Open House in Del Rio

Thursday morning found attendees arriving in Del Rio, TN, for the 100th Anniversary Celebration of Leonora Whitaker Wood's arrival at Ebenezer Mission. Attendees fanned out to enjoy the historic sites of the town. There was a fantastic breakfast buffet hosted in the Del Rio Baptist Church Fellowship Hall, hosted by the Cocke County Tourism Council. Among the historic buildings open for attendees was the Barnett Boarding House where Leonora stayed, now handsomely decorated with many antique pieces.

Also open was the Runnion Store. Stephen Stokely [grandson of the mailman, Hubert Stokely, who accompanied Leonora to the mission] was there to answer questions and explain about the area. Additionally, members of the Del Rio Preservation Society were on hand to provide assistance and explanation to curious attendees who wanted to know more about the area.

Attendees gathered in the Del Rio Baptist church where they were greeted by Larry Myers with a hearty welcome. Larry, and his brother Cary are the sons of Opal Corn Myers. Opal became a friend and advisor to Catherine Marshall while Catherine was writing Christy. Linda Lewanski of the Cocke County Tourism Council read a proclamation from the Mayor, Iliff McMahan, Jr. Peter Marshall also spoke a few words to those gathered and music was provided by Mountain Strings.

100th Anniversary Recognition Ceremony

The ceremony commenced at Ebenezer Baptist Church, a scenic church relocated from the Mission Site. As the music of Mountain Strings ended, all sat quiet as the original mission bell tolled specially for the occasion. A representative from the church community, Ruby Turner, shared a few words, followed by Marilyn Mitchem's playing of the Christy theme music. As the last strains died away, Larry Myers once again spoke to those gathered, sharing a heartfelt prayer.

Music again became the focal point as a hymn was sung, and then the Ebenezer Quartet sang a cappella for all present. Their authentic, heartfelt singing was then followed by the keynote presentation by The Reverend Peter Marshall. He paid homage to the day and its importance in so many lives. He tied in the theme of Christy and his Grandmother's experiences with that of what he believes as the true focal point, the command of service which comes from God. Many could easily recall how such experiences - which did happen to Leonora - were also placed in the book as Christy followed her call to serve.

Carrying on the educational and giving spirit of Leonora and her legacy, ChristFest™ presented a donation to the youth of the church. More music was enjoyed, first presented again by Mountain Strings with those gathered all joining in on Amazing Grace. After a final few words, attendees began making their way to the mission site.

Mission Site Lunch

Larry and Karen Myers, with some help from their generous friends and neighbors, put on a huge spread of food for everyone up at the Mission Site. Some braved the damp ground and mud to go up to the remaining standing cabin, the Click [O'Teale] Cabin. Others took the opportunity to speak to Peter Marshall and Miss Emma before their departure, while everyone participated in easing the burden of the heavily laden tables. A few attendees were even presented with the opportunity to make friends helping each other release some cars from the hungry mud.

In the end, cars were freed and much enjoyment was experienced as the Mission grounds were abuzz with activity. In time, cars began leaving the Mission Site. Most experienced some heavy rainfall on their travels as they left but it managed to hold off until near the end of a very meaningful day.