Harrison County Celebrates America 250
While celebrating the semi quincentennial of the United States, Harrison County as well as most counties in Ohio have planned several special events for this occasion.
It is only natural to wonder what Harrison County was like 250 years ago. At that time it was an untamed wilderness in the Ohio Country filled with thick forests. It was the “Wild West’ at that time as it was west of the Ohio River. It’s primary use then was a hunting grounds for several Native American tribes. The first white settlers were appearing in the region in 1776, particularly along Short Creek. Fort Henry in what is today’s Wheeling was established to protect the white settlers from the Indian attacks. Only the adventuresome were in what we call Harrison County today.
Today’s Harrison County is filled with small towns of friendly people, who enjoy being away from the big city atmosphere. Join in the celebration of America 250 throughout the year with some of the following America 250 events.
Deersville Community VFD. May 23. Uncle Sam wants you to stop by the Annual Fireman’s Festival to celebrate America 250. It features their annual water battle between departments. The parade begins at 3:00. Enjoy their fish fry and Chinese Auction while in town. Remember to stop by Deersville General Store for some patriotic ice cream flavors: Apple Pie, Whitehouse, Fireworks, Life, Liberty & Pursuit of Chocolate, and Birthday Cake.
Cadiz Downtown
A busy day is planned for July 11 in Cadiz with most events being in the vicinity of the Harrison County Courthouse. It all begins with a pancake breakfast followed by interesting historical talks, a car show, and more.
Puskarich Library. The staff of the library will have games for the youngsters to play from 11-12. The library has already had several America 250 events and plan more for later this year. Previous events included: Dangerfield Newby’s Fight for Freedom, Ohio at the Movies with Clark Gable in Mutiny on the Bounty, Local Revolutionary War Patriots of Harrison County, and Project Johnny Appleseed.
Apple Pie Baking Contest. Following that Good Old USA saying of “Baseball, Hot Dogs, Apple Pie, and Chevrolet,” an Apple Pie baking contest will be a highlight of the day. Entries must be there by noon and winners will be announced before the parade.
Harrison County Courthouse‘s courtroom will be the place to learn the history of America at 10:30. Later, at 12:30 you will learn about the history of Appalachia on the courthouse steps. History will be given by Atty. Charles Adrian Pincola of Cadiz. The Harrison County Bicentennial Bell, cast in 2003, is located at the courthouse and will be included in the presentation.
Harrison County Choral Group. At 12:30, a selection of patriotic songs will be presented on the courthouse steps by members of this local musical group.
America 250 Parade. The parade will end the day downtown at 2:00 pm. It will follow the usual parade route from S. Main Street to East Market Street. Everybody loves a parade.
Sally Buffalo Park. Celebrate the 250th anniversary of our freedoms. A Freedom 5K race will be held in the afternoon of July 11 with entrants carrying American flags as they race. Prizes will be given to the Most Patriotic dressed male and female. The oldest person there will receive a miniature Statue of Liberty award. There will be food vendors and beer gardens at the park all day for refreshments.
The Mark at the Park. Throughout the day on July 11, there will be free concerts including Gage Joseph Band, The Michael Weber Show and Crush (Bon Jovi Tribute). All of this is followed by a dynamic Fireworks Display at dark.
Veterans / First Responders Jamboree. Sept. 12. The sixth annual Jamboree opens at 9:00 sponsored by Operation Veteran Payback in honor of America 250. There is a free breakfast from 9-11 for all Veterans, First Responders, and their spouses. This is furnished by Operation Veteran Payback with the assistance of Adena American Legion Post Auxiliary. It will be a great time to observe helicopters from Ohio and WV National Guard as they fly over and land at Sally Buffalo Park. A 2.2K Suicide Awareness Walk will take place. Bands will fill the evening with music.
Harvest Festival at Faith Ranch. Sept. 19. Experience the beauty of early fall with activities for all ages. Enjoy baked goods, handcrafted decorations, festive snacks, crafts, and games. There will even be inflatables and a hay castle! Celebrate America 250 with some traditional events such as a scenic hayride or pony rides. Pre-register for a 30-minute trail ride just like they did in those early days. Admission is free and tickets/wristbands can be purchased for activities. Join in their fall festivities!
All 88 Ohio counties are creating special events for America 250, our nation’s 250th birthday. Watch for patriotic happenings in your home town. Give thanks for all our special freedoms.
Gypsy Road Trip 