Welcome to Our Web Site

In September 2006 a group of about 60 people gathered in Tipton PA. This group consisted of past residents, workers, and family of those associated with the Williamsburg Childrens Home and Orphanage before it burned down in the mid 1970s. It was bittersweet for many that gathered that day. But mostly it was a way to reach out and reminisce with others that shared a part of their lives. Pictures were shared. Memories rekindled. Phone numbers and emails exchanged. A plan was formed. To hold a reunion again the following year. Hoping to reach more people. And so this site was formed to help in that purpose. To reach out and connect with those from your past. Or just to be informed on the next gathering. This is your site. Those of you who shared this special time in your life. Make it what you want. Reach out and let others know where you are. Or post a message of who you might be searching for. Share photos of past and present. You decide. All comments are welcomed.

2007 - And We Continue to Grow

A beautiful day in September 2007 doubled our numbers. More photos were added. More memories rekindled, and a surprise visit from Mr & Mrs Merritts, the Administrators of the Home in that final year when the fire closed the doors forever. The original dinner bell was brought and rung stirring up even more stories. Another surprise visit was from 80+ youngster Marian "Tootsie" Shafer, a resident from the 1930s, who prompted some great stories of the swimming pool that lasted since way back then. A lovely dinner prayer was written by Charlie Tipton -- You can read it on the Misc page. We're getting more organized and we're tentatively set to do it again the first weekend after Labor Day Sept 2008. Watch here as information is updated.

2008 - And Grow

Even the rainy overcast day didn't keep everyone away for the 2008 reunion. Our numbers were down. Some preferred the Penn State game. Some left early, a few came later, but for those that gathered it was still a day of memories and sharing. A missing camera card gives us only a few pictures of this day so anyone having taken photos please share so we can add them to our website. Most stayed for the meeting and with a resounding YES it was decided to continue this reunion. But, we need everyone's help to get the word out. So please, pass it on, or send us a name & address and we'll get the information to them.

2009 -

Another rainy overcast day competing with PSU! Our numbers held about the same. More brought their families. A few from out of town came in a bit late to join the festivities. But all agreed to continue. Spread the word. Most simply do not wish to lose touch with others having shared such a big part of their life back then. Sadly, a few more were added to the memories list. A photojournalist stopped by to take some photos and record some memories to add to a feature story by Walt Frank wfrank@altoonamirror.com. Let's hope this piques more interest in others attending.

2010 - Make Plans to Join Us

Commmittee Meeting: (all are welcome) It was decided to skip a formal meeting this year.
2010 Reunion: Saturday, September 11, 2010 1:00pm @DelGrosso Park, Tipton PA

PHOTOS

We have a link above to photos taken each year's gathering. And our memories page holds old photos. If any of you would like to submit photos from the past we would love to include them as well. Just email to williamsburgchildrenshome@gmail.com or contact cathE for additional help.