RoundUp 2011

by Sue Roush

Every year over 100 senior citizens from all over the country make their way to York, Nebraska to be college students again. They attend classes taught by York College faculty, stay in the residence halls, eat in the cafeteria, and attend devotionals.  But it is the fellowship with friends that brings them back each year to RoundUp - the annual senior citizens’ retreat that was held on the York College campus, May 22-28.

The theme for the week was The Civil War, with York College history professor Tim McNeese leading the study. A prolific author, McNeese riveted the audience with daily classes on the topic, weaving a massive amount of information into a fascinating narrative.

The highlight of the week was held Thursday when Abraham Lincoln and General Lee came to life in the form of actor – historians, Dr. Spenser Davis and Dr. Tom King. Davis is professor of history at Peru State College.  He also presented a lecture on "African Americans during the Civil War.” King is professor of secondary education at Doane College, who also teaches the history department's course on the Civil War.  King has been performing as Grant for 15 years.

Following these presentations, the group was invited outside to a Civil War encampment led by living history reenactors from Lincoln and Omaha of the First Nebraska Regiment. A mock Civil War camp was set up on the campus complete with tents, weapons and demonstrations on communication, living conditions, food, weaponry, and women in the war.

It was a full week of activities as the RoundUppers enjoyed daily exercise, classes on literature, Bible and evening devotionals in the Prayer Chapel.

Dates for next year’s RoundUp are May 20 - 26, 2012. For more information, contact Gayle Good at gagood@york.edu or (402) 363-5621.

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