Stroups Settle Cherryville North Carolina

After much time and effort, we've located the original deed of land sale that establishes the Stroup family in western Lincoln (now Gaston) County, near current day Cherryville, North Carolina.

1814, Daniel Stroup [1779-1824], son of Jacob Stroup, sells his 100 acre homestead near Alexis North Carolina and subsequently purchases 140 acres, approximately 10 miles west of Alexis, near current day Cherryville, North Carolina. Source: Deed of Sale, Joshua Morrison to Daniel Stroup, Gaston County NC Deeds, Book 28, page 369.

Upon his untimely death at age 45, Daniel bequeathed the 140 acres to his wife and children. Several years later, Christopher "Christy" Stroup, Daniel's second son, purchased the rights to the 140 acres from his siblings.

Another son of immigrant Jacob Stroup, John Stroup [1779-1824], left the Stroup Homestead near Alexis around the same time as Daniel and relocated to western Lincoln County - southeast of present-day Cherryville. We're still searching for that Deed.

Lawrence Loy Stroupe Jr. Obit

Lawrence Loy Stroupe, Jr. Mr. Stroupe, 84, of Charlotte, died Tuesday, November 3, 2009, at Presbyterian Hospital, Main. Graveside services will be held 11 a.m. Saturday, November 7, in Sharon Memorial Park. His family will receive friends at the family home following the service. Born April 22, 1925, in Charlotte, a son of the late Lawrence Loy Stroupe, Sr. and Mary Ware Stroupe, he was preceded in death by his wife, 'Miss Katie', on July 25, 2002. He was also preceded in death by two brothers, James D. and Jerry Ware Stroupe. Survivors include two daughters, Teresa 'Tess' Cook and her husband, Steve, of Charlotte and Lisa K. Stroupe of Concord, NC; one son, Lawrence L. Stroupe, III and his wife, Darlene, of Mint Hill; two granddaughters, Jennifer Teague and her husband, Luke, of Harrisburg and Caroline Cook and her husband, Adam Frers of Charlotte; two grandsons, Eric and Daniel Stroupe; and three great-grandchildren, Cameron, Finley Kate and Carter Teague. In lieu of flowers, memorials are requested to Arthritis Services, 500 E. Morehead Street, Charlotte, NC 28202. Mr. Stroupe's family is being served by Wilson Funeral & Cremation Service. Visit www.wilsonfuneralservices.com for on-line condolences.

Mary Corinne Stroup Johnson

Mary shared many photos and family stories with her Grand-daughter Inga about her Stroup family in Wyoming. She provided Inga and us with wonderful details about this branch of the Stroup family which we knew very little about until now. She will be missed by the Stroup family. Thank you Mary.

Mary Corinne Johnson, 93, of Casper, passed away Nov. 2, 2009 at the Central Wyoming Hospice Home.
She was born April 16, 1916 in Sheridan, WY, the daughter of Thomas David and Lulu Mary (Cotton) Stroup. She attended school in the Four Mile (Decker), MT and Sheridan, WY areas, graduating from Sheridan High School in 1937. She was united in marriage to Carl Donald Johnson June 19, 1937 in the Baptist Church by Pastor Oliver Reed in Sheridan, WY. Her husband Don was employed by the Burlington-Northern Railroad, so Mary oversaw the daily household activities, raising five children. She was a country girl at heart and found joy in the simple things in life. She loved finding pictures and shapes in the clouds, enjoying a good cup of hot chocolate, crocheting, and walking hand in hand with her husband as they window shopped in downtown Sheridan. She was a cultivator of flowers and an avid gardener, raising her own vegetables even when she moved to town. She enjoyed a good card or board game and loved putting together jigsaw puzzles. Both she and Don enjoyed traveling to see family and friends, and she kept this up even after his death in 1973.
Family and God were the center of her life. She gave of herself to help others in need. She nursed her husband, her mother, and her Aunt Nell through their illnesses and supported many other family members as they faced difficult medical challenges. She was a woman of great faith who devoted time to studying the Bible every day. She and her husband, Don, belonged to First Baptist Church in Sheridan. Mary spent many years teaching Sunday school and helping with Bible school. Her adventurous spirit, infectious sense of humor and love for life will be greatly missed by all who knew her.
She is survived by two sons, Bill and wife Pam Johnson of Cheyenne, WY and Ralph Johnson of Statesville, NC and thirteen grandchildren (Edith Lou, Don, Sandy, Bob, Shanna, John, Carl, Donald, Inga, Carla, Cynthia, Gabe and Tessa). She is also survived by her brother, Bert and wife Lu Stroup, and sister Rose and husband Francis Stone, all of Sheridan, WY. Numerous great grandchildren and a few great -great grandchildren also survive her as well as many nieces and nephews.
She was preceded in death by her parents, her husband, three children (Donald Dick Johnson, Bob Leroy Johnson and Donna Corinne McCoy), a granddaughter (Stephanie Mary Johnson), five brothers (Alonzo, Frank, Harry, Chester and Ray) and two sisters (Margaret Gleason and Helen Johnson).
Graveside services will be held at the Sheridan Municipal Cemetery in Sheridan, WY at 2:00 p.m. on Saturday, November 7, 2009. Memorial contributions may be made to the donor's choice. Arrangements are under the direction of Newcomer Funeral Home, 710 E. 2nd, Casper, WY (307) 234-0234.

Stroup Update

As you all know I haven't posted much lately. Well, I have been real busy helping fellow "cousins" with their questions. Plus I have started updating the Gaston/Lincoln Counties Stroup index. I have finished with the "A's". At this rate I am looking at 18-24 months. I use the info from our Ancestry tree for the update. This would not have been possible without all the help from Sid. The updated version I am just going to call the index something like "NC Stroup(e)s 1770-1920" because it includes other NC Counties as well. My info on the family after 1920 gets real weak and by that time way too large.

I promise to start posting again soon. Besides winter is coming and that will reduce my yard work. I have 2 homes that I have to maintain, so that cuts into my fun time.
Cousin Mike

Francis Edwin Stroup Turns 100

Fight song composer turns 100
By DANA HERRA dherra@daily-chronicle.com
DeKALB – Francis Stroup sat mildly in a large event room at Oak Crest DeKalb Area Retirement Center Sunday as the choir from his church sang to him in honor of his 100th birthday.When the choir sang a few of the songs local composer Stroup has written, a hint of a smile played about his face as his lips barely moved to the words. And when the choir launched into a saucy number titled, "That Old Feelin' (Is What Keeps Me From Feelin' Old,)" his toes started tapping – until the soloist playfully wrapped a pink feather boa around his neck."He said, 'Take that off of me,'" the soloist, the Rev. Linda Slabon of the Unitarian Universalist DeKalb Fellowship, laughed after the song was finished.Stroup will celebrate his birthday on Tuesday, and attributed most of his longevity to "a good gene pool.""I had an aunt on one side and an uncle on the other side who both lived to 93," he said. "If you don't complain much, you have a longer life."Stroup began writing music for fun when he was a student at what was then North Texas State University. In 1939, 10 years after his graduation, he wrote a new fight song for the college, now the University of North Texas, that is still in use today.In 1959, Stroup and his wife moved to DeKalb so he could take a job as a physical education teacher at Northern Illinois University, and in 1961 he wrote the "Huskie Fight Song," which was adopted as the university's fight song in 1963. A line from the song, "Forward, Together Forward," was adopted as a slogan of support as the community came together after the Feb. 14, 2008, campus shooting that left five students and the shooter dead.Music has always played an important part in Stroup's life. He was instrumental in creating the music program at the Unitarian Universalist church in the early 1990s, Slabon said."He really wanted to make sure the church had a music program," she said. "For Francis, having a minister is good, but music is essential."The choir was happy to join the dozens of well-wishers at Sunday's party to sing for Stroup, church music director Toni Tollerud said."The choir loves to perform his songs. It's a real treat," she said.

Francis Stroup is from the Texas Clan of Stroups. The Texas Stroups descend from Philip Stroup (1764-1837) of Hoyles Creek near Alexis, NC

Mrs. Aileen Sellers Stroupe (1913 - 2009)

BESSEMER CITY - Mrs. Aileen Sellers Stroupe, 95, of St. Mark's Church Road, died Thursday, Aug. 27, 2009, at Carolina Care Center. She was born on Sept. 21, 1913, a daughter of the late Cletus Andrew and Fannie Mauney Sellers. Aileen was a home maker, a lifetime member of St. Mark's Lutheran Church where she was chairman of the bereavement committee for 50 years, charter member of Cherryville Senior Citizens and a member of Shady Grove Senior Citizens.

In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by her husband, Thamer Stroupe in 1993; an infant son ; two brothers, Ralph and Cline Sellers; an adopted grandson, Joey Ginn; and special friend and caregiver, Ann Ferrell.

Surviving are her loving son and daughter-in-law, Tony and Patsy Stroupe; several nieces and nephews; and her caregivers, Debra Prestwood and Janice Ballard.

A special thanks to the staff of Carolina Care Center, Dr. Thomas White, Cheryl Baxter and Hospice Cleveland County.

Visitation: The family will receive friends Friday, Aug. 28, 6 to 8 p.m., at Carpenter's Funeral Home and other times at the home of Patsy and Tony Stroupe.

Funeral: Saturday, Aug. 29, 11 a.m., St. Mark's Lutheran Church

Burial: St. Mark's Lutheran Church Cemetery

Officiated by: The Revs. Marty Ramey and Lane Lavender

Memorials: St. Mark's Lutheran Church, 1203 St. Mark's Church Road, Cherryville, NC 28021; or Hospice Cleveland County, 951 Wendover Heights Drive, Shelby, NC 28150

Funeral home: Carpenter's Funeral Home

Dean Emeritus Henry Stroupe dies

Dean Emeritus Henry Stroupe dies

Professor bridged old and new campuses and developed graduate school
By Kerry M. King ('85)Office of Communications and External RelationsPublished August 21, 2009

Henry Stroupe ('35, MA '37), the founding dean of the Graduate School of Arts and Sciences and one of the last surviving faculty members to have taught on the Old Campus, died on Aug. 20 in Winston-Salem. He was 95.
He is survived by his wife, Elizabeth; two sons and their wives, Steve ('66) and Jane, and David ('68) and Kim; and two grandchildren, Stephen Christopher and Margaret Elizabeth ('97).
Stroupe joined the history faculty in 1937 and served as director and later dean of graduate programs from 1961 until retiring in 1984. He received Wake Forest's highest award for service, the Medallion of Merit, in 1998.
“He stands high in Wake Forest's history,” said Professor Emeritus of Religion Carlton Mitchell ('43), who had known Stroupe since he was a student at Wake Forest and Stroupe was just starting his teaching career. “He was very valuable in preserving and building the bridge between the old Wake Forest and the new Wake Forest. He represented the best of old Wake Forest, but he was determined that it should grow, as it did, and the graduate school was an important part of that.”
Stroupe and Mitchell played golf together for 50 years until health problems forced Mitchell to give up the game several years ago. But Stroupe, even into his 90s, continued to play several times a week and had shot his age just a few weeks ago, Mitchell said. Besides his passion for golf, Stroupe was also known for keeping the yard of his Faculty Drive home in meticulous condition. After he retired, he and his wife traveled extensively and visited all seven continents, saving Antarctica for last.
Friends remembered his unassuming nature and a quiet, steady manner of getting things done. “He had great integrity and was a very considerate man to work with,” Mitchell said. “He was a deeply caring person and a very insightful person.”
Edwin G. Wilson ('43) was provost for much of the time that Stroupe was dean of the Graduate School. “Henry Stroupe will be remembered as one of the founders of Wake Forest in Winston-Salem,” Wilson said. “Bringing with him the best and most enduring traditions of the Old Campus, where he had been both a student and teacher, he taught American history, chaired the history department during a lively period of growth and expansion, and became the first dean of the graduate school, overseeing the development of both MA and PhD programs. He always welcomed any assignment that would bring new strength to the University he loved.”
A native of Alexis, N.C., in Gaston County, and the son of a Baptist minister, Stroupe attended Mars Hill Junior College before coming to Wake Forest in 1933. He taught his first class as a senior in 1935 as a teaching fellow in social sciences before joining the faculty full time in 1937. He received his PhD in history from Duke University in 1942 and, after serving in the Navy during World War II, returned to Wake Forest permanently in 1946.
When Wake Forest moved to Winston-Salem in 1956, Henry and Elizabeth Stroupe, like many other faculty couples, built a house on Faculty Drive, and were the last of the original 23 homeowners on Faculty Drive. “I remember sitting out on the front porch late one evening in the first two or three days and it was so quiet. There was nobody else around,” Henry Stroupe recalled in a 2006 interview with Wake Forest Magazine. “I walked to campus most of the time. It took me seven minutes to walk to the library where the history department was first located.”
Stroupe was chairman of the social sciences department from 1954 to 1957 and chairman of the history department from 1957 to 1968. He was also director of evening classes from 1957 to 1961, when Wake Forest offered night classes to area residents. In 1961, he was named director of graduate studies and in 1967, dean of the newly created Graduate School of Arts and Sciences.
Stroupe taught classes on the history of North Carolina and researched and wrote extensively about the state's history and the history of North Carolina Baptists. He served as president of the North Carolina Historical Society in 1965 and president of the North Carolina Literary and Historical Association in 1974.
In 1982, he received the Christopher Crittenden Memorial Award from the North Carolina Literary and Historical Association for his contributions to the advancement of North Carolina history. He was also interested in Wake Forest's history and helped relocate and restore the Calvin Jones house — now home to the Wake Forest Birthplace Museum — in the town of Wake Forest.

Dr. Henry Stroupe

By John Hinton Journal Reporter
Published: August 21, 2009
Henry S. Stroupe, a founding dean of the Graduate School of Arts and Sciences at Wake Forest University and a professor who served as the chairman of the history department, died Thursday. He was 95.Elizabeth Stroupe, his wife, said that husband died because of complications from a fall at his home on Faculty Drive in Winston-Salem."He was a loving husband for 67 years," she said. "He enjoyed our life being close to the campus."In 1984, Stroupe retired as dean of the graduate program. He received the university's highest award for service, the Medallion of Merit, in 1998.Carlton Mitchell, a WFU professor emeritus of religion, had known him since Stroupe had started his teaching career at the college's original campus in Wake Forest. "He was valuable in preserving and building the bridge between the old Wake Forest and the new Wake Forest," Mitchell said in the university's online profile of Stroupe.Stroupe was a native of Alexis in Gaston County. He attended Mars Hill Junior College two years before going to Wake Forest, where he received his bachelor's degree in history in 1935. He received his master's degree in history two years later and joined the faculty.Stroupe received his doctorate in history at Duke University in 1942. He served in the U.S. Navy during World War II. After the war, he returned to Wake Forest and then moved to Winston-Salem in 1956 when university moved to its present-day campus. The Stroupes were among the original homeowners on Faculty Drive near campus.In 1982, Stroupe received the Crittenden Memorial Award from the N.C. Literary and Historical Association for his scholarly work on North Carolina history.During their retirement, Henry and Elizabeth Stroupe attended WFU football and basketball games and concerts and plays on campus, Elizabeth Stroupe said. Stephen Stroupe, the couple's oldest son, said that his parents visited all seven continents, including a trip to Antarctica in 1999 when they were 85. His father also played golf in his 90s and was a photographer.Stephen Stroupe said that his father "enjoyed the vitality of life."David Stroupe, the couple's younger son, said that his father was an intelligent and patient man."He was loyal to everything that Wake Forest represented," he said.Henry Stroupe's funeral will be held at 2 p.m. Tuesday in Wait Chapel on the WFU campus. His burial will follow at Forsyth Memorial Park.

Anderson Stroupe

Anderson Stroupe was born Feb. 12, 1852 son of Solomon Leander Stroup and wife, nee Nancy Caroline Senter. Part of his farm at Hoyle's Creek had belonged to his father, who inherited or purchased part of the large farm of Philip Stroup, Sr. farm, Anderson’s great-grandfather, land that originally belonged to the Pioneer Jacob Stroup who had his first land grant in Nov. 1771.

FIRST WIFE MARGARET KEEVER
Anderson married first at age twenty on Dec. 29, 1872 Margaret Keever by whom he had one child, Margaret Caroline, but this wife either died in childbirth or when their child was small.

SECOND WIFE, REBECCA MORRIS
On Aug. 15, 1875 Anderson married Rebecca M. Morris, sister to Rev. John F. Morris who married Anderson’s sister Frances Catherine “Fanny” Stroup. Rebecca became stepmother to little Margaret, then bore nine children of her own between 1876 and 1893 when she also died.

THIRD WIFE, CALLIE JEANETTE STROUP
About 1908 Anderson married his cousin Callie Jeanette Stroup (13 Jul 1874, 19 May 1909) as his third wife. She was daughter of Bartlett Stroup, (who had also married as a cousin his third wife, Susannah, daughter of Solomon Stroup and Nancy Haskins.
Callie Jeanette had a daughter born 14 May 1909, an infant named Callie Viola Stroupe, but mother Callie died four days later on 19 May 1909, and was buried at Mt. Zion Baptist Church cemetery. The infant Callie was “wet-nursed” by a neighbor along with her own infant, and survived.
Although it's possible that Anderson married a fourth time, he apparently had no other children. He died at age 74 on June 22, 1926 and is buried in Alexis, NC.

ANDERSON STROUP'S CHILDREN
By 1st wife Margaret Keever:
1. Margaret Caroline Stroupe, b 24 Dec 1873-6 Feb 1920, m. Lawson Lafayette Smith. Children:
(1) Reid Smith.
(2) David Smith.
(3) Jesse Smith.
(4) John Beatty Smith.
(5) Benjamin Smith.
By 2nd wife Rebecca Morris:
2. Zany Stroupe, 1876.
3. James Vinson “Jim” STROUPE b 14 June 1879-28 Aug 1966. Married Edna Nora Rhyne, b 1888.
4. Elby Stroupe, (1877-1877) died infant.
5. Bessie L. Stroupe, b c1883, m. Esband Handsell. Children:
(1) George Handsell.
(2) John Handsell.
6. Mary H. Stroupe, b 16 Feb 1884-3 May 1953 buried Alexis Baptist Church m. Marvin Howard.
7. Minnie Stroupe, b 7 Jan 1887-2 Jan 1951, m Forney A. McAlister.
8. John F. Stroupe, b c1887.
9. Rev. Stephen Morris “Steve” Stroupe (20 June 1889 - 19 Sept 1974).
Steve M. Stroupe became a Baptist minister, serving church in Alexis, Mars Hill, Granite Falls, Connelly Springs. He married 1st, May 2, 1909 in York, S.C. Augie Virginia Lineberger, d/o Coleman Lineberger & Maggie Dellinger. Rev. Stephen Stroupe married second in 1950, Burke Co., N.C. to Minnie Huffman. Children: George Washington Stroupe, Martha Louise Stroupe, Henry Smith Stroupe.
10. Hattie Odell Stroupe (16 Aug 1891 - 2 May 1965), Dallas Twp; m Giles Augustus Rhyne (19 May 1886 - 14 Mar 1979). Both buried Alexis Baptist Church cemetery. Children: 1. Eva Mae Rhyne m. Robert Payne; 2. Pauline Rhyne m. L. L. “Fuzzy” Brown.
11. Thomas Anderson Stroupe (1 Nov 1893 - 10 May 1953), he married Birdie (Bertie) Iona Keever. Both buried at Alexis Baptist Church cemetery. Children: Mildred, Ralph, Virginia, twins Coy & Roy, Jack and Marjorie.
by 3d wife (cousin) Callie Jeanette Stroupe b 13 Jul 1874-19 May 1909:
12. Callie Viola Stroupe (14 May 1909 - 23 July 1993) m. Summy Leroy Hart (8 Apr 1906 – 2 Dec 1960); children: 1. Alice Jeanette Hart 1933; 2. Lacy Hart, b. Nov 11, 1934; 3. Macy Hart, twin to Lacy; 4. Elvy Elizabeth Hart, b. Nov 3 1936; 5. Lee Roy Hart (4 Apr 1937 - 3 May 1938); 6. Marion Anderson Hart, b 27 Mar 1938; 7. Doris Ann Hart, b. 14 Apr 1949; 8. Royce Dean Hart, twin & 9. Boyce Gene Hart, b. 16 May 1941; 10. Max Reid Hart b. Nov 9 1942; 11. Dollie Fay Hart, b. 23
½ Oct 1943; 12. Ruth Eve Hart b. 21 June 1946.


Anderson’s descendant through son Stephen b 1889; Henry Stroupe, Ph D., Prof. Emeritus Wake Forest Univ., m. Augie Virginia Lineberger of Iron Station.



SOURCES
1. Margaret Stroupe (Mrs. Craig) sent a large batch of material she collected, including: "Descendants of Solomon Stroup", with no author's name. "Stroup Genealogy", information from the meeting of a research committee at the home of Pauline Rhyne Brown, College St., Stanley, N.C.
Those present who combined their information included: Callie Viola Stroup Hart, Hattie Odell Stroup Rhyne (daughters of Anderson Stroup), and Giles August Rhyne. This Genealogy was typed by Maude Stroup Breidenthal, daughter of John W. and Orra Stroup. Other information has been added from census and cemetery records.
2. Lincoln & Gaston Co. census records, wills & deeds.

2009 Alexis Stroup Reunion Minutes

PROPOSED MINUTES (Pending approval at 2010 Reunion)
of
Stroupe Reunion
August 2, 2009

The 84th annual Stroupe Reunion was held on Sunday, August 2, 2009 in the gym of the Family Life Center of Alexis Baptist Church in Alexis, North Carolina. Approximately 90 people attended.

Group pictures were taken.

Steve Snyder gave the invocation.

Following the meal, Daphna Shelton welcomed those in attendance and led the business session.

The minutes for 2008 (which included the financial report for 2008) were read and, upon motion duly made and seconded, approved.

The second item of business was the election of officers to serve for 2009-2010. Upon motions duly made and seconded, the following officers were unanimously elected:

President - Nancy Quesada
Vice President - Mike Hipp
Secretary/Treasurer - Martha (Hipp) Daniel
Historian - Mike Stroupe (Rock Hill, SC)
Historian Committee - Sid Stroupe, Linda Ballard, Nancy Quesada
Set-up Committee - Mike Hipp, Ruth Hipp, Tim Stroupe,
Clean-up Committee - Everyone


The following twenty-three first time attendees were recognized:

John Bollman (Chapin, SC)
Carol Callanan (Bristol, VA)
Bryan and Zack Crenshaw (Philadelphia, PA)
Bill and Maxine Mintz (Iron Station, NC)
Mary Stroupe O’Malley (Marietta, SC)
Bill and Jacqui Randolph (Kirkland, WA)
Jesse & Jen Recinos (Austin, TX)
Margi & Paul Recinos (Newburyport, MA)
Josh and Sara Reese (Morganton, NC)
Rice and Cynthia Sexton (Raleigh, NC)
Barbara Anne Stegall (Matthews, NC)
Sondra Stroupe (Clover, SC)
Debbie Walsh (Knoxville, TN)
Jon and Gwendolyn Hanna Ward (Burnsville, NC)
Kathy Weathers (Travelers Rest, SC)

Recognition Certificates were awarded as follows:

Oldest Man (90) - Homer Orren
Oldest Woman (93) - Louise Groner
Youngest Boy (15 months) - Nathan Stroupe
Youngest Girl (4 years) - Virginia Keen
Greatest Distance Traveled - Bill and Jacqui Randolph (Kirkland, Washington)


Deaths reported were:

Mattie Marie Long Beal (January 2, 2009), Lincolnton, NC
- daughter of Julius and Eva Stroupe Long (both deceased)

Zana Parr Clippard (April 20, 2009), Alexis, NC
- daughter of Eural Collinsand Mary Parr Stroupe Clippard (both deceased)

Joe Daniel “Joey” Ginn (January 3, 2009), Cherryville, NC
- son of Joe Daniel “Dan” (Sr.) Ginn and Jo Ann McSwain Guin (deceased)
- husband of Pat Ginn
- nephew of Tony and Patsy Stroupe

Darthey Walker Hipp (September 18, 2008), Alexis, NC
- widow of Donald Clifton Hipp (who was the son of
Arthur Berry and Joanna Ellen Stroup Hipp (both deceased)
- mother of Michael, Stephen, Alan and Warren Hipp

Virginia “Jenny” Stroupe Kiser (December 3, 2008), Shelby, NC
- daughter of Thomas and Birdie Keever Stroupe (both deceased)

Don Paul Shook (March 13, 2009), Moneta, Virginia
- son of Paul Emory (deceased) and Edna Stroupe Shook

Nancy Stroup (June 24, 2009), Waco, NC
- daughter of Arthur Boyd and Gladys Essie Sellers Stroup (both deceased)

Clara Delle Stroupe (October 6, 2007), Cherryville, NC
- daughter of Bert and Sudie Stroupe (both deceased)


Ernest Bright Stroupe (November 8, 2002), Rutherford College, NC
- son of Ephirm and Nora Dellinger Stroupe (both deceased)

James Walter Stroupe (March 8, 2009), Lincolnton, NC
- son of Annie Rhyne Stroupe (deceased)

Edna Absher Thompson (January 16, 2009), Cherryville, NC
- daughter of Julius Clyde and Carrie Stroupe Absher (both deceased)

Although the following deaths were not verbally reported at the reunion, their obituaries were received and are included herein:

Addie Estelle Bingham (March 26, 2008), Morganton, NC
- daughter of David Jackson Stroupe and Eliza Christine Mooney Stroupe
(both deceased)

Carmie Gene Stroupe (October 23, 2008), Morganton, NC
- son of Gerald and Katie Johnson Stroupe (both deceased)

H. Craig Stroupe (December 11, 2008), Morganton, NC
- son of Ralph Benjamin and Eva Beatrice Rhyne Stroupe (both deceased)
- husband of Margaret Stroupe Stroupe
- father of Ben C. Stroupe, Diane Stroupe Holbrook and Linda Stroupe Snyder


Marriages reported were:

Chad Michael Stroupe to Heather Malia Clippard (March 12, 2005), Alexis, NC
- bridegroom is the son of Mike Stroupe,
grandson of Jack and Helen Stroupe (both deceased), and
great-grandson of Thomas and Birdie Stroupe (both deceased)

Christopher Shawn Stroupe to Stephanie Sexton (May 23, 2009)
- bridegroom is the son of Ben and Connie Stroupe,
grandson of H. Craig (deceased) and Margaret Stroupe Stroupe


Births reported were:

Jordan Dean Reeves (June 2, 2009), Florida
- great grandson of Coy and Gloria Dean Stroupe (both deceased)
- grandson of Beverly Stroupe Ellis
- son of Amber Ellis and Ray Reeves

Mike Stroupe (Daniel Stroup descendent) (Rock Hill, South Carolina), Historian and chairman of that committee, gave the Historian Committee report. He welcomed Bill Randolph to the reunion and said Bill’s family were descendants of the Stroupes who were iron workers. Mike reported he has been going through the information he obtained from Ethel Stroupe’s research of 50 years. Among other facts, Mike shared that ancestor Leon Stroupe of Texas sang at the funeral of Bonnie and Clyde and that some of the land sold to the Vanderbilts for the Biltmore Estate was previously owned by Stroupes. He also spoke about the great military tradition of the Stroups.

Daphna Shelton announced that Jimmie Stroupe had made a sock-monkey doll and named it “Granny Catherine” for Jacob Stroup’s first wife. Jimmie donated the doll to be sold by auction at the reunion with the proceeds going to the reunion’s treasury. Bill Mintz was the auctioneer. After an energetic round of bidding, Margi Recinos was the highest bidder ($75.00).


Sid Stroupe (Daniel Stroup descendent) spoke briefly, thanking everyone for coming, and asking everyone to take a few minutes to view the large family tree posters, which highlighted four of Jacob Stroup’s 15 children (specifically, sons Adam, Philip, Daniel and Michael), all of whom were represented by descendents present at the 2009 reunion. He also advised that Mike Stroupe had made poster-sized copies of a photograph from the 1927 Alexis Reunion held at the home of David Choosey Stroup at Alexis surrounded by dozens of Model T cars parked in the field.

Following the business session, door prizes were given. The grand prize of $50.00 was won by Jon Ward (a first-time attendee from Burnsville, NC). Cash prizes were won as follows: $20.00 by Isabelle Bollman; $10.00 by Anne Orren; $5.00 by Evan Stroupe, and $5.00 by Homer Orren. Additionally, two booklets entitled “History of Jacob Straub/Stroup”, written and donated by Mike Stroupe, were won by Zack Crenshaw and Diane Holbrook, and two booklets entitled “The Lincoln County Stroups During the Revolution”, also written and donated by Mike Stroupe, were won by Amy Snyder and Marlen Chappel.

The meeting was adjourned with plans to meet again on the 1st Sunday in August of 2010 at 1:00 in the gym at Alexis Baptist Church for the next reunion







_______________________________________
Martha Ellen (Hipp) Daniel, Secretary/Treasurer

Giles Preston Stroup Story

Here are some things I heard from Uncle Lee (Daphna and Margaret's older brother) in 1992 were that Gr-Grandpa Pres was short, chubby and "bald-headed". Grandpa Pres had what is called "night blindness". There are several causes of night-blindness, including cataracts, glaucoma or a vitamin A deficiency. Lee said Grandpa Pres carried a lantern with him everywhere, as he couldn't see after dark, or before dawn. He would make a kind of "whoo-ooopie" call as he walked around. He kind of made the rounds of the neighborhood each morning, cadging breakfasts whenever he could. He also never missed a "hog killing", as he was especially fond of freshly made sausage. He had a little carriage, and a mule. He was a farmer, trader, and peddler. He would go to High Shoals, and trade produce from the farm to the mill hands for old stale bread. He then fed the bread to his hogs on his farm. He timed his trips so that he had dinner (noon meal) at the general store in High Shoals. At the store, the crackers were free, and he bought cheese (called hoop cheese), and soda pop - this was all a big treat. Uncles William and Lee would go and spend the night with him fairly often when they were small boys. He would make them fried fish for breakfast, which Grandpa Pres ate bones and all, and he served the boys coffee.

The information came from my late Uncle (Ivey) Lee Stroupe, from Alexis. Uncle William was William Erley Stroupe, Jr.

Written by Nancy Quesada.

Sarah Emma Sadler

Sarah Emma Sadler was born Christmas Day 25 December 1863 in Gaston County, North Carolina. Sarah married Giles Preston Stroup in 1888 at the age of 25. Giles was known as “Press” Stroup. Press inherited the old Bartlett “Bart” Stroup home and farm. Press and Emma had 7 children, 3 boys and 4 girls. Emma died 7 August 1919 and is buried at Christ Lutheran Church in Stanley, North Carolina.

Daphna Ruth Stroupe Shelton who is Emma’s Granddaughter provided the photo. I included a photo of Daphna so you can see the close resemblance. Daphna is the current outgoing Stroup Reunion Committee President. Daphna has done a wonderful job for all the Stroup family. She has also promised me a photo of her father William Erley Stroup.

2009 Stroup Reunion Photos

Important stuff comes first. We had several people that didn’t sign the register. The information is important because this is the mailing list we use for important notices, such as the reminder flyer for next years reunion plus any news that happens in-between. If you forgot to sign it or just want to get on the mailing list all you need to do is send an email to our secretary Martha Daniel with “Stroup Reunion” in the subject line then your mailing address in the text. You can email her at Shashamed@msn.com my Uncle Jim missed the reunion this year because he forgot to sign the register, so please let Martha know if you want to be added or your address has changed.

I put a few pictures on this post that Martha was kind enough to send me. First are Sid Stroupe and his sister, Barbara Anne Stroupe Stegall. You can see why Sid’s charts were the hit of the reunion. If you couldn’t read those, you need a seeing-eye dog.

Second is photo of all who were born Stroup/Stroupe. I count a total of 21. I would sure love to see that number go up next year. I can promise you that Sid and I will do our best to improve that number.

Third photo is a group photo of all that attended. Martha said the head count was 92. Which surprised me because of the poor economy. I would love to see 150 next year.

Alexis 2009 Stroup Reunion

The reunion weekend is now completed. I must say it was a fun filled weekend. Met a lot of new cousins and went non-stop for 2 full days. I did get some new photos, which excited me beyond belief. I will be posting some of the older photos on the blog and will post ALL of them on our Ancestry tree. I’m not sure what info Sid got I will have to chat with him later and find out. We tried to spread ourselves out so everyone that had questions could get answers.

I’ll actually start with Friday. Bill Randolph and his wife flew in from Seattle, Washington and I felt that was a long expensive trip just to meet a few cousins, so I gathered up about 15 notebooks and folders on his line (Jacob Stroup 1771) and met them at the hotel in Charlotte on Friday evening. We chatted for a couple of hours then I left in order to let him start skimming through all those papers. Over the next 2 days we used almost a whole pack of paper to make copies of what Bill wanted to review. I just hope he got enough to make the trip worthwhile.

On Saturday morning we took off for Cowpens, SC to locate the iron furnace that Jacob II had built there. We had pretty good directions so we found the general area pretty quick. Our biggest problem was we were not sure this was the correct place. We had photos of the furnace, which were made in about 1980, and they didn’t match what we were seeing. After some time stomping through the woods and walking up and down the gravel road, I went back to what I thought was the site and started looking around on the ground lo and behold I started finding big clumps of slag. That is a sure sign a furnace was near by. At this point we decided we had seen about all there was to see, still not convinced we were in the right place. As we were leaving we saw a gentleman working in his yard, so we stopped and asked him about the furnace since he lived only a couple hundred yards away. He told us that yes that was where the furnace was located. He said vandals had destroyed it over the last 20 years. He said the state tried to preserve it but it was so remote they couldn’t monitor it very well. At that point we left Cowpens and headed back. Bill decided he wanted to go to Mt. Zion Cemetery in Cherryville and see Daniel Stroup’s marker. It was only a few minutes off our route back so we drove over there for a brief stop. We got back to Charlotte late afternoon so I headed home to start copying the papers Bill had selected from the night before. That gave Bill time to review the remaining papers he had.

The big day arrived early. Several of us met in Alexis at 10AM so we could visit 3 of the local cemeteries. Our group consisted of Bill Randolph and wife, Linda Ballard, Carol Callanan and her sister, Mary (Googie) O’Malley and her daughter, so we loaded into 2 cars and off we went. I must say Mary’s daughter was quite a “trooper”, she was not dressed for what we were about to undertake. She was wearing a very dress and flip-flop shoes. I must say she stomped through the mud and woods with a big smile on her face. Everyone got a lot of great photos of the Stroup markers. I did get a couple of fire ant stings on Solomon’s marker but luckily I didn’t get any poison ivy or the dreadful chigger bites. On our way back we stopped at the “Jackie Stroup Home place” and took photos. That is the home where the big 1927 reunion took place. We returned to the church just in time to clean up before things got started. Sid, Linda and I brought handouts, photos, CD’s and charts. I must say the Family charts that Sid brought were the hit of the reunion. He posted them on the wall and they were so large you could read them from 15 feet away. I got to meet Sid’s sister, which was quite a thrill for me. Every time I looked over there that wall had a crowd gathered who were trying to see where they fit on those charts. Linda Ballard spent her whole time trying to answer questions and assist people. I tried my best to chat with everyone that I had met online but there just was not enough time. Bryan Crenshaw was there and I only got to spend a few minutes with him and he has provided me with so much material. I really feel bad I didn’t spend enough time with him. The old saying applies here “The squeaky wheel gets the grease”.

I think everyone had a good time. The food was beyond description. It was spread out over 4-5 banquet tables and all types of food that you can think of. I did not eat much because I was too busy running my mouth. I am not going to cover the “official” business but will post it when Martha sends it to me. On thing I need to say is I did not take any photos, I was so busy visiting with cousins. I am hoping that some of those that took pictures will forward them to me. OH! There are about 90-100 people (75 last year) there, which kinda surprised me because of the economy. One person of note that wasn’t present was Dr. Henry Stroupe, I hope his health is good. I will post pictures when I get them. THANKS TO EVERYONE FOR SUCH A GREAT STROUP REUNION!!!!

Ethel Belle Stroupe

With the reunion fast approaching, I thought it fitting to post this picture. Sid and I found this photo in CD Stroup's files. Some of you may wonder why I don't use Ethel's married name, well Ethel thought so highly of her family she legally changed her name back to Stroupe after her divorce. Not a day passes that I don't think of her even though we never knew each other. My respect for her work grows each passing day. I like to think she would be pleased with the work that Sid, Linda and I have done.

The baby in the picture is her daughter Lee. She was the one who was so kind to turn her mothers work over to us. I again want to thank Lee for her wonderful generosity.

Mike Stroupe

7 Days to go

I have not posted because I am busy getting ready for the big day. I am trying to put together the most interesting material that a majority of people will be interested in. Yesterday I made a stack of 4x6 photos that I thought would appeal to all. That included a photo of our Obama connection.



Sid and Linda have also been working like "beavers" getting ready. Yesterday Ellen called me about speaking at the reunion, I said yes but really didn't want to. I am not a public speaker. I guess I will make myself a few notes to go by. When I get up there my mind goes totally blank. Oh well another chore to work on. My better half came into my room yesterday just to comment on my Office Depot purchases. She was not happy, see she manages our budget and I destroy it.

So anyway back to work and I hope to see you all in 7 days.
Mike

1927 Stroup Reunion

Ok folks! we have exactly two weeks to go. I can assure you of lots of good food and meeting a lot of your cousins. In 1927 there were over 1,200 people at the reunion. Last year we had about 75, I am expecting more this year and would like to see an increase each year. Below is a news article that was written in the Gastonia Daily Gazette in 1927. I find it interesting that even back that far they knew our family started in PA. Enjoy and I'll see you in two short weeks.

Special thanks to Pam Arkney who sent me this article.

Mike

1,200 Stroup Kith and Kin Attend the Annual Reunion

From a Half Dozen Counties or More From S. Carolina

ON ANCESTRAL ACRES

First Settlers of Stroup Name Came From Up In Pennsylvania

By Mrs. Joe Gribble



Dallas, Aug 5 (1927) - An epoebal record was made in the history of the Stroup clan Thursday when approximately 1,200 kith and kin entering up on their seventh generation in this section of the country, gathered for the third reunion at the hospitable and ideal country home of Mr. and Mrs. D. J. Stroup and family. The scene was in a stone's throw of the old Stroup home place near Alexis where the first settlers in this vicinity, and as far as known in the South, lived.

From Lincoln, Catawba, Burke, Mecklenburg, Gaston, Rutherford, Cleveland, Caldwell, Iredell counties they came and from various points in South Carolina to even Old Sol and Jupiter Pluvius joined in a happy medium favorably, withholding the heat by overhanging clouds and subduing the rain until all the events of the day were over.

In the early morning cars began to arrive and find their respective places under the traffic direction of Mr. Paul H. Stroup of Stanley, who placed neatly printed little cards upon each windshield bearing these words. "This car has been to the Stroup reunion has yours?", and by this method 166 cars were there by actual count,.

Throughout this large two-story house with its spacious verandas, hallway and lower floor thrown in suite seemed to permeate an atmosphere of "Welcome" and a restful place for the women folks to congregate exchanging their ups and downs of housewifery, and as mothers. Out upon the broad lawn, men grouped, whiling away the morning hours by general review of the genealogy of the Stroup generations, while the children romped in gleeful play.

At the left of the home in easy reach of the road, as if to invite and refresh weary travelers with its cooling waters, stands the neatly framed well. At the right a large refreshment and cold drink stand was in operation to help defray the expense of the occasion. Large barns and storage rooms denoted the extent of the progressive farming, an outstanding vocation of this race while in the rear and along side of the home as far as eye could see were acres of fruit trees of every variety with some as fine peaches as can be found anywhere.


Rows of large sturdy oaks stand at intervals at the entrance to the broad gravel lawn. It was in this beautiful grove that the 240-foot table gracefully wended it’s way in and out and around the trees, and where one of the most gorgeously bedecked displays of food ever seen was placed. Words are inadequate for a description of that grand array of food upon snowy cloths against a background of a mass of people and with an overhanging canopy of green from the tree boughs.

Rev. W. B. McClure, of Alexis, deeply entrenched himself into this host of Stroups, and who claimed to have as much mouth as anyone there, presided as toastmaster of the day. All stood at attention while two photographers were upon the scene: Shelby, of Gastonia and Hardin of Hickory, engulfing the sights into the photo box. Rev. O. W. Triplette, pastor of the Stanley Baptist church, returned thanks.

The crowd was immense, and so was the food with a gracious plenty for all, partaken of with ease and order, no rush, every one congenially chatting as drumsticks, pulley bones, chess pies, two story custards, and sky-scraper cakes were devoured. Near the table a hogshead of ice-cold lemonade was free for the taking, with nothing omitted that would add joy or comfort to the day or hour.


THE FIRST SETTLERS IN THIS SECTION

Just whether this portion of Gaston was the Garden of Eden or the Stroup clan the forefathers of the Gastonites is a little mysterious to judge, for the first known settlers in this section were Adam and his wife, Eve, according to old records and older deeds, Dutch and German descendants migrating down from Pennsylvania. The biting cold of the northern country and the scarcity of food led this young couple to sell all they had practically, and venture out in search of a better place in which to live, which they felt was further south. A covered wagon held their belongings, the daring young husband and brave young wife and little babe. Time brought them at last to this spot, where the house now standing is known as the old Dave Stroup home, near the place of the reunion, and where four of the sons were present for the day. They pitched their tent for a camping period, and found a luxuriant growth of wild pea vines and dwarf cane covering the rolling country, that meant food for their stock, and the climate to their liking, whereupon they decided to stay. A little home was roughly built for shelter and soon 1400 acres of the land was staked off and claimed, as neighbors were practically unknown, with miles of wilderness between and to this day this original amount is still owned and in the hands of the Stroups, the old John Stroup place at Stanley known to be handed down for more than 150 years back. Deeds recorded showed the period to be in the reign of King George II of England.

Two years later in the spring, Adam Stroup was startled early one morning to hear the clear ring of an axe near his home, and thinking it was possibly Indians, scouted out to investigate, and to his great astonishment upon drawing nearer he recognized his father, Jacob Stroup. They too came cross-country in a covered wagon, had stopped there for the night, and were preparing their meals.



This happy meeting resulted in their going over to take up abode with the son until another home could be built and which was the beginning of the vast host of Stroups of today.

Noted for their strong physique, paramount on this occasion, Thursday, were many of the clan swinging "billy-sticks" and wearing the blue coats and brass buttons as policemen, deputy sheriffs, sheriffs, not only in Gaston county, but in portions of the other counties, and over the line into South Carolina they hold similar positions. Not only that, but every line of profession and outstanding vocations are found among them. Long life also seems characteristic with Mr. Columbus Stroup, of Cherryville, 84, the oldest man present, his brother also being there at the age of 82 and Mr. H. D. Stroup, 71. The youngest one present was the two-month-old little son, William Thomas Brissie of Charlotte, his mother a Stroup.

WOMEN NO WEAKLINGS

Hardy people include the women folks also with many interesting stories of the past and the part they played in the earlier days of establishing homes. No unusual sight then to see a woman swing a sack of two bushels of corn for the mill, and other stunts equivalent. Mr. H. C. Stroup, of Cherryville, was born and raised near this place and lived there until 16. It was during the war of '63 when his father deserted the army and was sought by a guard of Tories. He was not in hiding at his home, but the Tories insisted on searching the house, and as they made a forced moved his mother let them have a pitcher of scalding water, burning one in the face badly. This was the first time any of the Stroups had ever been on trial for anything in this section so far as known. His mother was convicted and fined $20 in Confederate money, which the neighbors made up and paid.

The Stroups have a grand record of law-abiding citizens and are seldom found in any court proceedings.


OTHER HAPPENINGS OF THE AFTERNOON

Good feeling arose to a high pitch and thrills were sent creeping along the spinal cord as the glad hallelujahs were sung by a Stroup quartet from Gaffney, S. C. They were Messrs. Lake and Elsy Stroup, brothers, and their sister and husband, Mr. and Mrs. Bill Parris also of Gaffney. Following a number of quartet selections, Mr. Gainwell Stroup, gospel song leader of Pineville rendered a solo. Then all joined in singing together with an old time swing to "I am Round for the Promised Land" etc, that fairly rent the air.



It was found also that the name Ernest has a rather peculiar fascination for the race as four Ernest Stroups were there and had their pictures made together. Ernest U. of the police department of Charlotte, Ernest L. of Ranlo, Ernest Q of Dallas, Ernest E of Cherryville, with a number of others known to have the same name but not present. Another spelling to "earnest" denotes a characteristic of this people.

THE CLAN ORGANIZED

A complete organization of the clan as it stands today is as follows: President, R. Stroup, of Crouse; vice president, Arthur Stroup, of Stanley; secretary and treasurer, S. A. Stroup, of Stanley; the working committee, John S. Stroup, of Cherryville; Lake Stroup, probate judge, of Gaffney, S. C.; Ezra Stroup, of Morganton; Collie Stroup, of Pineville: Macon Stroup, of Lowell; Will Stroup, of Hickory; Conrad Stroup, of Mt. Holly.


The first Thursday of August, regardless of what date it may fall upon, is set apart for the annual reunion at this same place, of Mr. Stroup, better known as "Jakie" who has lived here all of his life of 65 years, born and raised right here.



The first re-union was held three years ago with only 17 present, the result of a porch talk among several at the old home place while upon a visit. Last year, the second reunion, there were 127 present with this year, the third reunion held with 1200 or more. What may be expected by another year?

Stroup Reunion 2009

I haven't posted lately because Sid and I are getting ready for the big reunion in Alexis. I am bringing CD's of all my Stroup grave markers and another CD of all my Stroup photos. I hope you will bring your old photos with you. I will have my copier with me. Sid is working on a large Stroup lineage chart so all can see their personal branch.

Now don't forget the reunion is at Alexis Baptist Church on Sunday August the 2nd. We will start gathering at about 12:30. I will be in the community building parking lot about 10AM several people have asked me to take them to the 3 old Stroup Cemeteries. If you would like to go with us, meet us in the parking lot.

I have other surprises that I will reveal later, so stay tuned. Please try your best to get to the Stroup Reunion. Sid and I are going to do our best to show everyone a good time. We have to elect a new president so make your vote count.
Mike

Silas Stroup, Buncombe County

SILAS STROUP

SILAS STROUP, (Aug 19, 1816, Bull Cr. - Nov 11, 1896 Cane Cr); son of JOSEPH STROUP and CATHERINE CREASMAN. Father refused to speak anything but German and was a German "Dunker", a Plain Sect. Married about age 23 SUSANNAH HARPER, widow of EPHRAIM HENRY with small children, and moved to the small HARPER farm and home, where he raised the HARPER children and accounted to the court for their fair share of their father's estate.
He bought almost 1,000 acres of land and enlarged the old cabin to a large, six room, two-story house. Was a prosperous farmer, and tall, good-natured, athletic man who was widely liked and respected.
In December 1857, apparently SUSAN and her year old daughter, LANNY, were both ill, perhaps with some contagious disease because they seem to have been cared for at the home of her father, LOT HARPER, in Fairview. On Dec 20, 1857, baby LANNY died there and was buried at Sharon M.E. church. SUSAN survived and returned home.
1860 census, Fairview Twp.: real property $2,500, personal property $1,800. 1870: real property $3,000, personal property $1,200.
Deed: 9-20-1894, SILAS STROUP, Grantor, to RUFUS STROUP, Grantee, 135 acres on Cane Creek. Bk. 100, p 144.
Gave Riceville land to the Presbyterians to build a church and school, including site of Stroup's Chapel Bapt Church where parents were buried. Died age 80; buried Tweed's Chapel M.E. Ch, Fairview.

Children:
1. RUFUS L. "RUFE" STROUP, b. Aug 19, 1840, d 12 Nov 1862; m. Nov 15, 1860 NANCY JOHNSTON by whom one son, ZEB.
2. MARIAN CATHERINE "KATE" STROUP, b. Feb 9, 1842, d Dec 29, 1924; m. JAMES SUBER. Two daughters.
3. MARTHA ELIZA "MATTIE" STROUP, b. Nov 13, 1843, d May 4, 1926; m. HORACE L. KING, a leading educator in western N.C.
4. SARAH SAMANTHA "MAMMY" STROUP, b. Sept 13, 1846, d. Nov 18, 1930; m. NOAH WHITAKER. Children: CHARLIE and MAY.
5. SEREPTA E. STROUP, b. Dec 29, 1848, d. Apr 13, 1889; m. FRANK LIVINGSTON; no children.
6. WILLIAM "HENRY" STROUP, b. Dec 13, 1850, d July 30, 1928; m. HARRIET CUNNINGHAM. 3 children.
7. SAMUEL ALEXANDER "SAM" STROUP, b. Dec 21, 1952, d July 10, 1918; m 1st CHARLOTTE JOHNSON who d after 6 children; m. 2nd ELLEN GARREN, who left him after 2 children; m. 3rd SARAH RICKMAN who d. a year later, no children; m. 4th LILY SOUTHER, by whom 2 children before she d. 1912.
8. DRUCILLA DELANA "LANNY" STROUP, b. Aug 8, 1855, d Dec 20, 1857.

9. SUSAN MALINDA "LINNIE" STROUP, b May 17, 1858, d Dec 29, 1892; m. PRES. B. CUNNINGHAM.

Dora Lona Lanning Stroup

This is the first photo we have of Dora Lona Lanning Stroup. Left to right is James “Elmo” Stroup, guessing unknown grandson, Dora Lona Lanning Stroup. I’m guessing the photo was made in the 1940’s. I would guess that is Elmo’s porch on his homeplace.

Knoxie and Ilese Kiser 1906

This photo was taken about 1906. These are two daughters of William Caswell Kiser, MD and Laura Beatrice Stroup. Knoxie was the oldest girl and Ilese was the youngest. Knoxie married Charles Columbus Leonard. Ilese married Belvis Mullen Bolinger.

Thanks to Bryan Crenshaw III for this photo.

Moses Stroup Jr Family Photo Update

With the help of Mary "Polly" Hudson Stroup and Sarah Mayse we have identified a few more cousins in this photo. Polly actually lives in the house where this photo was taken. Again thanks to Bryan Crenshaw for sharing this wonderful photo. Sarah and I have been totally fascinated with this photo. It is like a big jigsaw puzzle that you just have to finish. Next we need to work on the girls.

2009 Stroup(e) Reunion

This is your one month warning. I will be posting many reminders. The reunion will be Sunday August 2nd at Alexis Baptist Church. Folks start arriving about 12:30 and start gathering and socializing. We start eating about 1:00pm. The food alone is worth the trip. The photo above is last years group. I want to see a lot more of my cousins this year. I will be posting lots of reminders and stuff as time nears.

Mike Stroupe

Joseph Silas Stroup

JOSEPH SILAS "JOE" STROUP.
(16 Nov 1882, Dec 31, 1973)

ORIGINS
Joseph Silas Stroup was born Nov. 16 1882 at Bull Creek, Riceville Twp., 5th child and 3rd son of Samuel Alexander Stroup and wife Charlotte Johnson.
CHILDHOOD
Joe Silas's father farm on Bull Creek included land his grandfather, Silas inherited in 1851 from his father, Joseph, so the little boy was named "Joseph Silas Stroup" for his great-grandfather and grandfather, usually called "Joe", but in the family "Joe Silas".
His mother, Charlotte, worked hard helping her husband run the farm, aided by eldest daughters, Sue Lizzie and Sallie. Joe's older brothers, Elmo and Clarence, were close to him in age. He was four when his brother Sam Bradley was born.
These six children were part of a happy household, but all "did their chores", because much work was needed to run a successful farm before farming became mechanized.

HIS MOTHER'S DEATH
When Joe was five, his family moved from Bull Creek to a farm in Limestone Twp. across Cane Creek from his grandfather, Silas Stroup. That April, his mother delivered her seventh infant, David, who died in a few weeks. His mother did not recover and was critically ill for the next nine months. From her minister's description of extreme suffering, she probably died of cancer on Jan. 11, 1889. Joe was six when she was buried at Camp Ground Methodist Cemetery near Hendersonville.

FATHER'S REMARRIAGE
A year later, little Joe's father, Sam Stroup married Ellen Garren (his third cousin through Whitaker grandmothers). Although she was kind to the Stroup boys, she came from a home with Negro servants and a live-in housekeeper, and, trained in Baltimore as a seamstress, knew nothing of housework or cooking.
Also, she was unwilling to carry out any of her wifely duties, so that after a stormy, six year marriage, she deserted Sam, and took her two sons by him, Fred and Vernon, aged five and three, to her father's home, next door on Cane Creek. This again left Joe's father trying to run his farm while caring for six children.

CHRIST SCHOOL
About this time, the northern Episcopalians were building a day school and boarding school at Arden, their object being to convert local children while educating them. Joe's father, although a Methodist, was desperate for help with his boys, so sent Joe Silas and Sam Bradley to Christ School, where they settled happily into the boy's dormitory. Both were intelligent, and enjoyed the mental stimulation of this excellent school's scholastic atmosphere.
Since there was no wife at home to care for them, their father paid the Superintendent Wetmore to board the boys in his home when boarding school was not in session.
Superintendent Wetmore and his wife were ardent Episcopalians and kindly people who took the motherless boys under their wing, "all but adopting them", so that, in addition to receiving education, Joe Silas and his brother Sam Bradley converted from their parent's Methodist faith to the Episcopalians.
Since Christ School was an expensive private school, the Stroup boys had to work to help pay their tuition and board. They grubbed stumps, haul rock and did other manual labor to helped clear the new school's heavily forested campus.
One day Joe Silas was hauling the first load of stone to build the school's new chapel, but he misunderstood his instructions and unloaded his wheelbarrow under the wrong tree. The boy was quite upset at the thought of having to remove this heavy load, so kindly Mr. Wetmore consoled him saying, "Joe, it's all right, we'll just put the building right where you dumped those rocks." Christ School's chapel stands where young Joe Silas Stroup made a mistake when hauling the first load of stone.

CANE CREEK FARM
After Joe Silas graduated, his father Sam tried to induce him to stay home by deeding him 97 acres of land on Cane Creek (Buncombe County Deed Book 122, page 339, Samuel A. Stroup to Joseph S. Stroup).

TO ASHEVILLE
In 1901, when Joe Silas was 19, determined to go to Asheville, he deeded this tract back to his father, and at age twenty he was employed by his Uncle Hugh Johnson, a retailer who owned the Asheville Grocery Company. While living in Asheville, Joe met and courted Carrie Dunlap, an attractive young lady who worked in town for a dentist.

WIFE CARRIE
Caroline Reese Dunlap had been born Sept. 13, 1880 on a farm near Hendersonville, daughter of James Henry Dunlap and wife, nee Mary Reese. In April 1903 Joe Silas Stroup and Carrie Dunlap married in Asheville, receiving from his father a new horse and buggy as a wedding present. Their honeymoon was buggy ride to Greenville, S.C. to visit kinfolks.
Unfortunately, soon after their return home, his uncle Hugh Johnson's business, the Asheville Grocery, "went wholesale", leaves Joe unemployed with his wife expecting their first child. Fortunately, his father, Sam Stroup, who was living alone, invited them to stay with him on his Cane Creek farm.
Carrie's widowed mother, Mary Reese Dunlap, also moved to the Sam Stroup home place after her son, Hall Dunlap, took a job in Chicago, a living arrangement that met everyone's needs. Carrie and her mother ran the household, freeing Joe and his father to run the farm, which included shipping crates of Sam Stroup's excellent apples by train to hotels in outlying places such as Charlotte. On Grandfather Sam Stroup's birthday, Joe and Carrie's son, Tom Bradley Stroup, was born Dec. 21, 1903.

FLETCHER FARM
However, three years later, in 1906, Sam Stroup remarried, and his new wife was a young widow, Lillie (Souther) Young, who brought her brood of teenaged daughters to the Cane Creek home so there was no longer room for Joe, Carrie and her mother.
Also, about this time, Joe and Carrie Stroup were expecting their second child, and so they moved, along with her mother, to an old farm that had belonged to his maternal grandfather, Bradley Johnson, on Howard's Gap road (modern Rt. 5), about four miles from Hendersonville. Their second child, Mary Isabel, was born here in December 1906, an unusually lively, happy and beautiful little thing, so joyful and loving that she soon became the family pet.
Three years later, Carrie presented Joe with yet another sweet and lovely daughter whom they named Susannah, for his sister.
Joe Silas, like his father and grandfather, was hardworking and became a successful farmer. The home that he and Carrie made for their little family was exceptionally happy and peaceful, partly because they truly cared about each other, and partly because both had sunny dispositions. They were also educated people who gave their children so much support and encouragement that all three graduated with honors from universities, and went on to become teachers.
After Joe and Carrie's children left the nest, their latter years were spent living quietly on their farm. Ibby and her husband, O.S. Clark, visited often. Both taught in the Asheville schools, and had a happy but childless marriage.
Joe and Carrie were extremely proud of their only son Tom, who had continued his higher education and whose achievements as Professor of English Literature were bringing him many scholastic honors. However, son Tom's teaching duties sent him far a field, to Georgia, Florida and London, so that their contacts with him were mainly through his regular letters home.
Their youngest child, Susannah, had married and lived not far away on a farm at Horse Shoe. Sue taught Home Economics in the County School system, and her frequent visits, bringing her children, were a great pleasure in Joe and Carrie's latter years, as was their regular attendance at Calvary Episcopal Church.

WIFE'S DEATH
Carrie Dunlap Stroup was 84 when she died Dec. 6, 1964. She was buried at Calvary Episcopal church cemetery in Arden. After losing his life's companion, Joe lived alone for a while, until, no longer able to cook for himself, he moved to a local retirement home. He died at the age of 91 at midnight, Dec. 31, 1973, and was buried beside his wife.

JOE AND CARRIE'S CHILDREN
1. Thomas Bradley "Tom" Stroup, Ph. D., (Dec. 21, 1903 - Dec. 17, 1992); educated Christ School, Arden, N.C. and University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill. Professor English Literature at U.N.C., University of Florida and University of Kentucky. Lt., U.S. Navy, WW II. He is a well-published author and poet. Married Annie Mary Foster, Dec. 30, 1927 at Christ School Chapel, Arden. One child:
(1) Joseph Bradley Stroup, Ph. D., b. 1929;
a. Douglas Bradley Stroup.
2. Mary Isabel "Ibby" Stroup (5 Dec 1906 Cane Cr. - Nov. 1992); m. Ohel Sheppard "O.S." Clark, 2 June 1937, principal, Asheville City Schools; Isabel taught in Asheville city schools; no children; d. Nov. 1992; both buried Calvary Episcopal church cemetery, Arden. 3. "Susannah" Reese Stroup, b ca 1909; married Albert Black Corpening; lived Rt. 1, Horseshoe; teacher of Home Economics, Buncombe Co. School System. Died Dec. 1, 1977, buried Calvary Episcopal Church cemetery, Arden.

James Elmo Stroupe

JAMES ELMO STROUPE
1878-1959

ORIGINS
James "Elmo" Stroupe was born Aug. 27, 1878 at Bull Creek, Buncombe County, N.C., the son of Samuel Alexander Stroup and his first wife Charlotte Johnson. When he was a small child, his parents moved to Cane Creek to a farm across the creek from his paternal grandparents, Silas and Susan (Harper) Stroup.
Elmo was always small for his age, like his grandmother Susan Harper's people, but he inherited his tall grandfather's easy-going personality and good humor. As a child, he became a great favorite with his grandfather Silas taught him many things, including carpentry, whittling and other farm crafts.
After his mother's early death, little Elmo spent much time with his grandparents, and was tutored by his grandfather and he helped out on the old Stroup home place. The little boy grew into a small, wiry man with his grandmother Harper's body build but with his grandfather's endearing personality and charm.

MARRIAGE
Elmo married on May 1, 1901 to Miss Lonnie Lanning who was born on Feb. 16, 1880.

OCCUPATIONS
Elmo was very fond of children and taught school for a time. Always a lively conversationalist, he loved to entertain people with little songs and dances.
A hard worker, he became the owner of a large and prosperous dairy farm who enjoyed the simple life, enjoyed farming and did it well.

WIFE'S LAND RECORDS
Three Buncombe County land purchase were made by his wife:
12-8-1906, Laney Stroup et al fr. J. N. Suthe, 10 acres adj J. D. Suthe.
6-14-1910, Lonie Stroup et al from Decora Towe, 8 acres Limestone Township.
4-25-1919, Lonie Stroup et al fr. F. B. Ingle, 8 acres Limestone Township.

PERSONALITY
Elmo Stroupe was a small, puckish man with an unusually merry disposition, by nature a fun loving man who played the banjo, and liked to clown around, singing, telling jokes and tales, often spontaneously breaking into little jigs. He also delighted in being considered "the local wag", and loved to play practical jokes. He was such a happy natured man that he was loved by all who knew him as well as by his own nine children.
However, Elmo had a serious side, however, and was a hard worker. He was skilled in many of the older crafts taught him by his grandfather, such as how to make split white oak into pliant strips and use them to rebottom chairs. He excelled at this and other humble jobs, being sincerely proud of the high quality of his workmanship.
Although he was consulted about his family history, he joked so much it was almost impossible to pin him down about the facts of his own life.

LAST YEARS
Elmo and Lonie were a loving couple who raised a large and happy family on his Fairview farm where they died at ripe old ages. According to a 1981 letter from his Cousin Tom Stroup, "Not only was this a happy home, the girls in Elmo's family were all beautiful."
After his death on Sept. 26, 1959, it was obvious at his funeral that his minister had enjoyed him because he spoke of how much he loved to laugh. Burial was at Tweed's Chapel M.E. church cemetery on Cane Creek.

WIFE'S DEATH
Lonie Lanning Stroupe died Sept 13, 1964, and was buried beside her husband at Tweed's Chapel M.E. church cemetery.

CHILDREN
Elmo and Lonie Stroupe had 9 children:
1. Eloise Stroupe, b 20 Apr 1902 m Virgil Boyd; Fairview; 3 children:
(1) Katherine Boyd.
(2) Selma Boyd.
(3) Pauline Boyd.
2. Catherine Stroupe, b ca 1904.
3. Joseph Alexander "Alex" Stroupe, (5 Dec 1905-26 Jan 1985); m Evelyn Nesbitt; lived Oakley; worked Asheville Citizen-Times; buried Tweed's Chapel M.E. church cem; son:
(1) Joseph Alexander Stroupe, Jr., b 16 Jun 1932.
4. Pauline Stroupe, b ca 1906.
5. Selma Stroupe, b ca 1908?
6. James Stroupe, b 2 Dec 1903 m Loretta Willingham. They moved to Chicago where he worked in the stockyards. He died in Chicago in 1975.
7. Claude Hugh Stroupe, Sr., b 3 Feb 1912; m Margaret Wilkie. In 1978 was manager of a large stock farm at Rt. 1, Fletcher.
(1) Claude Hugh Stroupe, Jr.,
8. Anna Emeline Stroupe, b 31 Dec 1909 m 1st Vester Redding; m 2nd - Crump & lived Newport News, Va; dau Ruby Redding.
9. Rebecca Marie Stroupe, b 3 Jul 1914 m 1st Charles Bailey; m 2nd - Holsclaw and lived at Fletcher. Had a daughter, Shirley Bailey.

Buncombe County Stroup Reunions 1930-1942

CANE CREEK STROUP REUNION MINUTES

Sept. 6, 1930

The Reunion of the Stroup family, descendants of SILAS and SUSAN HARPER STROUP, was held at the ancestral home on Cane Creek. There were fifty present. This number included the only survivor of the large family of children of Silas and SUSAN STROUP, Mrs. SAMANTHA WHITAKER, aged 84 yrs., the grandchildren and great grandchildren.
A bountiful basket dinner was served, which was thoroughly enjoyed. After lunch, a business session was held. Prof. THOMAS STROUP, temporary chairman, presided.
The following officers were elected:
President: PAUL C. STROUP.
Historian: Mrs. P. O. MERRILL.
Sec. & treas. Mrs. R. C. STEVENS.
Chaplain: Rev. S. B. STROUP.
Mrs. J. S. WILLIAMS, Mrs. JAS, made interesting speeches. TOMS, PAUL STROUP, ELMO STROUP and others. Those present registered, giving the names of their parents, which will be an aid in making a complete roster to be worked out in the future.
SUE STROUPE MERRILL, Secretary

Sept. 6, 1931
The annual Reunion of the descendants of SILAS and SUSAN HARPER STROUP was held at the old homestead on Cane Creek, which is now the residence of C. L. WHITAKER and family. There were more than 100 present.
After a bountiful basket dinner, the business session was held, Pres. P. C. STROUP, presiding. All former officers were elected. Mrs. SUE STROUP MERRILL tendered her resignation as Historian and THOMAS STROUP was unanimously elected to fill the vacancy.
Interesting reminiscences were given by a number of those present. Music was furnished by the Cunningham quartette and string band, after which a local photographer made a group picture.
A sad feature of the occasion was the absence of Mrs. SAMANTHA WHITAKER who has passed away. It was decided to make the Reunion permanent one, meetings to be held annually. The next will be held the first Sunday in September at the same time and place. Those present from a distance were Mrs. RAINS and her son-in-law CARL HOOD, wife and little daughter.
PEARLE KING STEVENS, Secretary.

June 4, 1932
The third annual Reunion of the STROUP family, descendants of SILAS & SUSAN HARPER STROUP, was held at the old home, which is now the residence of C. L. WHITAKER and family on Cane Creek near Fletcher, and was featured by a large attendance, 104 being polled.
Following a bountiful basket dinner spread under the towering oaks, Pres. PAUL C. STROUP called the business session to order. Minutes of the last meeting were read by Sec. PEARL KING STEVENS, after which a memorial was observed for departed relatives, Mrs. SAMANTHA S. WHITAKER and ROBERT CHAPMAN STEVENS. Mrs. J. S. WILLIAMS of Fairview made beautiful tributes to each. The Cunningham Quartette sang their favorite songs. A brief sketch of the family was given.
PEARLE KING STEVENS, Sec.

Sept. 3, 1933
The fourth reunion of the STROUP family, descendants of SILAS and SUSAN HARPER STROUP was held at the old homestead on the first Sunday in September, and featured a large attendance. Pres. P. C. STROUP presiding called the meeting to order. After the opening song "Amazing Grace", led by CLAUDE CUNNINGHAM, and prayer by the Chaplain ELMO STROUP, the minutes of the last meeting were read and approved.
The roll was called, and reports made on the births, marriages and deaths. ELMO STROUP paid a glowing tribute to the memory of JESSE S. WILLIAMS who recently passed away. The song "Jesus Keep Me Near the Cross" was sung in closing the memorials.
The election and re-election of officer followed. P. C. STROUP, President, re-elected. Vice Pres.: ELMO STROUP, re-elected. Sec. PEARLE KING STEVENS, re-elected, Chaplain C. R. CUNNINGHAM, re-elected, Historian THOMAS STROUP, re-elected.
A delightful history of the STROUP family, written by THOMAS STROUP and read by the Secretary was the outstanding feature of the occasion. It was an interesting and comprehensive history, showing much research and careful study.....A unanimous vote of thanks was made to the writer of this splendid history....THOMAS STROUP, until recently, has been instructor in English Literature at University of North Carolina, is now instructor at the University of Florida.
PEARLE KING STEVENS, Sec.

Sept. 2, 1934
The STROUP - HARPER families, descendants of SILAS and SUSAN HARPER STROUPE, held their fourth annual reunion at the old homestead the residence of C. L. WHITAKER and family on Cane Creek.... a large attendance.
After a bountiful picnic dinner, J. J. SLAGLE made a group picture. The meeting was called to order by Vice Pres. ELMOS STROUPE, who presided in the absence of P. C. STROUPE who was unable to be present but came later. C. R. CUNNINGHAM led the opening which was followed by prayer led by Rev. M. L. KIRSTEIN, pastor of the Fletcher Baptist Church, and reading of the 13th chapter of 1st Corinthians. A helpful talk followed.
The minutes of the previous meeting were read, and also a letter from Rev. S. B. STROUP of Hickory who was unable to be present. The Registrar, EDWIN WHITAKER, called the roll. Election of officers: P. C. STROUP, Pres., ELMO STROUP, V.P.; ELMO STROUP, Sec.; PEARLE KING STEVENS Historian, WILLIAM TOMS, Registrar; EDWIN WHITAKER, Chaplain; CLAUDE CUNNINGHAM, Chairman Program Committee. Appointed to the Program Committee: EDWIN WHITAKER, VERNON STROUP and WILL TOMS.
The Cunningham String Band provided music. Relatives coming fro a distance were welcomed, Mrs. WELDON from Augustus is visiting her sisters, Mr. and Mrs. JAY ...WKINS and family from Great....
(Each person present was asked to write) a history of their parents, giving dates, births, marriages, deaths and descendants, to be read at the 1935 meeting and then be placed in the hands of the Secretary. An outstanding feature of the meeting was the reading of the comprehensive history of the founding of the...family.... which was written and read by Prof. THOMAS STROUP, great-grandson of SILAS, who is Instructor in English at the University of Florida. He was given a rising vote of thanks and asked to write up the history for the next meeting.
PEARLE K. STEVENS

Sept 1, 1935
It was estimated that more than a hundred were present at the 5th Annual Reunion of the STROUPE - HARPER family which was held at the old homestead now the residence of C. L. WHITAKER and family. After the bountiful picnic dinner, the business session was help, PAUL C. STROUP presiding. CLAUDE CUNNINGHAM led the singing, which was followed by prayer. After the reading of the minutes, the President called on Rev. SAM STROUP, Rector of the Episcopal Church of Hickory who was the speaker of the day. This theme was "That Which Endures". It was a masterly address, although he had not been previously notified.
The Registrar, EDWIN WHITAKER, read the history of several families, which were to be handed in. It is hoped that a complete list will be made next year. THOMAS STROUP was unable to be present. His history of the founding of the STROUP family in America was read by the Secretary.....
PEARLE KING STEVENS, Sec.

Sept. 6, 1936
The STROUP - HARPER Reunion was held at residence established by our immediate ancestors a century ago, SILAS and SUSAN STROUP, now the home of their grandson, CHARLES L. WHITAKER. The attendance was not as large as on previous occasions. After a bountiful picnic dinner, a business session was held.
On account of indisposition, PAUL STROUPE, who was present, was unable to preside, and ELMO STROUPE, Vice President, called the meeting to order. After the opening song "Blest Be the Tie That Binds", Chaplain CUNNINGHMAM led the prayer. Mrs. MOLLIE WILLIAMS gave cordial welcome to all in fitting words. Mr. and Mrs. JOHN F. KENNY of Rockville were welcome guests.
Officers elected: Pres. P. C. STROUP, V.P. ELMO STROUPE, Sec. PEARLE KING STEVENS, Chaplain C. L. CUNNINGHAM, Historian THOMAS STROUP, Registrar EDWIN WHITAKER, Program and Invitations, EDWIN WHITAKER, VERNON STROUPE and WILLIAM TOMS.
After singing "God Be With You Till We Meet Again" the Benediction was pronounced by Rev. SAM STROUP.
PEARLE KING STEVENS, Sec.

Sept 5, 1937
The STROUP - HARPER Reunion was held at the home of C. L. WHITAKER...a large crowd attended. After a picnic dinner and a social hour together, a short business session was held with PAUL C. STROUPE presiding. The time and place of the next Reunion was voted to be the same. Mrs. MOLLIE WILLIAMS gave fitting memorials to WILLIAM STORUPE and EUGENE STROUPE. The following births were reported: CARL HOOD, JR., SHIRLEY MARIE STROUPE, NORMA JEAN NIX and KENNETH JUSTICE. One marriage: DWIGHT STROUPE to ANNETTE HASTINGS.
The Family Registrar, EDWIN WHITAKER, read several family lists which were requested to be recorded. WILLIAM TOMS responded to the request with a speech and made a very interesting talk.
It was decided to change the time of the meeting to some time in August, preferably the third or fourth Sunday, on account of the large number of persons from a distance who have to return home from vacations in the first days of September. It was pointed out that the birthday of SILAS STROUP being Aug. 19th, it might be fitting to change to the Sunday nearest that date. A committee composed of EDWIN WHITAKER, WILLIAM TOMS, SUE MERRILL and VERNON STROUPE was appointed to arrange the date for next year's meeting.
Two members passed away during the year: WILLIAM STROUPE and ERASMUS OWENBY. Memorials to them will be prepared and read next year.
IRENE STROUPE ASHWORTH, SEC.

Sept 4, 1938
The annual STROUP - HARPER reunion was held at the home of P. C. STROUPE, SR. 59 descendants of SILAS and SUSAN STROUP were present. A picnic dinner was served and enjoyed by all. This was followed by a song service. LILLIAN STROUPE played the piano and Mrs. SUE MERRELL played the violin.
The business session was then held with C.R. CUNNINGHAM presiding. A vote of thanks was given to Mr. and Mrs. P. C. STROUPE for allowing the Reunion to be held at their home. It was also voted to have the Reunion at their home again next year. Officers elected: President: C. R. CUNNINGHAM, V.P.: MOLLIE WILLIAMS. Sec. Treas.: IRENE ASHWORTH. Historian: EDWIN WHITAKER. Chaplain: J. E. STROUPE.
Members of the family made several talks. The program was closed with singing "God Be With You Till We Meet Again". A social hour followed.
IRENE STROUPE ASHWORTH, Sec.

Sept 1, 1939
The STROUPE - HARPER was held on Sept 3, 1939 at the home of PAUL and ANNIE STROUPE with a large attendance. A picnic lunch was served on the lawn. C. R. CUNNINGHAM presided over the business session.... the following officers were elected: C. R. CUNNINGHAM, President., Cousin MOLLIE WILLIAMS, Vice President; IRENE S. ASHWORTH Sec. - Treas., W. N. WHITAKER, Historian. J. E. STROUPE, Chaplain.
A program committee was appointed to make plans for the 1940 reunion with IRENE ASHWORTH Chairman. EDWIN WHITAKER was appointed to act as chairman of the committee to plan next year's reunion. To serve with him, WILL TOMS, SUE MERRELL and IRENE S. ASHWORTH.
The following births were reported: DOUGLAS STROUP and NORMA JUNE LOCKABY. Two deaths reported: ELIZABETH MC MINN died on April 5, 1938. Aunt ELLEN STROUPE died on Oct. 9, 1937. Talks were made by several members of the family and by two of our visitors, Mr. WASH WHITAKER and Mr. D. S. DOTSON. All officers were elected to serve another year. Mrs. MOLLIE WILLIAMS dismissed the meeting.
IRENE S. ASHWORTH, Sec.

Aug. 25, 1940
The annual STROUPE - HARPER Reunion was held on Aug. 25th at the home of PAUL and ANNIE STROUPE...picnic lunch on the lawn...Rev. HUGGINS, pastor of Fletcher Baptist Church...an inspiring talk, urging loyalty to our people, country and God.... C. R. CUNNINHGHAM, President, presided over the business meeting.... One death reported, wife of E. G. STROUPE. Six births: (....)RA (Laura?) CUNNINGHAM, IMA JEAN JUSTICE.... Marriages: MARIE STROUPE to CHARLES BAILEY.... Officers elected: President: C. L. WHITAKER, Vice Pres.: PAUL C. STROUPE, SR., Sec. Treas. IRENE S. ASHWORTH, Historian: Mrs. PAUL C. STROUPE, JR., Chaplain: BEN CUNNINGHAM. Voted to hold the next meeting at the home of Cousin MOLLIE WILLIAMS.... Secretary to make arrangements for the meeting and to notify each family before the meeting.....a collection taken to cover expenses, amounted to $3.07.
(Deaths reported: MERRELL and J. E. STROUPE. Four births reported: LONNIE LEE CUNNINGHAM, LYNDA MARGARET BOSNELL, JOHN PRESTON BARNWELL and VIRGINIA CLINGINGPEEL. Marriages reported: LILLIAN STROUPE to DON CARTER, SARAH CUNNINGHAM to JOHN YOUNGBLOOD, and JAMES CUNNINGHAM to MILLIE ALLISON. Marriage of HORACE BASSETT, a grandson of Aunt MATTIE and Uncle HORACE KING, was reported. Other members added by marriage were THOMAS HENRY, CLARENCE FREEMAN and PAUL CLING(MAN?).
Officers for coming year: President: C. L. WHITAKER; Vice Pres.: P. C. STROUPE, SR.; Sec. Treas. IRENE S. ASHWORTH; Historian Mrs. PAUL STROUPE, JR.; Chaplain: BEN CUNNINGHAM. It was voted to hold the next meeting the first Sunday in September at the home of Cousin MOLLY WILLIAMS.
IRENE ASHWORTH, Sec.

Sept. 7, 1941.
The 12th annual STROUP - HARPER Reunion was held at the home of Mr. and Mrs. C. R. CUNNINGHAM who gave a cordial welcome to their beautiful shady lawn.
After a bountiful dinner, Dr. RUSSELL gave an address of welcome. Rev. LEWIS gave an inspiring talk stressing child training, recommending that they be kept busy at work. Cousin MOLLIE praised our family, as usual. ELMO STROUP spoke and wanted the Reunion at his home for next year. It was decided that notices need not be sent as all knew the time and place.
C. L. WHITAKER resigned as President and IRENE ASHWORTH as Secretary, and the following officers were elected for the coming year.
Officers elected:
P. C. STROUP, President.
C. R. CUNNINGHAM, Vice President
SUE S. MERRELL, Secretary Treasurer
B. L. CUNNINGHAM, Chaplain.
Mrs. P. C. STROUP, Historian.
The Treasurer reported $2,97. Births, deaths and marriages were announced. A quartet sang, and all then enjoyed community singing.
IRENE ASHWORTH, Sec.

Sept. 6, 1942
The 13th annual STROUP - HARPER Reunion met at the home of B. L. CUNNINGHAM with 51 present. It was a rainy day and many were late getting there. All were given a warm welcome to the comfortable home and a bountiful dinner was done justice to, after which the President took charge.
Minutes of the 1941 Reunion were read and approved. A short report was made of the family's history, to the present number of descendants, was read by the Secretary. All officers were re-elected, and they are to secure a meeting place for 1943. BEN CUNNINGHAM spoke in favor of having it.
Cousin MOLLIE WILLIAMS told of the fine qualities of Grannie STROUP and of Grandpap's being such a fine Christian gentleman...(The place where his parent's graves) was located which was STROUP's Chapel.
All joined in singing "Rock of Ages", "Sweet By and By" and "Blest Be the Tie That Binds", then the closing prayer by C. R. CUNNINGHAM. Some lingered late enjoying visiting with those not often seen. The day was especially enjoyed by those who knew and loved Uncle PRESS and who had not visited the old place since he was there.
P. C. STROUP, Pres.
SUE S. MERRILL, Sec.

Note: The annual Reunions were discontinued due to gasoline shortages during World War II.