The Rockford Area Historical Society plays a vital role in connecting our community to its history

Terry Konkle, president of the Rockford Area Historical Society

The last “Nugget” quiz Gave a list of fifteen schools and asked (TRUE- FALSE) if Rockford ever played against them in conference action. Four responders, Dan Cleveland, Lee Paull, Ruth Reickard and Brinda Dewey, all did well, and I appreciate their taking part. The correct answers were: (1) Sparta (TRUE), (2) East Grand Rapids (TRUE), (3) Ludington (FALSE), (4) Cedar Springs (TRUE), (5) Big Rapids (FALSE), (6) Hastings (FALSE), (7) Grandville (TRUE), (8) Godwin (TRUE), (9) Saranac (FALSE), (10) Belding (TRUE), (11) Wyoming Park (TRUE), (12) Wayland (FALSE), (13) Lowell (TRUE), (14) Grand Haven (TRUE), and (15) Traverse City (FALSE). The new “Nugget” will ask another question along the same lions as the one above and requires only one answer. Here is the question: Presently Rockford is a member of the O.K Conference. NAME ANOTHER CONFERENCE THAT HAD ROCKFORD AS A MEMBER! Contact me by email (tnjkonkle@hotmail.com) or by phone (1-616-866-0530) with your answer!
In the “Rockford Squire” last week, The Rockford Area Museum (RAM) director, Ian McCormick, included information regarding an award (citation) presented to the Rockford Area Historical Society (RAHS) by the State of Michigan. It was given to the RAHS as part of the celebration of the 187th anniversary of the state being admitted to the Union. Here are some lines from the document:
“Let it be known that it is with high regard and appreciation for your service to the citizens of Rockford and our state that we extend our highest praise for your preservation of our history and dedication to sharing it”
“The Rockford Area Historical Society plays a vital role in connecting our community to its history.—-The role that the Rockford Area Museum plays in preserving the history of the city is an essential part of our civic education and serves to inspire future generations to continue the great legacy of the city of Rockford.”
“In “Special Tribute”: therefore, this document is signed and dedicated to honor the Rockford Area Historical Society and recognize your commitment to preserving our history for the citizens of today, and tomorrow on this anniversary pf our great state. May you know of our heartfelt appreciation for your service to the citizens of Rockford.”
The proclamation was signed by 19th District State Representative Bryan Posthumus and 13th district state senator Mark Huizenga and presented to Ian and I by Representative Posthumus at the museum on January 23, 2024.
It is with great pride that I recall all of the work and dedication from society members and museum workers to make all of the things happen that are mentioned in the citation. Much credit goes also to the city workers and all of those responsible for having a great museum in an old courthouse. We should all be proud and continue to look to the future. The RAHS thanks all who helped make things happen!
The citation is now on display in the RAM lobby and waiting for all to view it. STAY SAFE AND HEALTHY AND HAVE A GREAT, POSITIVE WEEK!