39°
Odell and Nick, Emmy and Emily Oliverio received awards from the Putnam Valley Historical Society at Char Steakhouse on Sunday.
Putnam County Legislator Sam Oliverio was on hand to see his mother, brother and sister honored for their excellence in promoting history. Nick Oliverio served as president, while Emmy Oliverio was executive director.
"This is outstanding," Oliverio said. "It's a well deserved honor."
Nick Oliverio said it was very gratifying to be given the award.
"It's humbling," Nick Oliverio said. "We've been here for more than 50 years."
Kelley Howard, the historical society's current historian, said the organization is about preserving and promoting Putnam's history.
"We wan to keep Putnam Valley's history alive," Howard said.
The organization has an annual exhibition showcasing rare documents and photos from Putnam Valley's past.
"This place used to be full of farmers," Oliverio said. "It wasn't like they were writing everything down. Things were passed down through word of mouth."
Marvin Odell was awarded the Silleck Award for overall service to Putnam Valley.
"This is an honor for sure," Odell said. "I am proud to be remembered. This was quite the surprise."
Odell said when he was told of the award, he was taken aback for a second.
"This is very nice," Odell said. "Our history in this town goes back a long time."
Odell's family has been in Putnam Valley for five generations.
"Remembering the past is important for everyone," Odell said.
For more information on the Putnam Valley Historical Society, visit http://www.facebook.com/PutnamCoHistoricalSoc.
Click here to follow Daily Voice Mahopac and receive free news updates.
