Richard Evers, teacher, historian, author, and mentor to many, died February 25. Like to many in the Hicksville Historical Society, he was a true mentor to me, and was the person that started me into volunteering my time with the Historical Society. His presentations at our general meetings boosted community awareness and pride in our town.
Mr. Evers was always present at town functions, one being our costume ball held at the Milleridge Inn. Richard also sponsored bus tours around Hicksville, showing landmarks and presenting historical churches to the public. His work with school children is noteworthy, as he was even presented on VH-1 television as Billy Joel’s teacher. Here was a man who collected and presented town history, who became part of the town history himself. His published books on Hicksville are valued additions to our collection. His mark on the Gregory museum and the history room in his name at the Hicksville Library transmit to us that we will never be forgotten. Both he and his wife gave countless hours of their time to this community. As president of the Hicksville Historical Society, I say to you that I (and the Society) have lost a mentor, a friend, a guide. But in our time together, I gained so much, as did the whole community of Hicksville. I believe that when I think of the name ‘Hicksville,’ I will also think of Richard Evers.
Bob Koenig
Hicksville Historical Society President
