Even though the weather was cold and cloudy on this day, the spirit of all the people could not be dampened. Although the festival is so special to us all, what impressed me the most is where the people came from and their stories telling why they had to drive from NY or CA to Coalwood, WV. I have included some their stories below. One thing for sure, they all left with a little coal dust in their shoes and a lot of Coalwood Memories to share with their family, friends and neighbors.
This bus load of students and teachers were from Laurens South Carolina Middle School. They read one of the books (? don't know which one) and as a class project wanted to see Coalwood and meet Homer.
Walter and Sue Terry, Linda Hickam's parents.
By mid-day it had warmed up and was a beautiful West Virginia fall day.
Lots of good food by area churches and several vendors.
Can you smell the apple butter?
All modes of transportation were used to get to Coalwood.
Our shuttle services was provided by the City of Bluefield.
Danny wants to work for NASA, he is 5 years old. Owen wants to be a coal miner. How many of us told our parents what we wanted to be at 3 years old? And 7 year old Sarah has on a poddle skirt and wants to be a dancer. These are the children of Daniel and Winnie Madden. The Madden family left their home in New York City to visit our beautiful state and share in the joy of a simpler life here and to join our festivities. Mr. Madden told us he and his wife decided to take their children away from all the saddness in NY for a while and visit a special place they have come to know through books and a movie. It's hard for us realize what is is like living in New York City, especially after September 11. They truly enjoy their visit.
Jim Elkins (above in light pants & dark jacket) and his daughter Michelle (below with Homer) are from Marion, in McDowell County North Carolina. Michelle is 14 years old and a freshman at McDowell County High School. Michelle was invited to attend Space Camp this past summer and is in the Space Academy Program. Needless to say, Homer Hickam is her Hero! Just look at that smile!
THIS COALWOOD MEMORY WILL LAST HER A LIFETIME!
Michell enjoys the lyrics of Mr. Payne - the County's local singer.
Don Carroll had some real nice hand made mementos.
The author of this book is our own Roger Hatmaker. Roger could not attend therefore he was represented by his son, Bradley Hatmaker and niece, Gerri Lynn. Take my word for it, this book will keep you laughing from cover to cover. Roger's Mother told me, "if I knew he was in to all the things he told in the book I would have beat him so that he couldn't sit down."
Mason and Ms. Sears - buying a book from Gerri. Mrs. Hatmaker in the backgound. That is my wife, hidden, but with my wallet buying our copy of the Coalwood Misfits.
This beautiful hand crafted picture was made by Ivy Carroll's brother. Some of his work is on display (and for sale) at the Country Corner in Coalwood.
How many of you can remember this sign that stood at the "OLD" filling station? It is in a secret hiding place and in very good condition. Maybe some day it will stand again, just as a reminder of the "good ol days!"
The Kings Chair
Because of several request, I made the journey back to the mountains behind the Coalwood United Methodist Church.
After falling down several times and lots of sweat climbing the mountain, I finally made it to the Kings Chair. I set in the cool mountain air and thought of all the time that has slipped away from the last time this place was full of kids playing, hiding or just doing what I was doing, "thinking of happier days."
I am glad I can share with you the memories of our October Sky Fall Festival 2001. Hope you have enjoyed the pictures as much as we enjoyed being there.
To all the people who visited and helped us celebrate our heritage and home coming, I hope your Coalwood Memories will last a life time just as our do.
To order the " 'COALWOOD MISFITS'
B.V. WESPAT
PMB197
1641 NORTH MEMORIAL DRIVE
LANCASTER,OHIO 431301
Send check or money order payable to B. V. WESPAT in the amount of $15.95 PLUS $3.00 Shipping.
IT IS WORTH EVERY PENNY and I KNOW YOU WILL ENJOY IT!
