The 105th annual reunion of the relatives and friends of Naaman and Diantha (Benham) Spencer was held June 8 at Riverdale school in Rock Falls.
About 118 persons were present. This is one of the largest and oldest family reunions held in Illinois tracings its first reunion to 1870.
As has been the tradition for many years, the reunion president, Ralph Witt of Elmhurst led the assembly in singing "God Bless America" and said the invocation. Dorothy Bruns of Kent, gave a special talk on honoring the flag, and then she was joined by the children under seven years of age as they led the group in saying the pledge to the flag. Following this, a pot luck was enjoyed by all.
The most honored (eldest) member present, Mrs. Alta Druce of Sterling continued a tradition begun in 1902 by presenting the silver reunion spoon to Blaine Edward LaShelle. Blaine is the son of Mr. and Mrs. Frank LaShelle and grandson of Mr. and Mrs. Charles Spencer, of Thomson. Mr. and Mrs. Earl Ruby of Oshkosh, Wis., were presented with a gift as the family traveling the greatest distance.
The officers who will be involved in organizing projects and activities for next year's reunion which will emphasize our nation's bicentennial celebration are: president, Ralph Witt; vice president: Ronald Spencer; and secretary treasurer Judy Witt. The reunion will be held again on the second Sunday in June, 1976, at the Riverdale school in Rock Falls.
Received shortly after the reunion was a certificate from Gov. Daniel Walker recognizing the Spencer-Benham family "not only for their contributions to the progress of our country but for their spirit and togetherness that make them a model for all American families."
