The Little White Boat: A Johnsonburg Memorial Day Tradition
Part of the then annual Memorial Day festivities, which were located at the historic old Clarion River Bridge in Rolfe, included a variety of activities and gatherings. If you look closely at the scene, a delicate string appears to be present, connecting the little boat to the top of the bridge, as it is held in the hands of a young woman. - Date unknown
For over 125 years, a small, handmade wooden boat has been a poignant symbol of remembrance in Johnsonburg, Pennsylvania. Known as the "Little White Boat," it was crafted by Irvin B. Williams, son-in-law of Civil War Veteran C. Workman.
Following the Civil War, in the late 1800s and early 1900s, the Women's Relief Corps, an auxiliary of Civil War Veterans, played a vital role in the annual Memorial Day Parade and program. This solemn event honored the fallen soldiers of the Civil War and subsequent conflicts. According to "The History of Elk County" by Wessman, the parade included a moving ritualistic service for the deceased soldiers at a designated location. It then proceeded to the Rolfe Bridge, where a service was held specifically for Navy dead. During this part of the ceremony, the Little White Boat, laden with flowers, was set afloat on the Clarion River. For many years, this small vessel drifted downstream as a symbol of remembrance.
Over time, the program at the Rolfe Bridge was discontinued, and parts of the Memorial Day observance were moved to Memorial Field. Today, the Memorial Day service for military veterans is held at the Veterans Memorial at the Gazebo on Market Street.
In later years, the tradition of the Little White Boat was kept alive by the Gabor children, the Dickey Family, the O'Neil Family, and Irvin Henry. Despite rumors that the boat had sunk, it has been preserved and remains in good condition. There is hope that it will one day again sail on the Clarion River in memory of our service members.
The Memorial Day events in Johnsonburg were, and continue to be, a community effort. American Legion members and VFW members played significant roles, and many people donated flowers for the Little White Boat. The Girl Scouts and Boy Scouts also had a strong presence. Additionally, the Johnsonburg Area High School Band and two Drum & Bugle Corps, the Central Jr. Corps and the Armstrong Yellow Jackets, participated in the observances, further honoring those who served
Jay and Todd Fannin, who are the great-grandsons of the original builder, can be seen carefully preparing the Little Boat for the upcoming Memorial Day celebration in the large display window of the Heritage-Education & Welcome Center (HEWC).
The Little White Boat, an artifact dating back to 1905, remains a cherished piece of Johnsonburg's history. After residing with the Gabor Family, it now has a home in the Heritage-Education & Welcome Center 569 Market Street, Johnsonburg.
Anita Gabor Fitch, the beloved grand-daughter of the original creator and talented designer of the iconic Little Boat, has carried on her family's legacy with passion and dedication.
Memorial Day Schedule in Johnsonburg, May 26th, 2025
- In Johnsonburg, on Memorial Day, observances will begin at 8:00 AM with a solemn waterside ceremony at the Rolfe Bridge on the Clarion River, reminiscent of the “Little White Boat”. Following this act of remembrance, a veterans' procession will commence at 9:00 AM from the Johnsonburg Community Building. The parade will proceed along Market Street and conclude at the Gazebo at the American Legion. Local veterans are respectfully invited to participate in both the morning ceremony at Rolfe Bridge and the subsequent parade to the Gazebo, as the community unites to honor their service and sacrifice.
- Also, you can join the Johnsonburg Community Trust’s volunteers at the Heritage-Education & Welcome Center, 569 Market Street, to celebrate and remember those who we have lost this Monday during the Memorial Day Parade and ceremonies. The doors will be open at 8 am, welcoming all community members to come together in a spirit of reflection and gratitude. We look forward to seeing you there as we honor the sacrifices made by those who have served our nation.
-Stephanie
Stephanie Distler is president of the Johnsonburg Community Trust, leading various community initiatives. She was a key volunteer in establishing the Heritage Education & Welcome Center (HEWC) and currently serves as its coordinator and curator, promoting Johnsonburg's heritage. Distler is also an artisan, owning Stephanie Distler Studios, where she creates jewelry, fiber art, leather carvings, and mixed media art, influenced by the Pennsylvania Wilds. Her work embodies a "Rural Organic Style" reflecting her connection to the area. Committed to Johnsonburg's future, she believes in community collaboration and hopes future generations cherish the town's character and charm.