Historical Society holds June meeting

On Wednesday, June 7, the Clay County Landmarks Commission and Historical Society’s monthly meeting was held in the Clay County Library. Those attending were Jerry Stover, Eloise Boggs, Marlene Potasnik, Quincy Potasnik, Sandra Claybrook, Janine Samples, Janet Koch, Jim Miller, Jan Derby, Dave Derby, Mike Davis, and Johnny Coulter. 

President Jerry Stover called the meeting to order. The minutes of the May meeting were read. Sandra gave the treasurer’s report. 

The President’s report consisted of an open discussion of several topics. 

1. Congratulations to Quincy Potasnik for her new art studio in Gassaway. 
2. Now and Then is almost ready to go to the printer. The next publication will be available mid- to late July. This edition will complete 31 years of publication, thanks to Ms. Eloise Boggs, who diligently and faithfully arranged it from day one. Thank you, Eloise! 
3. Danny Dotson, songwriter and poet, would like to come to a meeting and sing some of his songs. 
4. We are looking for people to help gather information on Clay County cemeteries. Our 2011 Cemetery Book needs updated. Contact Karen Burdette 304-587-2600 to obtain cemetery lists. 
5. There has been no electricity upstairs in the Old Courthouse. This issue needs addressed and fixed. 
6. The Old Courthouse upstairs ceiling has been addressed with the County Clerk and is being researched to try and remedy the problem. 
7. Jim Rutenbeck, prestigious award winner for the production of “A Reckoning in Boston,” is interested in helping us raise money. He has agreed to let us sell his documentary “Two Appalachian Films: Company Town and Raise the Dead,” which was filmed during the two years while Mr. Rutenbeck lived in Clay County in the late 1970s. $25 each, including postage. Contact Quincy Potasnik qreiter@aol.com for purchase information. 

New business: 

1. We are interested in setting up a booth at the Roane County Genealogical Fair in September. 
2. Johnny Coulter wants to donate memorabilia, including photos, books, certificates, and a medical bag which belonged to Doc Smith, the beloved doctor who served Clay County, starting in 1931. The items were given to Mr. Coulter by Doc Smith’s great-granddaughter. 

Meeting was adjourned. 

Next meeting will be Wednesday, August 4, 2021, at 1 pm upstairs in the Clay County Public Library.”