Another year is approaching its end. Even when individual days seem to drag, the years seem to fly. I want to take this opportunity to share some thoughts about the past and the future. This, the 30th year for ATHS, has passed quickly. It has been a fine year of progress and accomplishment. Our genealogy research library located in the Hardin County History Museum is now open five days a week (Tuesday - Saturday) with a wonderful staff of volunteers led by librarian Ann Sipes. Researchers come from far and wide to use our library. We have received visitors from the east coast, west coast and points in between. Numerous requests for genealogical information have been received and responded to, via telephone, email, and letters, by our volunteers.
We have 54 books in print that are sold in our library, on the Internet (our on-line bookstore), through our quarterly newsletter, and at the numerous book fairs we attend. Sales have necessitated the reprinting of eighteen of our books. This year saw the authorization for the printing of six new titles.
Although ATHS membership has reached 670 and continues to grow and we have members in 39 of the 50 states, I am most pleased with the increased attendance at our monthly meetings. Our average attendance has been 35 members and guests who come to hear our guest speakers and to meet in fellowship with those of similar interests.
The summer of 2006 will bring the 4th edition of the Ancestral Trails Historical Society book fair. A success in its first year, increasing success in succeeding years, the 2006 edition promises to be the best ever. Again, success attributed to the volunteers who plan and execute this event.
As my term as ATHS president draws to a close, I look back with great pleasure and satisfaction at the numerous accomplishments brought about through the efforts of our officers, committees, and volunteers. The success and growth of our organization is dependent upon the efforts of our volunteers who serve on our various committees, and/or volunteer for participation at book fairs, in our library, edit books, write books, and the myriad of other activities conducted to achieve our stated goal "to gather, process and preserve genealogical and historical information."
In December, ATHS members will elect a new slate of officers for the upcoming year. In January these officers will appoint committees (library, queries, quarterly, hospitality, publicity, historian, membership, book sales, etc.). It is my hope that our membership will step forward and volunteer for service on these committees, or serve when called upon, so the work and accomplishment of our organization can continue unabated. The satisfaction, fellowship, and knowledge derived from such participation makes the effort most worthwhile. To this I can attest.
It has been my great pleasure to serve as president of this energetic, productive, and welcoming organization. It is my wish that the rest of this year, the coming New Year, and the years to come will bring peace and joy to you and yours.