Newspaper Article given to Barry Taglieber of The Phoenix at the 112th Reunion that was published by The Phoenix on August 19, 2008, on page A3.
Detwiler Family Tree of Life - “Rediscovering our Roots” was the focus at this year’s family gathering of the 77 descendants of Henry and Catherine Detwiler when they met on Saturday, August 16th at Camp, Innabah, Pughtown. Signing in was the first order of the day, placed by the Welcome Sign made by Zachary Zern. Family members brought various “written records” for display. Included was a framed calligraphy “family tree” owned by Christine Lusch Roussey, spanning several generations, a copy of the Will of Hans Dotwiler made December 17, 1750, and the Will of Henry Detwiler made October 31, 1809, Minutes Book of past Reunions along with the Reunion Treasurer’s Book, which contained record keeping from 1949 to 1999. The balance on hand in 1949 was $12.54. The original book is placed in the family Time Capsule which will be opened in 2025. A focal point for display included a 4 foot replica of a tree, with DETWILER FAMILY lettered across the top, names of the 12 descendant children written in black lettering on 12 large green leaves around the tree itself, along with Tree of Life lettered on the trunk. Historian Dick Lusch had a computer print out of each of the 12 descendant children’s lines of Henry and Catharine Detwiler available. In addition to “facts” and “dates” any personal information known, has been entered and available for reference as well. All have access to the Detwiler Family website at www.detwilerfamily.org. He also presented a time line of important dates including the date of Sept. 30, 1897, which was the first gathering of the Detwiler Clan. Kids Corner posters made by Megan Roussey and Amy Roussey presented a focal point for the children attending. Nicholas Zern provided a creative poster of the day’s events and Kevin Roussey’s poster listed Games to be enjoyed at this year’s reunion including relays, races, ping-pong tournament.
A moment of silence was held prior to the grace given by David Rapp which was followed by the singing of the Doxology, with accompaniment on the piano by Chris Fetters. After the traditional buffet meal, a group photo was taken with the backdrop of the Heirloom Quilt, which is kept in a different family’s home for one year. The quilt created by Martha Weed was signed by attendees at the 100th reunion. The signed & framed Family Crest is housed in a different family member’s home until the following reunion is held as well.
Door prizes were handled by Wendy Zern. Children were excused for games, swimming and canoeing, provided by Camp Innabah, while a short business meeting was held. Family members recognized were the oldest man present was Harry Styer at age 94; oldest woman present, Vi March age 91, youngest child present Josselyn Collier 4 ½ months, couple most recently married; Christopher and Erin Fetters, and person traveling the furthest Jean Williams. Cecile Fetters serves as Secretary and Scott Sifford, as Treasurer. President Sandy Lusch reflected on the family’s proud heritage, remembering Hans Detwiler who arrived in the 1700’s, and the children of Henry and Catharine Detwiler with whom the reunion began in 1897. It officially became the Detwiler Family Reunion on August 10, 1910. She closed the Reunion with the following remarks: “As our family joins together on this day, we are proud of our heritage, and the traditions which continue to this day. Each family member present values the importance of family, and continues to make family a “priority.” Planning for future generations continue, so that they too may enjoy the ongoing traditions which have held steadfast for 112 years for our Detwiler Family.” The next reunion will be held on Saturday, August 15, 2009.
