Going Greene

Farming Greene Through The Ages

Farming and agriculture have been a part of the land in Greene County for far longer than many people realize.

Though the extent and methods have changed over the year, decades, and centuries, the results have been the same — people have survived and thrived.

The first farmers here, over two thousand five hundred years ago, were the Adena people. Many of us are familiar with the Adena from their use of large earthen burial mounds. Many small mounds are throughout Greene County, and there is the extremely large mound that gives Moundsville its name. As farmers, however, the Adena left a much smaller footprint. Adena people did not have large sprawling fields with many varying crops. Instead, they had small patches of earth with a few domesticated plants. Pumpkin, squash, sunflower, and goosefoot (a leafy vegetable used similarly to spinach) were used to supplement their diet, which was primarily “fed” by their lifestyle as hunter gatherers. It would be another fifteen hundred years before we would see farming on a larger scale.

The Monongahela people appear in the archaeological record around the year 1000AD. Often considered the first “true” farmers, they raised crops of corn and lived in well laid out permanent villages, unlike the Adena before them who still lived a somewhat nomadic existence. The Monongahela were the last group of Native Americans who called Greene County home. They disappeared from the archaeological record around 1635, and evidence shows that disease and conflicts with the Iroquois and other groups in the region largely wiped them. The Shawnee, Delaware and others would travel through and often hunt in what we know as Greene County before European settlement began, but there is no sign in the historical and archaeological records that any of these groups had permanent settlements here.

It wouldn’t be until the 1760s and 1770s that European settlers would start filtering into the area we now know as Greene County and establishing settlements and farms. The Minor, Van Meter and Swan families were among the first of the European families to call this land home. John Minor is often credited with establishing the first mill in Greene County in the 1770s.

The first farms were small and similar to the first “farm” plots used by the Adena over two thousand years ago. In the 18th century, Greene County was a vast woodland paradise — old-growth trees covered the land. When pioneer settlers first arrived, they first would have to clear the trees from a small plot, in part to get logs to build a home and to have a sunlit patch where they could grow a few small crops. Corn would have been one of those crops, along with other vegetables that would have supplemented their diet. Like the Adena people, the diet of the Pioneer settlers consisted of what they gained from hunting and gathering wild plants, with small farm plots supplementing.

Some early pioneers grew on a larger scale. Wheat and other grains could be found in immense fields, and usually the owners of such crops would have also had a mill to process grain into flour. They could sell or trade this to other settlers for different goods and services.

Livestock wasn’t kept as commonly as it would be in the 19th century. A farm may have a cow or two, maybe a hog — just enough to sustain a family. Over the course of the later decades of the 18th century and into the 19th century, farming would expand. By the 1850s, farming was huge. It was the only large-scale industry in the area. The Industrial Revolution, along with easier and cheaper access to tools and equipment, would help make large-scale agriculture a reality. Farmers could now produce a surplus and weren’t just sustaining themselves.

There are a handful of resources to learn about 19th and early 20th century farming in Greene County. Caldwell’s Illustrated Combination Centennial Atlas Of Greene Co. Pennsylvania published in 1876 gives nearly a farm-by-farm view, with many illustrations showing what many of these 19th century farms looked like. We can also learn from directories in the atlas the types of farming. Every landowner in Greene County is listed in the directory; approximately 90 to 95 percent are listed as farmers, with other occupations including doctor, blacksmith, tanner, stock dealer, cooper and similar industries.

The many illustrations give us a further glimpse into area life. Merino sheep were common livestock, along with Durham cattle, Chester White pigs, and dairy cattle. Corn, wheat, and hay were among the most common crops. Later, in 1916, the American Agricultural Farm Directory for Greene County provides us with a very similar glimpse of life into farming a few decades on.

It would be remiss to not mention the importance of the poor farm in Greene County as well. Now the site of the Greene

By Matthew Cumberledge

County Historical Society, the poor farm sat on 147 acres of land, 140 of which were cultivated for various purposes. The facility was used to house and provide the general welfare for the indigent population of the county, but in practice the poor farm was not much different from the average farm in the county. Crops grown included tomatoes, potatoes, cabbage, and various beans; cattle and chicken were also raised. Many goods were canned and much of the livestock was butchered and smoked in the smokehouse to be used later, and much of the cattle were raised and sold to help fund the farm. Farming still exists in Greene County, perhaps here more so than anywhere else in the region. While its popularity is nothing compared to what it was more than a hundred years ago, it is still very much a part of the rural lifestyle here, and one that should be celebrated. Many still grow on their land and raise livestock, and that will probably be the case for many more years to come. Farmers markets are available in Waynesburg, and we can find a great deal of local produce at many of the events hosted around the county. The small number of resources available to learn about this history of farming in Greene County may seem unlikely, but that is largely because it was simply the way of life. Caldwell’s 1876 atlas is probably the single best resource, as it gives the most details. From Caldwell’s, you can see the acreage of a farm, the type of farming done, and the products raised. Census records are also an excellent asset; they will give the occupation of the landowner and give the assessed value of the land they lived on. The 1916 Agricultural Farm Directory will give us the same information that Caldwell’s Atlas does, but for a generation later. A few good maps are available: Patterson’s Farm Outline Map and Rainey’s Farm Outline Map both fill the gap in time between 1876 and 1916. All these resources can be found at Cornerstone Genealogical Society if you are interested in further research.

WG Lions Club Students of the Month

The West Greene Area Lions Club recently honored these outstanding students with a dinner, certificate, and Amazon gift card.

Greene County Parks and Recreation Receives Donation From EQT

The EQT Corporation recently donated $25,000 to the Greene County Department of Parks and Recreation for equipment and activities at the Greene River Trail. The funds were used to purchase a much-needed utility vehicle for trail maintenance and safety. In addition to the vehicle, industrial leaf-blowers were purchased to aid workers in keeping the 7.1-mile trail clear. The grant will also fund an expanded fall festival and 5K run in October. Greene County Commissioner Betsy McClure said, “We would like to thank EQT for this donation. When industries donate to our county, it helps us with economic growth. Director of Recreation Bret Moore added, “EQT has been tremendously generous to us in funding multiple projects. This donation will allow our workers to work more efficiently at the trail and create an even better recreational area. The near future holds even bigger improvements to our facilities because of the generosity of EQT.”

Lucas-Hathaway Teaching Awards Presented

to Wilson,

Cummins and Davis

Waynesburg University honored three faculty members with the 2023 Lucas-Hathaway Teaching Excellence Awards during the annual Charter Day celebration.

The Lucas-Hathaway Awards recognize faculty in three categories: Excellence in Teaching by Part-Time Faculty (Doug Wilson), Excellence in Introductory Subjects (Dr. Tracy Dohn Cummins) and History of Teaching Excellence (Dr. Bradley Davis).

“We are grateful to the Lucas-Hathaway Charitable Trust for providing the opportunity for us to recognize outstanding faculty members every year,” said Provost Dr. Dana Cook Baer. “The three faculty members who were selected this year are talented instructors, compassionate advisors, supportive mentors and excellent role models.”

The Lucas-Hathaway Charitable Trust has established an endowed fund that provides two annual teaching excellence awards for full-time faculty members and one award for a part-time faculty member. Faculty members were nominated by students, faculty or alumni. Each recipient will receive a commemorative plaque and a $1,200 award. The Trust is funded by J. Richard Lucas and C. Joan Hathaway Lucas, members of the class of 1950.

ACS names WU Faculty Member Global Outreach Volunteer of the Year

Dr. Evonne Baldauff, chairperson for the Department of Chemistry and Forensic Science at Waynesburg University, was recently awarded the Global Outreach Volunteer of the Year award by the American Chemical Society’s (ACS) Committee on Community Activities.

A total of 27 members were recognized by the ACS’s Committee on Community Activities with its 2023 Outreach Volunteer of the Year Awards for outreach efforts in both local and international chapters. Only one individual receives the global award each year.

Her contributions to activities in the ACS Pittsburgh Section during National Chemistry Week (NCW) as a volunteer and coordinator helped to garner her recognition for the award. During the 2022 NCW, Dr. Baldauff assisted in the or university to major in Athletic Training. organization of events and outreach efforts for the ACS Pittsburgh Section, including an annual event at the Carnegie Science Center. Another outreach initiative was the creation of science experiment activity kits distributed to school districts in the Pittsburgh area.

Sophia Plock (top) is the daughter of James and Shawn Plock of Rogersville. She participates in: Varsity Volleyball, Manager of the Boys Basketball, President of the Science Club, Vice President of the National Honor Society, Member of the Calculus Club, Engineering Club, Ski Club, Peer Mentoring Program, and Hargus Creek Designs business.

Awards and community service include: Principal Honors Grades 9-11, Student Athlete Award 9-11, Academic Letter Grades 9-11, Academic Excellence Grades 9-11, Academic Achievement Grades 9-11, The Challenge Program Community Service Award-Grade 11, and Hometown Heritage Athlete of the Month in Grade 11. Sophia enjoys working with the Humane Society of Greene County, The United Way of Greene County, and the Rogersville United Methodist Church. Sophia’s future plans are to attend Slippery Rock University’s 3+3 Program to obtain a degree in Occupational Therapy.

Emily Simms (third photo) is the daughter of Billy and Amy Simms of Waynesburg. Her activities include: Varsity Volleyball Softball, and Wrestling Statistician, Treasurer of the Class of 2023, Secretary of the National Honor Society, Secretary of the Science Club, Member of the Peer Mentoring Program, Calculus Club, Future Farmers of America, and attends Willow Grove Baptist Church. Awards that she has received are: Principal Honors Grades 9-11, American Citizenship Award Grades 9-11, Pittsburgh Positive Athlete Award, Grade 10, Academic Excellence Award Grades 9-11, and Academic and Athletic Letters Grades 9-11. Emily’s Community Service consists of: Volunteer at the Greene County Humane Society, TRICADA, and the West Greene Little League Softball Program. Emily also created and donated self-care baskets to Washington Health System Facilities during Covid-19. Emily plans to attend The University of Pittsburgh for studies in Pre-Physician’s Assistant.

Dr. Baldauff has advised WU’s ACS Student Chapter since her first semester on campus in 2007 and has been active with the Pittsburgh Section since 2013. She has served in various capacities over the years; she currently serves as a director and chair of the NCW Outreach Committee.

WU’s ACS Student Chapter received the “Outstanding Chapter Award” for activities conducted during the 2021-2022 year. This most recent award marked the 15th outstanding designation the Chapter has received since 2005-2006.

Kaden Shields (second photo) is the son of Mark and Johnetta Shields of Graysville. Kaden’s accomplishments and awards include: 4 Year Letterman for Basketball and Cross Country, as well as a 3 Year Letterman for Baseball, 2 Year Member of the National Honor Society, 3 Year Member of the Science Club, 4 Year Member of Peer Mentoring, 4 Year Member of the Ski Club, Boy of the Month, Citizenship Award, and 4 Year Scholar Athlete at West Greene. Kaden plans on attending a college

Trevor Triplett (bottom) is the son of Dennis and Billie Triplett of New Freeport. Trevor is active in: The Science Club, History Club, Calculus Club, Future Farmers of America, National Honor Society, Scouts BSA, and the National Youth Leadership Training Staff. He is an Eagle Scout. Trevor has volunteered for the Salvation Army Red Kettle Drive, Scouting for Food, and Wreaths Across America. Trevor’s plans on attending West Virginia University majoring in Mechanical Engineering.

8th Annual Walk*Run*Roll 5K

8th Annual Walk*Run*Roll 5K brought to you by TRPIL/Voices for Independence will be held on Saturday, May 20 at the South Strabane Township Community Park, 750 Floral Hill Drive, Washington. Registration begins at 8am followed by the event at 9. Proceeds from this event will benefit the independent living programs such as home modifications, which ensures that individuals with disabilities are able to access their home, and the Wellness Center, which allows for individuals with disabilities to stay healthy by exercising. FMI and sponsorship opportunities, contact Joann Naser at 724-223-5115 or jnaser@trpil.com.

Summer Counselors Needed for WWJD

WWJD Christian Center is looking for Summer Day Camp counselors for a Christian camp. The camp runs for six weeks, from June 19 to July 28, 8am to 3:30pm, for children K-6th grade. Applicants must be 18 years or older; pays $11 to $12 an hour. Deadline for applying is May 20. Contact Cathie at 724-627-9450 by text/call or email to pastorcathie@ yahoo.com.

Greene County Department of Recreation

Offering Swim Lessons

Greene County Department of Recreation offering swim lessons at the Greene County Water Park for the weeks of June 12, June 19, and June 26. There are six levels, preschool, and Mommy & Me classes. The lessons start at 6pm. Lessons cost $25,

Waynesburg U. announces 2023 Commencement speakers

Waynesburg University will hold its annual Baccalaureate and Commencement exercises Saturday, May 6, and Sunday, May 7, on the campus of Waynesburg University.

Tom Foley, president of the Association of Independent Colleges and Universities in Pennsylvania (AICUP), and Mindy Zatta, private wealth advisor with IronBridge Wealth Council, will address the Class of 2023 as the Commencement speakers. The Reverend Austin Crenshaw Shelley, senior pastor and head of staff at Shadyside Presbyterian Church in Pittsburgh, will serve as the Baccalaureate speaker.

AICUP President Tom Foley has held numerous leadership positions over three decades in four fields, including education, workforce development, volunteer service and public policy. He has written on a wide range of public policy topics, including on issues of justice, foreign policy, preschool education, sports, workforce development and Irish history.

Classifieds

Dobermans, 2 adult red males natural eared outside dogs. They are brothers but will place separate. Small adoption fee. 724993-0874.

Whirlpool 220v stovetop range, Bisque/ Light Beige, $400, New Oven Control Module, 3-post pigtail. Samsung Plasma Display 42inch HDMI, DVI, RCA, Coax, Works $40obo. Noritake China Set #48, 8 Setting, various pieces, $40obo. 412-582-2544 and you must pre-register to participate.

Registration began April 3 at the Greene County Dept. of Recreation Office at the Fairgrounds or by calling 724-852-5323 (option 1 then option 2).

Greene County Department of Recreation Day Camp

Greene County Department of Recreation Day Camp begins June 19 to June 28 from 9am-3pm for ages 5-12. The Day Camp will be held at three locations: Wana B Park (Carmichaels), Mon View Park (Greensboro), and Lion’s Club Park (Waynesburg). Swimming is free this year, thanks to a donation from iron Synergy. Registration began April 3 at the Greene

County Dept. of Recreation Office at the Fairgrounds or by calling 724-852-5323. Cost is $25 for the first child, and $10 for each additional child. All children must be pre-registered to attend. The department is also taking applications for those interested in being a lifeguard, day camp counselor, concession stand employee, and ticket clerk.

Meet the Candidates

Candidates are invited to meet, speak to, and mingle with voters at the Harveys-Aleppo Grange “Meet Your Candidates” event on May 3, 7pm at the Grange. All candidates for all offices will be introduced and given the opportunity to speak to the assembly.

Spring Basket Bonanza

The First Christian Church in Carmichaels is holding a Spring Basket Bonanza May 1 to May 5. Over 30 baskets are being raffled off! Follow Spring Basket Bonanza on Facebook for basket pictures and updates. Hours are 10-7pm daily.

Tickets are $1 each, 6 for $5, and 25 for

$20. The drawing will take place on Saturday, May 6, at noon on Facebook Live. Winners will be notified by phone.

A Spaghetti Dinner will be held during the raffle on Friday, May 5 from 3 to 6pm. Take out only; donation based. Proceeds will be used to purchase new windows for the sanctuary. FMI, call 724-966-7961.

Zatta will speak at the Graduate and Professional Studies ceremony at 4 p.m. on Saturday, and Foley will speak at the undergraduate ceremony at 2 p.m. on Sunday. The Baccalaureate Service will be held at 11 a.m. in Roberts Chapel.

Mindy Zatta is a private wealth advisor with over 20 years of experience. Zatta has devoted her entire career to the financial services industry and bettering her clients’ lives. Before joining IronBridge Wealth Counsel, she served as a financial advisor helping to build a successful advisory practice at a national financial services firm.

The Reverend Austin Crenshaw Shelley is the senior pastor and head of staff at Shadyside Presbyterian Church in Pittsburgh. Previously, Rev. Shelley served for nine years as the associate minister of Christian education at the Presbyterian Church of Chestnut Hill in Philadelphia, where she was ordained to the Ministry of Word and Sacrament in October 2012.

Two Commencement ceremonies will be held over the weekend on the Lawn of Miller Hall, honoring nearly 400 undergraduate, graduate and doctoral students from the Waynesburg campus as well as the University’s additional site in Southpointe.

All events will be livestreamed, available online at Waynesburg.edu/live. FMI, visit waynesburg.edu/commencement or email commencement@waynesburg.edu.

Foster Care Recruitment Event

Greene County Foster Care is having a Recruitment & Appreciation Event on May 17 from 3pm until 7pm at the Greene County Fairgrounds 4-H building bottom floor. There will be food, refreshments, and a Chinese auction. If you come and bring a friend you earn an extra ticket for the auction. Greene County is in desperate need of foster homes and you can make a difference!

Classroom Support Scholarship Opens

The Greene County Chamber of Commerce has announced that it will award the “Dr. Nancy I. Davis Memorial Scholarship for Educational Support” in memory of the late Dr. Nancy I. Davis this coming July.

The $500 scholarship was established to honor the memory of Dr. Nancy I. Davis who was an educator and advocate for education to aid teachers in their classrooms by providing scholarships to aid a particular project or need that will be used to enrich the learning experience in the classroom.

Applications are available by contacting the Chamber office at 724-627-5926 or by email at info@greenechamber.org The application is also available on the Chamber’s website (“Community Service” tab), at www.greenechamber.org.

Completed applications must be submitted by 3:30pm on May 30, 2023. The winner will be announced at the Chamber’s Business Connection Luncheon on July 26, held at Waynesburg University in the Benedum Dining Hall.

Firestone WinterForce tires/rims 205/65R15/GM6.5jx15ET41/PCD5x110, $150 No Warranty. 412-582-2544

13” Boy’s Kent bicycle, like new, coaster brakes, $25. 16” Boy’s bicycle, like new, coaster brakes, $30. 20” Boy’s Huffy bicycle, 10 speed hand brakes, $50. 412-582-2544

Summit Climbing Tree Stand, Steel, Rubber-coated Cables, Safety Harness, $175, No Warranty. Steel Ladder Stand 9ft. Camo, Tree attach & carrying straps, $40, No Warranty. 412-582-2544

Clint Black leather hat, size 7 3/8, black, by Bailey, USA, in original box, very good condition. $90. 724-737-5761.

Office furniture, solid wood with glass tops, desk (3’x6’x30”) & credenza (5’x20”x30”, $300. Trundle bed, heavy duty metal frame, Bassett twin size with mattress, like new, lowers to fit underneath a bed, $125. 724737-5761.

That’s right! ‘50s Fest & Car Cruise is looking for two cars to showcase this year - one on the show’s 2023 event tshirt and the other one the 2023 dash plaque.

If you’d like the chance to see your car featured on the event t-shirt or dash plaque, send:

• A photo of your ride

• Information about your au-