By: Cheryl Chasteen
Following are some tidbits and photos from the Riverside Cemetery Walk on July 31, 2011 (originally planned for June 8 but rained out then).
Bessie Coate – The woman who founded the West Milton Inn. It started as a team room opening on a Sunday morning and she served 35 people the first day of business. (Portrayed by Rachel Ann Sarver)
Alberta Kinsey – A very famous artist whose paintings made the French Quarter famous. (Portrayed by Cheryl Swartz)
Wesley & Marie Vore – Their family opened a plumbing and electric company in the early 1900’s (during Civil War times) at 11 S. Miami Street. This location is now the home of ‘Antique Uniques’ owned by Frances Fleenor.
The photo of Marie Vore talking to the little boy: ‘Marie Vore’ showing Cole Heidenreich a sample of tack bread, which was a staple for the soldiers.
Mr. Vore’s dad was an activist against slavery and had his barn burned down because of his stand again it.
The picture where he’s holding a certificate: A certificate signed & given by President Lincoln to the soldiers for their help during the Civil War.
Wesley Mast – his family bought the rights to make lightning rods that were coated in copper (because regular lightning rods would rust). They had a very large business and often used the train that ran through West Milton.
