WWI came along during Orlando's heydays. Here are photos of two of our Orlando boys who answered the call. Austin W. Skinner 1896-1947, left, was a Corporal in the 27th Infantry. His parents were William Otto and Clara Oneta (Skinner) Skinner. Cousin Crystal Kearns is the source of this beautiful photo of Austin Skinner.
Above on the right is Oras Lenord Stutler 1896-1967, son of Ovie M. and Ennie (Riffle) Stutler. He entered the Army in 1918.
I've been unable to verify these three soldiers: John Sutton1 listed James B. Blake and John Conley as Orlando boys who were wounded in WWI and Lee Blake tells us "the scond son of Thurmissa and Lucy (Skinner) Riffle, Cllie V. Riffle was killed in battle on October the 24. 1918." 2
The 3 boys I was able to trace, were greatgrandsons of Alexander and Phoebe (Conrad) Blake. I have no doubt the other two will also trace back to the children of Catharine (Scott) Skinner Posey.
Folks on the home front did their part, too. In the photo immediately to the right Edith Skinner and a friend dressed as men to sell War Bonds. Edith married Oras. Wish we knew who her friend was. Cousin Joe Burgett showed me the table the table in this photo. It's in the old warehouse in Orlando.
1. Sutton, John Davison. History of Braxton County and Central West Virginia. (McClain Printing Co, Parsons, WV. reprint 1967) pg 457.
2. Blake, Lee. Monograph: Blakes and Riffles Going Back To The Seventh Generation. July, 1953 Weston, WV.
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