MADISON – A manicured front lawn, a good turnout of talkative guests and mouthwatering food combined for a fun outing at the annual summer picnic of Madison Station Historical Preservation Society.

Guests gathered for the suppertime event on July 29 on the front lawn of Dennis Vaughn’s magnificent home on Front Street in downtown Madison.

“For the first time in many years, the historical society cancelled the picnic in 2020 due to the COVID-19 pandemic, so we were excited to gather for our annual summer picnic again in person for 2021,” Acting President Debbie Overcash said.

“We look forward to this time of fellowship and friends each year and really missed our gathering in 2020,” Overcash said. “It’s always wonderful seeing old friends and meeting new ones. We have exciting plans for the Roundhouse unveiling and many Christmas events brewing — stay tuned.”

“With approximately 50 members, family and friends attending, the night was a huge success despite being the hottest day of the year so far,” Overcash said. “Dennis Vaughn is so gracious to let us picnic on his beautiful front lawn.”

The menu included pork barbeque, baked beans and slaw, along with some of the members’ famous potluck desserts and dishes. Cindy Sensenberger brought potato salad, while Deborah McDaniel offered tomato pie. For dessert choices, Sandy Nola baked an irresistible blueberry cobbler, Walt Anderson brought molasses cookies and Debbie Overcash prepared symphony brownies.

Recently, the historical society raised funds for and oversaw the extensive renovation of the Roundhouse. “The society is looking forward this fall to a landscape project surrounding the building,” Overcash said.

At the Madison Street Festival on Oct. 2, visitors can visit the historical society’s booth in front of the Roundhouse. “We’re hopeful that the Roundhouse will be open for tours (pending construction completion),” Overcash said.

Officers for the organization include Vice President Doug Smith, Secretary Charlie Nola, Treasurer Cindy Sensenberger and Overcash as Acting President.

Madison Station Historical Preservation Society meets monthly on fourth Thursdays at 6 p.m., with exceptions for July (for the picnic) and December (for the Christmas Party). The society welcomes guests to their business meetings.

The society’s mission is to preserve history, restore artifacts and bring the community together for the common good. For more information, visit historicmadisonstation.com.