June 1 through the years
100 Years ago – 1925
Martinsville High School, which replaced the old Ruffner Institute, had its largest graduating class yet: 31. Commencement exercises went on for three nights, starting with a baccalaureate sermon at First Baptist Church by the Episcopal Church pastor. The next night, 600 people attended the “Class Night” program at the school. Activities on the program were Processional March, Class History, Polish Dance, Prophecy, Grumbler, Giftorian, A May Morning, Our Creed, Booster and Last Will and Testament. The class motto (which this year was in English, many people appreciated) was “Here Endeth, Here Beginneth.” The class flower was the Syringa and the colors were white and gold. On graduation night, diplomas were awarded by J.C. Kearfott, of the school board. The address was by Professor Allen of Hampden Sydney College.
75 years ago – 1950
Judge Kennon C. Whittle reappointed Miss Ruth O. Williams as trial justice of Patrick county. Her 4-year term would begin on July 1, 1950. She had served as trial justice since 1948 and was one of only two female trial justices in Virginia.
50 years ago – 1975
The Martinsville Fire Department received a new American LaFrance fire truck. It had been ordered by Fire Chief J. Lloyd Gregory and included a 1,000-gallon-per-minute pumper. It would carry 500 gallons of water. It could discharge water through nine lines if necessary, either from its tank, from a fire hydrant or from drafting from a well or other source. It replaced two antique pumpers, one from 1934 and the other from 1949. One of those would be sold to someone to be used in parades, and the other would be restored and kept as a back-up truck.
25 years ago - 2000
Reed Creek District Supervisor R.E. “Mike” Seidle was elected as chairman of the Henry County Board of Supervisors, the position held by Jack Dalton, who had died on May 24. The board was looking for people to apply to fill Dalton’s spot on the board, representing the Collinsville District.
— Information from museum records and the Henry Bulletin and the Martinsville Bulletin.