Monday, September 15, 2025

Milliron Monday: First Grade Visitors Sisters of Saint Francis Athens Ohio 1968


Abbott "Pete" Smith D.V.M.:  
June 16, 1938 - February 22, 2010

Virginia Joyann "Jody" Haley Smith: 
April 2, 1938 - May 9, 2021

Welcome to Milliron Monday where every Monday we celebrate 
the legacy of Milliron Farm and Clinic, 
Dr. Pete and Jody Smith.

    In May of 1968, the newly built Milliron Clinic, Athens, Ohio, welcomed a lively group of first graders from the Sisters of Saint Francis school. The visit left such an impression that Sister Janice, their devoted teacher, penned a heartfelt letter of thanks, accompanied by a bundle of illustrated notes from her students.

    More than five decades later, this collection offers a charming snapshot of childhood curiosity, community kindness, and the timeless magic of field trips. Each note is a small window into the day’s impact—how a simple visit could inspire dreams, spark questions, and leave lasting impressions.

    The children explored the barn, met horses, goats, and chickens, peeked into the veterinary wing of the clinic, and even watched a demonstration of how to care for a sick calf. Staff members answered questions as first graders toured the new clinic.

    Today, Sister Janice’s letter and the students’ notes are part of an archival collection held by the Smith family. They serve as a reminder of the power of community connection—and the joy of learning beyond the classroom walls.

 Here’s a few of the notes. See the remaining notes on the Milliron Clinic Facebook page/album here.




For Exclusive Photos Follow on Facebook @ Milliron Clinic
Connect with Gina:

Through captivating, powerful, and emotional anecdotes, we celebrate the life of Dr. Abbott P. Smith. His biography takes the reader from smiles to laughter to empathy and tears. Dr. Smith gave us compelling lessons learned from animals; the role animals play in the human condition, the joy of loving an animal, and the awe of their spirituality. A tender and profound look into the life of a skilled veterinarian. 

 

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Milliron Monday: Jody's Journals September 1985

      Abbott "Pete" Smith D.V.M.:   June 16, 1938 - February 22, 2010 Virginia Joyann "Jody" Haley Smith:  April 2, 1938...

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