Rubenstein / Schilansky Family Fund
The Rubenstein / Schilansky Family Fund supports recreational opportunities in Tucker County, with a focus on benefiting residents of the Thomas-Davis area, in memory of Kenneth and Ellen Rubenstein and Haskel and Goldie Schilansky.
TYPE OF FUND: Field of Interest
DATE ESTABLISHED: September 11, 1991
PURPOSE: To honor Kenneth “Honey” Rubenstein (1917–1974) and Ellen Arnold Rubenstein (1923–1980), residents of Thomas, and Haskel (1902–1991) and Goldie Poling Nestor Schilansky (1923–1990).
DISTRIBUTION: The original letter states, “We…prefer that the funds be used for recreational opportunities, particularly in the Thomas-Davis area…the basketball and tennis courts in Thomas may be a worthwhile project. We will not restrict the Foundation in the use of the funds; only that the Foundation considers our hope that the money can be used in a manner which benefits the children and adults of Tucker County.” Upon the recommendation of the Grants Committee and approval by the full Board of Directors of TCF.
VARIANCE POWER: If, in the judgment of the TCF Board of Directors, the restrictions and conditions of the fund become unnecessary, incapable of fulfillment or inconsistent with the charitable needs of the community, the TCF Board of Directors maintains the right to modify the terms of this fund.
FUNDING: Contributions from the four sons of Mr. and Mrs. Rubenstein with personal checks totaling $6,000; $500 from Westmoreland Coal Company; and a pledge to provide the remaining $3,500 within five years. In December 1996, the brothers elected to combine the two family funds, using the money which had been generated from their contributions and the interest during the five years.
BACKGROUND: James E. Rubenstein of Grafton, WV; Robert L. Rubenstein of Cross Lanes, WV; and F. Thomas and Harry M. “Moe” Rubenstein of Morgantown, WV, sons of Mr. and Mrs. Rubenstein, contacted TCF to establish endowed funds honoring their parents and uncle and aunt.
Kenneth Rubenstein was a son of Ruby and Celia Schilansky Rubenstein, owners of one of the first two businesses in Thomas. He helped to operate the family business, Ruby’s Meat Market, and later served as superintendent of Davis Correctional Center. Ellen Arnold Rubenstein, daughter of Lawrence and Floda Turner Arnold, was a homemaker, 4-H supporter, member of the Woman’s Club, and employee of Tucker County Bank at the time of her death.
Goldie Poling Schilansky was known for her musical talents, community involvement, and colorful life, which included working as a taxi driver in Baltimore before settling in Tucker County. Haskel Schilansky was born in Thomas and operated a grocery store in Parsons, later working for the State of West Virginia in Weights and Measures. Both were remembered for their lasting ties to Tucker County and their extended families.
