Gleanings from the Ritchie Gazette, 1939
The excerpts below were transcribed from microfilm copies of the Ritchie Gazette. I have attempted to transcribe all items related to the southwestern corner of the county, though some were undoubtedly overlooked, and the researcher seeking all possible information should review the microfilm copy. Errors in the original publication are denoted with "[sic]." Illegible passages are marked "[?]." Corrected text and other comments are placed within brackets ([]). The excerpts are reprinted here by kind permission of the Ritchie Gazette.
Ritchie Gazette, January 13, 1939
Good Gasser
The Southern Oil Company has a good gasser, just drilled in on the Coyle farm near Macfarlan, Murphy district.
The Schultz Oil Company has begun drilling on the Hammett farm on Bull creek in Grant district. A. R. Kelley, of Cairo, is the contractor. Spudding began Monday.
A Wedding
On New Year's Day in Parkersburg was solemnized the marriage of Joseph Junior Kerns and Cleo Irene Richards, both living on Star Route Cairo.
Rev. Andrew N. Moats was the officiating clergyman.
Return to Ohio
Guy Lewis, of Akron, Ohio, was at Rusk for a few days, there the guest of his mother and his sister, Mrs. Martha Lewis and Mrs. Russell Wyre.
His wife, who had been spending some days with relatives in Clarksburg, returned to Akron with him.
Ritchie Gazette, January 27, 1939
Mellin
A quiet wedding took place at the home of Mr. and Mrs. Hoover, Saturday afternoon, January 21. Mrs. Alice Welch became the bride of Mr. Walter Moore. We sincerely home they have a very happy married life.
Mrs. Almeda Newbrough is moving in with John Cline to keep house for him.
Miss Ruby Eddy is working for Mr. Ben Stanley now.
Mrs. Ben Stanley has returned from the hospital at Parkersburg and is improving.
Rev. Crew is having a very good meeting at the U. B. church.
A. J. Eddy is having a water well drilled at his residence. Mr. Earl Echard is doing the drilling for him.
Mr. Earl Stanley, Orland Willie and John Newbrough are talking of going to Michigan to get employment this week.
Ritchie Gazette, February 3, 1939
Revival Closes
Revival services, which were held for three weeks at the North Fork Baptist church at Racy, have closed. The meeting was a very successful one, with several conversions and a good attendance.
Rev. Andrew N. Moats, a Parkersburg minister, was in charge.
Ritchie Gazette, February 17, 1939
Rusk Farm Women's Club
On Tuesday, February 14, the Rusk Farm Woman's Club met at the home of Beatrice Moats, at Rusk for the monthly meeting, having been postponed from February 3, on account of the high waters. Meeting was in charge of the President, Winnie Simmons and opening hymn was "America", sung by members. Scripture reading by Bessie Phillips. Roll call was answered by each member, giving a selected reading or poem. Miss Hazel Usner our very capable demonstration agent gave interesting talks on several different topics. The club is planning on an oyster supper in March and a Bake Sale and Bazaar at Easter. Mrs. Bessie Phillips pieced and quilted a beautiful quilt which will be sold.
At the close of the meeting delicious refreshments were served by hostess to following members: Edna Cain, Eva Conoway, Daisy Marshall, Mable Maze, Bina Dulaney, Bessie Phillips, Belle Wyre[,] Sarah Miller, Miss Hazel Usner, and visitors, Mary Virginia Pribble and Dorothy Cox.
The next meeting March 3rd, will be at the home of Eva Conoway.
Rusk
Mrs. J. W. Mason continues to improve from an operation.
Mrs. Ruby Turner had an operation on her nose and is not able to be out much.
Mr. James Cantwell is some better.
Mr. and Mrs. D. L. Beckner attended the funeral of Mr. Ben Twyman at Cairo, Tuesday.
Mr. and Mrs. Preston Simmons were Sunday visitors at the home of their daughter, Mrs. Ruby Turner.
Mr. and Mrs. Clarence Lewis and Iwana Mason attended the funeral of Alex Mason in Parkersburg Tuesday afternoon.
Valuable Historical Article by A Well Known Cairo Writer
Cairo and Kanawha Valley Narrow Gauge Marks Interesting Period in State History
Built to Asphalt Mine in 1866, Last Run Made in November, 1929
By Brooks Pepper
The Cairo and Kanawha Valley railroad made its last commercial run November 22, 1929 and closed an interesting chapter of narrow-gauge railroad history, veterans here recalled today.
The Cairo and Kanawha Valley railroad operated from Cairo, on the Baltimore and Ohio to Macfarlan, Murphy district, Ritchie county. The road was not a great deal unlike many other narrow gauge roads in the country which fell at the hands of better highways and the march of progress.
In 1842 in Macfarlan, a man by the name of Lemon discovered a vein which had the appearance of coal. The discovery was accidental since Lemon made his discovery in a creek bed where a spring freshet had unearthed what he thought was a bed of coal.
The vein later turned out to be a layer of pure asphalt which gained national importance since that material was more or less of a scarce variety in this country in that early time. Some asphalt was being mined but not in commercial proportion until the development of Ritchie Mines, near Macfarlan, eighteen miles from Cairo.
News of the discovery traveled fast after it was found that the mineral was the raw asphalt. Soon a Baltimore stock company bought the property and began mining operations.
Transportation to the railroad at Cairo presented difficulties which had to be overcome. In 1866 the company began construction of a railroad to their mines. Several routes were surveyed to the mine site and the one from Cairo was definitely decided upon.
Known As 'Calico'
This road was named the "Calico Railroad." The Calico, according to the old timers, was a picturesque affair and didn't look anything like the standard gauge of the Baltimore and Ohio. For a road bed the Calico employed a system of "sleepers" with iron straps upon them which served as rails. Engines used on the road were the small "mogul" type and were a straight connected engine. Three of these engines were bought and brought to Cairo where they served the 'Calico' until its abandonment sometime early in the '80s.
Abandonment of the Calico road was caused by the discintinuance [sic] of the Ritchie mines and the mining of the asphalt found in that unusual mineral vein. Opinion here varies greatly over the ultimate reason for the abandonment of the mines, but several reasons are given that would suffice for the termination of mining operations.
One of the reasons given by those familiar with the history of the mines is that two disastrous explosions resulted which forced the operating company to give up the mining project. Another suggestion is given that the vein of mineral played out. This is disputed somewhat by the practical theory evidenced when a Chicago company bought the property and resumed a limited operation of the plant around the turn of the century. The use of the asphalt at this later resumption of operations was in the manufacture of furniture polish and furniture oils. It is definitely known that no asphalt from Ritchie mines was used during the final operations for the paving of streets and highways as it was in the first operations.
Pave D. C. Streets
Old timers here say that much of the asphalt mined and shipped over the Calico was sent to eastern markets. It is generally understood that the entire length of Pennsylvania avenue, in Washington, D. C., was at one time paved entirely with asphalt mined at Ritchie mines. Many other cities of that day were numbered among those having streets paved with asphalt from the local mines.
The Calico road was an important link in the development of the Cairo community and it can be justly stated that it was one of the first narrow gauge roads in the country. After the road had been completed, and operations had begun upon the system, the road still had to be named.
The actual naming of the road came about through a jest. A prominent hotel man at Cairo, James Merchant, was visiting with the owners of the road in a session which was held in the McGregor General store at Cairo. Several suggestions had been made to the owners and they related their quandary to Mr. Merchant, who glibly told them:
"I don't see how we can name a road like that anything at all. Why, it's no wider than a strip of Calico."
And that was how the Calico road got its name--from a strip of cloth that was in such common use in that day.
Haul 8 Loaded Cars
The small engines on the road could pull about eight loaded cars from the top of Mellin hill, about twelve miles from Cairo, to the terminal here. After arrival at the Cairo station the cars were unhitched and hauled out on a tipple where their contents were unloaded into coal cars of the standard gauge Baltimore and Ohio.
Because of the steep grade going out over the road to Ritchie mines, two of the three engines were kept on this end of the line where they hauled the loaded cars and returned the empties to the top of Mellin hill. Here another engine was used to switch out the cars at the mine and bring them to the top of the hill where they were dispatched to Cairo.
It was not uncommon, according to some of the people here who remember the railroad, to see many "coal hopper passengers" stealing rides on the empty and loaded cars.
This stealing of rides went on until the road owners turned their "guests" into paying passengers by putting on a coach attached to their asphalt trains. This coach, too, was built for the carrying of mails and for a number of years employed a mail clerk who was charged with the safe passage of the mail.
For several years, after the close of operations on the Calico road, a log-tram road was used over the right-of-way of the old Calico. This manner of transportation was continued in hauling of logs into the Cairo station for sale and shipment.
Build Lumber Line
Early in the 1890's H. S. Wilson and Sons, a lumber company, bought the old right-of-way from the owners of the Calico and began building another railroad which was to be devoted principally to the shipments of lumber from the Elm run section and from Devil Hole. The Wilsons built the road in short extensions as it was needed. Finally realizing the commercial possibilities of this section in the development of the oil country on the route to Macfarlan, the Wilsons extended their line to its southern terminus at Macfarland.
H. S. Wilson, head of the company engaged in the logging business which necessitated building of the road, was not unfamiliar with construction of the railroads. Wilson, it is stated here, came to Cairo following completion of the Grafton and Belington road upon which he had served as chief surveyor.
Wilson and his sons continued to own the road which was then named the Cairo and Kanawha Valley railroad until 1907 or 1908 when the "C. & K." was sold to a stock company which sent Col. Lee Shafer here to operate the road. Col. Shafer continued to look after the operation until it was dismantled finally in 1929. Col. Shafer received his title while serving in the United States Army during the Spanish-American war.
Get 'Modern' Engines
The history of the "C. and K." from the turn of the century until the end of the road in 1929, was concerned principally with the hauling of oil well supplies, merchandise, and the mail to Macfarlan, Mellin, and several points in between where small postoffices were located.
About 1903 a distinct change took place in the type of motive power used by the C. and K. The small "mogul" straight connected engine was replaced entirely by the more powerful Climax built Shay engines.
Two of these new type engines were bought, one of which is pictured with this story, and placed in use between Cairo and Macfarlan and used until the road was abandoned.
These new engines were a sharp departure from the old type engines in that they were heavier and could haul bigger trains. No. 5, the engine pictured, was a thirty-ton locomotive with the Shay principle of propulsion. The driving wheels were connected to a crank shaft by cogs which were driven by the small steam sylinders [sic] high on the sides of the engine.
Last Engineer
George Cunningham, of Cairo, who was the last engineer to run a train over the C. and K. line. He entered the service of the road in 1903.
The usual schedule for the operation of the trains over the Cairo to Macfarlan line called for departure from Cairo at 8:30 a. m. and to arrive at Macfarlan shortly after 11 o'clock. The return trip to Cairo was started about 1 o'clock with scheduled arrival at Cairo for 4:30. During the early operation of the road it was often necessary to make night trips in the event special shipments were being made. In the case of night runs, the regular crews took the run out and returned to Cairo in time to make their trip the next day.
Lone Wreck Fatality
Although there were minor derailments, no lives were lost in the history of the road with one exception. The exception was the fatal wreck at Cairo of a Baltimore and Ohio freight train which demolished the C. and K. depot killing the C. and K. agent, Frank Fetty, on November 8, 1915. Fetty was then mayor of Cairo and died on the way to a Parkersburg hospital shortly after the accident.
The only other wreck that had a serious consequence during the operation of the road, and that does not include the old "Calico road," occurred February 14, 1918, near Mellin. This wreck happened with engine No. 5 in charge of Engineer Cunningham and Fireman Addison Collins. This day the train consisted of five cars with two loads of oil well casing pipe, the regular freight car, an empty flat car, and the passenger and mail car. Conductor, Earl "Roxie" Smith, now dead, was in charge.
Engineer Cunningham narrowly escaped death in the ensuing wreck which was caused by a loose "angle" plate connecting two rails. Mr. Cunningham, who relates the story of the wreck, says:
"It all happened so quickly I didn't have time to move. We were going along at an average rate of speed when the engine was suddenly on the ground and heading for the ditch. When the engine struck the ditch, it threw me across the cab and under the fireman's seat. Collins, the fireman, escaped out the window but I was unable to make my way back up the sloping gangway. When the engine turned over on its side, a steam connection broke just under the top of the cab and all of the live steam came back into the engine cab burning and scalding me so badly I couldn't get out without assistance. "Roxie" Smith, the conductor, came to the engine and when I had climbed up to the window on the high side of the engine, he grabbed me by my clothing and pulled me from the cab. And I guess that just about saved my life because I couldn't have stood it much longer in all that steam."
Mr. Cunningham said he was taken to a Parkersburg hospital where he was a patient for five weeks. He still bears the scars of the accident having been badly scalded about the head and the upper body.
Laments Last Trip
The last scheduled roundtrip to Macfarlan over the C. and K. was made on November 22, 1929. The next day a crew of workmen were at work in removing the tracks at Macfarlan and the end of the road had come.
Engineer Cunningham, who relates this part of the story with a note of pathos in his manner said:
"When we got to Macfarlan that trip, I began to really think the bottom had dropped out of things. Before that, I didn't think so much about it. I had always managed to get along somehow but about that time things began to look bad and I knew I was getting too old to get another job just any place I looked for work. For twenty-nine years I had given my life to the "road" and our last trip was the saddest I ever made."
From November 1929 until March 1930 workmen were engaged in tearing up the track and hauling it to Cairo where later it was sold. The No. 4 and the No. 5 engines were later sold to a junk company. Fred Green, a Cairo businessman, bought the right of way extending from Cairo to Macfarlan. The right of way is now being parcelled out by Mr. Green to any of the landowners through whose properties the railroad ran who may be interested in buying the land.
Ritchie Gazette, February 24, 1939
Birth Announced
Mr. and Mrs. J. C. Trimbley, living on Rural route one, Petroleum, announce the birth of a son, which they named Gerald David.
Mid-year County Test
The following pupils in Ritchie County made an average of 90% or more in the Mid-Year Test sent out from the County Superintendent's office:
Third Grade--...Anna Greer and Herbert Lanham, Rusk... Loretta Kerns, Upper Gillispie [sic]... Ronald Overton and Robert Jenkins, MacFarlan... Bernadine Cox and Betty Jean Cox, Dry Ridge School...
Fourth Grade--...Mary Jo Pribble, Macfarlan... Doane Thrash, Billie McFarland and Louise Roberts, Petroleum...
Fifth Grade--... Betty Cunningham and Charles Cunningham, Upper Devil Hole... Leonora Selman, Oxbow...
Sixth Grade--Marvel Moats, Elizabeth Dulaney and Genevieve Dulaney, Rusk... George Whitehead and Roena Vinson, McFarlan school...
Seventh Grade--James Tennant, Rusk... Novella Nuzum, Petroleum...
Eighth Grade--...Donald Overton and Noble Pribble, McFarlan... Clifford Border, Oxbow...
Ritchie Gazette, March 3, 1939
Social Event
Petroleum,--The members of the Chinese Checker club met Friday evening at the home of Mr. and Mrs. R. C. Jackson with Mrs. Vincent Kibbe hostess.
At 6 o'clock a chicken dinner was served and the remainder of the evening was spent in conversation and Chinese checkers. Those present were Mr. and Mrs. R. E. Pepper, Miss Virginia and Eleanor Douglass, Mrs. H. C. Netser and daughter, Doris, Mrs. Faynelle Johnson, Mr. and Mrs. R. C. Jackson, Mr. and Mrs. Vincent Kibbe.
Painful Burns
When McDowell Lewis, of Rusk was thawing out a gas line one morning recently, the gas exploded form the heat he used, and he was painfully burned on his face and hands by the explosion.
Ritchie Gazette, March 10, 1939
Visited At Petroleum
Mr. and Mrs. F. L. Knox and two children, Douglass and Frances Camille, of Claysville, Pennsylvania, were at Petroleum for a few days the guests at the home of Mrs. Knox's father, Dr. E. H. Douglass.
Purl E. Webb Is Called By Death
Purl E. Webb, aged 60, died at his home near Petroleum, W. Va., at 2 o'clock Saturday morning, following an illness of several weeks. He was an engineer for the B. & O. railroad for 18 years on the Parkersburg-Grafton division[.] During that time he was a resident of Parkersburg and was well known here.
He is survived by his wife, Mrs. Bertha Webb, and the following sons and daughters: Mrs. L. N. Minks, Parkersburg; Mrs. Frank Hodgkiss, Akron, Ohio; Mrs. Louia McClaskey, Pennsboro; Glen Webb, Livingston, Mont.; C. F. Webb, Willard, Ohio, and Paul and Ralph, at home. He is also survived by his mother, Mrs. J. S. Webb and several brothers and sisters.
He was a member of the Goose Creek Baptist church. Funeral services will be held in the Goose Creek church Sunday afternoon at 2 o'clock. Burial will be in the church cemetery.
Ritchie Gazette, March 31, 1939
Petroleum
Birthday Dinner
On Sunday, a birthday dinner was given at the home of Mr. and Mrs. B. F. Deems, living a few miles from Petroleum in honor of Mrs. Deems. She was forty-two years of age and has fourteen children all living but one. The following dinner guests were Mr. and Mrs. George Waller and children, Raymona and Paul, Mrs. J. E. Wilson and sons, Robert and Larry, Mr. and Mrs. Howard Santee and children, Kenneth and Nancy Lee[,] Mr. and Mrs. Wilbur Cain and children, Marjorie Jean and Glen, Miss Bessie, Mary, Beulah Myrtle, Evelyn, Rosalee, Elizabeth Bennie and Billy Deems, and Mr. Isaac Deems who makes his home with Mr. and Mrs. B. F. Deeems [sic]. Mrs. Deem received many nice and useful gifts.
Mr. Wilbur Cain was visiting at the home of Mr. and Mrs. E. C. Deem Saturday evening.
Mr. J. W. Mason and Wilbur Cain were business visiting in Harrisville Monday.
Mr. and Mrs. B. F. Deem and Edna Cain Howard Santee were in Cairo Sunday evening.
Mr. J. E. Wilson was visiting at the home of her parents Mr. and Mrs. B. F. Deems from Sunday until Monday evening.
Minor Operation
Mr. and Mrs. F. H. Kerns and little son, Robert, of Petroleum, has had an infected ear. They had him in Parkersburg last Saturday and had it lanced. At this time he is improving.
Is Improving
Dr. E. H. Douglass of Petroleum, has been a patient in St. Joseph's hospital, Parkersburg, where he received treatment for an infection in the ear, caused from a scratch.
The Doctor is now improving.
Racy News
Kester Layfield, member of the U. S. Navy, is spending a thirty-four day furlough with his parents, Mrs. and Mrs. J. R. Layfield. He also spent a few days with his brother, K. H. Layfield, of Breckenridge, Michigan.
Mrs. Leon Whipkey, of Nobe, is spending the week with friends and relatives here.
Mrs. Hobert Kerns and son, Gayford, are visiting Mr. Kerns in Pennsylvania, where he has employment.
Mrs. F. B. Kerns is on the sick list this week.
Quilting is the leading activity in this community at present. The Mission Circle has quilted eight quilts besides what they have done for themselves.
Wiley Quick has employment on the new house being constructed by C. A. Myers, of Parkersburg, for H. N. Rinehart, at Nutter Farm.
Mr. and Mrs. Orval Kerns and daughter, Marylou, and Miss Arline Kerns, of Parkersburg, spent Sunday with their parents, Mrs. and Mrs. F. B. Kerns.
Rev. A. N. Moats, of Parkersburg, filled his regular appointment at North Fork, Saturday night and Sunday. On Sunday evening there was a special service for the youth of the Church, which was a splendid service.
North Fork Sunday School held their annual election on last Sunday. Mr. Clark Middleton is the new superintendent; Miss Ugenea Maze, secretary; Mrs. Monnie Anderson, cradle roll superintendent; Mrs. Margaret Mason, superintendent of children's dept. The B. Y. P. U. also held their regular annual election Sunday evening. President, John Lanham; secretary, Geraldine Kerns.
Will Tanzy, former resident, has moved to the Shuttlesworth farm at Upper Gillespie.
Ritchie Gazette, April 7, 1939
Petroleum
The Sterling Sunday school class met at the new home of Mr. and Mrs. Vincent Kibbe Saturday evening for their monthly meeting. The evening was spent in formally, the occasion being the birthday of their teacher, Mrs. S. R. Curry, who was greatly surprised when the class showered her with many useful gifts. The hostess, Mrs. Kibbe was also presented with a lovely gift from the class. At a later hour refreshments were served to Mr. and Mrs. W. A. Thrash, Mr. and Mrs. Wilbur McFarland, Ruth Ross, Elsie Willis, Florence Pepper and children, Hobart and Shirley, Dan and Mary Curry, Mrs. John Roberts, Jr., Virginia and George Douglass, Mrs. Alice Stutler of Fort Recovery, Ohio, John Roberts, Francis Jonas, Mrs. S. R. Curry, Charles Thrash, Fred Nuzum and Mr. and Mrs. Vincent Kibbe.
Personals
Dr. E. H. Douglass who has been quite ill for the past two weeks and has been receiving treatments at a Parkersburg hospital is greatly improved.
Mrs. Alice Stutler who spent the past three weeks here the guest of her sister, Mrs. S. R. Curry, left Thursday morning for her home at Fort Reovery, Ohio. She was accompanied as far as Parkersburg by Mrs. S. R. Curry.
Paul Douglass and Miss Margaret Ammend of Wheeling were week end visitors at the home of Dr. E. H. Douglass.
Mr. and Mrs. R. C. Jackson spent Sunday at Boaz the guest of Mrs. Jackson's mother, Mrs. Agnes Kyger.
Mr. and Mrs. Allen Phillips of Brooksville were Sunday guests of his parents, Mr. and Mrs. F. H. Phillips.
Mrs. Vincent Kibbe has been confined to her home for the past few days with flu.
Racy News
Mrs. G. B. Rasson was called to Parkersburg, Thursday, on account of the death of her brother-in-law, Dave Hill.
Cline Bennett and family, Clark Middleton and family, Mr. and Mrs. John Lanham and Jack Quick attended church at the Nazarine church in Parkersburg Saturday night.
Mrs. Nora Maze and Orville Anderson were business visitors in Parkersburg, Friday.
Forest Pribble, George Maze and Wiley Quick were in Sandyville, Jackson county, Thursday on business.
Mrs. Hobert Kerns and son, Gayford, returned home Friday evening after a short visit in Uniontown, Pa., Mr. Kerns accompanied them for a short stay when he will go back there to work.
Several folks form this vicinity attended the Junior play in Cairo, Friday night, and report it as being very good.
Mr. and Mrs. J. W. Quick and son Joe, spent the week end in Grantsville, the guests of Mr. and Mrs. Troea Morrison.
The B. Y. P. U. of the Harrisville Association will hold their annual rally at the North Fork church at 2:00 o'clock, April 23, when a large delegation is expected to be present.
The B. Y. P. U. is arranging an Easter Program.
Revival meeting started at the Rusk Methodist church with Rev. Phillips, in charge.
Ritchie Gazette, April 14, 1939
Local News
A Pleasant Affair
A group of friends of Dr. E. H. Douglass and his two daughters, Misses Virginia and Eleanor Douglass, were guests at their home at Petroleum on last Friday evening. Each guest came with a covered dish for the dinner, which was served and enjoyed by all the participants.
Besides the Douglass family there were present Mr. and Mrs. Ralph Jackson, Mr. and Mrs. Herbert Netser, and little daughter, Mr. and Mrs. Vincent Kibbee, Mrs. Fred Lemon and Miss Ruth Marsh.
With Sick Family
Mrs. Russell Wyre, of Rusk, has been in Charleston the past week, there with her sister, Mrs. Bernard Eddy, who has been quite ill with influenza. Also Mr. Eddy and their three children have been sick with influenza.
Visited in Cincinnati
Miss Edna Jenkins, of Petroleum, was in Cincinnati, Ohio, from Friday of last week until Monday of this, in that city to visit relatives.
Ritchie Gazette, April 21, 1939
Returns Home
Mrs. Russell Wyre has returned to her home at Rusk, after being in Charleston for some days at the home of her sister, Mrs. Bernard Eddy, who has been ill with influenza.
Mr. Eddy and their three children were also ill with influenza at the same time.
Scenic Staunton Pike
Commission Believes Improved Route Will Be One of State's Most Popular
In the opinion of the state road commission, Route 47, better known as the old Parkersburg-Staunton turnpike, will be one of the most popular scenic routes in West Virginia by reason of the new vistas opened on the improved relocation between Kanawha Station and Smithville.
Commenting on the pike's improvement, which was done by prison labor, the commission in its May bulletin, released yesterday, declared that those who have traveled the road have expressed great enthusiasm over it.
The comment continued:
"The scenic points the modern highway opens up will make it one of the most popular recreational travel routes in the western part of the state, many persons believe. Some assert it will be a distinct factor in development of West Virginia's tourist trade. Recreational cabin sites and similar developments are expected.
"Some of the historical landmarks, recalling the days when the Parkersburg-Staunton turnpike was a major project in development of routes from the Atlantic seaboard to the West, may be seen along the new road, which generally follows the old turnpike desipte [sic] relocations to improve grades, straighten curves, etc.
"There are the 'old California house' ruins, reminders of its heyday as an outstanding hostlery on this route; the town of Macfarlan, scene of a famous Indian battle; Webb's Mill, an early landmark in the development of this part if [sic] the state; and near Smithville are the Ritchie mines, discovered by Frederick Lemon, said to be the only asphalt mine of its kind in the world. On the Wirt-Ritchie county line is Flint Run, where George Lemon discovered oil while attempting to bore a salt well.
"The aura of past glory surrounds this route--the promise of future achievement is made real by improvements made by the state road commission.
Ritchie Gazette, April 28, 1939
Local News
Well In Dry
The test well on the Clarence Lewis farm near Rusk was drilled to the depth of two thousand feet, and was dry in all the sands.
B. L. Burgy, of Parkersburg, and his associates have the Lewis lease and drilled the well.
Petroleum
Mrs. Vincent Kibbe was hostess to the M. E. Ladies' Aid society Thursday afternoon at her home. The meeting was opened by singing, "More About Jesus," followed by the twenty-third Psalm repeated by all members and prayer by Mrs. H. E. Nuzum. Reports of committees were given and roll call after which one new member was added, Miss Lillian Rutherford. Plans were made for a supper to be given on Saturday evening, May 6 for the benefit of the church. Readings were given by Mrs. W. A. Thrash[,] Mrs. F. E. Jonas, Mrs. Flora Lanning, Mrs. John Hamilton, Mrs. Lillian Rutherford and Mrs. Gertrude Roberts. This was followed by a test on old Proverbs given by the president.
Refreshments were served to the members and guests who included Mrs. L. W. McFarland, Mrs. C. W. Thrash, Mrs. P. H. Phillips, Mrs. R. C. Jackson, Mrs. F. M. Netser, Mrs. W. A. Thrash, Mrs. A. B. Valentine, Mrs. John Hamilton, Mrs. J. W. Jonas, Mrs. H. C. Netser, Mrs. Flora Lanning, Mrs. F. E. Jonas[,] Mrs. Gertrude Roberts, Miss Lillian Rutherford, Miss Genevieve Rector, Mrs. Virginia Gordon, Mrs. H. E. Nuzum and the hostess, Mrs. Vincent Kibbe.
The young people of the Junior Sunday school class of the Methodist Episcopal church met Thursday evening at the Farm Women's club rooms for their monthly meeting with Miss Novella Nuzum hostess. The evening was spent in playing games. Refreshments were served to Miss Mary Alice Wiatt, Miss Reva Phillips, Miss Wilma Boston, Mrs. Frank Phillips, Ralph Roberts, Bobby Wiatt, Raymond Turner, Miss Imogene Goff, Mrs. H. E. Nuzum teacher of the class and Novelle Nuzum.
Personals
Miss Edna Jenkins is spending a few days at Kingwood the guest of her cousin, Mrs. Bess Hardesty.
F. M. Netser is recovered slowly from an attack of flu.
Ritchie Gazette, May 5, 1939
Child Born
A daughter, the first child, was born on Wednesday of last week to Mr. and Mrs. James McDonald, of Rusk. Janet Delaine is the name of the late arrival, and her weight is seven pounds.
Petroleum
The Petroleum Farm Women's Club met Tuesday at the club rooms for their monthly meeting. At 2 o'clock the meeting was called to order by the president, Mrs. E. R. Dotson. The meeting was preceded by a covered dish dinner with Mrs. Vincent Kibbe hostess. The session opened by singing, "Blest Be The Tie That Binds," scripture reading by the vice president, Mrs. Lanning, club collect reading in unison. After roll call and business session Miss Hazel Usner of Harrisville, home demonstrator of Ritchie county, gave a very interesting demonstration on lighting centers, lamps, and electric bulbs. The club made plans to meet at Glendale on May 11 with other clubs of the county, for a community sing.
Those in attendance were Mrs. E. R. Dotson, Mrs. W. M. Boston, Mrs. John Hamilton, Mrs. Florence Pepper, Mrs. R. C. Jackson, Miss Edna Jenkins[,] Mrs. J. W. Jonas, Mrs. Vincent Kibbee, Mrs. O. S. Lanning, Mrs. L. W. McFarland, Mrs. H. C. Netser, Mrs. F. H. Phillips, Mrs. J. F. Rector, Mrs. J. W. Roberts, Mrs. W. A. Thrash, Mrs. A. B. Valentine, Mrs. C. W. Thrash, Miss Elsie Willis, Miss Hazel Usner, Mrs. H. E. Nuzum, and two visitors, Mrs. Ada Sims and Miss Ruth Ross.
House Burns
A fire of undetermined origin destroyed the home of William Cross, an aged farmer. The flames were discovered about 3:30 o'clock Tuesday afternoon. The home was a one-story frame building located about 1/2 mile west of Petroleum only a few yards from the B. & O. railroad track. Only a few pieces of household goods were saved.
Attend Funeral
J. W. Goff, Jake Jonas, Herbert Netser and L. W. McFarland attended the funeral of A. M. McFarland which was held at Mount Zion church Tuesday afternoon. L. W. McFarland is a cousin of the deceased.
4-H Club Met
The Petroleum 4-H club met at the Farm Women's club rooms Tuesday evening for their regular monthly meeting with ten members present and the leaders and Miss Usner of Harrisville. They will meet May 17 at the club rooms for their next meeting.
Ritchie Gazette, May 12, 1939
Rusk Club Meets
On Friday, May 5th, the Rusk Farm Womans' Club met at the home of Isabelle Wyre for their regular monthly meeting. The meeting was opened by singing "Sing and Smile". The club is sponsoring a bake sale and bazaar at Cairo Saturday May 13. Several of the members are making beautiful pieces of fancy work to be sold. Miss Usner gave a demonstration of colors. Several of the members are planning to attend the singing at Glendale May 11. A few members absent due to illness. At close of meeting the hostess served refreshments to the following members: Bina Dulaney, Mrs. Mollie Beckner, Eva Lewis, Beatrice Moats, Mrs. Will Dotson, Edna Cain, Mrs. Mary Cantwell, Iwana Mason, Sarah Miller, Winnie Simmons, Eva Conaway, Miss Hazel Usner and hostess Isabelle Wyre. The next meeting will be at the home of Mable Maze.
Married at Vienna
The marriage of James Franklin McFarland, of Petroleum, rural route two, and Mary Elizabeth Shaffer, of Cairo, was solemnized one day last week, the ceremony being performed at the parsonage home of Rev. Ofa Bennett at Vienna, with the Reverend officiating.
Ritchie Gazette, June 2, 1939
Mrs. Delaney Improves
Mrs. Frank Delaney, of Rusk, was in Parkersburg for a few days at patient in St. Joseph's hospital, where she received medical treatment. She is improving some from the treatments she received.
Birth of Son
Mr. and Mrs. Edward Johnson, of rural route one, Petroleum, are the parents of a son, born a few days ago. Russell Edward is the name of the infant.
Ritchie Gazette, June 9, 1939
Rusk Farm Women
On Friday afternoon, June 2nd, the Rusk Farm Woman's club met at the home of Mrs. J. W. Mason, for regular monthly meeting. The meeting was in charge of president, Winnie Simmons. The opening song was "The West Virginia Hills." Devotional, led by Dessie Phillips. The lesson, "Touring West Virginia" was read and discussed. Mrs. Mason had on display several articles that are manufactured in West Virginia. Two new members, Freda Kerns and Gladys Lanham were admitted to the club. At the close of the meeting, the hostesses, Mrs. Mason and Mabel Maze, served refreshments to following members and visitors: Gladys Lanham, Freda Kerns, Sarah Miller, Bessie Phillips, Mary Cantwell, Edna Cain, Mollie Beckner, Eva Conaway, Ruby Turner, Winnie Simmons, Delores Swisher and visitors, Marjorie Beckner, Marjorie Swisher, Claudia Phillips, Nina Whipkey, Ralph Maze, Claude and Jean Turner, Marjorie Cain, Eva Ann Simmons and Nadine Mason.
The meeting for July will be held at the home of Bessie Phillips.
Petroleum
Miss Mary Curry, who is soon to become the bride of Richard Skaggs of Marlington was honored Friday evening with a miscellaneous shower. Many useful and beautiful gifts were received by the bride-elect. A delicious lunch prepared by Mrs. Arthur Thrash, Mrs. Florence Pepper, Mrs. Lewis McFarland, and Mrs. Wilbur McFarland was served before the opening of the gifts.
Those present were: Mr. and Mrs. Arthur Thrash and sons Doane and Charles, Mr. and Mrs. Wilbur McFarland, Mr. and Mrs. F. M. Netser, Mr. and Mrs. R. C. Jackson, Mr. and Mrs. Lewis McFarland, Mr. and Mrs. Herbert Netser and daughter, Doris, Mr. and Mrs. C. W. Thrash, Mr. and Mrs. Roy Pepper, Mrs. Florence Pepper and children, Hobart and Shirley, Mrs. H. E. Nuzum and daughter, Novella, George Douglass, Daniel Curry, Vera Rector, Leo McQuaid, Gayle Imaly, Flora Lanning, Dorothy Jonas, Mrs. John Roberts, Jr., and children, John, Ralph and Louise, Mrs. J. W. Roberts, Sr., Lillian Rutherford, Mrs. S. R. Curry, Mrs. Ralph Sears, Billy Mcfarland, Raymond Turner, Mary Alice Childers, Mrs. Frank Phillips, Mabel Reed and the honoree, Miss Mary Curry. Those sending gifts who were not present were: Mr. and Mrs. Francis McQuaid, Edna Jenkins, Mr. and Mrs. Vincent Kibbee, Elsie Willis, Mrs. L. P. Willis, Mrs. John Jonas, Mrs. John Hamilton, Mr. and Mrs. W. F. Perrine.
Sunday School Class Meets
The Sterling Sunday school class of which Mrs. S. R. Curry is teacher, was entertained at the M. E. parsonage on Saturday evening May 27 with Mrs. H. E. Nuzum and son as hostesses. Business received attention of the pres., Arthur Thrash, and a new secretary was appointed to replace Miss Mary Curry who is leaving to make her home in Marlington. The evening was spent in games and conversation. Refreshments were served to Mrs. S. K. Curry, Mrs. Francis Jonas, Mrs. John Roberts, Mr. and Mrs. Arthur Thrash and son, Charles, Mrs. Florence Pepper and children, Hobart and Shirley, Daniel and Mary Curry, Rev. and Mrs. Nuzum and Fred and Novella Nuzum.
Personals
Mr. and Mrs. R. C. Jackson had as their guests Tuesday, Mr. and Mrs. Wilber Holland and sons, Charles and Morris, of Greensville, S. C.[,] Mrs. R. E. Holland, Lucy Holland of Boaz, Mrs. Agnes and Thelma Kiger of Boaz and Charles Cline of Parkersburg.
Miss Eleanor Douglass will leave Saturday for New York, where she will spend the summer.
Mr. and Mrs. R. R. Rutherford and Mr. and Mrs. J. E. Burgy all of Akron, Ohio, came Friday to spend a few days with relatives.
Dr. E. H. Douglass and family had as their guests Tuesday Mr. and Mrs. Frank Knox and two children, of Claysville, Pa., and Paul Douglass, of Wheeling.
Mrs. H. E. Nuzum left Monday for a visit at Wellsville, Ohio, with her sister, Mrs. J. L. Batey. She will also visit her daughter Mrs. K. E. Jones, of Akron, Ohio, before returning home.
Mellin
Mr. and Mrs. Lewis Higginbotham and daughter, Shelby Jean and Mrs. Nancy Higginbotham were visiting Mrs. Higginbotham's sister, Mrs. M. C. Hekman, living at Harrisville last Sunday.
Mr. and Mrs. Claude Williams have moved in their new home near Harrisville, Route one.
Mrs. Almeda Newbrough has moved into the house that Claude Williams has just vacated.
Mr. H. P. Williamson got kicked by a horse on the hand breaking his hand.
Miss Wilma Moore, who has been at Parkersburg for the last week, has returned to her home at this place.
Mr. and Mrs. Arley Higginbotham and family were visiting Mrs. Higginbotham's mother, Mrs. J. B. Eddy, last Sunday.
Many of the school children are very happy to be getting a vacation after nine months of hard and earnest work.
Mr. Kenneth Pritchard, of Pullman, was at Mr. Sampson Moore's last Friday on business.
Miss Nancy Bell Eddy, who lives near Dog Run, is now staying with her grandmother, Mrs. N. J. Higginbotham, for a week.
Mr. H. W. Michael's youngest daughter had the misfortune one day last week of getting one of her fingers caught in the car door and cut it off.
Miss Mildred Williamson is back again at this place. She has been employed at Harrisville for a period of time.
Mrs. A. J. Eddy has been ill, but is some what better now.
Rusk
Mrs. Martha Lewis was real sick last week.
Beatrice Moats was a Parkersburg visitor, Friday.
Mr. and Mrs. Clarence Lewis and Iwana Mason were Harrisville visitors, Friday.
Mrs. Nina Whipkey, of Nobe, is visiting at the home of her parents, Mr. and Mrs. Preston Simmons.
D. L. Beckner is at Chester, with his son, Harry, who had the misfortune of having his foot crushed, which necessitated the removal of the toes.
Mr. and Mrs. John Turner and children, Jean and Claude, Mr. and Mrs. Preston Simmons and children, Junior and Eva Ann and Nina Whipkey, Mrs. Mary Cantwell and grandchildren, James and Mary Lou, Tenant and Mary and Violet Cantwell were Sunday visitors at the home of Mr. and Mrs. W. E. Conaway at Elm Run.
Mrs. Daisy Marshall continues to improve slowly.
There will be a Children's Day program at the North Fork Baptist church, Sunday, June 11.
Ritchie Gazette, June 16, 1939
McFarlan
Carl Lemons has built a restaurant here on route 47 and opened up for business this week.
Tom Overton, who has been ill for the past week isn't much improved. His son, John of Akron, Ohio, has been called to his bedside.
Mr. and Mrs. Willis Pribble spent Sunday at Dallison with relatives.
Mr. and Mrs. Guy Scott and Mr. and Mrs. Ernie Emrick all of Cairo, spent the week end with Mr. and Mrs. Freddy Lemon.
Mrs. Frank Chambers and son Charles has returned from Kentucky, where they visited with relatives.
Walter Davis and son, Edward, spent Friday at Parkersburg.
Sylvia Null was at Glenville Sunday.
Mr. and Mrs. Luther Kerns announce the birth of a baby boy born Monday. This is their fourth child, all boys.
Mrs. Casey Kerns gave a birthday party Saturday in honor of her son, Raymond's third birthday. Several small children were invited and all enjoyed themselves.
George Whitehead has returned from Parkersburg from a visit with his sister, Mrs. George Barnette.
Mrs. Virginia Bickerstaff of Parkersburg was here for a visit last Monday.
Mrs. Milton Wells of Big Springs spent last week with her daughter, Mrs. George Ketchem.
Mrs. Hugh Bailey of Disfield, Maine, who has been here for the past month visiting relatives, returned home Saturday. She was the former Miss Cora Lemons, and while here visited her brothers, Freddy and Harry Lemons and her sister, Mrs. Maude Sproules.
Mrs. Minnie Lemon Miller and son, Eddy Joe, of Flatwoods have been here visiting relatives.
Mrs. John Geho and daughter Mary Pauline and Mr. and Mrs. Bud Morris were calling on Mr. and Mrs. Walter Davis Sunday evening. Also Mr. and Mrs. John Nutter and family of Smithville were Sunday visitors at the Davis home.
Billy Jean Null is at Parkersburg visiting her father Alfred Null.
Ethel Mason, spent the week end at Racey [Racy] with her parents, Mr. and Mrs. Tom Mason.
Mrs. Ora Pribble was at Parkersburg Friday and Saturday attending a meeting of the postmasters at that place.
Ritchie Gazette, July 7, 1939
Ritchie County Teachers Placed For Coming Year...
No teachers were assigned to the following schools:... Buffalo..., Oxbow... The attendance in these schools was such that it is necessary to discontinue them.
Teachers were placed as follows:
McFarlan School
Claron Dawson, Principal
Ruth Marsh, Primary.
...
Dry Ridge, Oma Cunningham
Island Run, Earl Grimm
Jackson, Virginia Douglass
Laurel Run, Mayrle Law
Mellin, Delva Goff
Petroleum, John Hamilton
Rusk, C. C. Moore
Upper Gillispie [sic], Evelyn Goodwin
Rusk
Harold Kerns is very poorly suffering with rheumatism.
Marion Simmons, of Charleston, is spending the week with his parents Mr. and Mrs. Preston Simmons.
Mr. and Mrs. James Cantwell spent the Fourth with relatives in Parkersburg.
Junior Simmons is visiting his sister, Mrs. Edith Cain, at Vienna.
Mrs. Edna Cain and two children, Marjorie and Glenn, spent the week end at the home of her parents, Mr. and Mrs. Ben Deem, of Eatons.
Mrs. Ruby Turner and two children, Claude and Jean, Mr. and Mrs. W. E. Conaway spent the Fourth with Mr. and Mrs. Preston Simmons.
The Methodist church at Rusk is being redecorated.
A party in honor of Charles Jenkins and Marion Simmons was given at the home of Mr. and Mrs. A. J. Phillips, Monday evening.
Several folks from this vicinity attended the celebration at Pennsboro, Tuesday, the Fourth.
Several folks went in and hoed corn for Harold Kerns, who is bedfast with rheumatism.
Six Barrel Well
On the Nichols farm on Dry Ridge, not far from Pike, a test well has been completed, which is producing six barrels of oil a day. The production was found in the Maxon sand.
Frank Ball, of Ellenboro, has the lease and stocked out the well.
At St. Joseph's Hospital
...
O. W. Valentine, Petroleum, underwent surgical treatment on Saturday.
...
Ritchie Gazette, July 28, 1939
Visited With Daughter
Dr. E. H. Douglass, of Petroleum went to Claysville, Pennsylvania on Thursday of last week and visited at the home of Mr. and Mrs. Frank Knox until Sunday.
Mrs. Knox is Doctor Douglass' daughter.
Ritchie Gazette, August 4, 1939
Rusk Folks Visited
Mr. and Mrs. J. M. Lewis, of Rusk, have been in Parkersburg where they visited their sons, Cooper Lewis and John Lewis.
Petroleum
Miss Wilma and Miss Mildred Dotson and their brother, James Dotson, accompanied their aunt and uncle, Mr. and Mrs. Walter Kolish, to New York where they are attending the World's Fair. Mr. and Mrs. Kolish spent several days here the guests of their sister, Mrs. E. R. Dotson.
Left for Home
Mr. and Mrs. Buhl Nuzum, left Monday morning for their home in Los Angeles, Cal., after spending the past three weeks visiting relatives here and at Elizabeth and Parkersburg. On last Sunday a farewell dinner was given at the home of Buhl's parents, Rev. and Mrs. H. E. Nuzum in honor of Mr. and Mrs. Buhl Nuzum. Others who enjoyed the event were Mrs. K. E. James of Akron, Ohio, Mr. and Mrs. Paul Higgens and son, Billy and Fred Nuzum all of Elizabeth, Mr. and Mrs. Harley Cline of Parkersburg.
Visiting Brothers
Norman McFarland of East Liverpool is visiting relatives here and at Marietta, Ohio. He spent from Thursday until Tuesday here the guest of his brother and wife, Mr. and Mrs. L. W. McFarland, then going to Marietta accompanied by Mr. and Mrs. L. W. McFarland. They are visiting their brother, Henry McFarland.
Personals
Mr. and Mrs. Sam Rutherford of New Concord, Ohio, are guests of their cousins, Dr. E. H. Douglass and family.
Mr. and Mrs. Frank DeGoine of Walker, route 1 are the parents of a daughter, Maude Joanne, born Aug. 7.
Mrs. W. F. Valentine spent last week at Jackson's Mill attending Farm Women's state camp.
Mr. and Mrs. Miles Willis of Wheeling and W. A. Simmons of Harrisville were week-end guests of Mr. and Mrs. L. P. Willis.
The Petroleum Ladies' Aid will meet next Thursday afternoon at the home of Mrs. F. M. Netser. The Aid will have ice cream and cake for sale on Saturday evening, Aug. 12, at the Farm Women's club rooms.
Mr. and Mrs. R. C. Jackson attended the home coming at Cisco on last Sunday.
Mrs. J. N. Roberts, Sr., was the guest of her daughter, Mrs. G. R. Marden of Ellenboro for the past few days.
Miss Mary Burgy and Mrs. Armeda Sandy and two children, Mr. and Mrs. S. T. Valentine, all of Parkersburg, were week-end guests of Mrs. W. F. Valentine.
Hobart Pepper, Jr., left Wednesday to attend the annual state 4-H camp at Jackson's Mill. The camp will continue through Thursday morning Aug. 17.
Miss Edna Jenkins was the guest of her cousin, Miss Florence Pew, of Parkersburg, Monday evening and Tuesday.
Ritchie Gazette, August 11, 1939
Mellin
The Willing Workers Sunday school class of the U. B. church was on a picnic Sunday. All reported of having a good time.
Mr. Kenneth Echard of the C. C. C. camp was visiting with his parents Mr. and Mrs. C. W. Echard of Rutherford.
Lora and Esther Williams, of Parkersburg spent a few days with their parents, Mr. and Mrs. C. A. Williams of this place.
Last Saturday many of the citizens of this place gathered at the church of Christ cemetery for a clean up.
Miss Goldie Jordan is now employed at Harrisville.
Mrs. J. B. Eddy of this place is ill.
Miss Wondia Morton is now employed for Mr. Bert Morton.
Mr. and Mrs. Sampson Moore were visiting Mr. Ray Malson of Walker Sunday.
Miss Flow Sinnett was bitten by a copperhead snake last week. She is improving nicely.
Teacher Resigns
Miss Zula Ann Daubenspeck, who has been a teacher in the Cairo high school for several years, has resigned and has accepted a position in a Charleston high school. Miss Daubenspeck is a teacher of English and journalism.
Ritchie Gazette, August 25, 1939
Pribble Reunion
The second annual reunion of the Pribble family was held August 20, at Cisco, on which is known as the Hugh Pribble farm. At the noon hour a basket dinner as enjoyed by all.
C. H. Harrison had charge of the afternoon program which consisted of talks, telling stories and jokes, and the election of new officers.
Those attending were: Wilford Pribble; Mr. and Mrs. C. A. Marshall[;] Mr. and Mrs. Ira L. Jackson; Mr. and Mrs. S. M. Pribble and son, Wayne; Mr. and Mrs. Forest Pribble and daughter, Mary Virginia; Mr. and Mrs. C. F. Geer and son, Rodney; Mrs. Mose A. Pribble and daughters Gladys and Bernie; Mr. and Mrs. H. C. Kinsinger; Mr. and Mrs. George W. Evans; Mrs. Neva Gibson and children, Earless and George; Mr. and Mrs. Olin Jackson; Mr. and Mrs. William Cunningham and daughter, Beverly; Mr. and Mrs. Oral Leep and son, Franklin; Mr. and Mrs. Gould Jackson and children, Coriene and Lilly; Mr. and Mrs. Grant Marshall; Mr. and Mrs. William Middleton and children, Wavaline, Virginia, Helen, Charles and Ruth; Mr. and Mrs. Selman Bates and son, Richard; Mr. and Mrs. Gay Moore and children, Loreda and Norma Lee; Mr. and Mrs. James Marshall and children, Cleon and Clell; Mrs. Ellen Ramsey; Mrs. Van Pribble; Mr. and Mrs. Frank Pribble; George G. Pribble; Mr. and Mrs. W. H. Maze; Mr. and Mrs. Glenn Maze; Mr and Mrs. D. L. Beckner and daughter, Marjorie; Mr. and Mrs. A. J. Null; Mr. and Mrs. Floyd Null and son; Mrs. A. P. Null[;] Louise Null; Mrs. Margret Hill; Mr. N. T. Hill; Mr. and Mrs. Elza Hill; Mr. V. M. Hill; Mrs. Fannie Wilson; Mrs. Ralph Wilson; Mrs. Alice Higgins; Bruce Higgins and son, Edward[;] Mr. and Mrs. Howard Weekley and children, Nancy and Sharon; C. H. Harrison; Mrs. J. M. Lewis; Mack D. Lewis; Mrs. Mary Dean Cooper; Mr. and Mrs. Jasper Scott and daughters, Janet and Earline; Mr. and Mrs. J. S. Mason and sons, Harold, Don, Ofa and daughter, Ethel; C. C. Jackson and son, Junior; Mr. C. T. H. Cain; Mrs. Lee Dulaney and children, Howard and Elizabeth; little Miss Mary Dulaney; Barbara Kay Lemon; Cummings Beckner; Miss Ida Cool; Miss Margie Pribble; Miss Maynell Lewis; Arthur Moats; Windell Moore; French Smith; Wayne Shields and Sherman Nutter.
Ritchie Gazette, September 1, 1939
Mellin
Meeting at Church of Christ
Preacher O. V. Smith of Burr, Kentucky, will be holding a protracted meeting at the church of Christ at Mellin starting September the third and lasting for two weeks. Everyone come for the purpose to hearing the gospel preached as it is.
Personals
Many attended the wiener roast of the Morris Chapel United Brethren church that was held between the church and the Sunrise school.
Miss Mildred Williamson is now employed for A. J. Eddy.
Mr. Van Cline who was dangerously hurt in a car wreck is better now.
Mr. and Mrs. Sampson Moore and family were visiting relatives in Chester last week.
Mr. Wesley Moore has been calling on relatives at this place.
Miss Mary Carney, who has been employed at Lamberton was in the community Sunday.
Many from this place attended the party last Thursday night that was held at Mr. and Mrs. Clarence Echards in honor of their daughter, Peggy.
Mrs. J. F. Valentine who was a business caller in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, has just returned home.
Miss Ora Metz of Harrisville, was visiting with her sister, Mrs. E. C. Reed, of this place last week.
Mr. and Mrs. Oakie Barker, of Texas were business callers at this place a few days ago.
Petroleum
The Farm Woman's Club held its annual picnic Tuesday, when the members and their families motored to the recreation grounds at the Dulaney farm. At noon a delicious picnic was served to:
Mr. and Mrs. C. W. Thrash, Mr. and Mrs. Erman Dotson and children Wilma, Mildred, James, Harold, and Junior; Mr. and Mrs. W. A. Thrash, Charles and Doane Thrash, Mr. and Mrs. Frank Phillips and daughter, Reva; Mrs. Ira Valentine, Mrs. John Jonas, Mrs. H. E. Nuzum and daughters, Novella, Mrs. Vincent Kibbe and son, Gordon, Mrs. A. B. Valentine, Miss Mary K. Valentine, Mrs. Clare Boston and daughter Wilma, Miss Elsie Willis, Miss Ruth Ross, Louise and Ralph Roberts, Doris Netser, Shirley Pepper, Hobart Pepper and George Douglass.
Class Entertained
The Sterling Sunday school class was entertained Saturday evening by Mr. and Mrs. W. A. Thrash at their country home here. After a brief business session the guests enjoyed an evening of old fashioned games which were played on the lawn. At an appropriate hour a weiner roast was enjoyed by the following: Mrs. Frank Phillips, and daughter, Reva; Mrs. Gertrude Roberts, Ralph and Louise Roberts, Mrs. H. E. Nuzum and Novella, Mrs. and Mrs. Wilbur McFarland, Mr. and Mrs. Homer Kirkpatrick, Mrs. Vincent Kibbe, Hobert Pepper, Doane and Charles Thrash and Mr. and Ms. W. A. Thrash.
Hostess to Children
Monday evening, Mrs. Thomas Robinson was hostess to a group of children who gathered at the Community building to honor Miss Mary Kathryn McCoy on her sixth birthday.
The evening was spent in playing games after which refreshments were served to: Miss Novell Nuzum, Reva Phillips, Louise Roberts, Shirley Pepper, Doris Netser, Evelyn Akers, Ruth Schnider, Edith and Betty Midcap, Ralph Roberts, Doane and Charles Thrash, Carl Schnider, Roy Midcap. Mary Kathryn was presented with several gifts.
Ritchie Gazette, September 8, 1939
Wedding Announced
Announcement has been made of the marriage of Ralph Harding 19, and Opal Irene Dennis, 18, both of Petroleum, rural route two. Their wedding took place at the U. B. church parsonage at Cairo on August 26th, with Rev. Guy Edmund Smith reading the service.
McFarlan
Mr. and Mrs. John Overton and children, of Lakemore, Ohio, were visiting his parents, Mr. and Mrs. Tom Overton, over the week end. His father is very ill.
Mr. and Mrs. Claron Dawson have moved here. Mr. Dawson and Miss Ruth Marsh of Cairo are our school teachers this year.
Mr. Victor Null and son, Dale, of Haywood were visiting Mr. and Mrs. Frank Pribble for a few days.
Mr. and Mrs. Mark Chambers and Mrs. C. F. Chambers. of Belpre, Ohio are visiting Mr. [sic]
Mr. Shirley Bowers of Big Bend were [sic] here on business Thursday.
Neal Vinson and family were at Huntington over the week end.
Mr. and Mrs. Frank Pribble, Eva Jean and Margarette Null were at Millwood Sunday taking their aunt Mary V. Sayre home.
Mr. and Mrs. I. O[.] Null and children, Mr. and Mrs. L. J. Null and daughter, Sharon, Mr. and Mrs. were [sic] visiting relatives here over Francis Null all Parkersburg the week end. [sic]
Ethel Maston [Mason] was visiting her parents, Mr. and Mrs. James Mason of Petroleum Sunday.
Mrs. Francis Snyder of Clarksburg is visiting her sister, Mrs. Frank Null.
Mrs. Joe Toland is visiting her sister at Elkview this week.
Mr. and Mrs. Willis Pribble and children were at Dallison Sunday.
Mr. and Mrs. Lawrence Mackey of Shinnston, were visiting his parents Mr. and Mrs. A. Mackey over the week end.
Ritchie Gazette, September 29, 1939
At St. Joseph's Hospital
Mrs. Gay Moore, of Petroleum, has had an appendix operation, but is far enough on the road to recovery to be removed to the home of her sister on Fourteenth street. These sisters are the daughters of Mr. and Mrs. S. A. Marshall [C. A. Marshall], of Cisko.
Son Born
Donald Robert is the name of the tenth child, born recently to Mr. and Mrs. Clyde Metz, living on rural route two, Petroleum.
Ritchie Gazette, October 6, 1939
Series of Meetings
The services being held at the school house at Mellin are well attended, and considerable interest is being manifested. This is the second week of the series of meetings, and the Rev. Mr. Holdsclaw, of Indiana, is in charge. He is an able and forceful minister of the Gospel.
Mellin
There was a surprise party for Miss Virginia Stanley last week. Those present were: Miss Alice Moore, James, Elma, Ruth and Howard Williamson, Mr. and Mrs. Charley Williamson, Mrs. Rachel Echard and children, Charles, Berdine, Betty and Mary Ellen, Miss Mary Shrader. All reported a good time.
A revival meeting is in progress over at Horse Claw Chapel. We hear they are having a wonderful meeting.
Mr. A. J. Eddy and Mr. Pearl Morris caught a fine ground hog Monday. It is one of the finest caught in this vicinity this year.
Ritchie Gazette, October 13, 1939
Gillispie [sic]
Mission Circle Meeting
The Mission Circle of the North Fork Baptist church met on Thursday at the home of Mrs. E. C. Bennett for their regular semi-monthly meeting. A splendid program on Christian Citizenship was rendered by Mrs. Monnie Anderson. The business session was in charge of the president, Mrs. Margaret Mason, after which a delicious lunch was served to the following members and visitors: Mrs. Margaret Mason, Mrs. Dorothy Null, Mrs. Beatrice Moats, Mrs. Jessie Griffith, Mrs. Lelia Jackson, Mrs. Neva Gibson, Mrs. Lydia Maze, Mrs. Iris Lanham, Mrs. Lillie Haynes and son, Voris, Mrs. Nora Kerns, Mrs. Gladys Lanham, Mrs. Rhoda Null, Mrs. Minnie Mason, Mrs. Monnie Anderson, Mrs. Florence Hill and daughter, Dolores, Mrs. Darnold, Mrs. Mary Layfield, Mrs. Nellie Middleton, Mrs. Edith Parks, Mrs. Grace Middleton, Mrs. Mildred Layfield and two children, Mrs. Mary Hill[,] Mrs. Lula Jackson, Miss Geraldine Kerns, Mrs. Kennedy, and the hostess Mrs. Bennett.
Mrs. Stella Bennett, a patient in St. Joseph's hospital is reported on the way to recovery.
Mr. J. W. Quick is still very ill.
Mrs. A. L. Michael, who was here due to the death of her father, Mr. B. F. Null, has returned to her home in Pampa, Texas.
There will be a mixed social at the upper Gillispie [sic] school Friday night October 20. Miss Evelyn Goodwin of Cairo, is teacher.
Kester Layfield is home from the navy visiting home folks.
Rev. A. N. Moats filled his regular appointment at North Fork Saturday and Sunday. On Sunday afternoon at Rusk, he baptized one, a Mr. Cunningham.
Petroleum
The Epworth League held its annual election of officers Sunday evening. Mrs. S. R. Curry and Mrs. Gertrude Roberts are to serve the young people as councilors. The other officers are as follows: President, Mrs. Wilbur McFarland; first vice president, Lillian Rutherford; second vice president, Homer Kirkpatrick; third vice president, Elsie Willis; fourth vice president, John Wyatt; secretary, Evelyn Akers; treasurer, Reva Phylips; pianist, Evelyn Akers; choir leader, Mrs. Frank Phylips.
Mr. and Mrss. [sic] Ralph Netser of Parkersburg and Miss Icy Netser of Harrisivlle spent the week-end with their parents, Mr. and Mrs. F. N. Netser.
Mrs. Kelvin H. Arnett and three children, of Dale are the guests of Mrs. Arnett's parents, Rev. and Mrs. Loring Howell.
Miss Lou Kellar, of Harrisville spent the week end here the guest of Miss Virginia Douglass.
Miss Edna Jenkins, who has been in San Francisco, Calif., for the past six weeks, returned to her home here Friday.
Mrs. Vincent Kibbe and son, Gordon, spent Saturday with Rev. and Mrs. H. E. Nuzum, of Jarvisville.
Paul Curry, of Parkersburg, was the week end guest of his parents, Mr. and Mrs. S. R. Curry.
M. [sic] and Mrs. John Jonas motored to Washington, D. C., Friday where they remained until Monday with their daughter, Mrs. Florence Pepper and family. Mr. and Mrs. Niles Willis of Wheeling were the guests of their parents, Mr. and Mrs. L. P. Willis Saturday and Sunday.
Mr. and Mrs. Clyde Tustin, Mrs. Maud Shreves and son, of Lumberport, spent Thursday with Rev. and Mrs. Loring Howell.
Mrs. R. C. Jackson spent Thursday in Boaz the guest of her mother, Mrs. Agnes Kyger.
Mr. and Mrs. Walton Guthrie of Morgantown were guests of Mr. and Mrs. Russell Riley Sunday.
Mr. Smith of Fairmont has taken the agency at the B. & O. office and will move his family here later.
Ritchie Gazette, October 20, 1939
Jackson Will Drill
R. C. Jackson, of Petroleum, has well number two located on the Jordan farm on Gillespie Run Grant District, and the rig is up and is rigging up at this time preparatory to start a spudding.
Ritchie Gazette, October 27, 1939
Racy News
Rev. A. N. Moats filled his regular appointment at North Fork Sunday, gave three fine sermons as he is a very able speaker on the Bible.
Mr. Lem Stanley is critically ill at his home. There is little hopes for his recovery, as he is past eighty-two years of age. Mr. and Mrs. Charley Stanley and Mrs. Okey Null are caring for him. He lived alone before his illness.
Mr. and Mrs. Lester Lewis and mother, Mrs. W. E. Lewis, of Brackenridge, Michigan, spent a few days here with friends and relatives. They returned to their home Monday.
Mrs. A. A. Reed returned to her home at Elizabeth, Sunday, after spending the week with Mrs. Parsis Quick and family.
Mr. Bill Wright, who has employment in the mines at Shinnston, spent the week end with home folks.
Lester Putnam visited home folks the past two weeks. He returned to his work Monday, at Mansfield, Ohio.
Dogs have been a great worry among farmers in this community of late. They have killed several sheep for C. A. Marshall and Forrest Pribble and others.
John Turner and Ernest Hill are tool dressing for Hill and Kuhn at Madison, W. Va.
Mellin
Many attended the funeral of Billy Smith that was held at the Morris Chapel United Brethren church last Sunday morning.
Mrs. Leamon Gill, of Cantwell was surprised by a birthday party last Thursday afternoon. Mrs. Gill has been very ill.
Mr. and Mrs. Forrest Powell's baby, who has been very ill for some time, is now somewhat better.
Mrs. Nancy Higginbotham was visiting at Dog Run with her grandson, Lee Eddy, who has been very ill, and in the Camden Clark hospital. The little one was brought home Tuesday.
Mr. and Mrs. John Holdsclaw is now living in the house that Mr. John Cline was living in.
Mr. Albert Stanley is in the government hospital at Huntington.
Mrs. Myrtle Moore is now on the sick list.
Squirrel hunters are reporting squirrels scarce and very wild.
We saw a very nice bunch of wild geese going south. Looks like winter is almost here.
Mr. Lem Stanley, of Gillespie Run is very ill so we have heard.
Did you hear that? A bunch of our boys are in the Parkersburg jail.
Petroleum
The Ladies' Aid society met Thursday at the home of Mrs. Frank Phillips. The president, Mrs. F. M. Netser, presided over the devotion, and after a brief business session delicious refreshments were served to the members, and several visitors[.] Mrs. Phyllips [Phillips] was assisted by her daughter-in-law, Mrs. Allen Phyllips [Phillips] of Brooksville. Those present at the meeting were: Mrs. H. C. Netser, Mrs. R. C. Jackson, Mrs. F. M. Netser, Mrs. W. F. Valentine, Mrs. A. B. Valentine, Mrs. W. A. Thrash, Mrs. C. W. Thrash, Mrs. L. W. McFarland, Mrs. John Roberts, Jr., Mrs. S. R. Curry, Miss Lillian Rutherford, Miss Elsie Willis and the hostesses.
Repairing Parsonage
Some repair work is being done on the M. E. parsonage. F. M. Netser, parsonage trustee, who is in charge of the work, is being assisted by several of the members of the church.
Personals
Mrs. Mabel Summers and son of Dale W. Va., is the guest of her parents, Rev. and Mrs. Loring Howell.
Miss Virginia Douglass, Mrs. S. R. Curry and Daniel Curry motored to Marlinton, W. Va., where they spent the week-end with Mr. and Mrs. Richard Skagg. Mrs. Skagg will be remembered as Miss Mary Curry.
Mr. and Mrs. L. P. Willis had as their guests Sunday, Mr. and Mrs. Luther Null and children and Allie Richards of Torch, Ohio, A. L. Willis and Clifford Willis of Blandville, and W. A. Simmons of Harrisville.
Frank Thrash, of Parkersburg has been visiting relatives here this week.
Miss Icy Netser of Harrisville was the week end guest of her parents, Mr. and Mrs. F. M. Netser.
Mr. and Mrs. Ed Nuhfer of Parkersburg spent Saturday as the guests of Mr. and Mrs. Vincent Kibbe.
W. A. Carter, of Parkersburg was the guest Saturday of Mr. and Mrs. W. A. Thrash.
Dale Howell visited friends at Pullman over the week end.
Mr. and Mrs. A. J. Bruffey and children, Mr. and Mrs. Kensel Cain, and daughter and Miss Beulah McFarland of Harrisville were the dinner guests Sunday of Mr. and Mrs. W. A. Thrash.
Cairo-Cisco Road
The blacktopping of the Cairo-Cisco Road is expected to be completed this week. Fourteen miles of this stone-base road has undergone treatment. It connects with the Staunton pike at Cisco.
Ritchie Gazette, November 10, 1939
Infant Dies
The infant daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Elmer Hall, living on rural route one, Petroleum, died Monday, and burial was made the following day in the Heck cemetery.
The little one was two weeks old.
Rusk Farm Womans' Club Elects Officers
The Rusk Farm Woman's Club met at the home of Winnie Simmons on Friday November 3, for regular monthly meeting. A delicious dinner was served to members at noon by hostess. The meeting was called to order at one-thirty by singing, "Church In The Wildwood," Scripture reading by Bessie Phillips. Prayer by all the members. All club business disposed of and following officers elected for coming year. President, Bessie Phillips, Vice President, Beatrice Moats, Secretary, Ruby Turner, Treasurer Eva Lewis, Mrs. Beatrice Sheets, president of the Woman's Farm Bureau was present and gave a brief but interesting talk. Miss Hazel Usner was also present and gave interesting talks and assisted in the business program. The Club will sponsor a Bake Sale and Bazaar at Cairo on Wednesday, November 22. The following members were present: Bessie Phillips, Frieda Kerns, Edna Cain, Mrs. Will Dotson, Mrs. Mary Cantwell, Ruby Turner, Eva Lewis, Mimosa Mason, Iwana Mason, Delores Swisher, Mable Maze, Isabelle Wyre, Eva Conway, Bina Dulaney, Beatrice Moats, and visitors, Claudia Phillips, Marjorie Swisher, Pauline Mollohan, Elizabeth Dulaney, Nadine Mason, Jean and Claude Turner. The next meeting will be held at the home of Mrs. D. L. Beckner on December 1st.
Remember the bake sale at Cairo November 22.
Fires Reported for Ritchie County
McFarlan, W. Va.
November 4th, '39
Editor Gazette:
I am enclosing a list of fires in Ritchie county that have occurred since fire season began October 13th, 1939.
On Mack Lewis at Rusk about 2 acres with a damage of $11.00 to forest; This fire occurred afternoon October 16th, 1939.
...
On Colonial Asphalt on waters of Ritchie Mines Run, a hollow tree a fire. No damage was done. This small fire was in Murphy District.
On Scheney Stephens tract on Second left hand Fork of Devil Hole Creek, a thirty acre tract was burned with an estimated damage of $97.00. This was in Grant District on October 24th, 1939.
On Perrine land, Petroleum, on waters of Goose Creek, a fire of approximately one acre with estimated damage of $6.00. this fire occurred on 22nd of October, 1939.
This is all fires that I reported on, or that occurred in Ritchie county the first two weeks of Fire Season.
Respectfully your, George G. Pribble, Forest Protector. McFarlan, W. Va.
Ritchie Gazette, November 24, 1939
A Ten Barrel Well
Ralph C. Jackson, of Petroleum, tells us that he has the well in on the Andrew Jordan farm on Gillespie Run, Grant District, and is starting off at ten barrels a day, the pay being reached in the Squaw sand.
This is Mr. Jackson's second well on this farm, he having the lease. This well he drilled to the depth of twenty-two hundred feet.
On Sick List
Mrs. J. M. Lewis, living at Rusk, is reported as being ill. She has been sick for several days, and part of the time has been a very sick woman.
Ritchie Gazette, December 1, 1939
Racy News
The meeting which had been going on for two weeks, closed Monday night with little success, but with no fault of the preacher for Rev. Harry Keizer, who was conducting the meeting, did preach a lot of mighty good sermon.
Joe Arnett, of Morgantown, is spending a few days with his aunt, Mrs. Stella Bennett.
Miss Gean Living, who has been employed in the home of Mrs. Nora Maze, has gone to Parkersburg to stay with a cousin, who is ill and her sister, Helen, took her place with Mrs. Maze.
Butchering seems to be the chief occupation in this neighborhood this week.
Mrs. Addie Mason, of Elizabeth Route two, has been visiting friends in this vicinity the past two weeks.
Mrs. Nora Maze and son, George, were business visitors in Parkersburg Wednesday.
Mrs. Edna Bennett, Olis Bennett, Margie Pribble, Mrs. Persis Quick and son, Joe, were in Parkersburg one day last week.
Mrs. Leo Hester, of Parkersburg, and Miss Cora Cain, of Zanesville, Ohio, visited their grandmother, Mrs. Lizzie Cain, last week.
Mrs. Clinton Griffith, who has been ill is improving; her sister, Grace Bogges, is staying with her.
Miss Maynell Lewis visited her [?] Pearl [?] in Parkersburg over the week end.
McFarlan
Mr. and Mrs. Howard Lents visited Mr. and Mrs. S. A. Powell from Wednesday until Sunday.
Ernestine, Opal, and Mildred Cox spent the Thanksgiving vacation with their parents, Mr. and Mrs. M. A. Cox of Mt. Zion.
Mr. and Mrs. D. M. Harold of Charleston were guests of Mrs. R. L. Maness and Mr.and Mrs. Geo. L. Harold during the holidays.
Mr. W. R. McCoy who is working in Point Marion, Pennsylvania, spent the holidays with his family in Harrisville.
Miss Ruth Phillips, of Cairo, returned to her home on Monday evening after spending the Thanksgiving holidays with Anna Mae Gribble of Harrisville.
Mr. and Mrs. H. W. Collins of Harrisville were visiting the former's parents, Mr. and Mrs. Elijah McGill Thursday.
Mr. and Mrs. H. V. Layhew and daughter spent the week end with the Reverend's parents Mr. and Mrs. Charles Layhew, of Pennsylvania.
Mr. and Mrs. Wilbur Cokeley living on Route 1 visited Mr. Emery Amos of Washburn Sunday.
Mr. Lawrence Newlon of Morgantown was visiting Mr. and Mrs. Lester Buzzard over the week end.
Mr. and Mrs. Noel Grimm and children Rose Roger and Bobby of White Pine were visiting Mrs. T. O. McCown and family Sunday.
Evelyn Nutter, of McFarlan spent Saturday in Parkersburg visiting friends.
Miss Edith Elder visited with Hazel Burwell over Sunday.
Harold Wass visited Darrel Smith of Auburn over the week end.
Miss Ruby Duncan of Clarksburg and Mr. Glen Brock, of Moundsville were dinner guests of Miss Mary Davis Friday, November 24.
Ritchie Gazette, December 15, 1939
Has Scarlet Fever
The two year old child of Mr. and Mrs. Charlie Moore, who live at Cisco, has been quite ill with scarlet fever, and is now improving.
Rusk Folks Ill
Mr. and Mrs. Mack Lewis, two of the good people comprising the Rusk community, are ill at this time and the former who has been suffering from a complication of diseases is somewhat improved, so we learn.
Mrs. Lewis, who was stricken with paralysis not long since, is in a serious condition.
Ritchie Gazette, December 22, 1939
Mr. Leamon Gill was fortunate enough to kill a deer while he was deer hunting this season.
Mr. John Moore has just about completed his new house.
Miss Hazel Shrader became the bride of Mr. Berkie Echard a few days ago, so we heard.
A surprise birthday dinner was held at L. W. Cunningham's in honor of Everett Reed[']s 23rd birthday last Thursday.
Miss Wilma Moore and Miss Lucille Gae Moore were visiting with their aunt Alice Moore, a few days ago.
Mr. Dennis Williams and Miss Grace Maze who has been in Parkersburg for several days was visiting with their parents over Sunday.
Mr. Kenneth Stanley has purchased a new car.
Many of the young men from this place was deer hunting. Some had good luck while others not so good.
Mr. Vance Maze has been on the sick list but is better now.
Ritchie Gazette, December 29, 1939
Looking After Business
A. L. Hill formerly residing in Cairo, but some months since being transferred to Uniontown, Pennsylvania, by the Nollem Oil Company, with which he connected, was in Cairo last week a couple days greeting friends.
He was back in Ritchie county to look after the interests of the Company, which has production on Gillespie Run.
Ohio People Visiting
Mr. and Mrs. Guy Lewis and son Charles of Akron Ohio are at Rusk visiting during the holidays with the former's mother and sister, Mrs. Martha Lewis and Mrs. Russell Wyre.
Drilling on Bradley
Drilling has started on the Charlie Bradley farm near Petroleum at the location for number two.
The Burge Drilling Company has the Bradley lease.
At Jonas Home
Mrs. Florence Pepper and family, who live in Washington, D. C. went to Petroleum the latter part of last week to visit with her parents Mr. and Mrs. John Jonas.
Mrs. Pepper remained until after Christmas with her home folks and then returned to her home. Her family will be guests of the Jonas family until after the holidays.
Two Were Injured
On Saturday evening as Dr. E. H. Douglass and his daughter, Miss Eleanor, were returning to their home at Petroleum, from Parkersburg where they had been shopping, their car and another one collided at Murphytown. The Doctor had a couple ribs fractured and the bone in his nose broken, while his daughter had her jaw bone broken.
The young woman was taken to Parkersburg and admittted [sic] a patient in St. Joseph's hospital to receive medical aid. She returned to Petroleum a couple days later, and she and her father are both doing very nicely.
Mellin
The Rutherford school is stopped on account of scarlet fever.
Farmers are now doing there plowing in this vicinity.
Mr. A. J. Eddy has purchased a new game dog.
The Democrats only have one man it seems, to run for president. Well we remember that W. J. Bryan wore out several pair of shoes running.
Mr. A. S. Simmons lost a very fine horse the other day.
Mrs. Brissey is very bad sick. Mrs. Alice Welch Moore is working for them.
Honor Roll
List of Ritchie County Students Making Grade of Ninety Or More
The following pupils made an average of 90% or more in the County tests sent out from the County Superintendent's office at the end of the second six weeks period:
THIRD GRADE: ... Rusk: Kathaleen Lanham and Nora Hutchinson...Island Run: Paul Nelson... Dry Ridge: Paul Jenkins... Mellin: Howard Williamson... Macfarlan: Jimmie Barker and Howard Nutter... Upper Devil Hole: Richard Cunningham... Petroleum: Doris Netser, Marie Trembly, Betty Midcap and Charles Tennant...
FOURTH GRADE:... Dry Ridge: Bernadine Cox... Mellin: Rheta Williamson; Macfarland; Ronald Overton and Robert Jenkins... Upper Gillispie [sic]: Loretta Kerns.
...
SIXTH GRADE: Island Run: Mary Lewis... Dry Ridge: Lathrop Foutty... Upper Devil Hole: Betty Cunningham...Rusk: Marie Hutchinson.
SEVENTH GRADE:... Macfarlan: Orman Ketchum Roena Vinson and George Whitehead...