Mill Town Messenger | April 2014

Overview

The Mill Town Messenger newsletter from the Newport Historical Society provides community updates, memorials, and program schedules focused on local history and preservation efforts. It commemorates longtime members, outlines meeting and event dates, and highlights seasonal public openings like the Little Red School House.

Featured articles profile notable local figures and museum developments: a biography of entertainer-entrepreneur Billy B. Van and a report on the Nettleton House Museum’s acquisition, repairs, and fundraising. Practical items include membership information, new gift-shop offerings, and a historical recipe for Sarah Josepha Hale’s Heart Cakes.

You can read the online version of the newsletter here.

This quarterly newsletter is generally published in January, April, July and October.

Main Points

• Community Service: Jim Lantz and Andy Andrews were recognized for their dedicated service to Newport, especially in preserving its history and heritage, including support for the Newport Historical Society Museum and the Corbin Covered Bridge reconstruction.
• Little Red School House: Built in 1835, this historic school is maintained by the local DAR chapter, open to the public in July and August, and is listed on the National Register of Historic Places.
• Billy B. Van: Entertainer and entrepreneur, credited with giving Newport the nickname “the Sunshine Town,” established the Pine Tree Products Company, and served as honorary mayor; he is buried in Pine Grove Cemetery.
• Nettleton House Museum: The Newport Historical Society acquired and renovated the Nettleton House as its museum, addressing key maintenance issues and relying on member support for ongoing improvements.
• Museum Access: The Newport Historical Society Museum is free and open to the public every Sunday from 10 AM to 2 PM, with special visits available by appointment.
• Membership and Fundraising: The Society has an active membership drive, offers various keepsake items for fundraising, and aims to reach 250 members, with several new gift shop products introduced in 2014.
• Sarah Josepha Hale’s Heart Cakes: A historical recipe from Hale’s 1841 cookbook is shared, reflecting local culinary heritage and the Society’s interest in historical cookery.
• Contact Information: The Newport Historical Society can be reached via their website, email, or museum phone for information, appointments, and membership.

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