by Kate Hotchkiss
Bernie and Billy Barter celebrated their 50th wedding anniversary surrounded by family and friends at Revere Memorial Hall on Saturday, July 26. When asked what attracted her to Billy, Bernie immediately replied, “It was his nice personality. He also has beautiful eyes. I don’t know, he’s just a good person.”
“Same thing,” responded Billy to the identical question, then acknowledged that Bernie’s eyes are green. “Fifty years it took for him to admit they are green, not blue!” she exclaimed. This made them laugh, and both pairs of gorgeous eyes sparkled.
Bernadine Grace Alley and William Ernest Barter were married on March 8, 1958, in Jonesport. The ceremony took place in a chapel built on land donated by Miss Alley’s grandparents.
The 19-year-old bride and 21-year-old groom knew each other their whole lives—at 7 months of age, Bernadine had moved to Billy’s hometown of Isle au Haut. They have lived on the island since, raising their family, lobster fishing, and taking care of the community through welcoming gestures to newcomers and by organizing events that bring islanders together.
Fifty years of marriage is certainly something to celebrate, and learn from: when asked what they would tell those getting married today, Bernie advised “Just work at it…you have to believe in one another…learn to forgive, that’s important…don’t be too quick to judge…communication…just love one another…and never be afraid to say you’re sorry.”
“That’s how you do it,” added Billy with a chuckle after describing “their worst day”: Bernie threw his buoy paint brush “half way to the lighthouse” after lecturing him for spanking their son who had upset the paint can. “Trust is another,” he recommended.
Billy and Bernie have two children, Payson and Kim, 12 grandchildren, and two great-grandchildren, all of whom live in Maine.
An estimated 150 family members and friends attended the potluck barbecue picnic at the town hall decorated with flowers, photographs, streamers, and balloons. Music played, including a tune special to the couple since before their marriage—a timeframe difficult to believe given how young and handsome they both look. Husband and wife danced to Young Love by Sonny James,then Billy gently kissed his bride.
“It’s been overwhelming,” observed Bernadine of the festivities that also included an evening square dance and fireworks. “We love you all. Thanks a million.”
Return to the Island Ad-Vantages home page.
Cart
