Speaking of the Concord Coach …
I’ll never forget one year, when Dick Marvin was going to ride in the Concord Coach. He was in western dress, carrying a gun, and waiting by the side of the road for the coach at an intersection near Potter Place.
It happened that a National Guard convey was coming through that day, and a National Guardsman was at the same intersection. The guardsman asked Dick what he was waiting for, and Dick said, “I’m waiting for the stagecoach.” The guardsman looked at Dick like he was a little out of it.
Then Dick asked the guardsman what he was doing, and the guardsman replied, “I’m waiting for the last of the convoy to pick me up.” They stood there for a while, the guardsman eyeing Dick a little nervously.
Finally the stagecoach comes lumbering up and stops. Dick says, “Well, here is my ride,” and swings up unto the stagecoach. Dick said the guardsman’s expression as the coach pulled away was priceless.
Dick never did explain anything beyond the fact that he was waiting for the stagecoach. Typical New England humor.
– J.P.
There is a song called I Love A Parade, a catchy tune that starts …
I love a parade,
The tramping of feet,
I love every beat
I hear of a drum.
… and goes on to describe the feelings you get as you watch a parade go by. There is something about a parade that gets the adrenalin flowing, toes tapping, and a feeling of anticipation. This year, our parade should provide all those exciting sensations.
The joyful patriotic music of our four bands will lift your spirits. As the honor guard passes by with their flags held high, you can’t help but think how hard it was to win the right to fly our red, white, and blue colors. Uncle Sam was a familiar face during World War II, reminding us that the fight to keep that flag flying and America free is ongoing and should never be taken for granted.
Our Girl Scouts and Boy Scouts will be conducting flag ceremonies on the Village Green and marching in the parade. These and other children are the future caretakers of the traditions that we celebrate on the Fourth of July. It is important to host events that allow Americans to show their patriotism, and for that reason we are asking that you bring a small flag to wave during the parade and display throughout the day.
The elegant Concord Coach, owned by the Andover Lions Club, is a reminder of our colonial roots and a slower means of transportation and communication. These vehicles carried mail as well as passengers.
Captain Morrill and his crew depict another chapter from colonial times. His booming cannon certainly sent a different message then, not its sound of celebration on the Fourth.
Leapin’ Lena and her antics always bring a smile, especially to the riders. They seem to be having so much fun.
We are hoping to see more floats in the parade this year. The “Fairy Tale” theme can be portrayed so many different ways. There is prize money for first through fourth place.
A float is a great project for a business, club, or family. As a family, we put in a float every year, as did the Frosts and the Goodys . We did Save Energy, Shower with a Friend and The Rhinestone Cowboy. Some of the children’s entries were The Wedding Party, and Paul Revere and His Horse. There was a big argument between the girls about who was going to be the front of the horse and who got the back.
This year we have money prizes for the vehicle category as well as the animals. Polish up those cars, trucks, motorcycles, and tractors. They could be winners.
It is always exciting to see horses prancing down the parade route. What was commonplace 100 years ago is now a treat.
The children, too, have a chance to strut their stuff. They can dress up; decorate their carts, carriages, and bikes; and head over to the ProClaim building on Main Street to be judged and awarded ribbons. Sara Tracy and Beth Frost will be on hand to get them organized.
Save up your appetites, as there will be all sorts of food to tempt you throughout the day. It starts with the Andover Lions Club Pancake Breakfast at AE/MS and continues on the Village Green. I hear the strawberry shortcake will be back this year.
On the Green you can enjoy the music of the Kearsage Community Band, singing, flag ceremonies, games, and the giant flea market. Visit The Andover Beacon’s tent to check out the latest issue and visit with friends.
Bob Ward and David Jewett will be in the reviewing stand and keep everyone informed of events. Programs will also be available the latter part of June at the Town Hall and the East Andover Post Office.
There will be a car show in the Pizza Chef parking lot as well as the Firecracker 5K foot race on the Rail Trail.
Parking in the parade area is limited to parade entries. We have to fit a lot into a small space. Handicap parking is in several designated areas. Please don’t park in these spaces, as there is a big fine.
Doug Phelps is the new coordinator for the flea market. You may reach him at 802 310-1045 or DPhelps@nullus.ibm.com Reserve your space, as they go quickly. We have a large crowd, so it is a good time to clean out and let someone else enjoy your treasures or crafts or homemade products.
We still need some help on the Fourth for parade lineup and parking. Parade lineup only takes from 11 AM until noon, and then you are free to watch the parade. We also need some new committee members.
For parade questions, call 735-5493. For other questions, call Bob Ward at 735-5061.