Historical society plans special event
The Peabody Historical Society is planning a special event for its membership. A program about four people, who have played a role in Peabody's history, will be featured at 7 p.m. Oct. 13 in the Ann Potter room of the Carnegie Library basement.
Orlene Scrivner will tell tales of mule trading days with her husband, Harry. She promises a special story of a big mule from Potwin. Scrivner always is a favorite story teller with her keen memory and superb command of the English language.
Joan Berns will share her life of growing up as the granddaughter of one of Peabody's most prominent citizens, T.M. Potter, sometimes referred to as the founding father of Peabody. She will tell what it was like to attend elegant dinner parties at Hillcrest, have a legislator in the family, and to visit Potter Lake (named for her grandfather) on the campus of the University of Kansas.
Gary Hilliard is new to the society's circle of performers. He has been asked to give his version of "Mr. Em," a black man who taught countless kids to fish and about whom kind words always were spoken. Maybe he really did sing gospel music! It is known that his wife Shirley used to sing with her sisters on a Louisiana radio station. In her words — "Lordy, how that boy could tap dance!" Gary doesn't tap dance, but he will share his vocal talent with those attending.
Bob Delk has made music in the Peabody area for about 75 years. He recently celebrated his 80th birthday with special music at the Ebenfeld church. He has played with several musical groups, all called "Bob and the Boys," even if that isn't right. Delk is probably the most seasoned performer of the group and yet he said, "Oh, I can't get up in front of people by myself, I'm not a soloist." There may be some surprises when Bob "does his thing" for the crowd.
The event is planned as a "perk" for members — they get in free. Non-members, or those who are always going to join, can attended the event by paying membership dues on the spot. All money received goes toward preserving the town's history and for the group's projects.
The public is invited for an evening of good entertainment, pleasant fellowship, and fine harvest food in keeping with the season.
