Pick of the day: New library wows Starkey old-timers


By Benton Hopper

The Roanoke Times


January 17, 2012


On Jan. 3, I had the pleasure of attending the dedication of the new South County Library, located on what was previously known as the Starkey Farm on Merriman Road. I was amazed to see such a structure on the old farm pastureland.


For us old-timers, it was like going from “The Flintstones” to “The Jetsons.” This building is a showplace located next to a historical home known as Speedwell, which is the original home of the Harvey and Starkey families for well over 200 years.


This building confirms my faith in our county's supervisors, administrators, employees and residents. Every person in the valley and for miles around should visit the new library and see the magnificent architecture.


It was good to see the gleam in the eyes of the only remaining family member, Margaret Starkey. However, we would like to see the homeplace listed on the historic register in order to remember the old and new.


The Starkey alumni would like to especially thank Roanoke County Supervisors Butch Church and Charlotte Moore and the library staff.