Mill Town Messenger | Oct 2025

Overview

The newsletter chronicles recent Newport Historical Society activities, including the resignation and contributions of longtime volunteer Priscilla Hagebusch, a feature on Kathan Gardens’ history and ownership transition, and artifacts donated to the museum like a historic folding ladder/ironing board. It also announces events, museum hours, membership information, and acknowledges sponsors supporting the society’s publications.

The document highlights community engagement through volunteer service, local business continuity, and tangible heritage preservation, emphasizing the Society’s mission to collect, educate, and foster public interest in Newport and Sullivan County history.

You can read the online version of the newsletter here.

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

Main Points

• Priscilla Hagebusch Resignation: Priscilla Hagebusch, a long-time member and key volunteer, resigned from the Newport Historical Society Board in July 2025 to pursue more creative art activities, though she remains a society member.
• Newsletter Contributions: Pris began writing for the Mill Town Messenger in 2013, eventually becoming its producer and continuing through the pandemic until July 2025.
• Extensive Volunteer Roles: Pris served on the Board since around 2013, led the Publicity/Advertising/Programs committee, volunteered as a docent, acted as Board Secretary, managed thank you notes, and hosted meetings.
• Community Engagement: Beyond the Historical Society, Pris is active at the Newport Thrift Store, Richards Library, Library Arts Center, and is known for prolific pie-baking for local fairs.
• Kathan Gardens Legacy: Kathan Gardens, established by Ollie and Anne Kathan in 1953 and relocated to Newport in 1955, grew from one to sixteen greenhouses and contributed significantly to the town’s beautification.
• Business Transition: In 2023, Kathan Gardens was purchased by Amie and Callie Freak, who continue its legacy and added Henry’s Garden Cafe to the property.
• Artifact Donation: A unique folding ladder/ironing board, believed to be over 150 years old and handmade, was donated to the Historical Society to honor Goldina and Dottie Collins’ legacy.
• Society’s Mission: The Newport Historical Society is dedicated to collecting, preserving, and displaying local historical objects, supporting research, and fostering public interest in Newport and Sullivan County history.

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