by Town Historian Al Dumas
As a historian, memorabilia interests me – especially when it’s memorabilia from right here in Sullivan County! A friend of mine shared this “time capsule” with me, with most items dating from the 1930s…and now I’m sharing it with you. About one hundred years ago, school sports and civic events were one of the primary opportunities for the community to socialize. These were big outings for many folks.
Ribbon Identifying a Guest to the Hudson Valley Volunteer Firemen Association Convention
This was held in Monticello from June 18-20th, 1936 – and was its 46th annual convention, meaning that conventions had been held since 1890…wow! This item in the time capsule caught my eye, as I am currently the 2nd Vice President of the Sullivan County Volunteer Firefighter’s Association, founded in 1926.
NY Police Uniform Patch
This patch was used by the police during the 1920s through the 1950s. As a Sullivan County Sheriff Liaison, I have taken an interest in police history. Last year, together with members of the Monticello Police, we honored Officer Edward Dollard who was a victim of an infamous crime over 100 years ago.
Monticello Sports Club Event Ticket
This took place at the Monticello Lodge B.P.O.E. 1544 on December 30, 1930. As the ticket states “donation ringside,” perhaps this was a ticket to a boxing or wrestling event.
Ticket to a High School Basketball Game
The game was between Middletown and Monticello on Wednesday, February 18, 1931 in Monticello. I wish to note that the Chief Judge of New York State, Lawrence H. Cooke, was a senior at Monticello H.S. at this event. How amazing that it cost just 25 cents to see a basketball game!
Liberty Miniature Golf Course Ticket
This is dated from the mid 1930s, and the course was located at 81 South Main St. next to the Presbyterian Church.
Football Program for a Game Between Monticello and Liberty
This was held at the Fairground Field in Monticello (this field was located on Broadway, near the Sullivan County Government Center) on November 5th, likely around the 1930s. As digital media has taken hold, it is now uncommon to receive programs at games.
Monticello High School Athletic Association Membership Card
This was for the 1932-33 season, with a membership fee of 25 cents, given by the President of the Athletic Association, Richard Cooper.
Football Schedule of the Monticello High School Season of 1933
…featuring Coach Kenneth H. Somerville (yes, that’s where Somerville field got its name!), Manager Stanley Kornbloom, and Co-Captains Joe Katzman and Bob Martin.
I will have another feature in the near future involving the first Carvel Ice Cream franchise from 1955 in Monticello, located at 7 Forestburgh Road and State Route 42 (former Port Jervis Road). The structure still stands, across from the Sobo Office, the former Chief Judge of New York State Lawrence H. Cooke property. After Carvel left, there was Tuzzio’s – followed by Silver Cone.
Please contact me if you have any interesting Town of Thompson memorabilia to share!