Heuermann/Day Family Reunions

submitted by Emery Heuermann, Jr.

I have heard about several Heuermann Day reunions. One was in 1938, the other 1957 but I don't have any information on either. 

I only remember the ones that started with the reunion in the fall of 1976. It was a was a loosely organized, backyard" affair, in the home of Noami Way-Heuermann in Southern Oaks subdivision in Conroe, Texas. At that reunion it was decided that annual reunions would be a good way to keep the far flung family in touch with one another. I still have notes from that 1976 reunion.

The 1977, 1978 and 1987 reunions were held in Brownwood State Park, on the shores of Lake Brownwood. The temperature there is lessened by the low humidity in the area. Remember the World War II plane that was lost in a training exercise accident during the war that we; as water skiers,  were being warned about? It was found in 1982. A severe drought caused the lake levels to fall dramatically. The plane was near the area where we water skied.   

The 1978, 1979, 1980, 1988, and 1991 reunions were held at Abilene State Park. This park is  a perennial favorite because of its natural beauty, great meeting hall and swimming pool. Many of us remember this swimming pool from our childhood. The Abilene area always seems to have pleasant early mornings and evenings, and of course, lots of Heuermann/Day roots. Many of us met Laura Day's side of the family for the first time, here in 1991.This was made possible because of Alta and Roy Heuermann's fine research efforts and relentless invitations.

In 1981, Blanco State park was selected because of its natural beauty, and large meeting hall. Many will recall driving across the Blanco river to get to the site. I wonder what ever happened to the 1957 Chevrolet that Joey Kirkpatrick and Cindy Murray-Kirkpatrick were restoring. The popularity of Blanco State Park is evidenced by the family choosing to return to the area in 1982, 1985 and 1986, each with its own distinctive remembrances.

New Braunfels, a German enclave in central Texas, was selected for 1983, 1987, and 1989. All reunions were held at Landa Park. The New Braunfels area has proven to be one of our most popular locations year after year. Many will recall the great bar-b-que served up by Annita Heuermann-Norsworthy and her husband, Fred at the 1989 affair. Who can forget the after hours entertainment at Oma's Sausage House in 1987, or floating down the Comal river in 1983 on inner tubes.

Lake Whitney, the self proclaimed "family reunion capital of Texas" was chosen as the 1984 site. Laura Murray-Lynch and husband, Philip captained this excursion, highlighted by a great fish fry. We should consider returning to the Lake Whitney area. It is a deep lake with a lot of good striper fishing, water skiing coves, and fabulous sunsets.

In 1992, our family reunion was held at the home of Patsy Heuermann-Swindle and husband Bill Swindle. Their home, located on the shores of Lake Sweetwater and adjacent to the Sweetwater golf course, was overwhelmingly applauded. They did a great job! They later reported that, contrary to rumor, they were able to restore their home with a minimum of expenses and trouble after we all left. One of the best reunions we have had!

In 1993, and 1994, the reunion was held at Fredericksburg, TX. at Lyndon B Johnson State Park. Remember the bats that came out at dusk in both years? Kids loved it....   parents shrieked! Diana Heuermann-Hill and husband Jimmy did their usual great job of putting everything together. This was our first experience with having the meals catered, instead of bringing a pot luck plate or dish to share. The meeting house, although small, made for a cozy environment for the family.

We held the reunion at Tuscola Community Center one year but I don't remener what year. Someone help me out here.

Reunions remind us that our family tree has deep roots and many strong branches. We have had some great ones over the years.

Emery Heuermann