A message from the new President
of the Kissam Family Association
I want to recognize the hard work and dedication of Robert (Toby) Kissam. Toby
has been at the forefront of the Kissam organization since its inception. He not only maintains a vigilent eye on the collections,
constant updating of the genealogy, editor of the newsletter and membership files but also serves on the Board of the Huntington
Historical Society. I would be remiss not to also thank his wife, Beverly, and his two children Stephanie who updates the
website and Gordon for their support over the years.
If you did not attend the National Kissam Family Reunion in Nashville you missed
a special treat. We were entertained, amused, and most importantly had quality time with family members. Over 87 relatives
attended this year's reunion. We had lots of fun events that included a presentation and dinner at Vanderbilt University
and Kissam Hall, riverboat ride and floor show aboard the General Jackson, a tour of the Opryland hotel, an evening of
Grande Old Opry music, a visit to the historic home of Andrew Jackson at the Hermitage, and plenty of time for families to
share stories in the hospitality room and individually. My children are still talking about all the children's activities
offered during the weekend like the arts and crafts with Lee Kissam and her husband Dave Pastor and the
pizza party at the pool. I want to offer a special thanks to my parents Bill and Jayne Kissam for all their hard work making
the reunion special for us.
During the weekend I had the opportunity to listen to family members interests
and concerns. I hope that as your new President that I can focus on some of these areas. I found a new level of interest from
Kissams of my generation, watched the rapport of the older family members as they recounted family ties and friendships, and
saw our youngest Kissam members bond together as playmates. All these levels of interaction are the basis for the strength
and growth in the furture of our Kissam Family Association.
I know that keeping the search for our forefathers is most important as well
as maintaining the lineage of current and future family members. The preservation and restoration of the the Ksisam House
and its retrieval of its collections is a priority. The establishment of a mentoring program and a scholarship program for
our youth with be one of my primary focuses. The recognition and bonding of family members is a key element in understanding
our heritage. The publication of a family newsletter is dependant upon your input and support.
As a twelveth generation descendant of Dr. Daniel Whitehead Kissam, it is a honor
for me to serve as the first woman President of the Association. Your support, input, and participation in the Association
is vital to its continued success. I ask that you step forward to volunteer your services to help Kathy with the newsletter,
Ed in Seattle in the next regional family gathering, support of the brick campaign for the Kissam House, and most importantly
for your to reach out to your own brothers and sisters in hopes that all Kissams can renew their family bonds. I look forward
to any input and ideas that you have over the next few years.
God Bless.........Barbara Kissam M.D. ( Barb)
