Whitehall Additional Historical Information

Central Electric Cooperative's (CEC's) relationship with Whitehall Camp and Conference Center (Whitehall) goes all the way back to 1939 when CEC used Whitehall for the location of their second-ever annual meeting. We didn't know it then, but this would be the beginning of a very long relationship. 

CEC has held 65 annual meetings at Whitehall's location in Emlenton. From 1938 to 1953, the location of CEC's annual meeting moved around between several locations near their office in Parker. But in 1954 they went back to Whitehall and only used a different location once more -- they held the 1962 annual meeting at CEC's office, it was the co-op's 25th anniversary. This tradition continued until 2020 when CEC had to cancel the traditional style event because of COVID-19 -- and again in 2021 and 2022. 

CEC has used a variety of locations within Whitehall's property for the event over the years. Most recently, the event was in the area surrounding Whitehall's tabernacle. But it has also been held on top of the hill in what was the main cafeteria area and on the lawn area at the bottom of the hill.

The food for the event has also changed over the years. In the beginning, CEC would serve a brown-bag lunch-style meal. Then staff grilled chicken in very large, grill pits. Most recently, CEC has served Kentucky Fried Chicken meals at the event. 

One thing has stayed a constant with the event, and that's great prizes! Attendees have always been eligible to win a variety of prizes by attending. In early years, when members were just getting electricity, small electric appliances were very well received prizes. At the peak of interest, these events saw over 6,000 people! (At CEC's first annual meeting, 300 of CEC's 374 members attended!)

Even though COVID-19 has changed things in the last few years, CEC still views this event as a great way for staff, board members, and members to interact and learn more about each other. Plus! It's a fun day where attendees can enjoy food and entertainment, learn more about CEC, exercise their democratic control, and win prizes! CEC hopes to bring back an in-person event in 2023 and is currently evaluating how this event can return to a post-COVID world. If you have any requests, comments, or concerns about CEC's annual meeting event moving forward, please email those to Renee Tritten at rtritten@central.coop.