Pioneer Families hold 92nd reunion
Gathering in Monett showed growth over 2025
By Murray Bishoff Special to the Monett Monthly
Descendants of 12 pioneer families of Lawrence County gathered on Sept. 20 at the Monett City Park Casino for reminiscences, fellowship, and food.
The families, whose names are on a monument at Farm Road 2180 and Hwy. 97, north of Pierce City, began coming to southwest Missouri around 1835, when both Barry and Lawrence counties were still one county. The invitation extends to all families that can trace their local lineage back to that period, as well as anyone interested in local history.
This year’s event attracted 40 descendants. Gatherings in decades past attracted as many as 100 family members. Following a potluck luncheon, Doug Moore, who serves as secretary/treasurer, called for updates on those who had passed in the preceding 12 months. A moment of silence was held in their honor.
In past decades, each family had a historian, preserving documentation of their evolution. Several family members brought ring-binder notebooks of photos, letters, and family trees to share. Much of the conversation focused on establishing heritage links to present family members and connections between cousins, as many of the families connected through marriage.
A storytelling time offered families a chance to share new discoveries and share favorite stories about their ancestors and attending past reunions.
During the business meeting, Kristin Nama of Pierce City, who has served as president of the group in charge of the reunion for the past two years, stepped down. Beverly Jones, who served as president prior to Nama, will step back into that role. Nama said she will continue to help, expressing her willingness to continue in a leadership role at a future date.
Photos were taken of all family members in attendance and those from each family.
The reunion is scheduled annually for the third Sunday in September, most often at the City Park Casino. Updates are posted on the 12pioneerfamilies Facebook page or are available via email at [email protected].
