Forty three descendants of William Smith and Lydia Caroline Kelly Adams met at the Adams Cemetery on April 25, 2009 for the annual work day and reunion.

The cemetery, located near Richland Springs, is an official State of Texas historical site, and is to date the burial place for six generations of the W.S. Adams family. Because the cemetery is being kept in such immaculate condition, there was little actual work to be done – a weed or two pulled here and there, or a stray branch or so to be trimmed elsewhere. And so, armed with hoes, clippers, chainsaws, and all other manner of work implements, a crew of ready workers admired the beauty of the cemetery then laid aside their work tools, and got about a time of visiting.

New acquaintances were made – some cousins meeting other cousins for the first time – and established relationships were renewed. As the visiting progressed, Dale McKinnerney and his son-in-law, Todd Burks, fried fish and French fries to be enjoyed at lunch. A special treat was the fresh oysters brought by Butch Johnston of Houston.When the cooks were finished and the tables were laden with all manner of side dishes from salads to beans to desserts and every imaginable thing in between, Dale voiced the blessing for the meal. The gathering served themselves buffet style, then around and through mouthfuls of delicious food, continued visiting.

After the meal, Garry Adams, president of the Adams Cemetery Association, presided over the business meeting with his accustomed pleasant efficiency. At the beginning of the business meeting, Garry asked that one spokesperson from each family group in attendance introduce his or her group. It was indeed a joy to have Herloyse (Babe) Terry Weaver able to be in attendance this year.

Herloyse is one of the founding members of the association as well as an elder statesmen of the W.S. Adams family. Herloyse did not come alone, but did indeed bring a large contingent of family from the Baytown area with her. After the yearly business was attended to, the meeting adjourned with plans secured for next year’s meeting scheduled for the last Saturday in April, which is the date established by the association membership.

Amid choruses of “See you next year” family groups drifted toward their various homes, full of delicious food and filled with new memories of family and fellowship.

The Adams Cemetery Association appreciates all the support it receives from family as well as interested others. Mark your calendars now for the last Saturday of April 2010 for the next annual meeting. Come enjoy family and fellowship and bring someone with you!