From the hills of West Virginia to the desert winds of China Lake…

Martin+ Family Reunion

Spring 2029: 80-Year Anniversary

The Martin Plus Family Reunion is being planned for Spring 2029, marking the 80th anniversary of Charlie and Mary’s journey west.

Initial plans include a five-day gathering centered around a weekend, with Las Vegas, Nevada serving as the primary location. We are currently working with resort properties for guest accommodations and group events.

The Journey —“The Winds of Change” Drive:

As part of the reunion, family members will have the option to take part in a cross-country drive retracing the spirit of the original journey.

Planned highlights include:

  • Start in Huntington West Virginia

  • Cincinnati Reds baseball game

  • A stop at the Colorado River

  • Hotel accommodations in China Lake / Ridgecrest area

  • Trip to Johannesburg Cemetary to visit Ann Marie gravesite (appx 45min. from Ridgecrest)

  • Arrival gathering in Las Vegas, Nevada

  • Follow-on visit to China Lake, California

Participation in the drive will be flexible, with options to join for all or part of the route.

Participation Options:

Family and friends are welcome to take part in whatever way works best for them.

Ways to Join:

  • Full Experience — Participate in the cross-country drive, Las Vegas gathering, and China Lake visit

  • Las Vegas Gathering Only — Join the main reunion events and activities

  • China Lake Visit — Take part in the follow-on portion of the reunion

  • Partial Drive — Join the route at any point along the way

The Goal:

To come together, reconnect, and share in a story that began generations ago — and continues today.

Who Is Invited:

It is our hope that this reunion brings together not only the Martin family, but also extended family and friends connected through the years.

This includes those with roots in:

  • Ridgecrest/China Lake

  • Huntington

  • Belva

  • Dixie

  • Cincinnati

And others whose lives and stories are reflected in Charlie — A Moment in Time.

Looking Ahead:

Planning is ongoing, and more details will be shared as they develop.

Please check back for updates as plans take shape.

Comments, questions, and interest are always welcome.