Project underway to document Churchville homes

The Newman Riga Library is offering a local history program for the community called "If These Walls Could Talk."

Churchville village citizens are asked to submit details about their homes. Information could include names and details found on deeds, stories, photos and information in general about a home. For example, some people live in buildings that used to house sick patients during the influenza epidemic of 1918. These are the stories being sought for this project, Library Director Donna Haire said.

The program will provide new residents with information about the homes. Often, new residents make the library one of their first stops as they begin to orient themselves with the community and histories, photos and information about their new homes are among the most common research requests. Up until now, library staff have used compilations of data established by village historians or the library's Local History CD set, which may not have information requested.

"If These Walls Could Talk" will begin to create a base of information, which is anticipated will grow over the years to include all village homes. The plan is to eventually solicit information beyond village limits.

The success of the program hinges on the participation of village residents. Without that commitment of participation in the project, Haire said it will not succeed.

The data can be sent to newmanriga@hotmail.com (included on the library's web page) or dropped off at 1 Village Park. Copies of photos can be made by the library staff for inclusion in the packets. Call Haire at the Newman Riga Library at 293-2009 for information.

November 6, 2005