tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-54820435246542115862024-03-13T09:03:25.208-05:00Rockdale HomecomingMy Hometown . . . When I return . . . the main street still is filled with pleasant faces and glad hellos . . . with an atmosphere of calm . . . with time for neighborly concern . . . with joy in sharing another's fortune . . . or heartfelt words to one who mourns. . . . Hometown is more than just a town . . . it is a way of life, a place of peace and quiet . . . and when I return it is as if I have never been gone . . . and in my heart I have not. . . . by Craig E. SathoffBeNotForgothttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15680626010883788138noreply@blogger.comBlogger6125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5482043524654211586.post-11295751904464399212015-05-01T14:35:00.001-05:002017-07-21T13:41:49.454-05:001913 :: Coming back home to stay<div style="text-align: center;">
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">George Colgate, agent for the Sap at Sinton, came up Saturday night and spent Sunday "at home" in Rockdale. George says he is "coming back home to stay" some sweet day. <i>Rockdale Reporter and Messenger</i>, May 01, 1913</span><br />
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<br />BeNotForgothttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15680626010883788138noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5482043524654211586.post-43505763441236485412000-06-01T09:04:00.000-05:002018-04-10T13:27:08.770-05:00You can go home again!<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: large;"><i><a href="http://www.rockdalereporter.com/" target="_blank">Rockdale Reporter</a></i></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">Thursday, June 1, 2000</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: large;"><i><br /></i></span>
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: large;"><i>You can go home again!</i> </span><br />
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">by <a href="https://www.facebook.com/lucile.estell" target="_blank">Dr. Lucile Estell</a><br />
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<blockquote>
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: large;"><i>My Hometown . . . When I return . . . the main street still is filled with pleasant faces and glad hellos . . . with an atmosphere of calm . . . with time for neighborly concern . . . with joy in sharing another's fortune . . . or heartfelt words to one who mourns. . . . Hometown is more than just a town . . . it is a way of life, a place of peace and quiet . . . and when I return it is as if I have never been gone . . . and in my heart I have not. . . . by Craig E. Sathoff</i></span></blockquote>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">Some learned person once wrote "you can't go home again." That's a saying I've heard all my life. I'm not sure I agree with it.
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">Rather, I believe that a desire to return home, go back to your roots is a desire that most of us feel at some time. The feeling intensifies around this time of year as Rockdale, like many other communities all over Texas, approaches its annual homecoming celebration.
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">I had an occasion this past week to step backward about 50 years to a place which was my home for two years.
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">As I turned down a familiar street, past familiar structures -- yes, a school was there -- I slipped into the evening of my memory and there once again saw familiar faces, young and enthusiastic, eager to learn.
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">I saw the smiles of the human landscape, the people who then composed the fabric of my life. I recalled so many names, Robert, Peggy, Juan, Andrea, so many others, and for a few special moments I was there again.
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">These memories are a part of my life, a part of what makes me who I am, a part of the fabric of my life.
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">As we approach this homecoming in Rockdale, I hope that you can take the time to go back in your memory and think of the people and events which have made Rockdale great.<br />
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<ul>
<li><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">Go down to the old depot and remember the days when it was an active place. Hear the hustle and bustle as the trains come and go.
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<li><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">Walk north on Main Street from the depot and perhaps you'll see Dr. Barkley walking toward his office.
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<li><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">You may see the activity of stores opening at Vogel's or Stricker's.
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<li><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">Look across Cameron Avenue and see what's playing at the Dixie Theatre.
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<li><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">Move on down Ackerman Street and see (in your memory only) the old Lockett home, residence for many years of Mrs. Sledge who wielded such a powerful influence over so many young people as she taught them piano.
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<li><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">Look toward Main Street and you will still see standing the garage of Buck Henry, who for so many years epitomized the values which are Rockdale. <br />
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">Think of those many friends who are no longer with us and remember the part they played in weaving the fabric of your life.
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">If the things that you see, and the emotions that you feel, make you happy, bring these with you to the annual homecoming on the 2nd Sunday in June.
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">What you bring with you will combine with what others bring and assure that we will have the best homecoming ever.
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">You can go home again.<br />
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: large;"><i><br /></i></span>
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<br />BeNotForgothttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15680626010883788138noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5482043524654211586.post-48487774618541602941997-06-05T08:53:00.000-05:002018-04-10T13:28:13.299-05:001997 :: Homecoming's Deep Roots <span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br /></span></span>
<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><i>Rockdale Reporter</i>, Thursday, June 5, 1997. <i>Homecoming's Deep Roots Traced to '33-'34 Gatherings</i>. Rockdale's annual homecoming . . . has some mighty deep roots. Franklin D. Roosevelt had been in office less than three months and not too many people outside Germany had even heard of a fellow named Hitler when the Rockdale Home Coming (that's the was it was chartered) Association was formed on a sunny Sunday in 1933. . . . </span></span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Rockdale's annual homecomings are the brainchild of <a href="http://www.findagrave.com/cgi-bin/fg.cgi?page=gr&GRid=32837477" target="_blank">Ira Perry</a>, a rancher and former Rockdale resident who settled in the Pipe Creek area of Bandera County but never lost contact with Milam County. Under Perry's guidance, a small group gathered at Fair Park in June 1933, for the first homecoming. </span></span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">They elected officers and planned a 'full-fledged' homecoming the next year. That's the meeting where it was decided to hold the annual homecoming on the second Sunday of June. <a href="http://www.findagrave.com/cgi-bin/fg.cgi?page=gr&GRid=41216998" target="_BLANK">Marion Burck Smith</a> of Austin was named the first association president with <a href="http://www.findagrave.com/cgi-bin/fg.cgi?page=gr&GRid=46754367" target="_blank">Mrs. C.M. Sessions</a> of Rockdale vice-president, Perry as secretary, and <a href="http://www.findagrave.com/cgi-bin/fg.cgi?page=gr&GRid=16590868" target="_blank">Mrs. D.H. Sanford</a> of Rockdale and <a href="http://www.findagrave.com/cgi-bin/fg.cgi?page=gr&GRid=50716484" target="_blank">Mrs. W.A. Morrison</a> of Cameron as historians. </span></span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">The <i>Rockdale Reporter</i> termed the 1933 gathering "a rather impromptu affair" but had praise for Perry. "The fact that he was named to the key position of the organization is a guarantee that the next annual meeting will be largely attended," <a href="http://www.findagrave.com/cgi-bin/fg.cgi?page=gr&GRid=70845377" target="_blank">John Esten Cooke</a>, <i>Reporter</i> editor, wrote. </span></span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><i>FIRST TRAIN</i>. Rockdale roots don't come much deeper than those of <a href="http://www.findagrave.com/cgi-bin/fg.cgi?page=gr&GRid=41216998" target="_blank">Mrs. Smith</a>, first homecoming association president. She was the daughter of <a href="http://www.findagrave.com/cgi-bin/fg.cgi?page=gr&GRid=123172454" target="_blank">A.A. Burck</a>, Rockdale's first mayor. Burck brought his family to Rockdale on the first International & Great Northern (I&GN) train that chugged into the new town in 1874. Rockdale's official founding is traced to that year, when the bustling new community was the railroad's western terminus. </span></span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Mayor <a href="http://www.findagrave.com/cgi-bin/fg.cgi?page=gr&GRid=20897793" target="_blank">E.A. Camp</a> called the first homecoming to order and delivered a speech. "An hour or two was then spent in general conversation and the relating of reminiscences of the 'good old days.' Miss <a href="http://www.tshaonline.org/handbook/online/articles/fsmxm" target="_BLANK">Polly Smith</a> of Austin, the attractive daughter of the president, and an expert photographer, took several pictures of the group." In addition to Rockdale, Cameron, Austin and Pipe Creek, the first homecoming drew participants from Dallas, Rocksprings, Taylor, Palestine, San Antonio, Bastrop and Houston. </span></span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><i>MOMENTUM</i>. Perry began the next day to seek addresses of "all former Rockdale citizens" for the next event. Having decided to hold each reunion on the second Sunday in June, the new association used an interesting 1934 calendar and scheduled the next homecoming for June 3. </span></span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Nevertheless, over 60 persons participated including E.H. and W.A. Richardson of Dallas, sons of Rockdale's first lumber dealer, and C.G. Green of Hamlin, Rockdale school superintendent for almost two decades. City Secretary Branch Lewis, R.L. Orr and Mayor Camp helped organize the meeting. Names of those attending form almost a litany of Rockdale history and include Marrs, Isaacs, Sessions, Baxter, Phillips, Bullock, Williams, Baggerly, Mundine, Porter, Henry, York, Wallace and, as the <i>Reporter</i> noted, "probably others who failed to register." </span></span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">The 1933 and 1934 meetings provided the momentum for all future homecomings. . . . </span></span><br />
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BeNotForgothttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15680626010883788138noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5482043524654211586.post-79424773067361547111996-05-23T22:32:00.000-05:002017-07-24T13:41:13.733-05:001928 :: Downtown Rockdale<br />
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><br />The following article was written by <a href="https://www.facebook.com/lucile.estell" target="_blank">Dr. Lucile Estell</a>, and was published in the May 23, 1996 issue of <i><a href="http://www.rockdalereporter.com/" target="_blank">The Rockdale Reporter</a></i>. Mr. Bland's model was the central focus of the Rockdale historical display which was set up at the Rockdale Homecoming on Sunday, June 13, 1999. At that time, it was intended that the model would find a permanent home in the restored I&GN Depot.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: large;"><b><br /></b></span><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: large;"><b>Nolan Bland's model<br />of downtown Rockdale . . .<br />a <i>trip back in time</i></b></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: large;"><i><br /></i></span><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: large;"><i>Backward, turn backward,<br />O time in your flight,<br />Make me a child again, just for tonight!</i></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">These words, penned in 1860 by Elizabeth Akers, describe in part the feeling which engulfed me as I crossed the threshold of Nolan J. Bland's workshop to view the model of Rockdale, circa 1928.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">The model came to life as I examined sites which were among my first memories growing up in Rockdale in the early 1930's. The feelings were so real that for a fleeting moment I felt that I had been once more at Mr. C.W. Matson's Dixie Theater, followed by ice cream at Mrs. Hill's.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">The model of Rockdale is the work of <a href="http://www.findagrave.com/cgi-bin/fg.cgi?page=gr&GRid=30627796" target="_blank">Nolan J. Bland</a>. According to Bland, the idea for such a model had been in his mind for a number of years. After his retirement, he decided to make the model a reality. He began its actual construction more than a decade ago, using as a basis a 1928 map of Rockdale. He laid off the streets first, presenting them in the unpaved condition which existed in 1928.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">Construction of buildings came next. Bland used old photographs as well as his own important mental images of Rockdale in this early period. "I remember all of this," he said. "I was born and raised right here," he added, pointing to a site southwest of town. In the beginning, his work was on a scale of one foot to sixteen inches. However, he altered this in some instances in order to make the buildings look more realistic.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">As his dream took physical form, Bland enlisted help in identifying buildings and ensuring the accuracy of the model. Part of this assistance came from his wife, Leona Gest Bland. She is a native of the Gay Hill community and strong supporter of the project. A major role in this identification process was played by <a href="http://www.findagrave.com/cgi-bin/fg.cgi?page=gr&GRid=66058876" target="_blank">E.E. "Buck" Henry</a>, who assisted Bland in this important phase.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">The first area that Bland constructed was south of the railroad tracks in the booming industrial section of Rockdale. This is the area near the first city water tower, shown on the model.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">Featured here are...</span><br />
<ul>
<li><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">the ice plant</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">the cotton oil mill, including garage & scales</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">the lumberyard</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">Farmer's Union Store & Warehouse</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">Blackburn's Electric Gin</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">Sinclair Oil</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">Gulf Oil</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">the swimming pool</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">railroad houses</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">William Cameron Lumber Yard</span></li>
</ul>
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">and other structures. Also seen on the model is the office of the cotton buyer, a man named Vinton. </span><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">Moving on toward "downtown" Rockdale, one sees both the passenger and freight depot of the IGN Railroad. The town was thriving. Persons looking for a residence, temporary or permanent, might select from...</span><br />
<ul>
<li><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">the Larue (formerly Wolf) Hotel</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">Mrs. Queen's Room & Board</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">Wilson's Boarding House</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">or the Hale Hotel</span></li>
</ul>
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">Those wanting to eat had a broad choice, including...</span><br />
<ul>
<li><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">Scheihing's Restaurant</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">Carrol Robison's Hamburgers</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">Albrecht's Hamburger Shop</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">Owl Cafe (Mr. Landis)</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">Peveto's Restaurant</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">Mrosko's Cafe</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">Elite Cafe (Ryan & Vogel)</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">Dad Griffith's Cafe</span></li>
</ul>
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">If there was a sweet tooth to be satisfied, there was also a broad choice...</span><br />
<ul>
<li><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">Bob Reagan's Confectionery*</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">Hill's Confectionery* & Book Store</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">Stein's Bakery</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">Henning Root Beer & Gas Station.</span></li>
</ul>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><i>*A place where confections, ice cream and cakes are made or sold; a candy shop.</i></span><br />
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</blockquote>
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">Those persons needing or wanting to purchase groceries could go to...</span><br />
<ul>
<li><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">Cannon's Grocery</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">Ray Ead's Grocery</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">Noack's Grocery</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">Marshall's Meat Market</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">Backhaus Brothers Grocery</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">R.L. Orr's Meat Market</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">H&L Hudson Grocery</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">Jim Hamilton's Meat Market</span></li>
</ul>
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">And the model shows stores and services of other varieties. I noted with pleasure Dora Poole's Millinery* (my maternal grandmother), and Estell's Tin Shop (my paternal grandfather).</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><i>*The business of making, trimming or selling women's hats.</i></span><br />
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</blockquote>
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">There was...</span><br />
<ul>
<li><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">Ousley's Variety</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">Cone's Dry Goods</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">Perry & Quebe Drug Store</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">Lowenstein's Merchandise</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">Pruett's Feed Lot</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">Coffield Hardware</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">Henne & Meyer Hardware</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">Baldridge Brothers Drug Store</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">Stricker's</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">T.B. Kemp Insurance</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">City Panatorium*</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">McCawley's Saloon</span></li>
</ul>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><i>*Have been unable to find a definition for "panatorium", but did find a description of another turn-of-the-century business which describes "The City Panatorium" as a " . . . cleaning and dying establishment. . . . where garments are cleaned, pressed, repaired, and dyed and a specialty is made of dry cleaning...."</i></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">Rockdale was progressive, with...</span><br />
<ul>
<li><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">a newspaper, <i>The Rockdale Reporter</i></span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">a Masonic Lodge</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">Dr. I.P. Sessions</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">Dr. T.S. Barkley</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">at least one dentist and one lawyer</span></li>
</ul>
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">Rockdale had two banks, Rockdale State Bank and Citizens Bank. There were other amenities...</span><br />
<ul>
<li><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">B. Regenbrecht, Jeweler</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">Moultrie's Blacksmith Shop</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">Phillips & Luckey, undertakers</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">Gaither Motor Company</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">Texas Power & Light</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">W.E. White Dry Goods</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">Scarborough & Hicks</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">Louie Gest Chevrolet</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">B. Ashby Gas Station</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">Schubert's Shop & Shoe Repair</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">Franklin's Filling Station</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">Strelsky's Gas Station</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">W.P. Henry's Garage</span></li>
</ul>
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">Reflecting on these years and on all the years between, we should remember most of all that this was a town filled with hope and promise and compassion -- a town filled with people, some of whom would remain in this central Texas location and some (such as <a href="http://www.findagrave.com/cgi-bin/fg.cgi?page=gr&GRid=58756611" target="_blank">George Sessions Perry</a>) whose influence would span the world and future generations. The model is a treasure beyond words, a pleasure to view, and perhaps most of all -- a gentle reminder of who we are and from whence we came.</span><br />
<br />
<hr />
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">Below is the list of buildings on Nolan Bland's model, as prepared by Peggy (Skinner) Wright. At one time, the buildings were numbered to correspond to this list.</span><br />
<br />
<ol>
<li><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">IGN Railroad Depot (R) Passengers (B) Freight</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">Cannon's Grocery ~ Peveto's Restaurant</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">Mrs. Queen's Room & Board</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">Ousley's Variety Store</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">Cone's Dry Goods</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">Scheihing's Restaurant</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">City Pantatorium (Dry Cleaners)</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">Dad Griffith's Cafe</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">Ray Eads' Grocery</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">Carroll Robison's Hamburger Shop</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">Rockdale State Bank (doctor, dentist, lawyer upstairs)</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">Coffield Hardware</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">Border State Grocery</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">Larue Hotel (Formerly Wolf Hotel)</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">Rockdale Furniture</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">Albrecht's Hamburger Shop</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">Owl Cafe (Mr. Landis)</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">McCawley's Saloon</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">Perry & Quebe Drug Store</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">Loewenstein's Merchandise</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">T.B. Ryan's Shoes</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">Jack Pamplin's Confectionery</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">Mrosko's Cafe</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">Noack's Grocery</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">Marshall's Meat Market</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">Stein's Bakery</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">Backhaus' Brothers Grocery</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">H & L Hudson's Grocery</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">W.P. Henry's Garage</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">Henry Barnhouse Home</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">Colored Barber Shop</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">Moultrie Blacksmith</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">Pruett's Feed Lot & Livery</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">Menn's Monument Works</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">Estelle's Tin Shop ~ Woodmen's Lodge ~ JP Hillyer</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">Preston Perry (vacant lot)</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">Harness Shop</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">Billy Richard's Garage</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">Moses' Livery Stable (rear)</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">T.B. Kemp Insurance</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">Henne & Meyer Hardware</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">Phillips & Luckey Undertakers (upstairs)</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">Furniture Store</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">Dixie Theater (C.W.Matson)</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">Citizen's State Bank ~ Southwestern Bell (upstairs)</span></li>
<li></li>
<li><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">Elite Cafe (Ryan & Vogel)</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">Strelsky's Gas Station</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">Gaither Motor Co.</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">Texas Power & Light</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">Wilson's Boarding House</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">R.L. Orr's Meat Market</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">W.E. White Dry Goods</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">Baldridge Bros. Drug Store ~ B. Regenbrecht, Jewelers ~ (doctor & dentist offices upstairs) </span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">Arch Holley Barber Shop</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">Hill's Confectionery & Books</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">Scarbrough & Hicks Co.</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">First National Bank</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">Horton's Barber Shop</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">Bob Reagan's Confectionery</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">Dora Poole's Hat & Dress Shop</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">Schubert's Shop & Shoe Repair</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">Jim Hamilton's Meat Market</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">Stricker's Variety Store</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">Rockdale Reporter (downstairs) ~ Masonic Lodge (upstairs)</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">Rockdale Post Office</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">Franklin's Filling Station</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">Louis Gest Chevrolet</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">B. Ashby Gas Station</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">Claude Ashby Pool Hall</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">Moultrie Blacksmith</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">Hale Hotel</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">Rockdale City Jail ~ Backhaus Bros. chicken pens</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">Clyde Rhodes & Tony Allen Machine Shop</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">Will Scheihing Home</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">Sour Lake Machine Shop</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">Grocery Warehouse</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">Wm. Cameron Lumber Yard & Cabinet Shop</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">Farmer's Union Gin</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">Blackburn's Electric Gin</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">Blacksmith Shop</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">Texaco/Gaither Whse.</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">Machine Shop</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">Railroad section houses</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">Henning Root Beer</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">Vinton Cotton Buyer</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">Seed House</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">Stockyards (for shipping cattle)</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">Lumber Yard</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">Warehouse</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">Mine Payroll Office</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">Williams' Grocery</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">Farmer's Union Store & Warehouse</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">Cotton Platform</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">Cotton Sample Room</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">Cotton Bagging and Tie</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">Gulf Oil</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">Cotton Oil Mill Garage</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">Cotton Oil Mill Scales</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">Cotton Oil Mill</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">Ice House</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">Swimming Pool</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">Railroad Houses</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">Railroad Well</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">Railroad Motor Car House</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">Railroad Water Tower</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">Sinclair Oil (Palmer's)</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">City Water Tower (first)</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">SA&AP Railroad</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">Water Fountain ~ middle of street</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">Turner Lumber Yard</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">Crittenden Home</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">Fred Palmer Home</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">Rockdale Bottling Works</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">Leo Harris Store ~ Catchings Barber Shop ~ Henke Dry Goods ~ E.A. Camp Office (upstairs)</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">T. Raymond Dry Goods</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">Perry Building</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">Kestenbaum Garage</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">Maxie's Sweet Shop & Theater</span></li>
</ol>
<br />BeNotForgothttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15680626010883788138noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5482043524654211586.post-79297278592770013411974-06-13T08:59:00.000-05:002018-04-10T13:30:25.113-05:001974 :: Rockdale Homecoming<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: large;"><i>Rockdale Reporter</i></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: large;">Thursday, June 13, 1974</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><i><br /></i></span>
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><i>Record Crowd Attends Homecoming</i>. </span></span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Rockdale's Homecoming at Fair Park Sunday (June 9, 1974) drew an estimated crowd of 400, the largest since the Homecoming Association was organized in 1933. With Rockdale celebrating its Centennial year this week, the Homecoming had particular appeal to former residents, and local residents turned out in large numbers to greet the "Homecomers."
</span></span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">They came from all parts of Texas and from California, Kentucky, New York, and Louisiana. The guest register showed Houston listed more than any other city. Mrs. Hazel Largent Benjamin, of Torrance, Calif., was awarded a Centennial souvenir for the visitor coming the greatest distance -- 1661 miles. Similar awards went to the oldest man and oldest woman present -- both from Rockdale. They were Jack Richards, 89, and Mrs. Lillie Martin, 92.
</span></span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">The event saw visitors start arriving at Fair Park at mid-morning. Following some two hours of visiting and talking over old times, a barbecue chicken lunch was served in Fair Park pavilion by the women of the New Salem Home Demonstration Club. <a href="http://www.findagrave.com/cgi-bin/fg.cgi?page=gr&GRid=29738130" target="_BLANK">Helmer Dahl</a>, of Hutto, organist, provided background music.
</span></span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><a href="http://www.findagrave.com/cgi-bin/fg.cgi?page=gr&GRid=70845600" target="_blank">W.H. Cooke</a> emceed a short program that included the presentation of awards and election of officers for the Homecoming Association. "We held the program to a minimum to give visitors and local citizens a maximum time for visiting and talking over old times," he said. <a href="http://www.findagrave.com/cgi-bin/fg.cgi?page=gr&GRid=71076962" target="_blank">Glenn Hodges</a> told the visitors about Rockdale's new $2.5 million hospital now under construction.
</span></span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">In the election of officers, Cooke was named president, succeeding <a href="http://www.findagrave.com/cgi-bin/fg.cgi?page=gr&GRid=21170847" target="_blank">Hugh Estell</a>, this year's president, who was moved to the office of vice president being vacated by Cooke. <a href="http://www.findagrave.com/cgi-bin/fg.cgi?page=gr&GRid=21165915" target="_blank">Mrs. Cooke</a> was named corresponding secretary, replacing <a href="http://www.findagrave.com/cgi-bin/fg.cgi?page=gr&GRid=58253732" target="_blank">Mrs. Hugh Estell</a> who has been serving in this capacity. She was unable to attend this year's Homecoming, having had surgery at Richard's Hospital the previous Friday. </span><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Mrs. </span><a href="http://www.findagrave.com/cgi-bin/fg.cgi?page=gr&GRid=71077596" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;" target="_blank">Louise Sessions</a><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"> was reelected recording secretary and Miss </span><a href="http://www.findagrave.com/cgi-bin/fg.cgi?page=gr&GRid=71080404" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;" target="_blank">Emma Hardie</a><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"> was reelected to the treasurer's post.</span></span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">The meeting disbanded shortly before 2 p.m., but the "visiting and yarn spilling" continued for another hour for many. Others participated in various events of the Rockdale Centennial program during the remainder of the afternoon. </span></span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">The museum and art show were open downtown, and many visitors joined the tour of Alcoa's Rockdale Works, "the nation's largest aluminum smelter." Many stayed for the community-wide church services at the football field at 6 p.m. </span><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">The old homes tour also drew many former residents. </span></span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Retiring president Estell said the Association finished the Homecoming year "in the black" for the first time. He reported $386 in the collection box for those attending. "After paying all bills," Estell said, "the Association has a balance of approximately $75 on hand." The Association's income comes from membership dues which are $5 a year. Estell and incoming president Cooke said membership cards will be mailed to out-of-town residents who request membership, although this is not a requisite for attending the annual Homecoming.</span></span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><br /></span>
</span>BeNotForgothttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15680626010883788138noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5482043524654211586.post-77020023236610625131974-06-06T21:04:00.000-05:002017-07-23T17:13:11.242-05:001934 :: 2nd Annual Convention<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: large;"><br style="background-color: white; color: #333333; line-height: 20.0200004577637px;" /><span style="background-color: white; color: #333333;"><i>Rockdale Reporter</i></span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: large;"><span style="background-color: white; color: #333333;">Thursday, June 6, 1974</span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: large;"><span style="background-color: white; color: #333333;"><br /></span></span>
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: large;"><span style="background-color: white; color: #333333;"><br /></span></span>
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: large;"><span style="background-color: white; color: #333333;">Forty years ago . . . the Rockdale Homecoming Association, which was organized the previous year, was to hold its second annual convention at Fair Park Sunday. </span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: large;"><span style="background-color: white; color: #333333;"><br /></span></span>
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: large;"><span style="background-color: white; color: #333333;">Mrs. Marion Burck Smith of Austin was president, Mrs. C.M. Sessions of Rockdale was vice president, and Ira Perry of Pipe Creek, Texas, was secretary.</span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: large;"><span style="background-color: white; color: #333333;"><br /></span></span>BeNotForgothttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15680626010883788138noreply@blogger.com0