First Maple Hill neighborhood reunion an enthusiastic success

By JIMMIE BROOKS
Nelson County Gazette

Sunday, August 3, 2008, 11 p.m. -- The first Maple Hill Reunion brought more than 100 former and current residents of the Bardstown neighborhood to the gazebo at the Jones Avenue city park to celebrate the generations of families who called it home.

Maple Hill, which also includes what is formally known as the Kennett Addition, was one of the city's fastest growing areas from the late 1940s through the 1970s. It was a community packed full of young families working on their part of the American Dream.

For many who attended, they heard -- for the first time in years -- their names (and nicknames) from their childhood. Alice became "Alice Ann," Howard became "Howie," John became "Johnny" and Jim was now "Jimmie."

The reunion was organized by Danny Hicks and Greg Puckett, with assistance from a variety of other former Maple Hill residents who pitched in to help.

Having organized this first-time event, the organizers weren't sure how many people might attend. They used e-mail, newspaper and various media outlets to try to spread the word of the reunion. Even after this, there were still concerns about the turnout.

But come Sunday's beautiful weather and cooler temperatures, fears of poor attendance had been dashed by the time this writer and his sister arrived about 1:20 p.m.

The Rev. Joe Batcheldor said the blessing before the covered dish buffet line was opened. The Rev. Bill Hammer, pastor of St. Joseph, also attended the reunion.

As many as three or four generations were represented by families who attended the reunion, all with roots in the Maple Hill neighborhood. From the enthusiasm shown by all who attended, the reunion is an event that will likely be repeated next year.

Organizers asked everyone who attended to sign in with addresses and e-mails in order to keep people notified about future reunion plans.

While there were a number of families without representation at the picnic, organizers hope to build on the reunion's success and bring out greater numbers of former and current Maple Hill residents next year.