When is an Ending a Beginning?

By Elaine L. Orr

I've written many times about attending the Orr Reunion of Mount Vernon the first Sunday in August each year, sometimes reflecting on history of the times, sometimes the camaraderie. This year, 2026, is the 90th and the last reunion.

As families dispersed, fewer have attended as children (or did so rarely) so they don't continue the tradition. You have to "know when to hold 'em, know when to fold 'em."

Ironically, now that we've publicized the final event, we have people coming from a number of states -- it will be the biggest one in years. We'll drink the family-recipe lemonade, eat good food, and reminisce.

But we've also talked to the Missouri State Historical Society about accepting records and photos of the reunion itself and the histories of the families -- Orr, Campbell, Mitchell, Knox, Shirley and more. They have agreed, but it will be an immense amount of material to organize and decide how to present.

It's always about storytelling, isn't it? 

Stay tuned.

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