History
The Restoration
Recently, the Town of Olive Archives released a CD-ROM featuring a multi-media tour of the pre-reservoir town of Olive, entitled “Country Tears – City Water.” This presentation, the first of its kind in our area, is a true masterpiece. All proceeds from sales of the CD-ROM go toward the restoration of the Old School Baptist Meeting House in Shokan.
This project was the brainchild of Sylvia Rozzelle, Clerk of the town of Olive, who wanted to spotlight the town’s 175th anniversary and, at the same time, support a worthy cause. Sylvia spent an untold number of volunteer hours putting this effort together, then directing it. Her team was composed of: Eliza Praetorius of Earthworks Publishing in Kingston – Technical Producer; Amy Fradon of West Shokan – Vocals; Dorraine Scofield of West Shokan – Violin, John Dragun of The Computer Guys in Saugerties -CD Mastering; Andrew & Nancy Silvestri of Creative Spirit in Olivebridge – Webpage and Online Sales; and many others.
Seed money for the project was provided by Olive residents William Golden, Helen Jeffs, Chet Lyons Jr., Nancy Silvestri, and Town Supervisor Berndt Leifeld.
Because of their efforts, over $5,000 has already been raised for repair of the antebellum Meeting House, which is getting a new roof this week. Everyone with an interest in Olive should take pride in this effort. Thank you all!
Commentary by Eric Winchell, Trustee, Olive & Hurley Church on Thursday, August 17, 1999