The first annual ‘Robert Webster Local History award’ was presented on June 17. Among those congratulating the winner was (l-r): Carol Mordan, award chairperson; Robert Webster, presenter; and Jesse and Anita Wagner parents of receiptant Jacob Wagner.

PENN TOWNSHIP A committee reviewing applications selected Hughesville High School graduate Jacob Wagner to receive the first annual ‘Robert Webster Local History Award.’ Senior awards are announced at graduation; however as the Webster award is facilitated through the East Lycoming Historical Society (ELHS), it was presented during festivities at the group’s June 17 meeting at Mt. Zion Lutheran social hall.

Chaired by Carol Mordan, the selection committee considers time given as a volunteer at the society, grades in the Local History class, and a short essay.

Jacob Wagner is an active volunteer and a past program presenter.

In the graduate’s acceptance remarks, he thanked the society and the community, as well as the financial contributors. “It is an honor to be the first recipient. To me, local history is important because in order to move forward we need to understand where we come from. Not just who our great-grandparents were, but also how the dynamics of religion, work opportunities and education shaped their lives. Mr. Webster’s efforts to preserve local history are an inspiration to us all. I hope I can reward your faith in me by having a positive impact on preserving local history.”

The positive impact came to fruition two days later. Wagner had been traveling past the Moreland Methodist Cemetery near Opp which had not been mowed this year. As the township’s 200th anniversary is scheduled for September 14, he mowed the nearly waist high grass.

Jacob is the son of Jesse and Anita Wagner of Moreland Township. Upon graduation, he received three awards. His future studies will be in refrigeration and air conditioning in preparation to enter the work force.