A reunion of the Tonganoxie, Kansas Needham family was held at Tongie's VFW Memorial Park on Sunday, 13 August 2006 from about 10:30 am onwards. About 35 descendants of Hawley Varnum Needham's sons Louis, Vin and Fred were in attendance, and a good time was had by all.

A photo gallery of the event can be seen by clicking the photo of the old cabin at right (and I'd love to add your photos to it).

The park is at 900 East First Street (what the old Tongie Road becomes), just off US24; you can find your way there using Google Maps or MapQuest. The park's big shelter house was reserved for us. The city swimming pool, playground facilities, and other parks are within easy walking distance.

An appointment was made with the Tonganoxie Historical Museum at 11:00 am to view the work on and contributions by the Needham family (principally by the late Bob and Pat Needham). The museum has an excellent collection of both buildings and artifacts. They are also collecting both written family histories and oral histories recorded on video. My father, Harold Needham, has contributed his memories to one of these videos. Most of the reunion attendees met at the museum, and the displays triggered lots of memories and stories.

Daniel's Bar-B-Q catered our lunch of BBQ beef, pork ribs, slaw, baked beans, and rolls. Folks also brought fresh tomatoes, various covered dishes, and lots of tasty desserts. No one should have gone away hungry, or without having had several good conversations.

In the afternoon, we visited the original family cabin on "The Cliffs" at the old site of Hoge station. The current owner, Fred Leimkuhler, is well-versed in the history of the land and was eager to share what he knows. The location of the cabin can be seen in maps or aerial photography at either Google Maps or the USGS TerraServer.

Plans are in the making for future reunions. We'd love to hear from you, and would love to add your pictures to the gallery.

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