Friends of Arrow Rock organization celebrates half-century mark, honors members for service

On Sunday, June 14, members of the Friends of Arrow Rock gathered at J. Huston Tavern -- the site of the organization's birth -- to celebrate the group's 50th anniversary. Almost 100 people were present for the lunch, chef Liz Huff said.

After the meal, the Friends adjourned to the Arrow Rock State Historic Site visitor center to recognize many of their own.

Development Committee Chairman Paul Ratcliffe recognized two new members of the Friends of Arrow Rock Legacy Society: David and Nancy Finke. To become legacy members, individuals must include the Friends in estate planning.

Davoren Tempel, chairman of the Friends campaign to raise $1 million, thanked those who have contributed to the cause thus far, totaling $640,836.74. She said all 29 board members have donated, calling them "a deeply committed board."

The honorary co-chairs of the capital campaign are Donna Huston and Day Kerr.

Board President Thomas B. Hall III said, "We need to be sure the Friends will be here for 50 years more."

Kerr and her husband, Whitney, were also presented with the Friends' first Distinguished Service Award.

In introducing them, Hall called the Kerrs "two people who deserve tremendous credit for what they've done."

"This is a wonderful and humbling award for us," Whitney said, calling the couple's 30 years in Arrow Rock "a wonderful adventure."

Gary Kremer, the executive director of The State Historical Society of Missouri, gave the keynote address at the event, in which he discussed the role of history in general and the more specific histories of Arrow Rock and the Friends.

"There is no more profound tribute that can be paid to people or places than to remember them," he said.

Kremer spoke of famous Arrow Rock residents like Dr. John Sappington and his family and artist George Caleb Bingham, as well as ordinary and perhaps forgotten residents.

"I never met any of these people," he said, "but I have known them all" thanks to the work of the Friends in preserving Arrow Rock's history.

"You have allowed us to experience Arrow Rock with our hearts," Kremer said.

In closing his address, Kremer issued a challenge to the Friends and others.

"Remember the specialness of this place called Arrow Rock if you will, and protect it if you can," he said.

Kremer also suggested that, like at the original meeting of the Friends, each person present make a contribution to pay tribute to someone special. He himself made such a donation in memory of the Friends Executive Director Kathy Borgman's mother, Helen.

Contact Sydney Stonner at marshallbusiness@socket.net