittenden area news by e-mailing dycusburg@yahoo.com or calling Michelle at 988-2758.

Death Notice: Susan Peek

2009-04-30T12:29:00.002-04:00

We received word that Sue Peek, wife of Neil Peek, passed away this morning at 6 a.m. She is survived by Neil and two children, Donnie and Susan.

Homes for Our Troops

2009-04-20T20:37:00.001-04:00

A home will be built for the family of Sgt. Chase Matthews who was injured in Iraq. To learn more, please watch the video.

Southern Crittenden County News: April 16, 2009

2009-04-20T20:35:00.001-04:00

By Michelle Henderson and Matthew T. Patton

Happy birthday to Travis Williams (4/1), Brooke Pleasant (4/5), Kristie Thornton (4/6), Samantha Story (4/8), Amber Patton (4/8), Julie Conner (4/12), Bruce Guess (4/14), Terry Guess (4/16), Bobby Millikan (4/19), Orbin Penn (4/19), Kim Hamby (4/19), Jonathan Pleasant (4/25), Amanda Kennedy (4/25), John Clark (4/29). Congrats to Ricky and Paula Patton who celebrated their anniversary (4/2).

Congratulations to Jeff Winding and Julie Walker who were married April 11 at Mermet Lake, Ill. They honeymooned at a Crittenden County cabin.

The Dycusburg Grocery had record numbers on Friday for singing, with lots of new talent. It's once again a growing, hopping little place, reports owner Star Mahns.

Our sympathies are extended to Josh Mahns on the death of his grandmother, Irene P. Dybalski-Mahns who died at age 85 on April 8 in Valparaiso, IN. She was born Dec. 28, 1923 in Gary, IN, to Clement and Mary Dybalski. She was married on June 28, 1946 in New Chicago to Walter H. Mahns, who survives of Valparaiso, IN.

The Dycusburg Community Group will host a yard sale this weekend, weather permitting. A donation box will be on site at the sale for the Homes for Our Troops effort that will benefit Chase Matthews and his wife, Jennifer. Homes for Our Troops is a Boston-area based organization that helps build specially adapted homes for severely injured veterans returning from Iraq and Afghanistan. Chase learned he was accepted into the program in February. To learn how to become more involved, visit dycusburg.com and look for the link for "Homes for Our Troops."

Share your news tidbits! E-mail dycusburg@yahoo.com or call Michelle at 988-2758.

Southern Crittenden County News: April 9, 2009

2009-04-09T06:00:00.000-04:00

By Michelle Henderson and Matthew T. Patton

We extend our sympathies to the family of Cindy Matthews-Smith, 44, who died Sunday night. She was buried at Dycusburg Cemetery. Additionally, our condolences go out to the family of Imogene Stout.

The Dycusburg Community Group (DCG) yard sale was postponed due to weather last week. The DCG has set dates of April 17-18 for the next sale. During the yard sales, donation boxes will be on site to help fund future DCG events. Funds are low for the group and without contributions, festivities for this year will not match nor compare to the ones in 2008.

Jenny Patton, Aliyah Frutiger and Emma Sosh enjoyed a visit with Jenny's uncle and aunt, Alan and Kay Phillips, in Lexington.

The DCG is also looking for volunteers for a Spring 2009 cleanup. For info, call Michelle Henderson at 988-2758.

Gina, Gary, Justin and McKenzie Noffsinger went to Tampa on vacation recently. The Owensboro Airport now offers a flight on Wednesdays and Saturdays nonstop to Tampa and back.

A dedication ceremony for a marker memorializing Longshore Lamb and his wife, Sarah, will be held Oct. 10 in Caldwell County. All descendants of the Lamb family are invited to attend. Longshore served in the American Revolution as a militia man in South Carolina.

If you have any news to share, please call Michelle at 988-2758 or e-mail us at dycusburg@yahoo.com.

Death Notice: Cindy Matthews-Smith, 44

2009-04-06T20:12:00.002-04:00

Cindy Matthews-Smith, 44, of Dycusburg, died Sunday, April 5 at 9:46 p.m. in Madisonville, KY. She was a daughter of Laymon and Maxine Matthews.

Visitation will be Tuesday night at Dunn's Funeral Home in Eddyville.

Southern Crittenden County News: April 2, 2009

2009-04-02T18:20:00.002-04:00

By Michelle Henderson and Matthew T. Patton

The Dycusburg Grocery is back to having regular fish fries on Fridays. The store is newly restocked with added menu items.

Happy birthday to Brandee Bowman (April 4), Jody Beth Selph (April 8), and Amanda Oliver (April 23).

Michelle Henderson, Barbara Ethridge and Jeannie Griffin enjoyed a shopping trip to Opry Mills in Nashville on Mar. 24. They had lunch at Johnny Rockets.

A community yard sale will be held in Dycusburg on Friday and Saturday, weather permitting. For more information, call Michelle Henderson at 988-2758. Partial proceeds will benefit the Dycusburg Community Group.

As we said before in this column, we certainly don't believe the ice storm was a result of God's vengeance upon Crittenden County. That's not what the Bible teaches at all, and it's foolish to think so. Instead, rejoice in knowing that God takes the form of loving neighbors, friends and community ... a light that has shined brightly in the past few months.

Share your news, anniversaries, birthdays and other announcements by e-mailing dycusburg@yahoo.com or calling Michelle at 988-2758.

Southern Crittenden County News: March 26, 2009

2009-04-02T18:12:00.001-04:00

By Michelle Henderson and Matthew T. Patton

We extend our sincerest sympathies to the family of Luther Keith Shewcraft, 71, who died March 18. Keith was the elder son, and fifth child, of Luther Shewcraft and Oda Lee (Patton) Shewcraft. He was a loyal family man, a lover of music with a fine tenor voice, a great story teller, a great fondness for his horses and trail rides. He will be missed by many.

We also send our sympathies to the family of Helen Baldwin, 103, who died March 16 at Hilltop Nursing Home in Kuttawa.

Chase Matthews and his wife, Jennifer, recently made a trip to the Boston area to meet with representatives from Homes for Our Troops. The group is a nationwide, non-profit, non-partisan organization founded in 2004 that builds or modifies specially adapted homes for the most severely wounded soldiers returning home from combat with life-altering disabilities, at no cost to the veteran. They assist severely injured servicemen and women and their immediate families by raising donations of money, building materials and professional labor and then coordinating the process of building a new home or adapting an existing home for handicapped accessibility. The finished home is then given to the veteran. Chase was designated the benefactor of their next project in our area, and the group is now taking donations. For more information, visit www.homesforourtroops.org/matthews. (More information will also appear in a future article in this newspaper.)

Seven Springs had 74 in attendance for Sunday school, with several more arriving for worship services.

The Dycusburg Grocery had a standing room only crowd for music last weekend. If you get a chance, check out the little town’s gathering place. You’d be pleasantly surprised with the musical talent.

Jason Smith is flying into Nashville for a short visit with his mom and grandmother at the airport. He’ll fly back to Houston with his daughter, Lavinia.

Jeannie Griffin hosted a BBQ dinner at her home on Sunday night. We’re happy to report she is enjoying being back at work after a bout of illness.

The Dycusburg Community Group is planning a community yard sale soon. For more information, call Michelle at 988-2758.

Help Pass Hate Crimes Legislation Once and For All

2009-03-24T19:53:00.001-04:00

Southern Crittenden County News: March 20, 2009

2009-03-24T12:01:00.000-04:00

By Michelle Henderson and Matthew T. Patton

Congratulations to Jeff and Jessica (Cox) LeFan on the birth of their son, Wyatt Jeffrey LeFan. He weighed 6lb., 5oz. and was 19 inches long. He was born at 3:54 p.m., March 16 in Wisconsin.

Terry and Debbie Joiner celebrated their anniversary on March 18. Birthday wishes are sent to Gail Bannister (Mar. 19), Derek Burris who turns 18 (Mar. 23) and Jason Smith (Mar. 30).

Nancy Kemper-Travis died on Mar. 11.

Seven Springs had 76 in attendance for Sunday School. The church is planning an upcoming Easter play.

We received an e-mail query from Shannon Buchanan who is "trying to find more information concerning my genealogy on my grandfather's side: Wendell Buchanan and my grandmother's side: Greta Jean Armstrong." She is also looking for any family pictures. Her family moved to Missouri due to employment with Chrysler and she is unable to get any of these items. If you have any information, please e-mail her at shannonilla@gmail.com or write her at 16 Joachim Dr., Eureka, MO 63025.

Jenny Patton and Aliyah Frutiger, Travis and Emma Sosh, and Star and Jacob Mahns enjoyed an outing to the Rainforest Café in Nashville on Sunday.

The Dycusburg Grocery had a sing-a-long last weekend. The grocery has live music every weekend. If you have a chance, swing down to Dycusburg and check it out.

Low Price of $45 for Dycusburg Book Until April 1

2009-03-23T12:01:00.001-04:00

I am selling the Dycusburg book until April 1 for $45 ... a $25 discount.

E-mail me at matthewtpatton@yahoo.com if you'd like to add your name to the list (I only have three left) and I'll set one aside for you.

More than 500 copies of Dycusburg, Kentucky: A Glance at Her Past have been sold since it was published in 1999. The book, 443 pages, is hardbound with gold-embossed.

If you're interested in ordering a copy at $45, e-mail matthewtpatton@yahoo.com.

Sections of the book include:

Dycusburg history
Dycusburg school records
Dycusburg Methodist church records
biographies of prominent Dycusburg citizens
anecdotes and photographs
Masonic Lodge records
Dycusburg cemetery listing
Yancy cemetery listing
Federal census records
Dycusburg police docket (1874-1902)
Dycusburg newspaper abstracts.

Obituary: Keith Shewcraft, 71

2009-03-20T20:17:00.001-04:00

MARION, Ky. — L. Keith Shewcraft, 71, of Marion died Wednesday at Crittenden County Hospital. He was born January 1, 1938 and died March 18, 2009.

He was a member of Fredonia First Baptist Church and a member of the National Trail Ride Association.

Surviving are his wife, Kay Shewcraft; one son, Shelby Keith Shewcraft of Marion; two daughters, Maria Lee Belt and Caryn Renee Steele, both of Marion; one brother, Carlton Shewcraft of Marion, Ill.; five sisters, Betty Hodges of Marion and Edna Macon, Dorothy Young, Nell Martin and Carolyn DeSpain, all of Owensboro; seven grandchildren; and four great-grandchildren.

His parents were Luther and Oda Lee Patton Shewcraft.

Services will be at 2 p.m. Sunday at Gilbert Funeral Home in Marion. Burial will be at Mexico Cemetery.

Friends may call from 6 until 9 p.m. Saturday at the funeral home.

Southern Crittenden County News: Mar. 12, 2009

2009-03-14T15:26:00.003-04:00

By Michelle Henderson and Matthew T. Patton

We start this issue with a safety alert! We've heard reports that something in the water is causing pregnancies in the area. We'll provide more on the baby boom in the coming weeks!

A cleanup was held at the Dycusburg Cemetery on Saturday, March 7. Approximately 20 volunteers were on hand to pick up limbs and trees felled during the disastrous ice storm slamming Western Kentucky in late January. Faye Stinnett reported the day was a success. Thanks to those who continue to show concern for this cemetery's upkeep. Watch this column for an announcement concerning future cleanup efforts.

Be sure to become a fan of Dycusburg at www.facebook.com to create an account if you haven't already done so.

A big crowd was at the Dycusburg Grocery on Friday and Saturday nights. It has been a hopping little joint lately with live music on "Open Jam" Friday nights. Bingo has started back up on Saturdays at 7 p.m. Owner Star Mahns also says the store is now accepts Visa, Mastercard and Discover.

Barbara Ethridge and Michelle Henderson flew to Harlingen, Texas and stayed at McAllen, Texas for a few days. While there, they visited Progresso, Mexico. After their stay in McAllen, they drove to Houston where they visited Jason, Nilcole, Lavinia and Jason Smith, II (or "Little Jason"). After their Houston stay, Barbara and Michelle drove back to Kentucky with Lavinia who will be visiting for a few weeks.

If anyone needs notary services, please call Michelle Henderson at 988-2758.

Share your birthdays, anniversaries and other news by e-mailing dycusburg@yahoo.com or calling Michelle at the number above.