99 Years and Counting
The pen and ink drawing by Ms. Jeannie Spears of Branstetter Park in 2001. The art was used on the Historical Christmas Ornament that year to celebrate the 75th anniversary of the park. The historical photo is shared from the book compiled by Dorothy Paull.
By PJ Martin
Editor
The Herald-News
As Summer Shade, Kentucky, gears up for its 99th Branstetter Park Homecoming, people are making plans to travel and meet with friends and family.
Unlike in past years, 2025’s homecoming will be held on Sunday, August 24th, at 10 a.m., with the regular schedule and a potluck lunch following the services.
The Branstetter Park Homecoming has been a hallmark of the Summer Shade community since its beginning in 1926. Each year, many of the families gather to honor the tradition and reminisce.
In a book compiled and written by Dorothy Paull, Branstetter Park was created from the land acquired by John L. Branstetter, who was born in nearby Beaumont, Kentucky, in 1837.
In August of 1926, the first Branstetter Park Homecoming was held. The original deed, dated March 20, 1926, in that book states, “It is to be used for all future time strictly for religious, moral, and educational purposes.”
The first tabernacle was built sometime in 1926, but partially burned at some time between then and 1932. The reconstructed building was dedicated in August 1932 and remains basically the same today, with the only update being one in 1953 when a cement floor replaced the gravel one.
According to Paull, the log pavilion was built in the spring of 2003 to include a kitchen, eating area, bathroom, and a nice porch.
In the last few years, the Saturday events have not been attended as well as in years past. Still, there are a few families who believe in keeping the tradition alive and attend yearly with their children.
The Homecoming is not just for locals; all who seek the small-town hospitality are welcome to attend.
The log pavilion was added in 2003 to house the kitchen, tables, and restrooms. The historical photo is shared from the book compiled by Dorothy Paull.
