50 Years Ago

Herald of May 18, 1972

William V. Shriver, 31, was killed in a construction accident at the site of the new Martinsburg Fire Hall. Shriver, who worked for New Enterprise Stone and Lime, trucked a 14-ton beam to the location and was watching as it was being hoisted into place. A shackle on the cable broke and the beam fell on Shriver, crushing his chest.

Williamsburg doctor James C. Frye died at the age of 86. He was a general practitioner and practiced in the area for 58 years. He estimated that during his career he delivered 5,000 babies.

A fire that started at the Neville Clover Farm Store in Hopewell spread to five other buildings, leaving 25 people homeless. Defective wiring in the store building was believed to be the cause.

The third annual Westward Ho spring campout was scheduled for Memorial Day weekend at Memorial Park in Martinsburg. Approximately 300 families were expected to take part.