DUBOIS – One hundred and thirty-six people took advantage of a beautiful fall evening to learn more about community history at the 3rd Annual DuBois Area Historical Society Spirit of DuBois Lantern Walk. The walk was in one of DuBois’ most historic areas, the Penn State DuBois Campus and its neighborhood. Penn State DuBois, celebrating its 75th anniversary in 2010, is located on what was originally the property of City of DuBois patriarch John DuBois.
“The DuBois Area Historical Society is very pleased with the support this event received from the community,” said Lantern Walk committee chair, Tom Schott. “Over 450 people have attended the first three Spirit of DuBois Lantern Walks. The Society also appreciates the support of Penn State DuBois Chancellor Anita McDonald, public information officer Steve Harmic, and the custodial staff for their cooperation in making this event a success.”
While on the walk participants encountered ‘Spirits’ of DuBois history. The met with the Penn State Nittany Lion performed by Eddie Smith, a junior at Penn State DuBois, and a hunter from the wilderness period, who served as the Lion’s translator; Rev. J. V. Bell, performed by Tom Shade, who delivered part of the eulogy presented at the funeral of John DuBois; John E. DuBois, performed by Tom Rubritz, and Willie Gamble DuBois, performed by Carolyn Rhoades; the DuBois family’s French governess, performed by Karina Smith; DuBois family jobber, Joseph Lines, performed by Greg Weible; young Civilian Conservation Corps member Lou Adams, performed by DuBois High School senior Hunter Pataski; young Tom Mix, performed by Caleb Thompson; and Dr. Edwin Zoller, Penn State DuBois? first chancellor performed by Tharren Thompson.
All of the parts were based on historical people from DuBois past. The script and narration was researched and written by: Gene Aravich, Gretchen Clark, Galen Kilmer, Beecher Klingensmith, Tom Schott, Virginia Schott, and Todd Thompson.
Leading the walks were: Todd Thompson, Galen Kilmer, Paul Bojalad, and Tom Schott. Jeanne Hayes, Jerry Watson, Beecher Klingensmith, and Gene Aravich accompanied the tours.
The planning committee for the Lantern Walk were: Evo Facchine, Gene Aravich, Gretchen Clark, Jean Hayes, Galen Kilmer, Beecher Klingensmith, Lisa LaBue, Carolyn Rhoades, Tom Rubritz, Tom Schott (chair), Virginia Schott, Todd Shindledecker, and Todd Thompson.
Penn State DuBois, Scotty’s Donuts, and Stew’s Brew Coffee House were Lantern Walk sponsors.
The DuBois Area Historical Society will conclude its 2010 activities with its Third Annual Luncheon, Nov. 13 at noon at the DuBois Diner. The guest speaker is Barbara Clark, “Hidden Messages of Quilts.” The hot sandwich buffet includes: pot roast, mashed potatoes and gravy, tossed salad, beverages, and dessert. The luncheon is $13.50 per person. Reservations are due by Election Day Nov. 2. Make checks payable to DuBois Area Historical Society and send to P.O. Box 401, DuBois, Pa. 15801, telephone (814) 371-9006.
