Lifetimes of Memories: Voices of Barry County

Volume 13

Narrators Include: Hugh Lacey, Everett & Geneva (Whisman) McCormick, Roy Moore, and Harold Williams
A lifelong resident of Thomas Hollow, Hugh relates many interesting stories of the people who lived there. Hugh's family, the Coles and the Laceys, have long ties to the Thomas Hollow area. Hugh also shares with us stories of his wife's family, the Karvaneks, coming to America from Bohemia. Always community minded, Hugh served on school boards as well as other organizations, accumulating over 60 years of volunteer service. Mr. Lacey tells a story of hard work and success in rural living. Hugh's interviews were conducted in late 2007 and early 2008.
Hugh Lacey
 

Lee hails from a long-time Monett family. The McCormick family once owned a farm where Broadway Street is currently located; they also owned the property where Burger King is presently situated. Mr. McCormick remembers when Monett's streets were dirt, and horses were the mode of transportation. Lee's father was a railroad worker and he relates many interesting stories of Monett as a railroad town. Mr. McCormick was a World War II veteran, and a career Army man. Geneva, daughter of Lee and Anna (Mikeman) Whisman, was raised in the Shell Knob community during the CCC era. A hard working family, the Whismans farmed, did laundry for the CCC camp, operated a barber shop and taught school in order to provide for their family.
Everett & Geneva (Whisman) McCormick
 
Roy was born into a family of farmers. Mr. Moore, an avid horseman, had the opportunity to care for Gene Autry's horse for a short time during a trip to California in 1941. Roy was an Army veteran and served in the South Pacific during World War II. He was a part-time cook during his tour of duty, and at one time prepared a meal for John Wayne. Mr. Moore was musically inclined and taught himself to play the guitar at a young age. Enjoy Roy's account of farming the old-fashioned way and growing up in Barry County during difficult times. Mr. Moore's interviews were held during the winter of 2007-2008. Roy Moore passed away on April 8, 2010.
Roy Moore
 
The Williams family story takes place in the northeast corner of Barry County. Born into a very large family, Harold had the joy of growing up with several siblings to play and work with. The family owns a Century Farm still in operation today. Mr. Williams recalls farming with horses and doing numerous jobs by hand which are now done by machines. Harold, an Army veteran of World War II, shares his memories of the many interesting places he toured. Mr. William's interviews were conducted in the fall of 2006. Harold Williams passed away on July 19, 2009.
Harold Williams