Front row - L to R: Jim Shaner, State Representative; Dr. Harry R. Sampey; Eldo DiVirgilio, President of the Heritage Society; Alfred Orsini, Mayor; Rich Kasunic, State Senator
Back row - L to R: Gary Brownfield, Fayette County Sheriff; Fred Lebder, Former Fayette County Commissioner.
Photo courtesy of Norma Allison
In donating the funds for the project, Dr. Sampey, who now resides in Farmington Pa., said he has always had fond memories of his hometown of Perryopolis. He was born in Star Junction, but grew up in Perryopolis. Dr. Sampey commented that Perryopolis was and still is a small and quiet community where everyone is friendly and knows each other. “My family grew up during the depression and World War II, and lived with many hardships, but we never considered ourselves underprivileged”.
Dr. Sampey said that his success in electronics and business began as a child in Perryopolis. “It is time to give some of that success back to the hometown that inspired this skinny and shy kid toward a great career,” he said.
The new pavilion and renovated park area will be known as the Dr. Harry R. Sampey Park and will be a great addition to the community and the recently renovated Washington’s Gristmill. The Heritage Society plans to rent the pavilion for reunions, weddings, picnics, and special events. Rental income will be used to help maintain the property. Completion of the project is scheduled for June 30, 2000.
Photos by John Martinak
TKD, Sec. PAHS, 7/2000
