The Rockvale Historical Society hosted its first Checkers Tournament at the 91st Annual July 4th 2017 Rockvale Picnic. The rain held off, but the RHS was prepared and had tents set up for those to play for and those seeking the checkers champion title. Some young players, as seen in the photo, Joshua Navgal and Joshua Weaver were serious about their play.
The winner of the Rockvale Checkers Champ title was Keith Wait. Mr. Wait is not new to titles or checkers, he has held the state Missouri checker champ title. "The ideas were well received and we were happy to add tradition to the picnic that all ages can enjoy", reported Denise Carlton, an RHS board member. "Several board members got involved and pulled this together, Bill Weaver ran the tournament and checkers tents. Dana Lowe was there to share ancestry, memorabelia and collect stories, Mandy Williams and Edith Windrow, helped raised awareness to RHS our mission and goals for the new society and sign new members up".
Members and community were sharing updates on the preservation efforts of the historic Rockvale Store, built in 1884. It is believed to be the oldest country store building in Rutherford County, based on some new opinions in the historic community.
The Society is conducting a membership drive. If you would like to join and become a part of the preservation of Rockvale and the other adjoning communities in the 8th District. To join contact Edith Windrow, RHS secretary at 615 427 2017 or ewindrow@aol.com. Share your stories with Dana Lowe at 615 517 0683 or danapun@aol.com.
RHS has recently focused on collecting memories on two topics, the Rockvale Store and the July 4th picnic. We would like to continue to collect those memories and stories. The next focus for RHS is to collect memories, stories and pictures chronicling our local men and women who served our nation in the two world wars.
