By: Ryan Duey
Photo Courtesy of Clay County Museum
The Clay County Museum invites the public to celebrate the life of Cathy Haney on Friday, July 3rd, as they dedicate the Cathy Haney Research Library in her honor. The come and go event will run from 2:00 to 4:00 p.m. It will begin with a ‘tea party,’ featuring Cathy’s favorite drink, Cherry 7UP. With a sign unveiling taking place at 3:00 p.m.
Affectionately known to many as ‘The Hat Lady,’ Cathy was the driving force in getting the Clay County Historical Society started in 1972. Her dedication and work shaped the Museum into what it is today.
Pat Gilbert, Board Member and Co-organizer of the event, said Cathy was known for many different things.
“Those in Clay County who remember Cathy will remember her as wearing high heels all the time, and wearing her hair in a bun. Some will remember her as a florist, others as a Clay Center News Broadcaster for KMAN Radio.”
“Kids remember her pretending to be an old-time school teacher, and others think of her as ‘Hat Lady.’ She had hundreds of ladies’ hats and would do programs about the history of women’s hats.”
“Cathy’s work and dedication in creating the Clay County Historical Society and Museum are the reason that Clay County history has been preserved. She was a driving force behind establishing the Clay County Historical Society and Museum, and she was the driving force in moving the museum from the old hospital location to its present location.”
Attendees are encouraged to wear their favorite hat. During the dedication, the public can enjoy looking through some of her wedding flower orders from her time as a florist. Pictures of Cathy’s life will also be available for viewing. Gilbert said they are also having a fun contest.
“During the event, we will also have cans out, and it will be to collect money for the museum.”
“We will be voting on who wears Cathy’s bonnet, whether it will be Jeff, Grace, or Diana. So come prepared to put some money in the can of the person that you want to wear the bonnet.”
Join the Museum in dedicating Cathy Haney and sharing stories of a very important woman in Clay County. Also, don’t forget to drop your donation in the can of the museum member you would like to adorn Cathy’s bonnet.
