 In 2020, Wilson, Frank, and Anne Somerville had the pulpit chairs at OPC refurbished as a gift to the church. The results are beautiful. Many thanks to this family for their contribution. These chairs have a long history with OPC. February 13th, 1910, the Session minutes of the Orange Presbyterian Church read as follows: “Object of this meeting was the consideration of an offer of $1200.00 for the church building by Bishop Gibson of the Episcopal Church; with the following reservations, viz. the pulpit, the pulpit (or Rostrum) chairs, the hymn board, the hymn book racks. A motion was made, seconded and unanimously adopted that gave the Trustees power to accept the definite offer of $1200 for the property and authorizing them to do so.” We can assume these pulpit chairs were in the first church we built in 1845 on Byrd Street. They were brought to our new church on the corner of Caroline and Main Streets in 1910. The chairs now reside in our present Sanctuary, built in 1971. We are so very grateful for this gift. - Jennie Hill Robinson  The pulpit chairs in the OPC sanctuary, ca. 1910. This space is now our Fellowship Hall.
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 To the Orange Presbyterian Church congregation -
In 2017, May Saxton decided to put together a History Committee to prepare for Orange Presbyterian Church’s 175th Anniversary that would be on November 8, 2020. It was a wonderful group that came together: May and Mike Saxton, Lulu Sherman, Winnie Higgins, Carol Couch, Anne Somerville, and myself, Jennie Hill Robinson. We spent two years gathering historical documents including photos, recording what historical documents we had, making plans for the anniversary and putting together a guest list for the big day. May Saxton kept us organized, focused and on schedule. Then the Coronavirus arrived in 2020 and all came to a halt. OPC shut her doors and all the committees adjusted with meeting by Zoom. With sadness we decided in August to cancel the plans for a celebration in November. Winnie Higgins and Carol Couch had been working on selecting highlights of interest from the Session minutes and were reporting them in the monthly newsletter. Covid-19 prevented them from meeting anymore. There was talk of writing something each week about OPC history as a way to celebrate and I agreed to do it. I also kept up with sharing Session minutes highlights once a month in the Newsletter. It has been a quite an adventure. I started from the beginning, 1854, and quickly was enthralled, even though the handwriting of the Session minutes was difficult to read. I read Deacon minutes, Men of the Church minutes and Women’s Auxiliary minutes. I was reading about my great grandmother, my grandmother, my great aunt and my cousin Lelia Sanford. I learned things I did not know about them…but was not surprised by what I learned. These women were just a few of the saints of this church. In 1911, we were moving in to our new church on the corner of Main and Caroline. In 1968 we were hiring architects to design a new church and it was dedicated in 1971. The body of the church has been rich with families. The membership made up of doctors, lawyers, teachers, farmers, pharmacists, bankers, architects, businessmen and their spouses and children. Some families becoming 3 and 4 generations strong. They have been dedicated, involved, inspiring, and leaders. The young people formed youth groups and benefited and grew from the activities selected by the adults involved. I joined the FB page, “You are from Orange if you remember…” to see if I could learn more about our church and ended up connecting with one of Rev. Dick Taylor’s daughters, Martha and son, George. There have been other connections made while researching and I am grateful. I am moved by what I have learned about our congregation and have enjoyed my opportunities to share with all of you. As I write this, I am reminded that today is our 176th Anniversary. I am honored to have been a part of this past year and hope you have enjoyed what I chose to do to celebrate. I go back to what Robert Jones said in 1995 during our 150th anniversary…I think he said it best: “… it is a vital part of the Orange Presbyterian Church to remind ourselves of the saints of this congregation. And to thankfully celebrate their lives and their example, by bringing up the memories of the part they have played in the continuity of who we are and who we strive to be.” Happy 176th Anniversary, November 8, 2021 Jennie Hill Robinson History Committee  Fedie and Alan McClung with their children (L-R): Jill, Amy, Chad West Virginia to Virginia via Germany Alan and Ophelia (Fedie) McClung grew up in West Virginia. Alan was a member of the Special Forces of the U.S. Army. After their marriage, the couple moved to Bavaria, Germany. When they returned, they moved to Charlottesville. Alan earned a Master’s Degree in Foreign Affairs from the University of Virginia. In 1973, Alan and Fedie moved to Orange. They joined the Orange Presbyterian Church with their three children; Chad, Jill, and Amy. At that time, Alan was the Coordinator of Special Education for Culpeper County. Service in the church Alan joined our choir. He was reared as a Presbyterian and had sung in various church choirs. He was selected to the Board of Deacons in 1974 and became Chairman of the Deacons in 1976. In 1985, Alan joined the Session. In 1974, their son, Chad, was vice-president of the Young People’s Fellowship (YPF) Senior Highs. Jill was secretary and Amy was secretary of the Junior Highs.  Alan McClung (center) at the 1974 CROP Hunger Walk. The CROPS Hunger Walks Alan participated in the Hunger Walk in Orange on October 24, 1974. It was a project of the Community Hunger Appeal of Church World Service (CROP). Alan was the Adult Arrangements Chairman for the project. Jill was the Youth General Chairman, and called the walk a “great success." More than 90 people completed the 20-mile walking route thru rural Orange County. There was another “Hunger Walk” in 1975. Jill, as the Youth Chairman, said the event was an even greater success than the previous year’s. Alan led the group with Fred Floyd, Adult Chairman, and Rev. William Peters of OPC. The event raised about $4000. Jill’s mother Fedie, her sister Amy, and her brother Chad, also participated in the Hunger Walks. The walks were directed by the YPF of OPC, along with St. Thomas Episcopal Church and other denominations in the county.  Fedie McClung volunteering in the Cradle Nursery. Fedie's service
Fedie McClung is a nurse. She assisted in operating rooms, working at Martha Jefferson Hospital for years. She also taught certified nursing assistants and medical office assistants at Piedmont Tech in Culpeper County. Fedie did this day and night for 16 years. She led the Senior High class at OPC with Anne Somerville in 1981. They explored the area of goals, choices, problems, and expectations. She led the Senior High class with Sharon Callahan in 1982. She volunteered in the nursery with Thelma Sanford. It was quoted that, “the credit for a strong and growing nursery must go primarily to them.” Later, Fedie volunteered in the cradle nursery. Fedie was elected to be an Elder in 1994. She sang in the choir, alongside Amy, for many years. They both volunteered many times at the Red Cross Blood Drive held at OPC’s Fellowship Hall. They were both active members of the Women of the Church. Amy also served as an Elder. Mission work In 2003, Fedie McClung took a mission trip to Mexico on the Baja Peninsula. Her trip was to work with Operation Blessing, providing medical care to many who could net afford it. She assisted, working alongside surgeons providing cataract surgeries. Fedie also traveled to Africa and Malawi for mission work at orphanages. She did all this wonderful work was after she had retired. The McLung Legacy Alan McClung sadly passed away in 2000. Chad and Jill moved away. Amy lives in Orange. Amy and Fedie continued to dedicate their time and support to OPC in many roles. It is wonderful how many ways this family contributed to Orange Presbyterian Church. - Jennie Hill Robinson OPC History Team  In the spring of 1968, Shirley Newman was received into Orange Presbyterian Church. She was the wife of William Newman. The couple had two children, Sharon, and Michael Callahan. Shirley worked in the UVA Hospital Pediatric Department, and had to commute to Charlottesville daily. Christian education Shirley started teaching the 4-5-year-olds in our church school in 1972. She didn't just use the material provided by the church. She also drew from her own knowledge and imagination. Shirley continued to participate in the church school, teaching Kindergarten through 5th grade. She taught a summer class with her daughter, Sharon, in 1980. Christmas 1980 Shirley also became involved with the Women of the Church. She coordinated a Christmas program in 1980. The Men of the Church served breakfast at the event. There was a puppet show by one of the classes, and a horn duet by two church members. The audience enjoyed carol singing, and a Christmas skit by another class. The Senior Highs sang the Twelve Days of Christmas. A free-will offering was collected. The proceeds were split between CROP (Christian Rural Overseas Program to end hunger) and the Christian Emergency Council (CEC). Congregational Life In 1980, OPC organized Sessional Committees. Shirley was a member of Congregational Life. Their mission was to lift up the congregation and encourage fellowship through monthly social activities. Shirley served on the Session for many years. Mission and Outreach She was a member of the Mission and Outreach Committee and headed it up for some time. Shirley put her spin on the Christmas Bazaar and took it to new heights. The money taken in was divided among different organizations. Habitat for Humanity, the CEC, Presbyterian Disaster Relief, and sometimes the Orange Presbyterian Weekday School Scholarship received funds.  The Memorial Garden Committe (l-r): Nancy Crowder, Shirley Newman, Pat Stewart, Ann Somerville (not pictured, Jennie Hill Robinson) Memorial Garden
In 2016, a handful of members formed the Memorial Garden Committee, eager to start such a garden. Shirley was a gentle guiding light as we worked to merge everyone’s ideas. We declared the garden “ A place to remember those in God’s care.” Like mother, like daughter Sharon Elizabeth Callahan joined OPC in 1973. Her brother, Michael Rodney Callahan joined OPC in 1977. Michael, would later become a member of the Christian Education Committee. Sharon attended the Synod of Virginias Youth Missions Convention in 1978. There was worship time, bible study, visits with missionaries, and group singing. Sharon has followed in her mother’s footsteps. She taught the Senior High church class in 1982. The next year she led a small group and art workshop at Hanover Presbytery’s Spring Fling. Serving the church Sharon was selected as a Deacon in 1983 and served on the Finance committee. She was Chairman of one of the Women of the Church Night Circles in 1984. Sharon served on the Pastor nominating Committee. Like her mother, Sharon continued to teach the 3-4-year-olds in church school. She also worked with the Young People's Fellowship. Sharon also helped coordinate the CROP walks. She is presently President of the Orange Presbyterian Weekday School. Pretty sure I am missing something to share with you, but you get the point. We are thankful this family are members of our church. - Jennie Hill Robinson OPC History Team In the beginning It all started in 1970 -- the Youth Club of Orange Presbyterian Church. It met every Wednesday afternoon at the church. And it gave young people (grades 3 through 9) some practical lessons in Christian living. The weekly schedule included 50 minutes of Bible Study. Then came 50 minutes of supervised activities (sewing, knitting, woodworking, art, guitar). Dinner was served, with an elder or deacon presiding at each table. Recreation followed, and then Junior Choir practice. In 1972, there were 40 children enrolled in the Club. Each Wednesday the enthusiasm of the children was heartwarming. The Youth Club started in September and continued through April. Hours were from 4 until 7:30 pm for grades 3 through 8. There was a special class on theology for the 9th graders. The pastor taught this class immediately following supper hour. Young People's Fellowship The Junior and Senior High Fellowships were collectively known as the YPF (Young People's Fellowship). They met each Sunday evening at 6:15. The YPF was a combined venture of the St. Thomas’ Episcopal Church and Orange Presbyterian Church. The Juniors studied the Gospel of Luke. And they discussed personal problems with their advisors. The Seniors met with Fred and Lulu Sherman. A “Coffee House” was opened, thanks to a large number of adults from several churches and the Junior Women’s Club. It was in the old Library Building next door to OPC. YPF activities The Juniors and Seniors took a trip to Ford’s Theater in Washington, DC. They participated in the Christmas Eve Candlelight Service. Thanks to the local library, the YPF enjoyed “film fun” time. The YPF went to movies in Charlottesville. The Senior Youth Group had a Halloween Party for the children of the church. There were bake sales, visits to the nursing home, and the youth hired themselves out to do yard work. They prepared Thanksgiving baskets for needy families and went on camping trips. There were trips to retreats at Massanetta.   Fighting hunger There were hunger walks. These raised money to fight hunger. The first one was 20 miles. Walkers were recruited from more than a dozen churches and several high school and community organizations. About this time, Lynn Clements was President/Advisor of the Senior Youth Group. In 1976, the Senior YPF engaged in a CROP (Christian Rural Overseas Program) Hunger Fast. Sponsors pledged money for each hour they went without eating. Proceeds went to CROP to alleviate hunger in the world. March 28th, 1982, there was another CROP walk. This time the distance was shortened to 5 miles.  The group delivered 20 Christmas baskets full of fruit, nuts, cake, and candy to elderly and shut-in families on Christmas Eve.
Active in the 1980s The YPF hosted the Hanover Presbyterian Youth Council in January for two days. Four members attended the Synod Youth Mission Convention at Massanetta in March. In 1982, the YPF and friends enjoyed skiing on the slopes at Bryce Ski Resort. There was a gathering on Super Bowl Sunday with pizza and friendly wagers. Sharon Callahan (Mohrmann) was appointed youth delegate to the General Assembly meeting in Columbus, GA. Several members, accompanied by Lynn Clements, attended the Senor High Fall Convention at Camp Hoover. 1983 was the year of a “Lock-In” at the Mechanicsville Presbyterian Church. There were games, music, and dancing. Also, ping pong and two movies. The next morning, everyone traveled home after doughnuts and a short church service. Contributing to the life of the church Without the generous gifts of time and talent from many volunteers, this kind of program could not have functioned. In the beginning, Elaine Gardner was the faithful director and administrator. Many wonderful people were involved at one time or another with the children and young people. “It was a tremendous opportunity for our Church youngsters to be nurtured in the better ways of life.” - Presbyterian Punch - Jennie Hill Robinson OPC History Team  Newton and Emily Sparks Orange County native
Thomas Newton Sparks was born in Orange, where his grandfather opened Spark’s Grocery. Newton went to Orange High School and attended VPI for two years. He interrupted his schooling to serve in the Second World War. Newton became a First Lieutenant in the U.S. Armed Forces. He was a B-17 pilot and then a pilot instructor in the Army Air Corps. A life in Orange Newton met his future wife Emily Garnett in the 4th grade. She was born at Riverside, her family home near Locust Dale. They were married in the Orange Presbyterian Church in 1943. The couple returned to VPI, where Newton received a BS degree in Business. After graduation, they moved back to Orange. Newton joined Fray Insurance Agency and became co-owner. Newton was very active in the community. He was Secretary of Orange County Electoral Board. He served on the Town Board of Zoning Appeals and the Orange Planning Commission. He was a Jaycee, as well as a charter member and past captain of the Rescue Squad. Newton was a Scout Master of Orange Troop 14, a member of the Orange Rotary Club and the American Legion Post 156. Newton's service to OPC Mary Emily Garnett joined OPC in March of 1934, along with her brother Seldon and sisters Susan, Frances, and twin, Nettie Lee. Newton was raised a Baptist, but he joined Emily as a member of Orange Presbyterian Church. Newton actively served the church in many capacities. He taught Junior Boys for six years. He sponsored the Youth Fellowship with Emily. Newton was a Deacon and an Elder and also served on Presbytery Committees. “Newton’s warmth and his sincere commitment are assets to our Session’s work.” - Presbyterian Punch 1976 Newton was also deeply involved with the Men of the Church. He was in charge of the kitchen when they met for breakfasts, cooking for many many years. (Rumor has it he allowed no one to wash his seasoned skillet!) Emily's service to OPC Emily was also an active member of Orange Presbyterian Church all her adult life. She served with the Women of the Church (WOC) as, her mother, Nettie Mann Garnett did. Emily headed up the WOC’s Service Project for many years. Fund-raisers included flea markets, parking lot sales, and mini-bazaars. The women offered services such as baking, transportation, sewing, and more. They sold notecards printed with a sketch of the new Sanctuary. The proceeds helped defray the principal of the Church’s building fund. She was a member of the Night Circle of the WOC and served, at times, as chairman. Emily was one of the editors of the Presbyterian Punch for years. Emily was sometimes the kitchen chairman when the WOC held potluck supper meetings. A life together When they were not serving others, Newton and Emily enjoyed evenings with their friends. Lots of times they played bridge. Emily loved to knit and work crossword puzzles and jigsaw puzzles. Newton loved to fish. They religiously kept their tradition of family vacations at Nags Head every summer. Newton Sparks passed away in 2002 and Emily Sparks passed away in 2003. Their son, Thomas Newton Sparks, Jr., passed away in 2021. They are survived by Thomas’ wife, Barbara; son Philip and wife, Julie; daughter Ann Garnett and husband, Chris Freed; and son Edward and wife Lisa. At the time of their death, they had nine grandchildren and four great-grandchildren. Newton and Emily served our church for many years. Over that time they participated in many charitable and civic activities in Orange. We are grateful also for their friendship. - Jennie Hill Robinson OPC History Team  Thelma and Richard Sanford, 1948 Son of Orange County Richard Lewis Sanford was born in 1920 at Woodley Farm near Orange, Va. He was the son of Harry Estil Sanford and Mary Lewis Sanford. Richard and his eleven siblings were the third generation to live at Woodley Farm. Dick Sanford graduated from Orange County High School in 1939. He attended Virginia Polytechnic Institute and graduated with an agronomy degree in 1943. Military service He joined the United States Army Air Force and served in World War II from 1943 until 1946. Dick was an aerial flight engineer in the 9th Air Force in the European Theater. His unit received the Presidential Unit Citation with Oak Leaf Cluster. Dick was also twice awarded the Air Medal and three Campaign Stars. Service to Waddell Memorial After the war, Richard joined the U.S.D.A. Soil Conservation Service in Culpeper and Rappahannock Counties. At the time he lived in Rapidan. Dick served as Sunday School Superintendent at Waddell Memorial Presbyterian Church. He was also a Deacon and an Elder in the church. Dick met Thelma Bates at a Pot & Kettle Club dance in Culpeper in 1947. Thelma was teaching High School English in Madison County. They married 18 months later. The couple had two children, Stephen Richard and Cynthia Gayle.  Dick's service to OPC
In 1955, Dick and Thelma transferred their membership to Orange Presbyterian Church. Dick served OPC as he had Wadell. He was an Elder, Deacon, and Sunday School Superintendant. He also served as Clerk of the Session and a Trustee. Dick was also on the planning council for building the new sanctuary. He taught Adult Sunday School class from time to time and was active as president of the Men of the Church. “Mr. Sanford’s steadiness and his concern for people’s feelings make him a faithful member of the session.” - Presbyterian Punch 1976 Service to Orange For forty years, Dick was the estate manager of Grelen Farms in Orange County. As such, he and was recognized as an agricultural leader. Dick served on many local organizations, including the Orange County Nursing Home board. “On August 22, 1982, the Sacrament of Baptism was administered to Richard Hill Sanford, infant son of Mr. and Mrs. Stephen Richard Sanford. Among those attending were Mrs. Mary Lewis Sanford, young Richard’s great-grandmother and former member of this Church; Richard Lewis Sanford, Richard’s grandfather and current member of the Session, baptized in this Church June 12, 1921; Richard’s father, Stephen Richard Sanford, baptized in this Church July 25, 1963. Also attending was Samuel Ross Sanford, baptized in this Church July 25, 1926 and currently Ruling Elder in the Presbyterian Church of Fredericksburg and representing that congregation of which Mr. and Mrs. Stephen Sanford are members.” -Emma H. Bartley, Historian A life in education Thelma Sanford graduated from public schools in Madison County. She returned there for her teaching career, spanning 28 years. In 1947, she received a degree in English and Science from Mary Washington College. Thelma later obtained a Masters Degree in educational counseling from the University of Virginia. Thelma was a teacher and guidance counselor at Orange County High School for 18 years. She also was Curriculum Coordinator and Guidance Counselor at what was then known as Piedmont Technical Education Center in Culpeper County. Thelma was a member of the Orange County Historical Society, the James Madison Museum, and the Friends of Montpelier. Thelma's service to OPC She was a member of the Orange Presbyterian Church for 60 years. Thelma faithfully participated in and supported the work of the church in many ways. She served as an Elder and was the church historian for five years. She was active in the Women of the Church and for a time, served as Secretary. Thelma Pearl Bates Sanford passed away in 2014 and Richard Lewis Sanford passed away in 2016. They are survived by a son, Stephen Sanford and his wife, Norma of Orange; a daughter, Cynthia Webster and her husband, Thomas of Roanoke; six grandchildren, and six great grandchildren. Orange Presbyterian Church has been blessed by the many generations of this Sanford family and their Christian principles. - Jennie Hill Robinson OPC History Team  “It should be noted that the MEN of the ORANGE PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH is a loosely structured organization. Most of the time there is only a leader and one to take care of the funds. Elections are not conducted - individuals are only appointed to serve after agreeing to do so. Their meetings are regularly on the third Sunday of each month, beginning in September and ending in May. Usually, we have a speaker following an 8:30 am breakfast. Those attending make a donation to defray the cost of the food. A group of four or five men meet in the kitchen on or about 5:00 am to prepare eggs, bacon, biscuits, juice, and sometimes stewed apples. The cooks are under the direction of Newton Sparks. Delbert Faulconer is on biscuits; Ted Scott on eggs. Skinny Redmon is in charge of setting up tables and arranging napkins, silver, and coffee cups. Others from time to time in the kitchen offering advice and assistance are Atwell Somerville, Oliver Lyne, and Dan Sale.” David Halpin, President MOC September ’89-May’90 Legendary breakfast fellowship The Men of the Church (MOC) breakfasts were something to look forward to. One year, the MOC prepared breakfast for the Annual Christmas Tree Lighting Service and White Gift party. The entire congregation was invited. Another year, they entertained the choir and their spouses at breakfast. Once, they served a loyalty supper. It was a pancake supper, giving each person a chance to affirm his or her loyalty to Christ and his church. Sometimes, the men attended a joint breakfast program with the Methodist and Baptist MOC. Also, they invited all the ladies in the church family to breakfast on Mother’s Day. The men’s choir and Lois Shanks presented a delightful “Ladies Day” musical program. The list of groups the MOC entertained goes on and on. Good food, with food for thought In addition to enjoying breakfast together, members heard excellent speakers from the community. They discussed current affairs and other interesting topics. Subjects included Team Mission work in Guinea and relief work in Guatemala. Speakers shared the spiritual experience of hiking the Appalachian Trail. and reported on Orange County Natural History Day Camp. Orange County Sheriff Bill Faulconer told of some sheriff needs. Rev. Forrest Porter came to talk about the local Food Pantry. Ellen Ober (Pitera) spoke about teaching in Kenya. Barry and Craig Jacobs shared stories about their mission trip to Nicaragua. Howard Berckman spoke about growing up in China. The Honorable Frank W. Somerville was a guest speaker in 1997. The Women of the Church were invited to hear him speak. Stewards of God's house The MOC sponsored several clean-up days a year at the church, with pruning, raking, etc. They painted and made repairs to the manse. They built new shelves and painted the Pastor’s Study. The group added new storage cabinets for the handbell choir and nesting tables for their performances. They renovated the choir room with new carpeting and a new ceiling. And they painted the wall. MOC member Charles Bowman handcrafted and installed by new bookshelves in the library. In 1982, the group installed a chair rail in the Fellowship Hall and painted the room. The MOC joined with the Women of the Church to have yard sales and divided the proceeds. They made monetary contributions to different missionary and local causes. And they donated funds toward the church debt.  Fellowship in softball
In 1981, the MOC sponsored a softball team made up of members of OPC. It was an enjoyable time of Christian fellowship in friendly competition. Buckshot “Cool Hand” Clements was the pitcher and team manager. The infield was Roger “Boom Boom” Gardner, Glenn “Flash” Morris, Scotty “Trigger Arm” Clements, Terry “Slick” Buyer, Ted “Hard Hat” Buyer and Charles “Slugger” Bowman. Covering the outfield like a blanket were Lynn “Trigger” Clements, John “Big Man” Lee, Ricky “the Rocket” Sherman, “Joltin” Joey Miller, Andy “The Hawk” Hutchison and Howie “Hairy” Berckman. Injuries temporarily sidelined the Fitch boys, “Peerless” Perry and “Tearless” Jim. Passing the baton The MOC continued on with their work. They invited Bob Eason, Bill McClellan, Rick Sherman and others into their kitchen to cook. Newton Sparks, Delbert Faulconer, and Carl Roberts retired in 1992, after 25 years of service as cooks for the Men of the Church. That’s dedication. - Jennie Hill Robinson OPC History Team  Don and Vibeke Ober with their children Poul and Ellen. The next generation Donald Roderick Ober was the son of Woodbury and Jane Ober. He met Vibeke Eriksen of Denmark here in Orange County and and they married in 1965. Don joined Orange Presbyterian Church in 1948. Vibeke joined shortly after the couple married. Vibeke still speaks today about the warmth of the congregation and how welcome she felt. The Obers have two children, son Poul Hambleton Ober and daughter Ellen Eriksen Ober. Don serves the church Don was elected a Deacon, then ordained and installed an Elder. He was active in the Men of the Church. Don was also involved with Hunters for the Hungry. This program delivered venison that was available to the Food Pantry. Don also helped with maintaining the church property. He organized workdays for members to help with clean-up. The President Madison Inn The President Madison Inn (PMI) adjoins Orange Presbyterian Church. At one time this hotel was owned by the Sherman family. In 1977 they sold it to John Markham. He converted it to an adult living facility.  The President Madison Inn, from a 1960s postcard. Orange Presbyterian Church's property is to the right of the swimming pool fence.  Don Ober and Ann Sommerville filling in the PMI pool. On the other side of the fence is the church's Fellowship Hall. Part of the process involved filling in PMI's unused swimming pool. A group of OPC members offered to help. Don Ober and Ann Somerville were two of those volunteers.
The Episcopalian Ladies started a lunch program for the PMI residents. Vibeke was part of the group from OPC that helped with this program. Vibeke serves the church In 1975, Vibeke led the church kindergarten class. She worked with the church Youth Group alongside Ann Garnett Sparks. Vibeke was also active in the Women of the Church in the 1980s. She was chair of Ecumenical Missions and Relations. She headed the Luncheon Circle for several years. Vibeke also enjoyed putting flowers in the church on occasional Sundays. Vibeke joined the Board of Deacons in 1986. She was chair of the Fellowship Committee when the Shepherd Groups went active. In 1988, Vibeke was ordained and installed in the Session. Rounton Farm Don and Vibeke Ober opened their farm, Rounton, for several years for the annual church picnic. Everyone brought their own lunch and chair, and there were games for the children. Their daughter Ellen, and husband, Rob Pitera, now live at Rounton Farm with their two sons, Charlie and Douglas. With Vibeke, they turned the farm into an event venue welcoming many groups. Don and Vibeke's son Poul and his wife Priscilla have two children, Olivia and Douglas. Don Ober passed away in 2013. His family remains dedicated to Orange County in many ways -- through the school system, youth groups, and their place of worship. - Jennie Hill Robinson OPC History Team  Woodbury Swan Ober Woodbury Swan and Jane McLennan Ober both joined Orange Presbyterian Church (OPC) in January of 1950. The couple's son, Donald (Don) Roderick Ober joined OPC in 1948. Their daughter, Jane McLennan Ober joined in January of 1952. Don Ober married Vibeke Ericksen and they had two children: Poul and Ellen. (More on this another time!) The Obers help Grymes Memorial School Woodbury was on the board of directors for the National Bank and Trust Co. The family lived at Elmwood Farm in Orange County. In 1955, the Obers helped Grymes School by donating 32 acres on Spicer’s Mill Road for their new campus. The school broke ground that September.  Christmas candelabras designed by Jane Ober. An active life in the church Shortly after joining, Woodbury and Jane Ober donated one hundred hymnals to the church. Woodbury was elected Deacon at OPC for the class of 1956. In 1962 he was elected an Elder. Gifts for the new sanctuary After the congregation moved into the new sanctuary, the Obers donated a lovely communion cloth for the communion table. Jane was also selected to design and oversee the installation of the landscaping around the new sanctuary. She also designed and had built lovely candelabras for our Christmas celebrations. They are still today, unique in their style and a wonderful addition to our sanctuary. Finding a new manse A committee for Manse Development was formed in 1973, and Jane was part of it. The committee's task was to procure a new manse for the church, either by building or purchasing. After much research into building a home, it was decided to purchase instead. OPC bought a house on Rapidan Road in the Town of Orange. The cost was the same as the estimates the committee received for buying a lot and building a house. Jane Ober also served on a ‘long range planning committee’ for the church. Its function was to study the long range needs of the church and the development of the physical plant. Woodbury's Bible challenge In April of 1973, OPC's newsletter, the Presbyterian Punch, published a Bible Quote feature, prepared by Woodbury Ober. The quote had some of words missing, and the reader had to fill in the spaces. As Woodbury explained, “There were no prizes other than the great joy that comes from studying God’s Word.” This feature ran for six months.  Jane McLennon Ober Faithful servants
Woodbury Ober passed away in January of 1975, and Jane Ober passed away in September of 1975. The following was written by J. Russell Bailey and posted in the Presbyterian Punch in memory of Jane McLennon Ober: “Every time we go to our church we see the handiwork of our friend and faithful member, Jane Ober. She served on our Building Committee. She gave of herself and means to accomplish the church landscaping and many other unnamed benefits. She added beauty to our Christmas celebration. But so much more than these, she was the mother of a fine family and the wife of a marvelous Christian. What an inspiration she has been to that family and to our church! We are all so grateful for her life among us.” In 1976, OPC received a $10,000 gift from Mrs. Jane Ober’s trust estate. There were no restrictions on the use of the funds. But it was Jane's hope that one half of the gift would be used for beautification of the church grounds. - Jennie Hill Robinson OPC History Team |
