Echoes of the Past is a collection of historical articles curated from The West Virginia News, The Greenbrier Independent, White Sulphur Star, and other publications archived since 1852. You may be exposed to content that you find offensive or objectionable. For historical accuracy, articles are reprinted in their original form, and do not reflect the opinions and beliefs of the publisher.
1922 – 100 Years Ago
A Plum Good Idea
W. O. Sampson, who lives on Muddy Creek Mountain, brought to this office a twig from his orchard. The twig is twelve inches long and contains sixty-four damsons. Mr. Sampson states that there are branches on his trees even fuller than this one. There is a fortune – dozens of them – to be had from raising small fruit on Muddy Creek Mountain and as soon as the people wake up to the situation, organize, plant out the trees and arrange for co-operative marketing the money can be made.
Harmonious Democrats
The State Convention of Democrats held in Charleston last Tuesday was the most enthusiastic ever held in the State. The throng of people was so great that it was held in the open on the lawn of the Y.M.C.A. People from all over the State were present and harmony was supreme.
1947 – 75 Years Ago
Fair Cafeteria Opens
The West Virginia State Fair Cafeteria opens for the first time. With a seating capacity of more than 250, it featured southern fried chicken, prime roast beef, and tender-made ham. It was operated by Milton Perry, Grover Waybright, and C. E. Tucker.
Fort Spring Tunnel Completed
Boring of the Chesapeake and Ohio Railway’s newest and longest double track tunnel, being constructed on its main lines at Fort Spring, has been completed after a year’s work.
Ohio Drivers
Of all neighboring states, Ohio motorists are the worst on our roads, and Kentuckians are the safest drivers. That’s what the statistics show. We haven’t a thing against Ohioians.
1972 -50 Years Ago
Promises Arrests At RNC
U. S. Attorney General Richard G. Kleindienst promises sweeping arrests should unruly crowds at the Republican National Convention use the tactics employed in Washington’s 1971 May Day demonstration.
Kissinger Flies To Vietnam
Dr. Henry A. Kissinger was flying to Saigon today amid speculation of a breakthrough in discussions to end the Vietnam war.
Dale Evans And Roy Rogers
Dale Evans and Roy Rogers, stars of stage, screen and radio are as “common as apple pie” and just as charming and youthful looking in person as they are on stage. They are scheduled to be joined by their son “Dusty” and the Sons of the Pioneers for six appearances at the West Virginia State Fair.
Fair Winner
One of the oldest exhibitors at the West Virginia State Fair this year will be 92-year-old Lawrence Lindsay of Fairlea, better known to his friends and neighbors as “Pop” Lindsay. Mr. Lindsay has entered State Fair competition for well over twelve years and has yet to fail in winning one or more blue, red, or yellow ribbons for his assorted fruit and vegetable displays.
1997 – 25 Years Ago
Sam Black Church Plays Roscoe’s
Sam Black Church, a Boston-based heavy metal/hardcore rock bank will appear at Roscoe’s in Fairlea. Fat Headed Monster will open at 9 p.m.
Sam Black Church is named after drummer J. R. Roach’s hometown in Greenbrier County. Guitarist Ben Crandall and vocalist Jesse “Jet” Crandall, who are brothers, grew up just down the road in Clintonville and, along with Roach, began playing when all three were in their early teens.
 |
| Sam Black Church in 1997 |
Greenbrier Garners Award
TENNIS Magazine presented Ron Bohrnstedt, director of tennis at The Greenbrier with a plaque naming “America’s Resort” to its list of the 1996 Top 50 Tennis Resorts. The Greenbrier ranked number 8 overall and was also ranked in the top 5 for best cuisine and best lodging.
Airport Reopens
The newly-renovated 7,004-foot runway at Greenbrier Valley Airport was officially reopened by John B. Arbuckle, Jr., president of the Greenbrier County Commission and a member of the county airport authority. Also attending the recent ribbon-cutting ceremony were airport manager Jerry O’Sullivan, authority chairman Ralph D. Williams, authority Secretary-Treasurer J. Bright Hern, and authority members Earl Roth and Jesse O. Guills, Jr.
