By Merle Monahan/Contributing Writer
merlemonah@aol.com

COURTLAND
The Southampton County Historical Society was honored by the Virginia General Assembly on Saturday when Del. Rick Morris (R-64) presented a resolution from the assembly commending the society for 50 years of service to the Southampton area.

Morris read House Resolution No. 219 on the grounds of the Heritage Village/Agriculture and Forestry Museum during Down Home Day. It stated in part, “We commend the Southampton County Historical Society for 50 years of working to collect, protect and preserve artifacts and knowledge relevant to Southampton County’s unique storied history.”

The resolution continued by mentioning when, where and how the society started, as well as the names of its first officers, including charter members.

Society president Lynda Updike accepted the resolution on behalf of the organization.

“We’re so proud of this resolution,” she said. “It is good to know that our efforts to preserve our heritage is appreciated.”

Volunteers and those present could look around and see the Agriculture and Forestry Museum, the Rebecca Vaughan House, Museum of Southampton History and the Rochelle-Prince House. The house and lot were donated to the Historical Society and restored.

The Southampton County Historical Society has accomplished a great amount over the past 50 years in preserving its local history, said Morris.

“It was my honor to sponsor legislation commending the incredible work accomplished by the Southampton Historical Society and all of its valuable volunteers,” he said.

For more on Down Home Day, see Sunday’s Life page.