The following is a reprint from the Spring 1996, Volume 51, No. 2 Bulletin.
As a harbinger of Spring, a robin hops along on the nearby lawn, the crocus have risen in bloom above the earth and music, The Rite of Spring, plays beside me.
Thus I am convinced that Spring is here in spite of the snow of yesterday that makes it a record breaking year in the amount with which we have been blessed. My wish for you is that the hope and promise, which is the message of the season, inspires you for the weeks ahead.
John (1) Took Freeman’s Oath
Recently, as I was browsing through The Story, an interesting fact came to my attention. At one time, our ancestor, John, took the Freeman’s Oath. This was in the year 1650. This oath was demanded of all residents as a pledge of loyalty in time of danger.
This story brought to mind a situation I encountered when I was hired as a young teacher in the State of Massachusetts. The year was 1946. I was called to the office of the superintendent, made to raise my right hand and pledge my loyalty to the State of Massachusetts. I am not sure wha responsibility this entailed for me. Fortunately the test of proving my loyalty never came about. Thank goodness! What would I have done? In my heart, I was still a loyal Vermonter.
Forefathers Contribution to The Society
I note in reading about the Clough! Cluff/Clow folks — that many were people of intellect, hardworking people who owned much land. Many were prominent in the founding of towns and cities. Many held positions in the town. We know very little about the contributions made to society, or positions held, or accomplishments of the family of today. Should that be another area which we should think about having in writing?
The pedigree charts will tell names and dates but there should be some record of who each of us is. I suggest that at our meeting this year, you come ready to tell of some of the interesting stories of your family or outstanding accomplishments.
Jane Drifted into Obscurity
Another curious fact that I think about from time to time is that we know so little about John’s wife, Jane — not even her last name. She was the mother of those Cloughs who started our family lines. Into obscurity she has gone quietly and unknown to us, her descendants.
Stimulate Young Cloughs
We need to continue to pursue new avenues so as to stimulate interest in our young people who will be needed to carry on The Society in the years to come. We are always looking for new and good ideas. Perhaps you will bring some to Walpole.
Wishing you all good things.
Rita Clough
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