Dudley Hansbarger

GREENVILLE — Every once in a while, an individual comes along that is exemplary in their actions and share their skills with all. The Darke County Park Directors’ Paul Grote Memorial Volunteer Award is being presented to Dudley Hansbarger.

Hansbarger has literally volunteered thousands of hours for the Park District encompassing many different activities. Most have seen Hansbarger in his encampment period correct attire, sitting by his fire smoking his pipe, enjoying the surroundings and the general public visitors are always welcomed to his camp.

He camps at Prairie Days, The Gathering at Garst, Maple Syrup days, other regional encampments and occasionally even during the Ohio winter months. He has been instrumental in the use and education of the pioneer bake oven by the Log House during all of the district’s special events such as the Candlelight Dinners that are held in the fall of each year. His open fire cooking has been a favorite of all those that come to visit.

Park Director Roger Van Frank said, “I am of the opinion Dudley was born 150 years too late. When you sit at his camp and talk to him it is obvious that he loves that period in our American History. He also helps in the boiling and interpretive process of maple syrup making in February and March. He is one to count on for closing the sugar shack down after a long day of boiling and jarring the sweet treats. These volunteer events are far beyond the call of duty. His passion for the Park District is an example for all. Dudley, we can’t thank you enough. Congratulations for being the most recent recipient of the Paul Grote Memorial Volunteer Award.”