Upland Area Historical Society

Do you know the origin of the Upland Lions Club Labor Day Parade?

After researching the Upland Public Libraries' community history archive, the first reported occurrence of a Labor Day parade on main street was published in the September 11, 1964, edition of the Courier. The headline that day was "Lions' 18th Rodeo Was Biggest Ever." Here is a recap of the article regarding the parade.

"A colorful, fast-moving parade was viewed by thousands of spectators at noon as the mile-long procession moved north on Maine street and East on Washington street to the Rodeo Grounds from the shopping center south of town.

The color bearers from the Circle G Saddle Club led the parade followed by wagon and teams and mounted members of the club.

Queen candidates and Lions club officials in open cars were followed by the Jefferson High School band and High Steppers in brilliant green and white.

Delegations from the Indiana Ropers and Doggers Association and Girls Barrel Racing Association followed the band unit.

American Legion color guard and drill team from Marion and the Marion High School band and drill team were followed by the Sheriff's Posse of Grant county.

National Appaloosa champions from the Appaloosa Pony Club of Marion highlighted the parade with a striking display of feathered dress and matching ornamentation on Indiana ponies.

Girl Scouts, Cub Scouts, and Boy Scouts marched in procession with their leaders.

Political candidates sponsored delegations in the parade and riders from the Montpelier horse club and local drivers and riders concluded the procession.

Traffic in Upland was congested for more than an hour after the parade had disbanded at the rodeo grounds"

They sure did horse around back then but the parade marches on 60 years later.

More Coming Soon!!