SINCLAIRVILLE - Members and guests of the Valley Historical Society of Sinclairville met recently for a meeting and a presentation of a patriotic moment. President Albert Olmstead led the meeting in the Lord's Prayer and the Pledge of Allegiance. Olmstead, who is a U.S. Merchant Marine Veteran said that he would like to share with the group some the ideas on the importance of the American Flag. Olmstead said that just before the Independence Day is a good time to reflect on the American flag. The stars and stripes are a brightness which stand for all of our freedoms. People had to fight for many years to preserve the freedoms that we so much cherish. Over the years, there have been many wars, and people fought for what they believe. Treasurer of the group, John Sipos, added that on July 4, only two signatures were written on the Declaration of Independence. John Hancock's signature was purposely written large so that the king could see his signature without his reading glasses. Also, Charles Thomson, who was the secretary of the Continental Congress signed the document that day. Aug. 2, 1776, was when the others signed the declaration. There was more than one copy, and another copy was used for the signatures. At least six towns in Chautauqua County are named after signers of the Declaration of Independence, said Larry Barmore, vice president.
Mary Shearman read the minutes of the previous meeting and Sipos gave the financial report. Barmore said that the annual history fair in Sinclairville will be on Saturday, Sept. 8 all day.
The annual quilt show will be held at the museum, located at the corner of Main and Lester Streets in the village of Sinclairville, on Saturday, Aug. 4 and Sunday, Aug. 5. Quilts will be on display in the museum for viewing, and there is no charge for admission. Betty Jean Ridout of Sinclairville is the coordinator of the quilt show.
Guest visitor Kevin Washington from Baltimore, encouraged people to visit the national monument and historic sights in the Baltimore area about the War of 1812. Fort McHenry, where the battle was fought inspired the writing of the National Anthem.
Following the meeting and program, a large birthday cake for treasurer Sipos was used for refreshments. Member Susan W. Sipos provided the special patriotic cake decorated in red, white and blue colors by Ranee Kaus of Cassadaga.
The Valley Historical Society was organized in 1977 by the late John and Ruth Smith, and one year later, the museum was purchased. For more than 30 years, renovations have taken place in the museum to restore it. For more information on the Valley Historical Society, write to P.O. Box 1045, Sinclairville, NY 14782. New members are always welcome.