Roanoke Times
Copyright (c) 1995, Landmark Communications, Inc.
DATE: SUNDAY, January 16, 1994 TAG: 9401160109
SECTION: VIRGINIA PAGE: B6 EDITION: NEW RIVER VALLEY
SOURCE: PAUL DELLINGER STAFF WRITER
DATELINE: AUSTINVILLE LENGTH: Short
Although he grew up in Missouri, Austin was born in the Wythe County community of Austinville in 1793. The town was named for his father, Moses Austin, who headed lead-mining operations in that part of Virginia.
The foundation will educate the public about the lives and public contributions of Moses and Stephen Austin.
Foundation members originally planned to erect a memorial to Stephen Austin in the Austinville area, but have expanded their plans to include construction of a park there.
The foundation will secure a site for the monument and park to be linked to the New River Trail and Shot Tower state parks. Plans include a loop trail, parking lots, access roads, a boat launch and an educational exhibit.
The organization is working with historians, Texas officials, Virginia state park officials and others.
Tom Bralley has been elected foundation chairman; Mary Kegley, vice chairwoman; Linda Spiker, secretary; Anna Ray Roberts, treasurer; and Dave Bockes, public relations.
Other charter members include Jim Bobbitt, John Crowgey, Danny Gordon, Mark Hufeisen, Tom Jackson, Kent Vaughan and E.L. Winberg.
The organization seeks individuals and organizations interested in the Austin project. Historical information and contributions can be sent to the Stephen F. Austin Memorial Foundation, P.O. Box 626, Austinville 24312.
by CNB