To the Editor:

You may often hear the phrase "Don't live in the past.” If you are interested in history, this phrase flutters in the periphery.

Many groups form with history in mind.  With some groups, living in the past is its members’ passion. Viking and Civil War re-enactors. Star Wars convention-goers. National and local museums displaying, remembering, and playing tribute to our past. The Berne Historical Museum proudly shares the past with visitors and friends.

Did you know East Berne residents were once in danger of losing their local post office? For 33 years, the mail operations were conducted out of Mrs. Flavia O'Brien's home. She was the village postmaster.

When Mrs. O'Brien wanted to retire, the life of the post office was at risk. Through the efforts of the East Berne Businessmen's Association, we gained a post office as well as a brand new rural delivery service.      

People's life experiences are important. Journals, pictures, written and oral histories help us remember and perhaps learn. On Monday, June 27, the Berne Historical Society will meet at 7 p.m. in the Berne Town Hall to tickle our memory cells as we recall the past.

Bring an interesting artifact to share, some pictures, a story or two. There will be refreshments, laughter, and learning as we take a stroll through the time machine.

Sandra Kisselback

Berne Historical Society