1947
One hundred thirty-five of us have just returned from Hanover Plains for our wonderful 50th Reunion. With wives and guests we had over 200 attending for three bright, sunny, and fan days.
Bob Kirsch and the committee did an outstanding job in planning (and we can't forget the menu planned by Abigail Kirsch); Joe Kurey balanced the books in a very professional fashion; Joe Hayes kept his sanity running our recreation department; Townes Harris was our "private tailor" who gave us our Reunion garb. Two of the highlights of our class luncheon was Dick Hollerith presenting the class of 1997 $1,947 as seed money for its young treasury and Frank Weber presenting President Freedman $647,047.47 as our class's contribution to Dartmouth (note the 47 cents was picked up by Frank at the picnic the previous evening).
There was no lack of help as all pitched in where needed!
At our class meeting we elected new class officers for the next five years: class president is Andy McCulloch; vice president, Bill Hallager (also mini-reunion chairman); treasurer, Dick Hollerith; secretary, Ed Grady; Alumni Council rep., John Trethaway.
A very sincere vote of thanks was given to Hugh Chapin for his leadership as class president for the past six years.
Al Bildner gave our 50-year address which covered the last SO years in-depth at the class luncheon. At the memorial service: officiating was the Rev. John Schaeffer and Dave Squire gave the tribute and commentary to our class. I daresay that there were very few dry eyes when they finished.
Of no surprise to those who knew him these past 50 years, Walt Peterson was presented with an honorary degree as doctor of laws at the class of 1997 graduation on Sunday. The '47s gave him a rousing yell we all were proud!
Ham Chase, after doing this job for us for 35 years, has given up writing this column. The class thanks Ham for hanging in there all of these years and putting up with us.
For the next 100 years you'll be stuck with me. Let me hear from you.
10 Archers Lane, West Redding, CT 06896
