JOE BARBER’S COLUMN

 

 

The 13th reunion of the Olmste(a)d Family Association (since the ssociation was re-organized in 1972) was held at the learning center at Lake Chautauqua, New York State on September 9-12, 1999. While the attendance was not as large as some previous reunions, those present had an enjoyable time renewing acquaintances, meeting new folk, discussing family history and generally enjoying the program Esther & Albert Olmstead had prepared for the group. One of the highlights of this reunion for me was to meet our publisher Carl Hommel and his wife Marge. 

 

Carl and I made a brief presentation to the group on the Jabez line. Presentations were also made on the other major Olmste(a)d lines in North America. Some of those in attendance posed challenging questions as they struggle to trace earlier generations of their Olmste(a)d ancestry. Roger O. Olmsted, of the Richard of Norwalk line, spoke on his recent visit to Olmsted Hall in England, his visit to record offices over there and the other places he visited while there. 

 

Greg Kinal, a local school teacher, made a unique and interesting presentation on the World of Frederick Law Olmsted. Rather than talking about the works of F.L.O., he compared the customs and life styles of  F.L.O.'s time to the way we live to-day. 

 

I am presently compiling a mailing list of our subscribers while I hope we will be able to include with a newsletter next year. This mailing list will include the six earliest generations of pedigree line from Jabez for each person, to the extent we have that information. If there is a handi-note with your newsletter asking for the information please send it to Carl or myself when you renew your subscription.  

 

Happy ancestor hunting in the months ahead. 

 

Joe Barber.