February Ellwood City Historical Society Meeting Notes

The Ellwood City Area Historical Society meeting held its monthly meeting Monday evening at the History Center.  The meeting was opened as President Everett Bleakney welcoming everyone, and explaining the mission of the Historical Society which is to protect, promote and preserve the Ellwood City Area History and,  to make it accessible to the people of Ellwood City.

The Pledge of Allegiance to the American Flag was led by World War II Veteran Guy Prestia.

Everett acknowledged Kathy Powell and Karen Hungerford, guests from the Zelienople Historical Society.  Kathy related on the Zelienople Society and their functions there.

Ron Geddes, assistant secretary, read the minutes of the previous January 8 meeting.

Treasurer Charles Brown gave the financial report and reported that the finances have been audited for the year 2017.

Under old business, a recap of the We Can Do It!, the Senator John Heinz History Center exhibit was held.  It was noted that there were over 700 visitors to the exhibit.  That both Lincoln and Riverside High Schools utilized the facilities to hold classes at the center.  It is believed that the students were able to learn so more from the exhibit and speaking to World War Veterans.

The volunteers were all thanked for their participation in this endeavor.

It was also noted that the annual Robert and Janice Barensfeld Scholarship applications may be obtained from the Lincoln and Riverside High School guidance counselors, or at the History Center.  These awards will be made at the May 12 membership meeting.

Dan Burns, a local Ellwood City resident was introduced.  Dan is a former police officer, a freelance writer, author of several historical books, and past president of the Mifflin Township Historical Society spoke on the Rivers of Pittsburgh.  He elaborated on the river transportation from the early 1800’s to present date.  He told of his personal experiences with the barges on the rivers.  Dan was presented with a Ellwood City House book and a year membership to the Ellwood History Society.

Door prizes were won by Anthony DiBiagio, Cal Sammons, Linda Ritter and Ron Geddes.

Refreshments were served by members Audrey and Richard Borison.

The next membership meeting will be held at the History Center on March 12, 2018, at 7:00 pm.    Ryan Kegel will be the guest speaker.  His topic will be the “Hot Metal Press Process” and the printing of newspapers.