Hivel und Dahl Honors a 'Gute Engel'

When Beulah Miller was born some 93 years ago, her parents, Joseph and Elsie Batman, probably never imagined she would become an important figure to many residents of Upper Milford Township. At age 4, Miller and her family moved to Powder Valley, where she and her nine brothers and sisters were raised. 

She started jotting down notes about her life on the Batman farm—the daily chores, toys and games the children played, adventures at school, and much more. Then, she began to compile all her notes.

Sometimes, though, it was difficult, especially after her marriage to Otto Miller in 1935 and the births of her son, Willard, and daughter, Pauline Fritz. Her seven grandchildren and seven great-grandchildren also kept her very busy.

She typed her memoirs on a typewriter rather than a computer, pecking away at each letter. Finally, in 2007, her book was published. “Life on the Farm in 1920 & 1930: Batman Dairy Farm” was in print for all to read. She also hand drew the many pictures on nearly every page.

Miller was recognized at the Sept. 25 meeting of the Hivel und Dahl Preservation Society for her writing talents as well as her many other contributions to Upper Milford.

“We are here tonight to recognize all the wonderful things you have done for our community,” said Jim Baker, Hivel und Dahl vice president.

He pointed out a poster displayed on a table that was made for Miller’s 80th birthday listing more than 70 of her achievements, talents and activities. She is known for her bowling, singing in the choir, entertaining, Pennsylvania Dutch readings and songs, needlework, work as a local historian, writing, collecting newspaper articles of local events, and so much more.

Miller was involved in the planning of the 1976 Upper Milford Township Bicentennial Parade. She sewed banners, put together floats, designed and sewed costumes for participants.

Her daughter said Miller often visits the sick and homebound. And, if she is unable to visit, she sends notes of cheer.

The preservation society presented Miller with a copy of a signed Jack Eagle print of the Schubert-Graber cabin, one the oldest homes in the township. The restoration of this cabin is currently the focus of the Hivel und Dahl Preservation Society.

She also received a plaque denoting her a “Gute Engel” -- the Good Angel Award “for the life long support of the Pennsylvania German culture and for celebrating the Pennsylvania Dutch every day.”

Jennifer Fritz, 19-year-old great-granddaughter, recalled her time spent with Miller. “I am lucky to know my great-grammy. I went to senior citizens with her before I went to kindergarten. I would go to her after school and she taught me Pennsylvania Dutch.”

Miller continues to write about Upper Milford Township and its history. She co-authored the book “The History of Powder Valley.” Most recently, she contributed many hours on the Upper Milford Historical Society book committee. Here, she helped to compile writings and photos for the recently released “Images of America Upper Milford Township” book.