East Aurora’s small town Fourth of July celebration of 1902 was anything but small. In fact, it was called a “monster celebration” by the Advertiser. An article of more than three columns was largely devoted to describing the parade in great detail as well as the picnic, sporting events, dances and fireworks that followed at Hamlin Park. It was a two day affair, beginning on a Friday and extending into Saturday. Here is a brief overview:
“Early in the morning the people began pouring into town, they came in every conceivable kind of vehicle, some in buggies, some in wagons, some with wheels. The neighboring towns were well represented. The farmers with their wives and families were present, the country boys and their “best girls” were on hand early, and even Buffalo sent a goodly delegation to swell the crowd and make the day a memorable one.”
The parade Marshals were W.E. Tuller and O.S. Pierce. They were followed by fifty-five units of various sizes. First was “Fra Elbertus and a company of Rough Riders - Indians, cowboys, etc.” Then there were eight carriages with school and village boards, clergy, G.A.R., octogenarian patriots, speakers and the like; a drum corps, and two bands; eighty-five firemen representing five fire companies; seven floats from community groups with patriotic themes; and thirty-one businesses participating with decorated wagons.
The article ended by announcing the committee’s net receipts for the celebration were $700, again calling it a “monster celebration” and a “day long to be remembered by East Aurora.”
I hope your day is as patriotic and fun-filled as this one was in 1902. Have a happy and safe Fourth of July,
-Sue, RCC Blogger
Sources: East Aurora Historian’s archive issue of the Advertiser
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