June 15, 2024

On June 11, members of the Gilead Rupe Chapter of the Daughters of the American Revolution (DAR) in Odessa presented an award to the Lone Jack Historical Society.

The Excellence in Historic Preservation Medal is an annual award presented by chapters nationwide. It recognizes and honors someone who has done extraordinary volunteer work over a long period in establishing or preserving history at the regional, state, and/or national level.

This endeavor could include establishing a historic district, preserving a local landmark, restoring or preserving objects of historic cultural significance, or establishing or participating in oral history projects, youth leadership and education, as it pertains to historic preservation.

The ladies from the DAR chapter met at the Lone Jack Museum to present the medal and certificate to Lone Jack Historical Society President Alinda Miller. The medal recognizes “Alinda Miller and the Lone Jack Battlefield Museum Volunteers.”

The Daughters presented the award in memory of Stephanie Dyer. Chapter Regent Connie Lee stated that “Stephanie was a beloved member and tireless volunteer of both groups.”

“We are excited to have a place like this (Lone Jack) that preserves Civil War history,” Lee said. Stephanie’s husband, Mike Dyer, who was also present at the ceremony stated, “Whether good or bad, it is still our history. We need to remember it.”

Lone Jack Historical Society Secretary Linda Barta and Directors Katee Hall and Don Pedigo also attended.