Upland Area Historical Society

We’ve seen many of you asking about Strawberry Fest (also known as Blooms and Berries) and whether it’s happening this year. The short answer is no, due to the bridge construction project. For years, Strawberry Fest was a beloved event of the Upland Area Historical Society. We are incredibly grateful to all the volunteers and community members who made it such a special tradition.

As many of you know, the Upland Historical Society is now a subsidiary of Our Town Upland Inc., a nonprofit corporation. This partnership was made to strengthen our mission. It allows us to receive local and federal grants and enables our donors and supporters to deduct their charitable contributions. We’re thrilled for the opportunities this brings to preserve and share Upland's history.

Over the last two years, Our Town Upland has focused on increasing communication and collaboration among the many groups doing wonderful things in our community. This led to the creation of Upland United Under One Umbrella—or simply, the 4U Group. Every other month, representatives from various community groups gather to share ideas, work together, and build a stronger Upland.

One exciting outcome of this collaboration is the formation of a Festivals Committee, dedicated to coordinating future festivals so that all groups have the opportunity to participate and benefit. We’re excited to share that in 2026, Strawberry Fest will be reimagined as Depot Days! This new event aims to be more inclusive, bringing together all community groups for expanded activities and entertainment while celebrating Upland's story, "From Steam to STEM."

Planning is still in its early stages, and we’re eager to hear your thoughts and ideas. We encourage you to get involved with our community groups. If you’re passionate about Upland’s history, join us at the Community Building on the 3rd Wednesday of every month. You can also visit ourtownuplandindiana.org to learn more about our local groups and view the community calendar for upcoming events and meetings.

There are exciting things ahead, and 2026 is shaping up to be one for the history books. We’re grateful to be a part of it and hope you’ll join us in building something special.

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!!