More than 80 people joined the non-profit Short Hill Historical Society to kick off its 42nd year and its second season of History Talks, Trips, and Treasures on Sunday, April 15 at the barn at Silverbrook Farm Bed and Breakfast. Historian and mapmaker Eugene Scheel was the main speaker and shared interesting facts about the history of the Short Hill. The board and officers of the non-profit were voted in, photographer Luke Greer showcased his photographs, and there was a chance to win prizes. (Read more below the photo gallery).
At the start of the event, president Mark Ware gave an update about the Short Hill Historical Society including its updated mission, as well as current and future projects designed to share and protect the history of our region. Board member Claire Cutshall then led the vote for the board and officers of the non-profit. Congratulations to the following:
- Mark Ware, President
- Amie Ware, Vice President
- Sandy Simmers, Treasurer
- Sarah Fields, Secretary
- Claire Cutshall
- Paul Dillon
- Paula Dillon
- Jan Goodrich
- Luke Greer
- Judy Klinedinst
- Patsy McClintock
- Ryan Siemers
- Belle Ware
Eugene Scheel gave an interesting presentation about the history of the Short Hill region. His talk centered around his most recent map-making project. He described many of the historical sites noted on this map or discovered during his research, including caves, “wood lots”, trails, a spot called Devil’s Elbow, stills, the family Morrisonville was named for, plane crashes, Civil War battles, and spotter cabins—one of which was in Hillsboro, and the 1840 boxing match. A great question and answer session followed his presentation. At the end of the event, Mr. Scheel signed and sold his maps.
Many thanks to the local businesses that supported this event including: Old 690 Brewing Company, AWare Photography, Birch Hollow Yoga, The Hair Room, Hillsborough Vineyards, Love Knots, Luke Greer, Southern States in Purcellville and Mark Ware. Thank you to the sponsors of History Talks, Trips, and Treasures: The Purcellville Gazette and Sengpiehl Insurance Group. Special thanks to our host Dot Shetterly who opened her beautiful barn at Silverbrook Farm for the non-profit.
For more information, to join, or to make a donation, visit www.ShortHillHistoricalSociety.org. See the Short Hill Historical Society’s Facebook page for updates and photos from the event. The next History Talks, Trips, and Treasures will be May 20 featuring archaeologist Dr. David Clark.