Elkins Celebrates New Rosie the Riveter Inductees
On August 9, 2025, a significant ceremony took place in Elkins to honor the contributions of women during World War II, with eight new members inducted into the Our Town Inc. Rosie the Riveter Honor Roll. The event was held at St. Brendan Catholic Church’s Parrish Hall, bringing together the community to remember and celebrate the efforts of these remarkable women.
The Inductees
This year’s inductees included:
- Olga “Jerry” Sneberger Ball: Born in 1917 in Columbus, she worked as a welder for Pratt and Whitney during the war.
- Jessie Lucille Roberson Demotto: A nursing graduate who worked at Eastern Aircraft Company during the war.
- Frankie Jean Stalnaker Sponaugle: A Mill Creek native who worked in Baltimore’s shipyards.
- Nola Nelson Tingler: Known for her time at the Glenn L. Martin Aircraft factory in Baltimore.
- Evalena See Isner: Trained as a riveter at the same Baltimore factory during her summer break.
- Gatha Lee Sharp McDaniel: Worked as a riveter in Baltimore after moving there at the age of 20.
- Mary Elizabeth Bell Bosworth: An inspector at the General Motors Fisher Body Division Plant during the war.
- Mary M. Stankus Williams: Worked as a riveter for B-24s in a converted Ford Motor Plant in Michigan.
Event Highlights
This celebration marked the fifth annual event recognizing local women who served during World War II. The theme “Going to the Movie Theater During World War II” was inspired by the former Manos Theater in downtown Elkins. Attendees were provided with themed movie tickets, bells, and snacks, recreating the experience of visiting a cinema during that era.
Elkins Mayor Jerry Marco provided remarks emphasizing the pivotal role that Rosie the Riveters played in the war effort, underscoring their contributions to both the home front and the overall war strategy.
Community Engagement
Over 80 individuals attended the ceremony, including family members of the inductees, who received certificates honoring their loved ones. Bobbi Trimboli, an organizer and volunteer for Our Town, expressed satisfaction with the turnout and the positive reception of the event. “We showed an old newsreel from the Rosie era illustrating women’s wartime efforts and even gave out popcorn and drinks to replicate the movie-going experience as it was during the war,” she remarked.
Local displays showcased photographs and biographies of the women being honored, giving attendees a chance to connect with the history and contributions of the Rosies from Randolph County, which now includes nearly 50 recognized individuals.
Conclusion
The event not only served as a formal recognition of these women’s invaluable work but also as a poignant reminder of their legacy. As Trimboli noted, it was heartening to see families unite to honor their loved ones, fostering a sense of community and shared history.
