PCHS News & Press 2008
December 21, 2008
"A Christmas Memory" to be Performed at The Columns
Milford, PA - On December 28, 2008 at 3:00pm the American Reader's Theatre will perform "A Christmas Memory" which is a short play written by Truman Capote. It was first published in Mademoiselle Magazine in December of 1956. This largely autobiographical work by Capote about a boy named Buddy and his cousin Sook, deals with the ideas of poverty, loneliness, even death. The original teleplay was adapted by Capote and Eleanor Perry for ABC Stage 67 and earned the leading lady, Geraldine Page, an Oscar for her performance.
In addition to this reading there will be light hearted story telling performed by the readers to guarantee an afternoon filled with Holiday Spirit that will be enjoyable for the whole family.
The American Readers Theatre is overseen by Jeffrey Stocker and his talented students have delighted us with many performances over the last few years. Included in the cast this year are Priscilla Crum, Priscilla Fenstermacher, Ruth Randone, Anthony Reyes, Curt Merril and Celeste O'Neill.
The Pike County Historical Society is hosting this event, and it is free of charge, as the Society's Holiday Gift to our friends in history. The performance starts at 3:00 pm and will be held on the Main Floor of the Museum. Light refreshments will be served.
For more information on programming offered at The Pike County Historical Society’s Museum contact Lori at 570-296-8918.
November 22, 2008
Scouting Sleepovers at the Pike County Historical Society
Milford, PA -You don't have to look far to find a place with programming for kids. Milford's own Pike County Historical Society has been entertaining kids of all ages for several years. A popular activity has been Brownie and Girl Scout Sleepovers. The Historical Society has hosted many of these, for the various troops in the Tri-State area, and it has become quite popular.
The guests usually arrive at 6:00pm on a Friday evening. Pizza is the dinner of choice for most troops, and following dinner the scouts are treated to two hours of programming courtesy of the Museum Director, Lori Strelecki. The programming offered is innovative and educational, as well as being fun for the scouts and chaperones.
Activities include a scavenger hunt for history and a hands-on experience with some of the artifacts in the Museum. The girls are often most enthusiastic over trying on period dress and parading in a "fashion show" using the reproduction clothing in the Museum's wardrobe. The next day is usually a rough one for the leaders, as it isn't always easy to get a good night's sleep at a "sleepover".
For more information on programming offered at The Pike County Historical Society’s Museum contact Lori at 570-296-8918.
November 2nd, 2008
New Deal Weekend Events at The Columns
Milford, PA – The Pike County Historical Society is pleased to announce two days of events that are sure to please. On Friday November 14th the Historical Society in cooperation with the Pennsylvania Humanities Council, will host a Dinner and a Movie at the Columns Museum. The movie chosen is Paper Moon staring Ryan and Tatum O’Neil, which illustrates a realistic depiction of the great depression.
The film follows the lives and times of two grifters in the 1930’s features references to FDR, as well as wonderfully depicting the music and styles of the times. Tatum O’Neil’s performance as “Addie Pray” garnered her an Oscar award, and she still remains the youngest performer to win Best Leading Actress. Also featured in the movie is the late Madeline Kahn of the Mel Brooks movies. This role marked her film debut.
An Italian style meal will be served before the film, complete with salad, main course, and dessert. Dinner starts at 7pm, followed by the movie. Tickets are $25.00.
The following evening, Saturday November 15th, Peter Osborn of the Minisink Valley Historical Society and popular author, will lecture on the lives and times of Franklin and Eleanor Roosevelt. This will be held in the Foundation Room of the Columns. The program will be free to the public, and light refreshments will be served.
The Historical Society was selected by the Pennsylvania Historical and Museum Commission to provide Pike County with programming surrounding and detailing President Franklin Delano Roosevelt, the New Deal, and the Great Depression. Earlier this year intern Lauren Nolan worked on an exhibit that will be featured, and a donation of “Depression Glass” will also be on display. This year marks the 75th anniversary of the initiation of his “alphabet soup” of agencies, certainly food for thought given the recent financial strains on our economy. For more information or to make a reservation for dinner and a movie please call 570-296-8126.
October 12th, 2008
Historical Society to Celebrate Smoky Joe Wood Day at The Black Walnut Inn
Shohola, PA – On Saturday October 25th from 1-3pm the Pike County Historical Society will celebrate a day of family fun in honor of Joe Wood, Shohola's own, who played for the Boston Red Sox and Cleveland Indians in the early 1900's. Joe was known for his blazing fastball, and that is where the nickname "Smoky" comes into play. In his years with the Red Sox as a pitcher he put up some remarkable numbers, his pitching career was cut short by injury.
Although pitching was no longer an option for Joe, his love of the game kept him in it. He played the outfield, during the last years of his career, and was a solid hitter. Only Babe Ruth shares the same honor as Joe, having played professional ball as both a pitcher and in another position.
Smoky Facts: Born: October 25, 1889; Died: July 27, 1985; Height: 5'11"; Weight: 180; Batted: Right; Threw: Right; Position: Pitcher
Boston Red Sox 1908-1915
Cleveland Indians 1917, 1919, 1920 - Outfielder Cleveland Indians 1918-1922
In 1912 Wood enjoyed one of the finest seasons a pitcher has ever known: 34-5, an ERA of 1.91, 10 shutouts, won an American League record 16 consecutive regular season decisions.
Wood was a member of three World Series championship teams in 1912, 1915, and 1920.
After nine seasons as a pitcher, an injury caused Wood to make a short-lived but successful position switch to out-fielder. Wood finished his career with a record of 116-57 with a lifetime ERA of 2.03.
After retiring, Wood spent twenty years as a head coach of the Yale University baseball team, compiling a career managing record of 283-228-1 in the process.
The Pike County Commissioners declared the 25th of October "Smoky Joe Wood Day" in 1977. This year we will honor Joe by providing fun fall activities for kids of all ages.
The Black Walnut is located on Schocopee Road off Rt. 6 just outside of Milford. Your hosts, William and Robin, offer a beautiful, tranquil, country setting for this outing, and will offer pony rides for the kids. There will also be face painting, pumpkin picking and tye-dying.
So come and celebrate SMOKY JOE WOOD DAY with us and help get Smoky into the Baseball Hall of Fame by signing our petition. His access has been denied, but with number like his, he certainly deserves one more consideration!
For more information about the Pike County Historic Society, please call 570-296-8126 or visit us online at www.pikecountyhistoricalsociety.org.
October 9th, 2008
Lizzie Lost Her Head!
Milford, PA - In keeping with the spirit of the Halloween Season, the Pike County Historical Society will present a historic portrayal of Lizzie Schultz, wife of the only man ever sentenced to death by hanging in Milford. Lizzie's story is that of despair and just plain bad luck.
In the 1890's, Lizzie left her home and husband in Brooklyn, took on an alias, and worked at a Shohola Boarding House. Her new life was not to last long. Her estranged husband, Mr. Herman Paul Schultz, found her and tried to convince the battered woman to return home. Lizzie listened to his pleas, and, more than likely gave him an answer that did not please him. She was found dead, shot in the head, the day after his arrival to High Point Farm. Mr. Schultz claimed his wife committed suicide and went back to Brooklyn. It was not the practice of law enforcement to pursue cases that would require excess time and money to resolve them, and the suicide was an accepted cause of death; until several people began commenting on the shoddy nature of the investigation. Public clamor for justice caused laws to be changed and the Commissioners of Pike County began taking on the financial responsibilities of crime investigations. Mr. Schultz was extradited and made to return to Pike for trial. Forensic evidence investigation was not the science that it is today, and when questions where raised as to the gun shot wound, it was deemed necessary to unearth Lizzy's corpse and take another look at the wound. Time and money being scarce, rather than remove her entire body for examination, they just took the part in question...her head. It was determined the wound was not self-inflicted, and Herman was found guilty of murder and sentenced to death by hanging.
The hanging took place in what is now the Pike County's Sheriff's Office, on December 7th 1897. The Milford Dispatch described the event as well attended and the town was said to have "a carnival like atmosphere at the hanging of Schultz."
Local actress Stacey Case will take on the character of Lizzie Schultz in a special performance at the Pike Chamber's Business Card Exchange, held at the Columns Museum, on October 30, 2008 from 5:30-7:30 pm.
October 6th, 2008
Haunted Carriage Rides...Boo!
Milford, PA - On November 1st, the Pike County Historical Society will once again offer horse drawn carriage rides through the streets of Milford Boro, with the focus on eerie tales and haunted happenings in some of the businesses and buildings in town. Through the years, many stories have been relayed to the staff at the Columns regarding strange occurrences’ and ghost sightings from many residents.
The tour begins from their very own building, known as the Columns, where rumor has it that the ghost of Madame Peirce oversees visitors and lets her presence be known from time to time. Two volunteers recently reported creepy goings on in the Music Room as well. What or who is the cause of these experiences? Perhaps one day we will know.
As the carriage departs the Columns, some places for your chilling consideration include The Pike County Sheriff's Office and Courthouse, The Tom Quick Inn, The Judge School, The Harford House, Laurel Villa and several private residences. Salem hasn't got anything on us!
Enjoy a ride through town accompanied by a spooky historian on an autumn afternoon. Rides depart from the Columns Museum, 608 Broad Street, Milford, staring at 12:00 noon on November 1, 2008. The cost is $25 per person and the tour lasts about 40 minutes. Reservations can be made by calling 570-296-8126.
For more information about the Pike County Historic Society,
please call 570-296-8126.
September 2, 2008
Marathon Softball Game to Benefit the Pike County Historical Society
Milford, PA - On Saturday, September 13th, beginning at 10:00am, local friends in history will gather to play a 33 inning marathon softball game to benefit the Pike County Historical Society (PCHS). Much interest has been show throughout the community for this game that will include all ages, men and women, who have committed to play "33 for History".
The game will be held at Milford's Little League Field on the East side of Milford. The day will be kicked off with the singing of the National Anthem by Milford's own Morgane Fouse, Delaware Valley student and member of the American Reader's Theatre. Morgane is a multi-talented, community minded young lady, who recently was a part of the production of Our Town, which played to a sell out crowd at Grey Towers.
The ceremonial first pitch will be tossed out by recently elected PCHS President, Ray Weeks and live play by play will be provided throughout the game with special guest announcers.
Sponsorship opportunities are available to businesses and private citizens at $33 per inning. There is still space available for anyone who is willing to play. Each player will receive a t-shirt and free food and drink. There will be raffles, trophies for outstanding play, and a Pike County/Baseball trivia contest will take place.
Hot dogs and soda will be available. Admission to the event is free, and you will have the ability to sign up for special PCHS membership opportunities. Come join the fun on September 13th, and enjoy the great American past-time.
Support your friends in history at The Pike County Historical Society. For more information about the Pike County Historic Society, please call 570-296-8126.
Pike County Historical Society
Pike County Historical Society to Participate in State Wide New Deal Program
Museum Director, Lori Strelecki and Museum Intern Lauren Nolan visit Eleanor Roosevelt’s retreat in Hyde Park NY
August 26th, 2008
Pike County Historical Society to Participate in State Wide New Deal Program
Milford, PA – The Pennsylvania Historical and Museum Commission has launched a state-wide initiative in honor of the 75th anniversary of the New Deal.
Shortly after taking office in 1933, President Franklin Delano Roosevelt initiated "The New Deal", a comprehensive social and economic recovery program designed to thwart the ravages of the Great Depression. The historical lessons of the New Deal are many. It was a time in which both state and nation faced extreme economic hardships and people worked together to overcome adversity. New Deal programs were funded through national programs, many of them strongly rooted in local and regional identity. The Civilian Conservation Corps, (CCC) Works Progress Administration (WPA), and Social Security are just a few of the agencies started as a result.
The Pike County Historical Society is participating in this project with help and funding from the Pennsylvania Historical and Museum Commission (PHMC) and the Pennsylvania Humanities Council. The Society's Museum, the Columns, located at 608 Broad Street in Milford, is creating a New Deal exhibit that will focus on the Roosevelt's, the Great Depression, New Deal Initiatives, and the effects World War II had on bringing our nation out of the depression.
Museum Intern Lauren Nolan has been working diligently on the project with the help of the Museum Director, Lori Strelecki. Recently both visited FDR's home and Val-Kill, Eleanor Roosevelt's retreat, in Hyde Park, New York. The day gave them both insight and ideas as to how to best encompass the time frame and bring to light the character of the President and First Lady that worked so hard to help our struggling economy and citizens. Look for an official opening in October and some interesting programs that detail the New Deal and its creators.
For more information about the Pike County Historic Society, please call 570-296-8126 or visit us online at www.pikecountyhistoricalsociety.org.
August 25th, 2008
“33” for History
Milford, PA –The Pike County Historical Society is looking for softball players willing to play a 33 inning marathon game to benefit the Pike County Historical Society’s museum.
Date: September 13th, 2008
Location: the little league field in Milford, PA
Time: 10 am till?
Do you have what it takes to play 33 innings? Prizes for most hits, homeruns and golden glove!! Come be a part of history…for history. Entries limited to first 24 applicants. Click here to download Sponsor Form For more information about the Pike County Historic Society, please call 570-296-8126.
July 18th, 2008
An Irish Celebration at the Pike County Historical Society Museum
Milford, PA – On August 23rd, 2008 the Pike County Historical Society’s Museum, known as The Columns, will host a celebration in honor of the original man of this great white house on Broad Street.
Mr. Dennis McLaughlin had the house built as a summer home for his family in 1904. He came to this country from Ireland as a small boy and grew up in Jersey City, NJ. He became a news-dealer in what was known as the “old Horseshoe district” of the town and later aspired to a career in politics, holding the offices of Alderman, County Clerk and Assemblyman. One of the better known Democratic Politicians in New Jersey in his time, Dennis was also known as one of the “Big Four”. This was the title given to the four owners of the then popular Guttenberg Racetrack. At one time Mr. McLaughlin was known as the “heaviest holder of real estate in Hudson County, NJ”.
McLaughlin had four sons from his first marriage to Johanna Biggan, who passed away, and four children from a second marriage to Theresa Stack, who also died before McLaughlin. Strangely, both wives died on the same date of March 14th, 20 years apart. In the spring of 1912 Mr. McLaughlin took ill with what was described in the local newspaper, the Dispatch, as “an attack of acute indigestion.” He was in residence at the Columns when the attack occurred, and promptly returned home to Jersey City where, a few days later, he died.
Although Mr. McLaughlin’s time here in Milford was short, a mere 8 years, his home remains as one of the finest structures in Milford Borough.
The “White Columns”, as the home was commonly referred to, was designed by architect Charles Fall of Jersey City, NJ. Built in the neo-classical style, reminiscent of Georgian structures in some ways, yet having combined elements that are non-Georgian. The interior plan follows the Queen Anne style. The beautiful stained glass windows of the Columns are an added feature, designed by Lewis Comfort Tiffany of New York. All these elements combined make for an interesting and magnificent home, which McLaughlin was quite pleased with.
After McLaughlin died, his family maintained the home. In 1930, daughter Theresa McLaughlin was married in the music room of the Columns. McLaughlin’s son Edward built the house next to the Columns in the Southern Georgian style in 1923.
After 1932 it seemed little interest remained among the existing family members to maintain the homes, they were eventually sold. The Columns has taken on many personas through time, a dance studio, boarding house, restaurant, night club, VFW, and private residence. In the 1980’s the Pike County Historical Society purchased it and made it the “official museum of Pike County.”
In honor of the McLaughlin’s Irish roots, the Society will host a day in remembrance of Dennis and his family. A corned beef and cabbage dinner will be served in the Foundation Room of the Museum, followed by an evening performance by Celtic singer Celeste Triebeneck. This traditional music will be performed in the side yard of the museum, in a beer and wine garden atmosphere on a lovely summer evening. Ms. Triebeneck will be accompanied by Paul E. Mitchell on 12 string and classical guitar. The duo currently performs at theaters, cultural centers, pubs and galleries. Tickets for the evening are $25 per person. Reservations are suggested and can be made by calling 570-296-8126.
For more information about the Pike County Historic Society, please call 570-296-8126.
July 7, 2008
Pike County Historical Society Museum Dedicates New Exhibit
Milford, PA – On August 23rd The Pike County Historical Society’s Museum will dedicate a new exhibit titled “Summer Camps of the early 1900’s in Pike County”. Mr. and Mrs. William Troy were named as honorees of this exhibit by their three daughters, who made a donation to the museum on the behalf of their parents, and suggested an exhibit that would be close to their hearts. Finding a topic for the new exhibit was an easy decision, as the Troy’s own and care for what was once known as Beaver Lake Camp for Boys. Summer camps were always an intrinsic part of Pike’s history.
There are four camps highlighted in the exhibit; Pole Bridge Camp for Boys, Beaver Lake Camp, Dan Beard’s Outdoor School for Boys, and a little known camp on the outskirts of Milford that was run by a church in Harlem called St. Michael’s Choir Camp. These camps where chosen because of the wealth of photographs and other memorabilia the museum was able to find out about these camps.
Items in the “Summer Camp Collection” include the original bugle from Beaver Lake Camp, inflatable water wings from Pole Bridge and many images depicting camp life. The smiling faces of the boys and girls tell a tale of fun, camaraderie, new lessons learned, and perhaps set off a twinge of jealousy, for they beckon to the child in us all.
Also featured in the “Camp Room” are Native American artifacts and information surrounding the Lenape, our areas first settlers. Each clan of the Lenape is represented by a taxidermy specimen of natural history, courtesy of local hunter John Galasso. The room is brilliantly painted with a ceiling of blue sky, trees and ferns, and a wise old owl.
Scheduled to speak at the dedication is Ellen Snyder-Grenier, author of the book “A Place Along the Raymondskill, Beaver Lake Through Time”.
The program will commence at 4:00pm on the main floor of the Columns Museum, with a reception following. The public is invited to attend free of charge, although donations are always appreciated.
For more information about the Pike County Historic Society, please call 570-296-8126.
May 22, 2008
Pike County Historical Society exhibits “Summer Camps of Pike County”
Milford, PA – In the 1920's Summer Camps were all the rage in Pike County. The Beaver Lake Camp for Boys, located just outside of Milford, was just one of many that offered kids a chance to experience life in the great outdoors. Many of the kids came from the bigger cities such as New York and Philadelphia and parents were happy to know that their children would enjoy the camp experience for the summer.
The Troy family purchased what was the Beaver Lake Camp for Boys in 1934. They did not run it as a camp, but kept it in the family as a retreat and place for family to gather on special occasions. They fondly refer to it as "the farm". It is by the way of an endowment from the Troy family members that the Pike County Historical Society (PCHS) is able to bring to life some of the fond memories of the many camps in our area through a new, permanent exhibit titled: Summer Camps of Pike County.
Included are many photos, ledgers, records etc. from places such as Beaver Lake, The Dan Beard Outdoor School for Boys and, perhaps best represented, Pole Bridge Camp for Boys in Matamoras. Also included in the exhibit is the history of our original settlers and experts at outdoor living...The Lenape.
A room and the “The Columns” has been modified to include a blue sky, trees and ferns, not to mention a gigantic purple dragonfly, which graces the wall, in this whimsical yet factual look at camps of our area in the 1920's and 30's.
The exhibit will officially open in late June of 2008. Stop in a take a look!
For more information on the Pike County Historic Society, call 570-296-8126.
May 16, 2008
Pike County Historical Society “Welcome to summer, Flag Day Celebration”
Milford, PA – On June 14th, the 116th Anniversary of Flag Day, the Pike County Historical Society and The Zimmermann Center for the Arts, invites one and all to the First Annual “Welcome to Summer, Flag Day Celebration”.
Join us for an old time Ice Cream Social from 2:00 to 3:15 on the lawn of the Columns, swathed in Red, White, & Blue bunting, as we salute our Stars & Stripes with a Yankee Doodle Medley, American Fiddle/Dances, Ragtime Tunes and the fun music of the Ramapo Fault String Band. Joining us on this special occasion will be Mr. & Mrs. Uncle Sam on Stilts for photo opportunities galore.
The Music & Ice Cream Social starts at 2PM, followed at 2:45 in the Foundation Room of the Columns with Jim Levell. Using examples from his historic flag collection, Jim will tell the exciting and colorful story, of how on June 14, 1777 the Continental Congress “resolved, that the Flag of the thirteen United States shall be thirteen stripes, alternate red and white; that the Union be thirteen stars, white on a blue field, representing a new constellation,” to a short 192 years later, when that symbol was seen by the world on July 20, 1969, as it was planted on the moon.
Set aside Saturday, June 14th to welcome Summer with ice cream, music and Mr. & Mrs. Uncle Sam; then see the historic symbols of our country’s history, while listening to the dramatic stories that shaped our lives.
For making this event as sweet and fun as a summer’s day, we thank Price Chopper for the Ice Cream Social, The Columns- Pike County Historical Society, Jim Levell, and the Zimmermann Center for the Arts, for supporting the music and stories of America’s future.
For more information on the Pike County Historic Society, call 570-296-8126.
May 13, 2008
Pike County Historical Society Announces Annual Membership Banquet
Milford, PA – Join us at the Laurel Villa Country Inn, on June 20th for our annual membership meeting and banquet. A short meeting will be held at 6:30pm, at which officers for 2008-2009 will be elected. Your vote is very important to us, so please plan on attending if you are a member.
The meeting will be followed by a lovely sit down dinner, featuring encore performances from our recent Lincoln Weekend. Darren Fouse will once again bring us his Lincoln soliloquy, which was very well received, as was Stacy Case’s, reading of Jeannie Gourlay letter of the eye-witness to the assassination. Stacey Case read on behalf of the American Readers Theatre.
Both these local artists will be on hand. The cost of the banquet is $40 per person and reservations may be attained by calling 570-296-8126.
April 17, 2008
Pike County Historical Society thanks all who participated in the Lincoln Weekend
Milford, PA – On April 13th, 2008, a crowd of people gathered at the Stroyan Funeral Home and the Columns Museum to commemorate the death of President Abraham Lincoln. With a chilly wind blowing and a cold drizzle falling on the faces of the gathered, the weather accented the day’s events.
Following soldiers carrying the American flag, an intricate, grey, horse-drawn carriage containing a replica of Lincoln’s coffin proceeded from West Harford Street to Broad Street, followed by Union Civil War re-enactors dressed in uniform and marching in perfect step.
As civilians milled outside the Columns museum awaiting the coffin’s arrival, women in hoop skirts and Civil War soldiers duplicated the solemn mood of Lincoln’s historical funeral procession so many years ago. As the coffin entered the Columns Museum, so did the people, anxious to witness the small memorial service and following events.
Some people gathered around the flag that cradled Lincoln’s head the night of his assassination; a flag that still bears the stain of the President’s blood. Others surrounded Jacqueline Kroschell as she beautifully sang tribute songs to Lincoln, including “Honor to Our Soldiers” and “Farewell Father, Friend, and Guardian.”
Lectures given by Lincoln scholars and readings by the American Readers Theatre closed the Columns’ Lincoln Weekend. The weekend’s activities attracted a crowd of over 500 people locals and visitors, not including the media who came to film and photograph the procession.
We would like to offer a special thanks to our sponsors, Orange and Rockland Utilities and Kevin Stroyan, Stroyan Funeral Home, who made the event possible.
The Pike County Historical Society also extends a sincere thank you to:
Dick Daddis
Barbara Buchanan
Ray Weeks
Lori Strelecki
Richard Sloan
Jacqueline Kroschell
Martha Lorin
Darren Fouse
Chef Christian
Juanita Leisch Jensen
Joanna Szackmary
Linda Kolbek
Gail Darcy
Richard Symth
The American Readers Theatre
56th New York Re-enactors Group
123rd New York Re-enactors Group
143rd New York Re-enactors Group
12th New York Re-enactors Group
15th New Jersey Re-enactors Group
81st Pennsylvania Re-enactors Group
and special thanks go the Pike County Historical Societies Board of Directors, and the many volunteers who participated in the event.
For more information on the Pike County Historic Society, call 570-296-8126
April 4, 2008
An Evening with President Abraham Lincoln
Milford, PA – Friday, April 11th, 2008, presents a unique opportunity for families and individuals alike to step back in time and experience “An Evening with President Lincoln” at the Columns Museum on Broad Street, Milford, Pa. at 7:00 p.m. Mr. Darren Fouse will portray Abraham Lincoln and one can hear his own thoughts regarding the dreams he had of his impending assassination.
Mr. Fouse is an eleven year resident of Milford with a broad range of experience in theater and films. He studied in France with Mr. Niels Arestrup in the theatrical school of Ecole de Passage and worked as an actor in many French sitcoms and television commercials. He has performed in New York City Theater productions as well as independent and industrial films. “An Evening with President Lincoln”, performed by Darren Fouse is certain to be a unique and entertaining experience.
A musical recital by the well known jazz artist, Martha Lorin, and her accompanist will be followed by a reception and food prepared by Chef Christian. A reservation and $25.00 per person will afford you an evening’s entertainment not to be forgotten.
On the fateful night of Good Friday, April 14, 1865, President Abraham Lincoln and his party attended a performance of “Our American Cousin” at the famous Ford’s Theatre in Washington D.C. The Presidents Box had been decorated with flags for this special occasion and he was greeted with great applause from the audience as he entered. While the President watched the play and laughed lightheartedly at the actors on stage, John Wilkes Booth, a famous actor of the day and a southern sympathizer, entered the box with murder in his heart and mind and with one shot to the back of the President’s head, altered the course of American History. As the President lay mortally wounded, his head was cradled by the American Flag that had draped the banister in front of him. This flag still bearing the grim stain of a long-passed tragedy, hangs encased in a place of honor at Milford’s very own: “The Columns Museum.”
The weekend events begin with a reception on the evening of April 11th and continue practically non stop through a weekend filled with historical activities taking place at the Pike County Historical Society’s “Columns Museum” on Broad Street, Milford, Pa. On Saturday, the 56th NY Civil War re-enactors will make camp around the Museum and demonstrate how soldiers drilled and lived on the battlefields while serving their country. Throughout the day, the Ladies of the 56th NY will present various aspects of the Civil War woman’s life and the customs of the day. On Sunday a replication of Lincoln’s funeral will begin at Stroyan’s Funeral Home on Harford Street. A horse drawn hearse bearing a replica coffin will proceed to the Columns Museum where an Honor Guard will place the coffin in the Lincoln Room. A brief ceremony will take place with the American Theatre Readers reading two eulogies and vocalist, Jacqueline Kroschel, singing several period songs in honor to the President. The coffin will lie in state for a period of two weeks between the Lincoln Flag and the Stars and Stripes gown belonging to Jeannie Gourlay Struthers.
Richard Sloan will follow with a fascinating account of the lives and careers of Jeannie Gourlay and William Withers. The American Theatre Readers, under the direction of Jeffery Stocker, will present readings of letters written by eye-witnesses to the assassination and by members of the Gourlay family. With so many historical happenings to attend, the weekend will be one of fun for all, and best of all, there is no charge for entry to the museum for any Saturday or Sunday event.
April 4, 2008
Pike County Historical Society Lincold Day Event
Milford, PA – On the night of April 14, 1865, Abraham Lincoln, President of the United States, attended a showing of “Our American Cousin,” at the infamous Ford’s Theatre. John Wilkes Booth, an actor infuriated by President Lincoln’s intention to provide voting rights to certain blacks, also entered Ford’s Theatre, snuck into the President’s Box, and assassinated Lincoln with one shot. As the President lay mortally wounded by the bullet, his head was cradled by an American flag sporting thirty six stars. The same flag, still bearing the grim stain of a long-passed tragedy, hangs encased in a museum: Milford’s very own Columns Museum.
Although the flag is open to daily viewing, April 12th (a Friday), presents a splendid opportunity for families and individuals alike to see how fascinating history is. While one mills about the museum, lost in the historical wonder of the artifacts, Darren Fousse will portray Abraham Lincoln and explore the President’s muses regarding his death (Lincoln had many dreams and visions of his impending assassination). Darren Fousse is an eleven year resident of Milford with a fascinating history. After graduating from Clarion University with a communications major, Mr. Fousse traveled to California, where he was discovered by a fashion agent from Paris. He lived in France from 1985 until 1996, studying with Mr. Niels Arestrup in a theatrical school, Ecole de Passage. In the early nineties he worked as an actor in many French sitcoms, television commercials, and independent films. Upon his return to the United States, Mr. Fousse settled in Milford due to its proximity to New York City, where he acted in theater productions, as well as independent and industrial films. With a credited actor such as Darren Fousse impersonating President Abraham Lincoln, the show is certain to be fascinating and well-performed.
The weekend of April 12th is full of historical activities, all taking place at the Columns Museum. Not only will the flag which supported President Lincoln’s head be available for viewing, but civil war re-enactors will be putting on demonstrations of Civil War life for soldiers, honorary Lincoln scholars will be available for historical speeches, and a funeral procession will march from Stroyer’s Funeral Home to the Columns Museum, in a direct replication of Lincoln’s own funeral procession back to Iowa. With so many historical happenings to attend, the weekend will be one of fun and amusement for all.
March 31, 2008
Jacqueline Kroschell to Perform at Pike County Historical Society Lincoln Day Event
Milford, PA – Jacqueline Kroschell is an esteemed vocalist with a fantastic résumé. The Stars and Stripes Gown is a historical artifact with a fantastically tragic story attached. To pair the two together, as will be done by the Pike County Historical Society in Milford, Pennsylvania, is an idea bound to be unparalleled in the realm of vocal performances and authentic exhibits, as well as a presentation every citizen of Pike County can have the pleasure of attending.
With a list of credentials such as the one trailing Jacqueline Kroschell, listeners everywhere are certain to be delighted with her performance of “Honor To Our Soldiers”, on April 13, 2008, at the Columns. Ms. Kroschell is an artistic director and a soprano, one who starred in the recent New York Premiere of Me, Myself, and God at St. Peter’s Church, written by Steve DePass. She serves in many nautical organizations, including but not limited to her role as “Nautical Nightingale” for the Council of American Master Mariners. As a director she creates and performs in many commemorative programs, two of which include the 100th Anniversary Luncheon for the Chinkchewunska Chapter of the D.A.R. and the Morris Kessel 100th Birthday at New York’s Harmony Club. Ms. Kroschell’s Broadway and off-Broadway achievements consist of Man of La Mancha, A Christmas Carol, Tamara, and Pirates of Penzance. While touring with The Opera Theatre of New York, Ms. Kroschell was presented with the chance to found Cameo and create dozens of programs. She has also performed Gilbert & Sullivan, and opera roles, with New York City Opera, L.O.O.M., Lake George Opera, The Contemporary Opera of New York, and the Stratford Festival Company. Ms. Kroschell has been a guest with over three dozen symphony orchestras such as the Rochester, Buffalo Philharmonic, the Baltimore, Dallas Detroit, Denver, and Milwaukee Symphonies. In Canada, she has joined the Vancouver, Winnepeg, and Edmonton Symphonies, as well as Ottawa’s National Art Center.
Fittingly, Jacqueline Kroschell is scheduled to sing a song entitled “Honor to Our Soldiers”, a piece of music written by William Withers. It was to have been performed by the cast of the play at the conclusion of the evening’s performance of “Our American Cousin” for President Abraham Lincoln on the occasion of his attendance at Ford’s Theatre on April 14, 1865. Miss Kroschell stated, “I am thrilled to be able to bring this song to President Lincoln’s Funeral Services, knowing how much he loved music, and being endorsed by the Abraham Lincoln Bicentennial Commission as the only authorized singer for his 200th Birthday I am extremely pleased to be able to sing in his honor.”
Miss Jeannie Gourlay, a member of the cast was to have worn a special costume for this performance, a gown with red and white alternating vertical stripes with each red stripe bearing a row of white stars. It has become know as the “Stars and Stripes” gown and as the gown that was never worn for the song that was never sung. President Abraham Lincoln was assassinated during the third act and the play was never finished.
Fortunately those who live in the Pike County Area, will have the opportunity to both hear “Honor to Our Soldiers” and visit the Stars and Stripes Gown, which will be on display on April 12th and 13th, during the Lincoln weekend presentation at the Columns Museum, the first time it has been publicly displayed in five years (due to its fragile condition).
March 24, 2008
PCHS Unveils Schedule for Lincoln Weekend
April 11-13, 2008, at the Columns Museum in Milford, Pennsylvania
Milford, PA – On April 21st, 1865, President Abraham Lincoln’s funeral train passed through Harrisburg, Pennsylvania on a journey back to his hometown in Springfield Illinois. That same day, as he laid in the State House of Representatives, tens of thousands of mourning citizens viewed their assassinated President at his funeral ceremony. Lincoln’s funeral procession is said to be an event unparalleled in American history, therefore it comes as no surprise that Americans today continue to honor the death of the beloved 16th President of the USA.
In our own small town of Milford, Pennsylvania, the Columns Museum has organized for April 11th-13th a history filled weekend (particularly the late 1800’s), in memory of President Abraham Lincoln, with activities including Civil War re-enactments, discussions with Lincoln scholars, historical movies, and a solemn funeral procession and ceremony resembling those of President Lincolns in 1865.
The weekend will begin on Friday, April 11th, 2008, with a reception at the Columns. Darren Fouse will commence the evening activities with a short soliloquy in which he portrays Mr. Lincoln and puts forth the late President’s thoughts regarding his own mortality (President Lincoln had several dreams and premonitions which warned him of his fate). The performance will be followed by a reception, including a musical performance by Martha Lorin, a well-known Jazz musician, and culinary delights crafted by Chef Christian.
On Saturday, April 12th, from 10:00 AM until 4:00 PM, Civil War re-enactors will be camping on the grounds of the Columns Museum, presenting to the public different aspects of a soldier’s life during the Civil War. Presentations will include the preparation and cooking of food on the battle field, close order drilling of the troops, and weapon demonstrations.
At 11:00 AM, Joanna Szackmary, of the 56th NY Re-enactors Group, will be lecturing on rituals and mourning attire with several examples of clothing on loan from the prestigious collection of Juanita Leisch Jensen, an expert on 19th century clothing. At 1:00pm, Mrs. Szackmary will present a program called “Quilts of Comfort,” in which she will discuss the meanings and the necessity of mourning quilts. Throughout the day, the Ladies of the 56th New York Re-enactors Group will be available to answer questions regarding the life and times of a 19th century woman.
On Sunday, April 13th, at 12:30pm a funeral procession will depart from the Stroyan Funeral Home at 405 W. Harford Street. A replica of Lincoln’s original coffin, accompanied by Fife and Drummers and Union Civil War Re-enactors, will be carried in a horse-drawn carriage to the Columns Museum on Broad Street. Following the placement of the coffin in the museum’s Lincoln Room, a small memorial service will be held in tribute to President Abraham Lincoln, in which pertinent eulogies will be read by members of the American Readers Theatre. Following the eulogies will be vocal performance by Jacqueline Kroschell, a leading soprano with the Opera Theatre of New York. Her performances will include Farewell Father, Friend, and Guardian, Honor to Our Soldiers, and other songs as a tribute to President Abraham Lincoln. The weekend will come to a close with members of the American Readers Theatre reading letters written by Jeannie Gourlay and other eye-witnesses to the assassination.
The weekend's activities are brought to the public courtesy of The Pike County Historical Society, Stroyan Funeral Home and Orange and Rockland Utilities. These companies graciously funded a large percentage of the costs surrounding the event.
There will be a $25 charge for Friday night's performance and reception, with proceeds going to offset additional costs for the weekend. All other events are being offered free to the public.
For more information on any of these articles, please contact Lori at 570.296.8126 or email us at pikemuse@ptd.net
