Holiday at Home events set for today

The Van Wert independent

Although local residents are dealing with the loss of power and a nearly unprecedented heat wave, many will still take the time to honor America’s founding during Van Wert’s annual Holiday at Home celebration today.

A parade is set for 11 this morning on Main Street in downtown Van Wert, while a number of activities have been scheduled at the Van Wert Historical Society and at Smiley Park later in the day.

The celebration begins at 7:30 this morning with the 17th annual Firecracker Century Bike Tour at Jubilee Park. The event includes a scenic ride through Van Wert County, with routes of approximately 18-, 32-, and 62 miles mapped out. The tour was organized by the Van Wert County Historical Society.

After the parade at 11, local residents can stroll the grounds of the Van Wert County Historical Museum on North Washington Street, where activities include those related to the commemoration of the 150th anniversary of the Civil War. Historical figures on hand include General Robert E. Lee, his wife, Anna Custis Lee, President Abraham Lincoln and Jefferson Davis, president of the Confederacy, who are scheduled to debate.

Other Civil War re-enactors are scheduled to be on hand to talk about various aspects of the war and of society in the 1860s, while a skirmish is also rumored between Union and Confederate forces at the Battle of Town Creek Foot Bridge.

There will also be crafters, music and activities for children, with refreshments served by the Van Wert Rotary Club.

A number of activities are also planned this evening at Smiley Park, including the annual fireworks display at dusk over the Van Wert County Regional Airport.