Inside the Monocle The Monocacy Monocle Page 1
A Biweekly Newspaper May 13, 2004 through May 27, 2004 Volume 1, Number 5
Was this little church the start of a big change? This is the House that Jack Built see Mystery History page 10 Jack Davis of Dickerson is in the perfect scale, but he has found innova- of the volunteers for the MOOseum, final stages of building his house. In tive techniques to reproduce the has meticulously decorated each room Frederick County new houses are not customized aspects of the building that with flooring, wallpapering and rare and this house, to be sure, is no otherwise could not be included. painting to bring back the actual look big thing—that’s just why it is such a For example, the wrap-around of the rooms in the farmhouse. marvel—a miniature marvel. porch has its roof held in place by Even though Mr. Davis used his Mr. Davis is in the final stages of unique pillars that use a customized knowledge and skill to fulfill all the building a complete miniature replica and unusual triangular cinder block on various roles of project engineer, of the James and Macie King farm- the bottom which supports wooden carpenter, and mason for the house, he house that stood on the family farm staffs holding up the roof. Mr. Davis was a bit stymied when it came to the site in Boyds for nearly 75 years. The could have very easily been forgiven if electrical needs for lighting up the farmhouse no longer exists since it was he had chosen to stray from authentic- rooms. To meet this technological demolished in 1999 to make room for ity by substituting a simple, columnar challenge, he enlisted the help of a the development of the Germantown shaft to support the roof. Instead, true friend, Scott Watson, a Princeton Recreational Park on Schaeffer Road. to his vision, he hand-made miniature graduate and architectural lighting Greg Rabida and Joe Butz molds to create the perfect replicas of designer. Through Mr. Watson’s caught with the goods. the corner-shaped cinderblocks that expertise, this little house will have its see Pulse page 3 surrounded the porch’s pillars. Using a interior lit up in a big way. cement-like material to make the Adding to his role as a jack-of-all- cinder blocks, he even hand-scraped trades, Mr. Davis will even take on the the outside of each block to give them exterior landscape design. He will their natural rough look. finish off the project by placing the model on a fully landscaped platform so that it has a natural-looking farm environment. Mr. Davis’ love of his labor for this Original King farmhouse just prior to demolition. lost house has been Shakespearean. The good news is that the model home Mr. Davis is making this scale in all its perfect detail will be on model of the family homestead to put display in June for all to admire at the on display at the new King Barn King Barn Dairy MOOseum in Boyds. Dairy MOOseum, which adjoins the We look forward to bringing you a soccerplex. The MOOseum will be part report with pictures of the grand PHS player Madison Howard of the county’s tribute to dairy farming unveiling of the house later in the fine tunes her batting technique. in the region highlighting the role of summer. In the meantime, to find out The authenticity of the model included women in farming. even more information about the see Sports page 11 handcraftred molds to produce a replica The farmhouse, though old, was of the porch pillars. MOOseum you can call 301-528-6530 not the farm’s original farmhouse. A or email [email protected]. fire in the spring of 1926 destroyed The roof and fireplace shafts are thirteen buildings on the farm includ- recreated using standard model ing the original barn and the first roofing shingles and miniature bricks farmhouse. By the fall of that same that can be purchased at hobby stores. year, the King family started to rebuild Nevertheless, each brick had to be the family home and a barn. While individually placed in formation efforts to save the replacement barn around the shaft just as a brick mason succeeded, the county chose to demol- would have done on a real house. Once ish the house. in place, he filled the spaces with real Some have referred to Mr. Davis’s mortar to finalize the authentic-looking project as a dollhouse. Please, we know result. dollhouses. This is no dollhouse. The The house is constructed so that it attention to detail makes this project an becomes a, three-dimensional puzzle “Oh, Mr. Klosky you say the Jack Davis and his work of art. sweetest things.” amazing accomplishment, and Mr. that allows for each floor to be re- Davis has not only painstakingly moved so that all the levels can be see Profiles page 3 recreated each floor and each room to viewed individually. Elaine Huey, one The Monocacy Monocle Page 2
Poetry Corner Family Album My Best Friend
My best friend Is always there My best friend Really does care.
My best friend Loves me a lot My best friend Never does not.
My best friend Paul and Betty Houck at the Monocacy Waits for me Aqueduct during the C&O Canal My best friend Association’s 50th Commemoration of the Swimming in the sea. Justice Douglas walk. Mr. Houck was one of the original hikers in 1954. My best friend Is small and hairy My best friend Is not the least bit scary.
Can you guess who my best friend is? It’s easy to tell It’s clearer than fog, My best friend is my dog!
I know to you this may Patty Bennet (left) and her husband sound stupid Paul (right) join Mary Ann and George But between me and my Kephart at the recent Darby property dog, kid, just blame cupid. auction in Beallsville.
— By Shelby Dahlen, 6th Grade JPMS
Parents and fans watch PHS volleyball Shelby and her muse Nigel. teams play Sheridan High School.
John Poole House General Store Museum • Museum Gift Shop 19923 Fisher Avenue, Poolesville, MD Antiques * Collectibles * Vintage Kitchenware * Cookbooks Civil War & History Books * China * Glass * Bottles Framed Art * Prints * Notepaper * Miniatures * Games * Toys Gourmet & Homemade Goodies • Open Thursday thru Sunday *** 12 to 5 p.m. And daily by appointment or by chance * Groups Welcome Email: [email protected] * 301.972.8588 Look for the Antiques Flag behind Town Hall All sales support the John Poole House Museum. The Monocacy Monocle Page 3
The volunteers and a half-full truck to Monocacy Lions Club an award ceremony at Lions Day with Pulse collect what was left. After a few hours, the United Nations. one more load took off for West Announces Winner of Next years peace poster contest is Delivering the Goods Virginia. As Dale explained to The Peace Poster Contest about to begin and the contest will go Monocle, that’s what the Hands of Love through October 2004. Monocacy Lions Have you ever gone to a church does—it collects goods that people The Monocacy Lions Club has 76 members residing in the area rummage sale and wondered what don’t need and delivers them to people announced Robyn Lott of John Poole and serving community needs in areas they were going to do with the remain- that do. While some of the goods Middle School as the winner of the that includes eye glasses, eye exams, ing items and bags and bags of per- collected stay in Montgomery County, 2003-2004 “Create A Brighter Tomor- hearing aids, pre-school vision screen- fectly good clothing that didn’t sell? If most go to the Appalachia area, row” peace poster contest. Runners up ing, holiday gift and food baskets, and it happens in Montgomery County, the specifically Tucker County, West were Daniela Sambatao and Allison scholarships. odds are good that the Hands of Love Virginia, where a church-affiliated Pappas. Merit award winners picked everything up for distribution senior citizens organization distributes included Mandyce Pranewski, to the needy. the goods. Brittany Webb, Jeff Tallia, Kristen The Hands of Love exists solely Van Meter and Emily Lowman. from contributions and assistance from The Lions were pleased to churches, individuals, and organiza- have 75 entries in the contest tions such as the Odd Fellows and the from JPMS under the direction of Lions. Dale Nestor spends a good deal art teacher Nori Thorne. Robyn’s of his time on this activity, often with poster will go on to compete with Rudy Gole, another dedicated volun- other winners from over 65 Lions teer. Dale said he got started by Clubs from Maryland’s District helping out Dr. John Todd, one of the 22C. This local contest is part of groups founders, as a volunteer, and the Lions Club International before he knew it, he became a mem- contest involving over 44,600 Jim Knight, Dale Nestor, and Mark Warner ber. For more information on volun- clubs in 190 countries and help load a truck for West Virginia. teering or contributing to the work of geographical areas. Over 350,000 At the conclusion of the recent St. the Hands of Love, you can call Mark posters were judged in the previous Peace Poster winner Robyn Lott receives her Peters rummage sale in Poolesville, Warner in Poolesville at 301-349-2199 contest. The international winner award from Incoming District Governor Gary Dale Nestor and Mark Warner of the or Dr. John Todd (chairman) at 301- will receive $2,500, a plaque, and a Burdette and Monocacy Lion Woody Rupp. Hands of Love showed up with a few 916-3592. trip with family members to attend
We know how we want our family treated when they visit a Health-Care Professional...
...and that’s how we treat
Photo by Falcon Media our patients. You win K, you may now kiss the goat. Drs. D. Timothy Pike and Margaret A. Valega Spring is in the air. Romance is Security guard, Mr. Tim Klosky, with sons Alex, Ryan, and Conner. blooming everywhere. So much so that affectionately known as “K” was the grown men have succumbed to amorous winner. With the cameras kissing…goats? Although this picture rolling, he good-naturedly gave the We value the trusting and caring relationships that we’ve may look like Love at First Sight, it is goat, Kinko, a kiss. This was met with actually the culmination of a week- disappointment by the crowd who developed in this community for the past 15 years. long effort by the sophomore class called for a real kiss, not just a peck. We invite you to join our family of patients and experience officers of Poolesville High School to “On the lips!” bystanders encour- raise money for prom and homecom- aged. “I don’t know if goats even have our commitment to excellence. ing dances. lips, do they?” asked K. To begin, there were seven teachers The reluctant Kinko barely toler- chosen to potentially lock lips with the ated a Real Kiss, but in the spirit of D. Timothy Pike, D.D.S. & Margaret A. Valega, D.D.S. lucky kid. During lunchtime, students community good will, retained his and staff were encouraged to vote for dignity. 301-972-7000 their favorite (or least favorite) kisser The sophomore class raised over with donations. As the days passed, three hundred dollars and would like 19601 Fisher Avenue (next to the Meadow Lark Inn Restaurant) the number of kissing candidates to thank all of those who donated. Poolesville, Maryland diminished until one man was left Thanks also go to Alicia Agnew for standing. volunteering Kinko. The Monocacy Monocle Page 4
The churches of Poolesville have The American Cancer Society is Big Board organized to support the construction holding a Relay for Life at Damascus of a second Habitat for Humanity High School beginning at 2:00 p.m. on Sugarloaf Citizens Association is home in the local community. The days Saturday May 22 and running into hosting its annual meeting on Satur- assigned to the Poolesville churches Sunday morning, May 23. The event day, May 15, beginning at 9:30 a.m., at are the first Sunday and first Friday of kicks off with a “Survivors Lap,” and the Linden Barn, 20900 Martinsburg each month. The Sunday hours are 12 teams will then take turns through the Road in Dickerson. The featured p.m. to 6 p.m. and the Friday hours are night walking or running around the speaker is District 15 State Senator Rob 9 a.m. to 4 p.m.. Volunteers must be at track. The event will have a circus Garagiola. Free refreshments will be least 16 years of age. Anyone between theme and feature a live band and a served. 16 and 18 must have a parent present silent auction. A Luminaries Ceremony The Poolesville Library hosts the and have signed a waiver. Call Bernie will take place at 8:30 p.m. with music following programs. Preregistration is Mihm at 301-407-2565 for more details. and readings to remember those lost to not required: cancer, those fighting cancer, and those Twosomes: “It Feels Like Spring” The Frederick Rescue Mission will who have fought cancer and won. For stories, fingerplays, and music for two have their annual “Hope for the further information e-mail year olds and their parent, guardian or Homeless Banquet” on Monday, May [email protected]. caregiver. Thursday, May 20 at 10:30 17. The reception for the auction will a.m. and 1:30 p.m. begin at 5:30 p.m. with dinner being The Poolesville High School Art Storymates: “Spring in the Air” served at 7:00 p.m.. It will be held at Department’s Annual Arts Festival stories, fingerplays, and music for the Lynnfield Events Complex (10142 will be held at the school from May 17 three to six year olds and their parent, Hansonville Road., Frederick). Enter- through May 21 in the auxiliary gym. guardian or caregiver. Thursday, May tainment will include music by singer/ The art show will be open to the pubic 20 at 10:30 a.m. and 1:30 p.m. songwriter Javen and the guest speaker all day, starting from 8:00 a.m. through Family Storytime: Stories, will be actress and model Jennifer 9:00 p.m. This display is always a fingerplays, and music for ages six and O’Neill. The cost of the dinner is by fabulous presentation of the students’ under and their parent, guardian or donation. All proceeds benefit the talent covering paintings, etching, and caregiver. Tuesday, May 25 at 7:00 p.m. rescue mission’s efforts to assist the sculpture. There will be a 1st place, 2nd Detecting— Business of Sleuthing.: homeless in the region For more place and 3rd place awarding of the Sheila Cantor, local detective, will talk information and ticket availability you artwork. Much of the art will be about her experiences with investiga- may call: 301-695-6633, ext. 111 or available for sale through the school. tive and security work. email [email protected]. The Monocacy Monocle Page 5
Update #1 on the Boatman of Beallsville Calendar May 18 This is our first update for our not set Dan back from reaching his Poolesville High School PTSA readers on the progress by Dan goal. He designed and built the boat so Media Center, 6:30 p.m. – 8:30 p.m. Roussin (The Boatman of Beallsville) that most of the supporting beams May 14 on building his 65 foot boat off Route could be removed if necessary. As a Monocacy Elementary School May 19 109 in Beallsville. By early April Dan consequence of the damage, he de- PTA Bucket Bingo — 6:00-9:00 p.m. JPMS-MES Combined Concert had the full skeletal outline of the boat cided to take the boat apart, reinforce Poolesville High School Auditorium in place and was working on the back specific beams, and then put it back May 15 6:00 p.m. – 9:00 p.m. platform. Then disaster struck. The together. Sugarloaf Citizens Association Meeting foundation holding up the boat shifted The net effect is that while he has Linden Farm, 22900 Martinsburg Road May 20 and the entire hull tilted causing some lost some time he is not deterred from 9:30 a.m. Poolesville Public Library of the cross beams to crack. In trying to reaching his final goal. For those Storytime: 10:30 a.m. and 1:30 p.m. bring the boat back to its proper passing by in the coming weeks you Commissioners Fishing Tournament “It Feels Like Spring” position, some more damage was will see that he is putting the boat back Hunter’s Run Pond – 9:00 a.m. done. In all, Dan estimates about 20% to its early April position and will be May 21 of the beams were damaged. advancing once again sometime in Bull Roast Fundraising Dinner Carroll Manor Grange – Basket Bingo While upsetting, this setback has early June. United Methodist Church, Poolesville Carroll Manor Fire Hall, Adamstown 4:00 p.m. – 8:00 p.m. Doors Open: 5:30 pm; Games:7:00 pm
Community Dance UMCVFD Beallsville Poolesville Beer–Wine–Deli St. Mary’s Pavilion – Barnesville Basket Bingo 19716 Fisher Ave., Downtown Poolesville 8:00 – 11:30 p.m. $10 per adult. Doors Open: 4:30 pm; Games: 6:30pm (301) 972-8300 May 16 PHS Senior Prom! Monday: Ham & Cheese Sub Thursday: Steak & Cheese Sub Historic Medley Lecture Series 4 oz. Buffet Ham Ribeye Steak w/ Provolone cheese Nature Walk $4.45 $4.95 May 25 • • John Poole General Store Gift Shop/ Poolesville Public Library Tuesday: Turkey & Cheese Sub Friday: Tuna Salad Sub Museum Poolesville 7:00pm – Stories, fingerplay and music 4 oz. of the finest turkey breast Freshly made Tuna Fish 8:00 a.m. $4.45 $3.45 May 27 • • Star Gazing Farm – Open House Wednesday: Italian Sub Saturday: Roast Beef & Cheese Sub Poolesville Public Library Genoa salami, Capacola ham, pepperoni $4.45 16760 Whites Store Road, Boyds Storytime: 10:30 a.m. and 1:30 p.m. with Provolone Cheese 1:00 p.m. – 4:00 p.m. “Spring in the Air” $4.45 Sunday: $1.00 off your choice of sub! May 17 through May 21 Poolesville Public Library Poolesville High School Arts Dept. “Business of Sleuthing” Published by Monocacy Press, LLC Annual Art Festival/Show Sheila C, local detective on matters P.O. Box 175 Aux. Gym at High School of investigation and security Poolesville, MD 20837 Open All Day: 8:00 a.m. – 9:00 p.m. 7:30 p.m. 301 349-0070 • FAX 301 349-5646 The Monocacy Monocle is an inde- pendently owned and operated If you want customers from: John Clayton publication of Monocacy Press, LLC Basket Bingo President and Publisher which is solely responsible for its Adamstown Managing Editor content. Boyds Friday, May 21, 2004 (301) 349-0071 Barnesville Carroll Manor Fire Co. [email protected] Monocacy Press LLC does not espouse any specific political view, Buckeystown Station 14 in Adamstown, MD Rande Davis and any editorial opinions expressed Dickerson in The Monocle are the opinions of the Vice President editorial staff. The Monocle does not Clarksburg To Benefit Carroll Manor Publisher and Editor endorse any product or service, and Hyattstown Grange #406 Advertising and Circulation is not responsible for any claims by and (301) 349-0070 advertisers. [email protected] Poolesville Doors open 5:30 PM Articles and letters submitted for Bingo 7 PM Laura Davis publication must be signed and may Then you need to advertise in Calendar of Events be edited for length or content. The Monocle is not responsible for The Monocle Admission $15.00 Shooting Star Graphics, Inc. unsolicited material. Graphics and Design Contact Rande Davis All contents of this publication are 20 Games, 2 Special Games, protected by copyright and may not [email protected] Other Departments 2 Raffles be reproduced in whole or part for any or call For Info Call (301) 831-8362 [email protected] reason without prior consent of the 301-349-0070 [email protected] publisher. or (301) 874-2368 The Monocacy Monocle Page 6
World Famous Boyds for the bridge, Boyds would have railroadless towns like Clarksburg Now, people visit Boyds by car for perhaps been a different town. The came through the station at Boyds. an outing. There is the attraction of Special to The Monocle bridge was constructed as part of the And, of course, Boyds was an attrac- Black Hills Regional Park entailing By Dominique Agnew single rail line traversing Seneca Creek tion for those seeking a leisurely Little Seneca Lake. For history buffs, Stifled by the heat? Need a break and was designed and implemented by sojourn and a respite from stress – there is the old one-room schoolhouse from your daily travails? Take the Colonel James A. Boyd, an immigrant something that can be said for the among other sites. For sports enthusi- train to the countryside of Boyds! Stay from Scotland, a surveyor and engi- town and its outlying areas even today, asts, the expanding Soccerplex features in one of many clean and gentle inns! neer. Not surprisingly, the founding by residents and visitors alike. numerous activities, with more in store View the world-renowned Trestle year of Boyds and the year of comple- The train still runs through Boyds in the future. Of course, bicycle riding Bridge! tion of the trestle bridge coincide – daily. Commuters have replaced and hiking are enjoyed by many, as Although a figment of the imagi- 1873. In its day, Boyds could proudly solace seekers, but not completely. well as the fishing. What would the nation today, these statements would boast the longest wooden trestle bridge Instead of taking the train to escape the colonel think of his town now? have been very real and accurate in the in the world! city for a week or two, passengers So…Take the train to the Boyds late 1800’s. Our gentle town of Boyds Unfortunately, in the 1920’s, the escape the city daily and have chosen countryside! Take in the fresh country came to be when a railroad line was railroad line required expansion and a Boyds and its environs as home. They air! Look upon lovely little Seneca extended from Washington, D.C. to less exciting bridge was constructed can find peace every evening. Lake! Rest and relaxation await. Point of Rocks. Like many towns in crossing the creek in a different loca- the United States, Boyds was created tion bringing with it, not unfortunately, because it was along a route of travel. electricity. Now, all that remain of the There were three inns in Boyds at trestle bridge are several foundation that time providing lodging for city- piles near the dam for Little Seneca folk wanting a leisurely break from the Lake. hustle and bustle of the city. One of However, as Arthur Virts, local these, the Staley Boarding House, lies Boyds historian and lifelong Boyds in a watery grave beneath Little Seneca resident, said, “The train was king,” Lake. Imagine what an attraction and whether crossing a single bridge Boyds would have been if the lake had or a larger one, it brought prosperity to been built one hundred years earlier. a rural area. Farmers were more easily The two other inns remain standing able to earn a living with reliable Hargett Photo by Harold F. and are now private residences. transport of goods to and from Boyds. This single track bridge, built in 1873 by James A. Boyd, was one of the longest bridges in the country at that time. A bridge tender was stationed at the bridge to put out brush fires that might start from Sadly, the World-Renowned Trestle The mail and other important packages the coal burning engine, puffing hot cinders into the air. The B&O double tracked the Metropolitan Bridge exists no longer. Indeed, if not and goods destined for surrounding Branch in 1928 and replaced the bridge with a large culvert known by railroad men as Seneca Fill.
VOTE
CHUCK FLOYD FOR U.S. CONGRESS “BUILDING a BETTER ROAD to the FUTURE”
Paid for by the Floyd For Congress Committee, Charles Recknor, Treasurer www.floydforcongress.com The Monocacy Monocle Page 7
of 30 miles per hour depending on the Soap Box Derby angle of the ramp or hill. Boys and girls can enter a local POOLESVILLE AUTO The Big Race for Kids Soap Box Derby race by building a kit is on June 5th purchased from the All-American Soap The premier youth and family Box Derby and passing a pre-race Complete Auto Service oriented racing program in the United safely and construction inspection. States comes to Frederick as the Soap Participants are required to compete in Box Derby races into town on June 5. the Soap Box Derby race geographically Used Car Sales Over 30 youths are expected to com- closest to where they reside. All the pete in their gravity powered racers for race winners in each division automati- Paint & Auto Body a chance to represent Central Mary- cally earn the right to compete in the land at the 67th All-American Soap Box All-American finals. Derby Championship at Derby Downs Each kit can be assembled in as All Insurance Welcome in Akron, Ohio on July 31. Established little as three hours with a parent or in 1934, the All-American Soap Box another adult and be purchased by Derby is an American tradition with calling the All-American Soap Box the support of title sponsor Hope Derby (330-733-8723) or through its John Monroe Depot and NASCAR. website at www.aasbd.com. The kit The Frederick race is one of over includes a plastic or fiberglass shell, a 150 local racers held across the US and precut and predrilled floorboard and 301-349-3880 Overseas this year, where the partici- assorted hardware. pants compete in one of three divi- The All-American Soap Box Derby Fax 301-349-3886 sions: Stock, Super Stock and Masters. promotes the core values of teamwork, Drivers in the Stock and Super Stock the spirit of competition, perseverance, divisions range in ages from 8 to 17 and an emphasis on family. Recently * Free Body Estimates years old. Stock is mainly for begin- the All-American Soap Box Derby was We Employ ASE ners who build simplified cars from named a NASCAR youth initiative. Certified Technicians kits, Super Stock racers build larger Frederick’s local race as well as model cars from a different kit. Mas- their rallies (April and September) are 19920 Fisher Ave. ters competitors build a more sophisti- held on Bowman Farm Road near the Poolesville, MD 20837 cated designed car from scratch or a kit MVA. Contact the Central Maryland and are ages 10 to 17. In competition a Director, Jim Hagan at 301-831-6341 for Derby car can reach speeds upwards an information package. Fine Earth Landscape Co., Inc. Since 1977 • Professional Landscape Design • Patios of Brick/Stone/Pavers • Masonry/Wood/Keystone Walls
• Waterfalls and Ponds
AWARD • Top Quality Sod WINNER • Beautiful Plantings Member of Landscape Contractors Assoc. of DC/MD/VA Licensed • Bonded • Insured Poolesville, Maryland (301) 972-8810 www.fineearth.com The Monocacy Monocle Page 8
Equestrian News When I was five, the little girl had a wide white blaze and wrinkled lock to tug him over to the fence, down the street got a shaggy black and old pink lips. He was stiff with arthritis clambered up, and slid onto his back. Horses: white Shetland pony and a pair of red and found standing in his stall When the other horses saw Rex trans- A Curious Addiction cowboy boots for her sixth birthday. I throughout the chilly winter nights formed into a centaur before their eyes, understood this to mean all my wishes painful. Every night, he would contrive they snorted, flipped their tails up over By Debby Lynn for a pony would be fulfilled on my to break the cotton rope, which tied their backs, and took off, galloping up Perhaps you know a horse addict, sixth birthday. On the magic day, I him to his manger, and back out of his the hill to the barn. For several deli- or perhaps you are one yourself. What awoke at dawn, and rushed outside to stall in search of a more comfortable cious minutes, I was totally taken into makes riding horses so much more see which tree my pony was tied to. place to sleep. In the morning we their world. I felt their joy and sense of than a hobby? How do people manage Imagine my parent’s consternation would find him sacked out on top of freedom as we flew through the snow. to be avid skiers or cyclists without upon finding me crumpled in a sob- the steaming manure pile, soaking his I felt the closeness of their herd bonds letting it take over their lives, compro- bing and disappointed heap on the old bones in the warmth, his straw- as they jostled against my legs. This mising their finances and their per- front porch! At seven, I contented berry coat streaked with green manure was what horses have that we struggle sonal relationships? myself with cutting dozens of paper stains. I loved him with all my heart. to find. This was the irresistible magic Horses have a special magic—an horses from the shiny white cardboard Upon hearing, many years later as an of horses. attraction like no other simple pastime. which the dry cleaner put in my Dad’s adult, that Pinky had reached the end So, when you find yourself remov- I can only speak for myself, but per- shirts. And, if I wanted to risk a of his useful career and been sold for ing a pair of muddy spurs from the haps my experience will help explain spanking, I would steal out my bed- slaughter, I cried my eyes out. kitchen table, or wonder why all your why your 10 year old daughter has room window and prowl the dirt I got my first horse as an adult. He child’s school essays have horses as a traded in her ballet slippers and pink alleys, which ran between the back-to- was one of Pinky’s barn mates at the theme, forgive us! Horse addicts ruffles for muddy boots and straps of back half-acre tracts. Beautiful (to me) riding camp. I paid $250 for Rex, which simply cannot resist the attraction. leather begrimed with horse sweat. paint and palomino heads hung over included a saddle with a broken tree, I can’t remember not loving the the fences, awaiting my pats and and a bridle, which I still have today. beasts. To my mother’s great disap- filched carrots. One snowy winter day, I trudged out pointment, my first word as a two year When we moved back east, I was to the pasture to bring Rex in. When I old was “horsey’ rather than the usual allowed to take some English riding got to him, I realized I had come without a halter and lead rope. The “mama”. I was already compromising lessons at a local stable. This was a Don’t miss a single exciting issue! my personal relationships! To my non- serious tactical error on the part of my snow was deep, and I was pregnant Send a taste of home to friends, horsey parents, horses were dangerous parents. Now I was totally and perma- with my second child. I decided to and smelly animals, and nothing they nently ensnared by the magic that is utilize available transportation. After relatives, students, or Military. wanted their relatively tiny and fragile horses. I learned to ride on an ancient all, Rex was a placid 19-year-old Annual subscription: $20.00 daughter mixing with. strawberry roan named Pinky. Pinky summer camp horse. I used his fore-
SMALL ENGINE & TRAILER REPAIRS Specializing in Horse Trailers Conveniently located near Poolesville’s Getty Station (301) 349-0080 The Monocacy Monocle Page 9
neighborhood enterprise serviced a old neighborhood, its location for the wreaths out to Arlington Cemetery or Focus On Business clientele that came primarily from that past eight years has been at the Hyatt for the many other sites and occasions immediate area, and they proudly Center on Route 355 in Hyattstown. that would typically receive flowers At Gene’s Florist, served the entire community. There To get a true sense of the history of from the President. “Mums the Word” were no Internet orders, only a lot of the firm, we sat down with Gloria The shop went under the manage- telephoning and thumbing through the Poole, the stepdaughter of Gene ment of her son and daughter-in-law, It takes a lot for a business to last state-by-state directory of FTD or Belcher, one of the founders of the Adamstown residents Steve and 50 years and Gene’s Florist of Teleflora locations. Personal prefer- business. The other founding partner Wendy Poole, who carried on the Hyattstown is proud to celebrate this ences of customers were recorded was Gene Powell. (We can only guess family tradition until 1999. impressive milestone this year. manually that over the many years of partner- In the “pre-Internet” days the heart Owners Tom Nolt and Al Taylor ship the two Genes probably had a of the business was building personal are relative newcomers to the disagreement or two. Obviously, relationships with the individuals and company’s long history; they bought coming up with the name of the place firms in the Rockville area. Meeting the the business from Paula and Joseph wasn’t one of them.) Gloria started needs of the customer was always a Hadzima just last November. Mr. Nolt working in the business as a teenager top priority. While giving a bit of a has been in the floral business for over and fondly remembers the family smirk, Gloria recalls that some of the 30 years and came to the Monocacy business. One of her remembrances customers always seemed to buy their area from Lancaster, Pennsylvania, was when the company provided the dozen roses in sets of two. One set where he had his own shop for 17 corsages and flowers to the dignitaries would be paid by credit card, the other years. Al Taylor is new to the industry, responsible for setting up the first in cash. Hmmm…confidentiality must likes to proclaim his “behind the Rockville Memorial Day Parade. be an important part of being a florist. Gloria Poole and Tom Nolt of Gene’s Florist. scenes” role at Gene’s Florist, and She is especially proud that Gene’s In this case, mums the word has a defers to Tom on matters of expertise. Gene’s Florist’s fifteen minutes of had the high honor of providing double meaning. He is a local guy from Rockville who fame came when the movie “Lileth” commemorative graduated from Richmond Montgom- was shot on location on the streets of wreaths for the White ery in 1967. Ironically, Mr. Taylor Rockville, and the store played its role House, which included bought a corsage for his prom at the as a flower shop to perfection. arrangements for the original Gene’s Florist. The line was Gene’s first big move came in 1968 Tomb of the Unknown long but the service was courteous, and when the company left Commerce Soldier. In those days, never in his wildest dreams did he Lane to set up shop in a townhouse on the wreaths and ar- expect to own the place. Prior to Hungerford Road. Even to this day it is rangements were joining Mr. Nolt in this endeavor he not unusual for a customer from the delivered to the east Charm your Guests with Chamber Music was a supervising administrator in the old days who stumbles upon their new gate of the White We will work with you to achieve the musical effects you desire. airline industry. location to be thrilled to discover that House, where White Gene’s florist started out in the store is the same Gene’s Florist that House floral specialists Contact Mary Jo (301) 916-1553 Rockville at 209 Commerce Lane (the they know so long ago. While the store would apply ribbons or visit our website: present day Montgomery Avenue) and delivers to a very wide area and and remembrances http://ThreeforTeaTrio.peatandbarley.com for the first fourteen years, this continues to serve customers from the prior to sending the FURNITURE RESTORATION Antique & New Repairs ~ Refinishing ~ Veneer Repair Stripping ~ Touch-up ~ Re-gluing On Site Repairs and Insurance Estimates Extend the Life and Recycle Your Antique and New Furniture 301-349-4046 The Monocacy Monocle Page 10
Mystery History The Sweet Taste of Liberty The orange and green sign along- descendants. The original name for the side Hughes Road near Poolesville church was Taylor’s Chapel, which was announces that you have come upon probably named after one of the “Sugarland Forest, a land of history trustees, William Taylor. and magic.” This section of Hughes Not far from the church (down Road is about as rural and quiet a road Sugarland Road and about a half mile as you will find today, and little exists, off of Hughes Road) is part of the save the road sign, that gives a clue to famous Underground Railroad. In the dramatic history of this area. what was a log cabin, beneath a false Yet 123 years ago, those living floor in the fireplace was a secret along these lonely roads must have entrance that led to a cave where run- been abounding with great excitement away slaves could be hidden. This and anticipation. For the families of location, relatively close to the Potomac William Taylor, Patrick Hebron Jr., and River, yet deep in the woods, provided John H. Diggs the dreams of a lifetime a hopeful sense of security for those were about to come true. At that time, heading north. Today, the cave has these gentlemen became the patriarchs collapsed and the entrance is sealed and trustees of the area that would off. come to be called Sugarland Forest. Within the community, long ago These were the sweet dreams come torn down, was the Sugarland Store. true for a newly freed people. This was not a “full-scale general store A Mother’s Day family gathering in 1954 of Sugarland’s Mason family. Mr. Etheridge’s grandmother It was on October 6, 1871 that a but was more specialized as a commu- is sitting on the left. The family matriarch is seated in the center. All the men in the back row are former slave owner, George W. nity grocery store. During the days of buried in St. Paul’s cemetery. Dawson, sold the area to the African- its operation, it was at the heart of the Robert Allnutt, becoming one of the It is generally agreed that it comes American trustees for $25.00. (A good Sugarland community and was one of first former slaves to purchase land in from the sugar maples that were in the example of inflation when one consid- the meeting places where neighbors the community. This transaction is area at the time, although it was often ers the Dutch bought the whole of gathered to swap news as well as monumental in that it “marks the time stated by the men living in the commu- Manhattan for the same amount.) The purchase goods for every day life.” of the transition from slavery to nity during the early 1900’s that the deed specified that the land be used for Typical of the housing of the day freedom.” name came from the fact that their religious worship, a school and burial was the Taylor House, “a log house The Sugarland School, long ago women were so beautiful and sweet. site for the trustees, their relatives, and constructed of massive oak logs, which vanished, was constructed on the south their descendants. were hewed on two sides and notched side of Sugarland Road in the 1870’s. It At the heart of the community on in a “v” cut at the corners.” The house was a one room building heated only Sugarland Road is St. Paul’s Commu- was constructed not by hired carpen- by a wood stove in the middle of the nity Church, which stands guard over ters, but by the men in the community. room. The typical school term lasted the cemetery of marked and unmarked The deed shows that William Taylor from September to March because the graves of former slaves and their purchased the property in 1876 from older students had to go to work. At that time, there was no high school in the area for black students. Those who did go to high school went to Balti- more where they worked for white families for room and board. James “Skip” Etheridge, one of Mr. Taylor’s direct descendants, still lives in the community. His cousin, Nathaniel Mason, a direct descendant of the original inhabitants of Sugarland Forest, also lives in the community. The origination of the name Sugarland has some lore attached to it.
Skip Etheridge and his son Zachary are direct descendants of one of Sugarland Forest’s original St. Paul’s Community Church. trustees, William Taylor. The Etheridge family resides in the Sugarland community. The Monocacy Monocle Page 11
of attention goes to the pitcher. At with the program, and now Poolesville Hardwick, who comes from a family Youth Sports Poolesville High School there is no is respected as a top softball team.” The with a history of athletic talent. She exception to this rule since they have girls are not quitters and have set real plays third base and leads the team PHS Softball: These Girls outstanding hurlers on both teams. goals. Wohnhas stated, “they want to with 10 RBIs. The varsity pitcher is junior Crystal continue to make history, and get a Winning is always fun, but for Want to Make History Dillon. She has been pitching for the banner for the gym. Something [for Coach Wohnhas “coaching gives you team since she was a freshman, leading softball] that’s never been done before.” the opportunity to see these girls Fast pitch softball is a very fast and the team with only one loss this year, The varsity team has five seniors outside of school, and to really get to exciting game, and nowhere is it more and she has been chucking with an with Captains Courtney Horan and know them personally. For the past exciting than right here in Poolesville. ERA of 0.93, amassing 93 strikeouts Jennifer Gost providing leadership and four years, I have gotten to know them, With the high school girls playing on a with only nine walks. Recently against examples of hard work and dedication. and I feel like they are my daughters.” Little League-sized field, the action is Einstein high school, she struck out 19 “They are true role models for the Laurie Wohnhas is especially grateful fast, furious, and unpredictable. In batters. younger girls, and expect those girls to that these relationships just don’t fade softball a routine ground ball to the When asked about the success of carry on the winning tradition,” stated upon graduation. “Many of the old shortstop is anything but routine since the varsity team, eight year coach Coach Wohnhas. Team seniors such as players return, and that is what is even the slightest hesitation or bobble Laurie Wohnhas had some definite Theresa Malatesta (second base/ really special to me, to see them so will result in the runner being safe at ideas as to how they became so good. outfield), Christina Cain (second base), successful in the world.” first. In baseball, with its longer She said, “This team is special because and Annmarie Sowinski (first base) Building a successful varsity baseline, the infielder has a lot more the seniors came into the program have also been driving forces behind program is often dependent on the time to make the play. when they were freshman and that this teams success. junior varsity and PHS is especially The PHS girls simply dominate, in year they had only won one game the Senior Horan leads the team in lucky to have Gina Grubb coach this varsity as well as junior varsity (JV). In year before. In their freshman year, offense, batting .500, with three home successful team. Gina is a highly fast pitch softball, it is natural that a lot they were 4-12! These seniors stayed runs and eleven stolen bases. Catcher talented athlete in her own right (this Gost has successfully stopped seven writer coached her in fourth/fifth grade out of nine players from trying to steal softball and shamelessly takes all the second base. credit for her success in sports). Gina is Marketplace Directory The team has strong juniors from Poolesville and she graduated coming up with outfielders Madison PHS in 1994 and returned to teach PE Howard, Laurel Caywood, Amy Short, and health at her alma mater. She Send The Monocle your business card Jamie Morningstar, and Jessica found this to be an especially gratify- for our Marketplace Directory. Reynolds, and infielder Alex Deckert, ing experience since she could turn to Call Rande Davis joining Crystal Dillon in building that many of her previous teachers for (301) 349-0070 all-important experience. Rounding — Continued on page 12 for pricing details. out the team is sophomore Alice
FLOORS BY DODD Timothy Duck Agency Hardwood flooring specialist Jack Davis’ • Installation Insurance and Financial Hand–Crafted • Sanding, Refinishing, Repair Timothy Duck Bluebird Houses & Feeders • Staining and Color Matching Agent • Carpet Removal & Disposal (301) 831-8327 Hyattstown, MD • Family Owned & Operated Over 50 yrs. Houses : $20.00 Metro 301-424-8681 Feeders w/ Pole: $45.00 Local 301-916-3562 MHIC # 84783 [email protected] Fax 301-916-3374 Licensed & Insured Tel: (301) 662-2513 Tel: (301) 831-8908 “A Great House Warming and Gift Idea”
Children’s Center for Discovery “Quality Child Care Since 1983”
Infant & Toddler Pre-school & Schoolage
Tel: (301) 798-0223 Monrovia, MD Tel: (301) 831-4097 Clarksburg, MD The Monocacy Monocle Page 12
Boys who were used to keeping Youth Sports their hands off the ball, now had to use PHS Boys’ Lacrosse Team only their hands. None of the players Captures Division Championship — PHS Girls’ Softball Continuation had ever played competitive volleyball mentoring in the early years before and were entering uncharted The Poolesville Falcons Boys Gina is appreciative of the support water. Early practices were filled with Lacrosse team clinched the 3A/2A/1A the school gives sports and credits Mr. the sounds of Coach Agnew yelling, division championship against the Riley and the booster club for making “Stop kicking the balls!” Seneca Valley Screamin’ Eagles on May sure the teams have the equipment Mark Agnew has since been 4. This is the second division champi- they need to build a successful pro- named the new soccer coach for the onship in a row for Coach Belcher’s GAIL LEE gram, including pitching machines and boys in the fall and he’s afraid he’ll hard pressing team. “Selling Homes from the Heart!” batting nets to get the players ready for have the opposite problem come soccer The Falcons were up by 6-2 at 301.602.8188 game day. One of the unique batting season. “I’ll be yelling to the boys to halftime but in the second half they www.GailLeeHomes.com drills used by the coaches included keep their hands off the ball and to took control and never looked back, W.C. & A.N. Miller Realtors using a one inch thick plastic bat to start kicking,” he jested. finishing with a rousing 16-3 victory. swing against a small golf ball-sized The first games were learning The Falcons had a very aggressive Choosing the Right Agent plastic PG ball. (This seems to justify experiences. The players also were offense, taking 41 shots at goal versus is Critical When you Buy or this writer’s many hours spent swing- required by Coach Agnew to stay and the Eagles getting off only 17. Mike Sell Your Home! ing at a whiffel ball as a youth). watch the accomplished Poolesville Bertha and Josh Funk led the scoring Gail is consistently As for the JV team, Gina says, “the coed team to learn strategy and court with 6 and 5 goals respectively. Goalie a TOP PRODUCER, entire team is doing very well. They all positioning. Robert Douty handled the Eagles by Currently ranked in the TOP 1% work hard and work together as a Tough practices and game analyses successfully fending off nine shots of Realtors Nationwide. cohesive unit. They have all improved of previous games began to make a versus the 3 goals they scored. The in every aspect of the game and have difference. The boys started playing as Falcons went on to beat Damascus 12- Under Contract gained confidence in themselves and a team and showing that they knew 11 on May 6 in a game that, until the 19805 Westerly Avenue $375,000 each other.” what they were doing. They began last quarter, was dominated by the As of this writing the JV was 7-1. frustrating other teams that came Falcons. Damascus, down 12-6 at the I have BUYERS waiting for our area! Among the up-and-coming players is expecting an easy win only to find end of the third quarter, valiantly When buying or selling call Gail sophomore starting pitcher Stacy defeat at the hands of the rookie team. fought back with five unanswered for a PRIVATE Consultation. Gilbert. If anyone is concerned about During one particularly grueling goals, only to fall short. In the end, the the future of girls’ softball at PHS, just match against Blair High School where Falcons proved tough and victorious Visit the Poolesville boys lost the first game, against a worthy opponent. The consider that Stacy has already thrown www.GailLeeHomes.com three no-hitters. they came back to win the second Monocle will focus on this team in our game and the referee remarked, “You second June issue. Poolesville Boys’ Volleyball boys came to play!” Coming from Nowhere Finally, the end of the season arrived. With a playoff spot on the “I’m taking this team to the county line, it came down to the last match of championships,” so predicted best- the regular season. May third, Pooles- dressed boys’ volleyball coach, Mark ville was scheduled to play Agnew, even before he had a team. Springbrook. If Poolesville won, they Poolesville High School had not were definitely in the county playoffs, put forth a boys’ volleyball team in two and if they lost, the odds were not years when Mark Agnew, one of the good. Unfortunately, the Springbrook school’s new science teachers this year, boys defeated Poolesville, 25-15, 25-20, approached athletic director, Mike and 25-22. They were tough games – Riley, about the possibility of starting a all three of them. “I didn’t want the team. season to end this way,” Coach Agnew After being given the go-ahead, lamented. “I don’t think we played to Mr. Agnew began approaching stu- our capabilities.” dents about whether they would be The destiny of the team was no interested in coming out for a new longer in its hands. Out of twenty- team. Interest seemed high and Mr. three county teams, only the top Agnew accepted the position of coach. sixteen would make it to the playoffs. Unfortunately, when it came time Would the hand of fate create circum- to start practicing last March at the stances conducive to allowing Pooles- beginning of the season, there was ville to make the playoffs? Will almost no team. While other high Batman escape the nefarious torture of schools were practicing, Coach Agnew the Joker? Definitely. was still recruiting. At the end of the The boys are in and the first first week of practice, he barely had playoff game against Richard Mont- enough players to place on the court. gomery promised to be a tough one, Finally, during the second week of but the message the coach had for his practice, there were eleven players players was not. Mark Agnew had one committed to giving volleyball a shot – thing to say, “Play hard and have no most of them soccer players. regrets.”