Juneteenth Celebration to be Held June 15 at Fairgrounds

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By Rebecca Maynard

The community is invited to celebrate and learn at the annual Juneteenth celebration at the Ruritan Fairgrounds on Saturday, June 15. The gates open at 11am and the program begins at 12:30pm. Allison Seymour, D.C. Channel 9 news personality, and Mark Clark, Baltimore radio personality, will MC the program. 

“This is their third year with our local program as they now feel as though they are locals,” said Dorothy Davis, Josephine Community Museum board member.

Juneteenth (short for “June Nineteenth”) marks the day when federal troops arrived in Galveston, Texas in 1865 to take control of the state and ensure that all enslaved people be freed. The troops’ arrival came a full two and a half years after the signing of the Emancipation Proclamation. Juneteenth honors the end to slavery in the United States and is considered the longest-running African American holiday. On June 17, 2021, it officially became a federal holiday. 

The nonprofit Josephine School Community Museum, Josephine Improvement Association (JIA) and Clarke County Training School & Johnson-Williams High School Reunion Association organized the event, which will feature a variety of vendors and food trucks. The popular MLA mime group out of D.C. returns, as does Susan Shields. Souled Out will close out the day with a live performance.

“The flag memorial is a major display which memorializes the enslaved individuals who labored in Clarke County,” Davis said. “Many of the historic structures, churches, mansions, etc. were built by those who were slaves here.”

“The Lest We Forget Slavery Museum’s Traveling Slavery Exhibit from Pennsylvania  is a new feature this year and should not be missed,” Davis said. 

The exhibit, according to its website, provides a unique historical perspective into the reality of slavery for Africans brought to America. It is the only museum of its kind in Philadelphia that exhibits authentic slavery artifacts which include hundreds of shackles, chains, coffles, branding irons and other forms of punishing ironware.

Authentic documents show how enslaved Africans were bought and sold as chattel. Numerous “Jim Crow” objects which negatively depicted and ridiculed African Americans, creating a lasting racist attitude, are also on display. Incredible African works of art – sculpture, oil paintings and vintage photographs are on display and descriptive contextual panels are posted throughout to assist visitors in understanding the significance of this period in American history.“To many African Americans, this is our Independence Day,” Davis said. “While it is a day of joy, it is also a reminder of our nation’s history, how far we have come and how far we have yet to go.” She added: “Let’s celebrate our freedom with the unique traditions of such a rich, vibrant culture.”

Fourteen Years Ago

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By Geo Derrick

After more than a dozen years at the Clarke County Farmer’s Market, Geo Derrick is retiring.

Joining the local farmer’s market with Geo’s Joy Herbal Medicine was one way that I felt empowered to support our area agriculture and preserve this precious “greenbelt” known as Clarke County. Having witnessed the frenetic development of good farmland in Virginia and nationwide, I found solace and peace when I finally moved here full time.

To this ideal, I was happy to offer free health and wellness advice on Saturday mornings for 13 years, to draw people to the market and support the many vendors that joined us. Having an abundance of locally grown food and clean air and water are the foundation of good health, and we are so blessed in this county.

I have felt a true sense of belonging with another extended family of friends that show up in rain or shine to shop locally. It has been a joy 

getting to know everyone and staying abreast of our community lives together. Deciding to retire as a vendor has been surprisingly emotional for me. I feel a deep loss in my heart.

So, becoming a sponsor of the Clarke County Farmer’s Market was an easy decision to ease the sadness and continue this mission. Our community is precious to me, and I am grateful for all who gather here on Saturdays. During this time, many of the natural products that we have created were a result of your needs and suggestions and remain available year-round on our website or with a phone call.

I admit that my husband and I look forward to finally sleeping in on Saturday mornings and simply showing up as shoppers for this sweet social time in Berryville. It is a privilege to be among such good and caring people.Namaste. Love, Geo

Clarke County Historical Association to Host Eighth Annual Colonial Kids Day

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The Clarke County Historical Association is pleased to bring back Colonial Kids Day at the Burwell-Morgan Mill in Millwood, VA on Saturday July 13th from 11-4 p.m. What began as an internship project for a Shenandoah University student has turned into one of the most exciting and well-attended children’s events in Clarke County. This year’s event will feature a wide variety of activities which will allow children of all ages to experience everyday life in 

Colonial Virginia.

Activities include blacksmithing, craft making, colonial games, a scavenger hunt, the history of the Mill, living history interpretations, and grinding in action. Other historical organizations will be joining us on site that day, such as Sky Meadows State Park, the Newtown History Center, the French and Indian War Foundation, the Frontier Culture Museum, Sons of the American Revolution, and the Virginia Piedmont Heritage Area Association for children to learn even more about history.

Colonial Kids Day is sponsored by Perry Engineering, Berryville Family Chiropractic, and Locke Store. Admission is $5 per person and can be ordered online at www.clarkehistory.org/events or over the phone at 540-955-2600. Tickets can also be purchased at the door the day of the event.

Founded in 1939, the Clarke County Historical Association is a 501 c 3 non-profit dedicated to preserving the history of Clarke County. Our offices are located in the historic Coiner House at 32 East Main Street in Berryville, Virginia. Also located in the Coiner House is a museum, genealogy research library, and an extensive archive of historical material relating to Clarke County and the Northern Shenandoah Valley.

CCHA also owns the Burwell-Morgan Mill, a fully operational 18th century grist mill located in nearby Millwood, Virginia. Their volunteer millers grind a variety of grains as well as give tours of this historic site every Saturday from May through November.

Supervisors  Appoint Douglas Shaffer to fill Berryville District seat

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By Cathy Kuehner

During its public work session on May 13, the Clarke County Board of Supervisors unanimously voted to appoint Douglas Shaffer to fill the Berryville District seat recently vacated by Matthew Bass. Bass tendered his letter of resignation in early April; his last day as a Supervisor was April 30.

After being sworn in by the Circuit Court Clerk, Shaffer participated in his first Supervisors meeting on May 21. He will serve as the Berryville District supervisor until the Clarke County Electoral Board certifies the results of a special election on Nov. 5, 2024. Anyone who is qualified, including Shaffer, may run this year to fill Bass’s unexpired term that ends in 2027.

In early May, Supervisors chair David Weiss (Buckmarsh District), vice chair Terri Catlett (Millwood District), Bev McKay (White Post District), and Doug Lawrence (Russell District) interviewed four candidates for the temporary appointment.

“We interviewed four great individuals who applied for the vacant seat,” said Weiss. “I was impressed with their knowledge and commitment to their community.” Catlett added that the four applicants “all brought a lot to the table.”

Weiss noted, “Doug brings 20 years of service to the town, and he has aa solution-based way of approaching issues.”

Shaffer, 63, was born and raised in Berryville, the county seat. He served on the town’s Board of Zoning Appeals from 2000 to 2010. Appointed to the Town Planning Commission in 2002, he served as its chair from 2010 to 2021. In 2012, Shaffer was elected to Berryville Town Council, representing Ward 1 for one four-year term. He is a Virginia certified 

planning commissioner.

“I want to be a voice for the town again,” Shaffer said. “A few years ago, I needed to step back for personal reasons, but now I’m anxious to get back into service.” As for officially running for Berryville District supervisor this fall, Shaffer said, “My hope is to work with the Board for a couple months, because it won’t mirror Town Council or Town Planning Commission. Then, I’ll feel confident running for the seat.”

Shaffer’s decades-long career has been in construction material management. He is presently a building inspector for the county’s 

building department. 

“Berryville has been well served [by its Supervisors] and will continue to be well served,” said Weiss.Find more information about the Board of Supervisors at www.clarkecounty.gov/government/boards-commissions.

Ruritan Invites Locals To Meet New Event Center Vendors

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From the Ruritan Club of Clarke County 

Take a step back in time when Clarke County was a rural farming community. For one week in August, the horticulture building at the Clarke County Fairgrounds would be filled with entries in various categories including fruits, vegetables, eggs, field crops, and flowers. They will be judged and the winners will receive ribbons and small cash awards.

Today, that same building has been remodeled to serve, not only as the horticulture building for the fair, but as a Ruritan Event Center. When it’s not fair week, the venue is available for the public to rent for weddings, rehearsal dinners, engagements, anniversaries, birthdays, family reunions, baby and bridal showers, work retreats, business parties, graduations, funeral receptions, fundraisers, and corn hole tournaments.

We will be hosting an open house on Sunday, June 9 from 1–3pm for the community to come see why we are so proud of our newly remodeled building. It boasts 3,000 square feet of climate-controlled space, including new bathrooms. The charcoal-colored metal wainscoting walls and 20 foot high ceiling meet rough wood panels below, providing a rustic, but formal atmosphere.

Come visit with local vendors who can offer you event planning, catering, photography, and more. Enjoy live music by Emily Fisher and treat yourself to an ice cream, a grilled cheese, or a lumpia from our three food trucks that will be on-site.

For more information about the Ruritan, visit www.clarkecountyfair.org

Clarke Monthly June 2024

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Nurse Honor Guard Honor Memories of Colleagues

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As a retired nurse, a newspaper article entitled, “Once a Nurse Always a Nurse”, caught my attention. This is how I came to become involved with the Northern Shenandoah Valley Nurse Honor Guard, a local chapter of the national organization. Approximately 17 nurses comprise the Front Royal-based group that meets every other month.

Their mission is honoring nurses with a special ceremony at a funeral, wake or graveside. Northern Shenandoah Nurse Honor Guard will travel to attend services in a 60 
mile radius. 

Any nurse’s family can request a Nurse Honor Guard service. The group discusses with family details of the nurse’s career, which are incorporated into the ceremony. Special poems and nurse related passages are read. Unique to the nursing profession is the Nightingale Lamp, which is used in a special final tribute. 

Northern Shenandoah Valley Nurse Honor Guard members attend the ceremony in white uniform, cap, and cape — the traditional nurse attire. Services are free of charge but donations are accepted which are applied to service materials.

Northern Shenandoah Valley Nurse Honor Guard welcomes new members to join our Facebook group. For information and to contact for joining, please 
contact: NSVNHG@gmail.com.

— by Cynthia Moore

Rosemont Leadership Nominees Announced

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Above: The Clarke County Education Foundation’s 2024 nominees for the Rosemont Leadership Award are Gabriel Ignacio, Anna Hornbaker, Sydney Kelble, and Delaney Collins.

The Clarke County Education Foundation (CCEF) is delighted to announce the nominees for this year’s Rosemont Leadership Award, established to honor a Clarke County High School graduating student demonstrating outstanding leadership potential. The Rosemont Leadership Award, CCEF’s most distinguished and substantial scholarship, grants the winner $10,000. It is funded by Biff Genda, proprietor of Historic Rosemont, and a matching gift from CCEF. The presentation will occur on Sunday, May 19 at 6pm during CCHS’s Senior Recognition Night.

The scholarship is being judged by a 5-person committee of local community members. This year the committee members are  Jay Arnold, Mayor of Berryville; Matthew Bass, attorney at Burnett & Williams and elected member of the Clarke County Board of Supervisors; Lauren McKay Cummings, Communications Strategist II & Employee Communications at Navy Federal Credit Union; Suni Mackall, retired Commonwealth’s Attorney for Clarke County; and Marianne Schmidt, Executive Vice President and Chief Marketing Officer at Bank of Clarke.

The teachers and staff of Clarke County High School voted on the top four leaders from the Class of 2024. A point based system was then used to select the final four nominees.

Those nominees are:

Delaney Collins is a member of the National Honor Society and has served as president of the CCHS Environmental club for two years. During that time she organized a community wide Pop-Up Thrift Shop that raised money for FISH of Clarke County.

Anna Hornbaker is the Interact Club president, Student Council vice president and a member of National Honor Society and Health Occupations Students of America(HOSA). She is also captain of the varsity softball team. She enjoys taking a variety of challenging classes at the high school with a focus on science classes and hopes to one day be a dermatologist.

Gabriel Ignacio moved to Clarke County in his third grade year. Since then he has become an active member of his local Scout Troop as an Eagle Scout, a member of the Student Council Administration for Clarke County High School, and the Robotics team programming department lead. Gabriel also participates in the Chess Club and Scholastic Bowl team. He loves camping and hiking as well as playing video games.

Sydney Kelble is a Senior and IB Diploma Candidate at Clarke County High School. She serves as President of the National Art Honors Society, senior class vice president, and served as junior class treasurer last year. She is also an active member of CCHS’s Chapter of the National Honor Society and the Environmental Club, and dedicates time towards service endeavors through both of those clubs.

Johnson-Williams Middle School Dedicates New Mary Patricia Reynolds Foyer

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By Rebecca Maynard

On September 8, 1964, Mary Patricia Reynolds walked through the doors of Clarke County High School and quietly made history as its first Black student. Nearly 60 years later, on April 19, community members gathered at Johnson-Williams Middle School (which then was Clarke County High School) to dedicate the Mary Patricia Reynolds Foyer and unveil a new mural by Mikisa Shaajhante.

According to Encyclopedia Virginia, desegregation began in Virginia on February 2, 1959, after a nearly three-year battle in the federal courts. During these legal battles, the courts overturned many of Virginia’s anti-desegregation laws and eventually ordered the admittance of small numbers of Black students into formerly all-white schools in several locations. Following this initial school desegregation, public officials in Virginia tried to derail integration. Black students who sought to transfer into white schools were forced to go through a complex selection process. The majority of applicants 
were rejected. 

At the same time, state investigative committees attempted to reduce the influence of the NAACP in Virginia, and sought to make it more difficult for the organization to file additional school desegregation lawsuits in the state. As a result of these and other policies, school desegregation in Virginia proceeded slowly. As late as 1965, fewer than 12,000 of the approximately 235,000 Black students in Virginia went to 
desegregated schools.

“The Clarke County Board of Education in 1965 is to be commended for not choosing the course of action taken by Prince Edward County, who closed their public school system for five years to avoid desegregation,” said Dr. David James, a former history teacher for Clarke County Public Schools and one of the first three Black teachers who integrated the Clarke County High School faculty in 1966. 

“Today is a day of history. Mary Patricia Reynolds’ decision to attend Clarke County High School was perhaps the most challenging decision she would ever make in her young life as a teenager,” James said. “However, she was bold, brave, and courageous. She was a loving daughter, sister, a good student, an athlete, and a warm and engaging young lady. Mary Patricia Reynolds was successful and became a symbol for other students to follow. She should from this day forward be remembered with pride and admiration for the courage that she and her loving, supportive family needed when embarking on a path of uncertainty and potential danger in desegregating a high school in Virginia as a freedom of 
choice student.”

Johnson-Williams student Lia Staples spoke about Reynolds’ experiences. “When she came to Clarke County High, most people found her to be a very pleasant person,” Staples said. “Unfortunately, there were some students who didn’t feel the same as others and were rude and offensive to her. She had amazing self control and never gave in to taunting and bullying. She belonged to Future Home Builders of America and was on the basketball team. When Pat switched high schools, she faced hardships. She could have graduated valedictorian, but her grades did not transfer from Johnson-Williams. She joined the Marine Corps and passed away at the young age of 46. It should be known that her actions were just as important as those of Rosa Parks and Martin Luther King, Jr.”

“I’m quite honored to be here,” said Dorothy Davis. “Eleven and a half years ago, Patricia’s mother, Mrs. Patricia Reynolds Maxwell, thought it was time for the school system, for the county, to give some notice to Patricia for all she’d done in her life, especially as the first Black graduate of Clarke County High School. She planted that seed, and her children nurtured it and it’s grown into what we have today. This would not have occurred without their tenacity. Mrs. Maxwell is not here in the flesh, but she’s looking down on us and she’s smiling at her children who pushed this forward, and she’s thankful for all of you who found this important enough 
to participate.”

Clifford Reynolds, Patricia’s younger brother, said he wanted to honor their mother, who had the insight in 1964 to speak to his sister about attending Clarke County High School.

“She said somebody had to open the door. I’m sure she didn’t know at that time that it would eventually become a historical event,” Reynolds said. “Mary Patricia, known as Tricia by her family and friends, was a determined person who wanted to do what was right. Even though she and Mama are no longer with us to celebrate this milestone, we are sure they are smiling down from heaven and rejoicing with us.”

Beth Williams, director of the Clarke County Education Foundation, explained that Reynolds’ family has been funding a yearly $500 scholarship in her honor since 2018. The foundation will be funding the scholarship this year, and community members are encouraged to donate so that the scholarship can become permanent. Visit 
www.ccefinc.org or call 540-955-6103 for 
more information. 

“This dedication was a great honor for our school,” said Johnson-Williams Middle School assistant principal Yvonne Rivera. “The work isn’t done, and we still have things we need to do to make sure our schools are more inclusive.”

“Mary Patricia Reynolds should be admired by all students in Clarke County Public Schools, especially those of color, James said. “Students like her are our hope for the future. May this dedication become a permanent and positive symbol of change in Clarke County history.”