The following information on 19th Century Fourth of July celebrations in Fair Haven was provided by John Duda.
The parade goes back at least into the 1880’s, when it was known as the “fusileer’s parade.”
A description of the celebrations from the 1880’s relates that, in addition to the fusileer’s parade, they also had a yacht race, a reading of the Declaration of Independence, baseball games, and bicycle races, horse races, and of course fireworks, during which a band concert was held on the hotel lawn. It was known as the “fusileer’s parade” until at least 1911.
1884 July 3
“Fair Haven expects to celebrate the Fourth tomorrow in the old-fashioned style. The arrangements have been placed in the hands of the G.A.R. boys. A company f Fusiliers in faustic costume and mounted will parade under command of Captain Adams. Fred Gordon Steward, of Auburn, is to deliver the oration. In fact a very interesting program has been arranged for the proper ‘Celebration of Independence.’ “
1886 June 22
“The patriotic people of Fair Haven and of Union Springs will celebrate the 4th of July on Monday, July 5. At Fair Haven, Hudson post G.A.R. will entertain as guests several neighboring posts, and all united will make a grand military parade. Reading, speaking, music and booming cannon will all testify to their appreciation of the day so dear to all lovers of liberty and equality.”
1895 July 10
“The celebration of the Fourth was a success. The fusilier parade started at 10 a.m. and passed through the principal streets to the Noth End and return. The yacht race at 1 p.m. was won by the Myrtle. At 2 p.m. the Rev. D. M. Van Toyl read the Declaration of Independence and was followed by a prayer by the Rev. Mr. Parker, after which the Rev. Levi P. Bird of Auburn delivered an oration in an able and pleasing manner. At 3 p.m. there was a match baseball game for the purse of $5 between Hannibal and Fair Haven, which resulted in a defeat for the former, the score being 23 to 27. The bicycle race was won by William Browser of Hannibal. Horse races and other sports were held. In the evening there was a grand display of fireworks, during which the band gave a concert on the hotel lawn.”
