Mother Nature has really had a time deciding when it was time to turn the heat up for spring. The daffodils didn’t know whether to stand up or lie down. The fruit trees and the flowering shrubs must be so confused. Finally, with the onset of the daffodil blossoms, it really looks like spring is in the air.
An article from the Feb. 28, 1929 issue of the Brown County Democrat tells us that Harry G. Leslie, governor of Indiana, and other Indiana dignitaries were expected to participate in the Apple Blossom Festival, which signals spring in Brown County.
The first Spring Blossom Festival was called the Apple Blossom Festival because at one time, Brown County boasted of an abundance of orchards. The fragrance of the fruit tree blossoms was in the air and blossom petals were everywhere. We can only imagine what a truly beautiful time of year this must have been. They even cut branches, with blossoms set on, to decorate the floats that were in the parade.
The queen of that first Blossom Parade was Mary Wright, AKA Grandma Barnes. She was best known for her beautiful flower gardens.
We are honored to announce the 2018 grand marshal for this 55th Spring Blossom Parade is Brown Circuit Court Judge Judy Stewart. She will be retiring later this year after decades of service to this community.
The theme of this parade is “Unity in Diversity.” The parade will take place Saturday, May 5 at 11 a.m. It features floats, fire trucks, antique tractors, vintage cars, marching bands, walking groups and riders on horseback.
The parade kicks off a weekend of events planned for all ages. Boy Scout Troop 190 will sponsor an auction on the Village Green and the Rotary Club will have games for the children. While you are here, be sure to visit the antique engine and tractor show at the Brown County 4-H Fairgrounds just east of Nashville on Old State Road 46 East.
At the History Center, the Pioneer Village will officially open May 5 for the 2018 season.
The Spring Gathering will be Saturday, May 12 from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. Last summer, flax was grown in the garden in the Pioneer Village, along with vegetables. The flax will be processed and used in weaving demonstrations, and other hand crafts will be happening during the day of the Spring Gathering.
Hands On History also is in progress, with the next session on May 17. These sessions are open to children ages 8 to 12. For more information, call 812-988-2899
The Brown County Archives are open Tuesdays and Fridays from 1 to 4 p.m.
Plan to visit the History Center, the Pioneer Village and the one-room school on the History Center grounds. Bring the whole family; there is something for all ages to enjoy seeing, whether for the first time or something from days gone by.
— Pauline Hoover, Brown County Historical Society Inc.
