Bessemer Area Historical Society 2006 3rd Quarter Newsletter

In the shade of the maples, moss gathers on the stones with which we mark the passing of loved ones from our lives. The etchings, in granite, record the beginning and end of their journeys. Our thoughts and memories recall the time between, spent with us, in the abundance of life.

Now, in July, a different memorial will be in Bessemer. It has garnered no moss---glossy black on aluminum; the names are legible and easy to read. A roll call of America's fifty-eight thousand servicemen who gave their lives in a foreign country, far from home---Vietnam.

With respect and sorrow, many will come to view this testament to the sacrifices the young and brave of our country have made.

We are proud to have the Moving Wall
in Bessemer July 3 through July 7.
We, at the Bessemer Area Historical Society, ask you
to join us in honoring these and all veterans who answered
the call to a higher cause.

They are a part of our heritage that truly merits our respect and remembrance.
In order to be open all the hours that the Historical Society would like to be, we need more volunteers to be docents or greeters.

Even if you only have a few hours to donate, your participation would be welcome. Someone would be willing to familiarize you with the simple tasks required, and you will find great enjoyment in visiting with old acquaintances and the newcomers that join us at the center.

Catherine McLean, vice-president