Storytelling and Memories Event

Oh my. These are interesting times. Stories of the 1920s, 30s and 40s are cartwheeling through my brain, fresh from the lips and pens of the senior citizens of our church community--17 of them who were invited to a Memories and Storytelling event Joe Y.'s, Lowells, and I organized. It was held at Center this past Monday evening. Before they came the seniors had filled out questionnaires, or, in some cases, their capable children had listened for answers and then written them down.

All of the storytellers were over 80 and had spent most or all their life living here. Many had been identified by the students in my composition class as being someone with whom they had a connection, either as a relative or friend. Others were invited because we believed their family should be represented or because they are known to have a good memory or good storytelling skills. John Mast, who is about 95 years old, was the star storyteller. He is nearly blind and deaf, but far from being mute. After someone went home to retrieve the hearing aids he had forgotten, he followed the prompts he needed, and provided great amusement for everyone, telling stories with gusto and aplomb. It's an interesting role for a retired Old Order Amish bishop.

I was proud of my students, who listened attentively, and wrote busily when they needed to be doing so.

We had assigned eight specific stories to be told by members of the seniors group. Each member of the class is to retell one of these stories for the community writing project (CWP) the class is working on from now till the end of the semester. In addition, I had divided my questions for the seniors into eight categories, and each student is to write an essay covering one category for the CWP. During the public event, the seniors added to each others' memories as Lowell went down the list of questions and answers and commented on highlights, and solicited specifics where the answers had covered only generalities.

I'm afraid the stories will have to wait. It's time for bed--and the students and I really want you to buy the booklet. If all goes well, it will be available by Christmas, for $5.00. The pages are the size of a half sheet of paper, and the book will likely have 30-60 pages.

For those who care, I've listed the 16 seniors who were present. My uncle Edwin had answered some questions but was not able to attend.

Elizabeth "Lizzie"Schrock

Elizabeth "Lizzie" Wagler

Barbara Yoder

Vera Nisly

Sadie Nisly

Mary Yoder

Orpha Miller

Fannie Nisly

Melvin Nisly

William Nisly

Amos Nisly

Sam D. Nisly

Fred Nisly

David L. Miller

Perry Miller

John Mast