I read that there is a renewed interest in the Haskell County Historical Society and Museum. It is my opinion that the preservation of history should be of interest to all of us. I have always been impressed with our museum.
The candy case from my Uncle Herbert (Claunts) and Aunt Vivian’s store, the Stigler 5 & Up is in the museum. The candy case has a rich and varied history for all county residents of a certain age. All history is rich and varied.
A lady at the Stigler News Sentinel reminded me that, although I have a considerable history at 605 NW “A” Street in Stigler, I am not alone. Her grandparents purchased the home from my grandmother. She has as meaningful of a history at the house as I do. Each is unique.
History pulses through our lives. My eldest granddaughter recently took a business trip to St. Louis. She visited the Gateway Arch and became interested in Meriweather Lewis and William Clark and their expedition. After visiting with her upon her return, I decided to buy her a book. My family says a book is my “go to” gift.
Upon its release, I had read David Lavender’s Way to the Western Sea. It is a nice read if you care about tiny details like what size and price of the nails they took.
After some consideration, I decided on Stephen Ambrose’s Undaunted Courage. An account I understood to be based more upon the history of the people involved. Reviews said this book was unlike Lavender’s work. So, I bought a copy for myself.
I like family histories. Ambrose writes wonderful family stories.
Consider this, Lewis was 2 years old in 1776 and he was 14 when the Constitution was ratified. At 18, he moved back to Virginia to become a planter. He was 30 when, at the direction of President Thomas Jefferson, he and William Clark left St. Louis and moved up the Missouri River.
Jefferson was interested in everything. He said, “There is no sprig of grass that shoots uninteresting to me.”
In Undaunted Courage, Stephen Ambrose wrote, “The Louisiana Purchase and the Lewis and Clark Expedition stretched the boundaries of the United States from sea to shining sea. Thus, July 4, 1803 was the beginning of today’s nation.”
Through their journals, letters and other accounts, we know their history rather well. History commands examination not agreement.
Now, we are tasked with preserving the history of those we knew. At least join your local historical society and share.
Everyone in Haskell County has a story about my uncle’s candy case. Today, the candy case is preserved in the Haskell County Historical Society Museum.
I have a word for you. Join. If your county doesn’t have a historical society, form one. If there is no museum, begin one.
Record your family history for your grandchildren and your great-grandchildren.
“They first plowed the ground that we sow today.” Remember them. I think they would appreciate it.
Faith dare the soul to go farther than it can see. – William Clark
