July 1946
- charliebunton
- Jun 9
- 4 min read
Rogers City celebrated in style as the annual Fourth of July festivities commenced, marking a significant occasion that brought together the entire community in a vibrant display of patriotism and camaraderie. Participants claimed it was the largest event in the community's history up to that point, a testament to the hard work and dedication of the chamber of commerce and volunteers who aimed to create an unforgettable experience. Events began on Independence Day with the ceremonial raising of the American flag above the post office, a moment that captured the essence of the holiday. This poignant act was accompanied by the stirring sounds of Rhoud Benson from the Rogers City Community Band, whose music filled the air with a sense of pride and unity.
Following the flag-raising, a lively parade wound its way down Main Street, featuring the color guard, city band, and enthusiastic participants from the Boy and Girl Scouts. The parade also showcased numerous creatively decorated bicycles, a delightful sight that highlighted the imagination and spirit of the city’s youth.
Congressman Fred Bradley delivered a powerful and moving speech honoring the contributions of local doctors, including Neil Monroe, William Arscott, Basil Larke, and Samuel Rutledge, acknowledging their dedication to the health and well-being of the community. This heartfelt recognition served to remind everyone of the vital role that healthcare professionals play in society.
Later in the day, the Alpena Knights of Columbus faced off against the Rogers City Knights of Columbus in a spirited softball game at the Sports Park, fostering a sense of friendly competition and community pride. As the sun set, the day culminated in a band concert by the Rogers City Community Band, followed by a stunning fireworks display that lit up the night sky over Lake Huron, leaving spectators in awe and providing a perfect end to the day’s celebrations.
July 5th was designated as Air Day, a thrilling continuation of the festivities that drew aviation enthusiasts and families alike to the Presque Isle County Airport. The day featured exhilarating airplane acrobatics that showcased the skill and precision of the pilots, thrilling attendees with daring maneuvers and stunning aerial displays. Following the acrobatics, members of the Army Air Force flew a formation of fighter jets overhead, a breathtaking sight that evoked feelings of pride and nostalgia among the crowd. Attendees had the opportunity to experience the thrill of flight themselves with airplane rides, allowing them to take to the skies and enjoy a unique perspective of the beautiful landscape below.
Midway attractions added to the excitement, with games and activities that entertained children and adults alike. That evening, the Merchants of Rogers City played against Alpena in another exciting softball game, fostering community spirit and friendly rivalry. Throughout the evening, outdoor movies from the 1927 safety picnic were shown, providing a nostalgic glimpse into the past and allowing families to enjoy classic films under the stars. The day concluded with a lively dance sponsored by the Servicemen's Club in the high school gymnasium, where attendees could let loose and celebrate the holiday in a joyful atmosphere.
July 6th was dedicated to Farmers and Oldtimers Day, a celebration that honored the rich agricultural heritage of the region and acknowledged the contributions of its older residents. The morning started with an array of engaging children's games, including a bicycle punch, shoe hunt, bicycle relay, softball throw, nail driving contest, clothespin dropping into bottles, balloon blowing, potato race, one-legged race, human cart race, broad jump, relay race, and a pie-eating contest, all held at the foot of Michigan Avenue. These activities fostered a sense of community and provided children with a day full of fun and friendly competition. A shooting exhibition by Corporal Les Coykendall of the Michigan State Police was a popular attraction, drawing crowds eager to witness the impressive display of marksmanship. In the afternoon, old-timers were celebrated with a series of activities and prizes recognizing their contributions to the community. The awards included honors for the oldest man (Joseph Zgorski, 83 years old), oldest woman (Ida Rice, 89 years old), largest family (Mr. and Mrs. Charles Vogelheim, with 11 children), and the former resident who traveled the farthest (Mary Adrian of Phoenix, Arizona). These recognitions not only celebrated the individuals but also highlighted the rich tapestry of community history. The evening concluded with another band concert, allowing attendees to enjoy live music, followed by a series of outdoor movies showcasing highlights from previous Fourth of July celebrations, creating a sense of nostalgia and continuity.
The final day of the festivities was Michigan Lime Day, a day that brought residents together in a spirit of faith and community. People gathered in local churches to celebrate their shared beliefs and values, reinforcing the bonds that hold the community together. Midway attractions and booths continued throughout the day, delighting younger children eager for rides and prizes, ensuring that there was something for everyone to enjoy. The afternoon featured a horse show that showcased the talents of local equestrians, followed by a thrilling horse race that had spectators on the edge of their seats. A baseball game between Moltke and Hawks added to the excitement of the day, providing another opportunity for community engagement and friendly competition. As the sun began to set, the festival concluded with a final band concert by the Rogers City Community Band, a fitting end to a week filled with joy, laughter, and celebration.
Kommentare