From reports

Old Settlers Presidents recently met with the Old Settlers Day recipients to present their plaques and certificates. Each recipient visited the Whitley County Historical Museum on Old Settlers Day held on Thursday, June 20th.

Recognized as being the Oldest Settler was Gerald Grable at the age of 101 years, 10 months and 24 days. The Longest Continuous resident was Matthew Henney living in Whitley County for 98 years, 4 months and 21 days. New this year the committee added an award for recognizing the Youngest Settler. Five year old Oliver Whetstone received this award.

Recognizing the Oldest and Longest Continuous residents date back to the early 1900’s when Old Settlers Days was originated. Then recipients were given the coveted Loving Cup, a brass trophy engraved with their names. In later years recipients were given an individual plaque or medal. Wanting to record the recipients name in more of a visible and accessible manner the Old Settlers committee began presenting recipients with a certificate to keep in honor of their distinguished awards and their names are also engraved on a continuous plaque that will be housed permanently at the museum.

The requirements to be considered for all recognitions is the entries must visit and register at the museum on Old Settlers Day, traditionally held on Thursday during the 5 day festival. The Youngest Settler must also be under the age of 18 and be able to sign their name.

The Old Settlers Day committee expresses their thanks to all who registered on Old Settlers Days and congratulate the recipients as they are now a permanent part of Old Settlers history. Old Settlers Day 2025 will be held Thursday, June 19, during the their 121st festival.