Shirland celebrated Fourth of July on our nation's 250th anniversary
The fourth of July Spirit was alive at Shirland Independence Day events!
Patriotism came alive in Shirland with Fourth of July festivities, which started with the Shirland Freedom Festival where large crowds enjoyed an evening of Independence Day fun on June 26.
The festival was filled with live music, vendors, food trucks, crafts and kids activities and another memorable fireworks display that Shirland has become known for.
On July 3 storms rolled through the Stateline causing power outages, loss of water and property damage in Rockton and South Beloit. Shirland was also left without power and water and the uncertainty if the morning events would go on as planned.
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All of Saturday's Fourth of July events moved forward with the exception of the Shirland United Methodist Church canceling their annual breakfast.
Starting off the celebration was the Stumpy’s 5K Run.
Race Directors were Aaron and Emily Hall who originated this event last year, under this name.
One hundred and seventy-two racers competed with the goal of supporting Shirland School. Together the participants raised over $3,000.
Emily Hall said, “We are so happy about the turnout this year and are so lucky to have such an amazing and supportive community. “
Hall adds, “Our volunteers go above and beyond and we have super awesome sponsors too! We are already excited to see what next year brings and are hoping to increase our participation to 250 people.”
Coming in first place overall was Andy Swanson followed by Billy Hoff in second place and Peter Hoff in third.
In the 12 and under age category Reed Miller earned first place honors followed by Gus Stromberg in second and Luke Marsh earning third place.
Action moved to North Street where a record crowd of spectators lined the parade route. The parade was organized by the Shirland Fire Auxiliary and the Shirland Fire Department.
Shirland Fire Chief, Greg Morrow and Auxilary President Debi Wines took part in the parade.
Leading off the parade was the Walter Graham Rockton American Legion, Post #332 Rifle Squad, meeting with respectful applause.
Legion Auxiliary members threw out candy, a few rode in style while others walked the route.
Eye- catching floats commemorating our nation's 250 anniversary, local businesses, Stunning horses and ponies, classic and sporty cars, plus Shirland and local fire departments, only tapped into part of the patriotic spirit that was shown.
Jodi Winterland said, “Big City Liquidation gave away some awesome water bottles and candy! Their family is also the ones who take care of Stumpy, their Mom was Stumpy’s creator. Stumpy was sporting some cute Fourth of July shorts this year.”
A row of decorated carts created smiles and brought back special memories.
As always the 4-H Owen Blue Bonnets rode in a detailed, all American themed float. A sign on the float read, “Women of the Revolution.”
One of the 4-H Blue Bonnet leaders Connie Gleasman dressed as Deborah Sampson who disguised herself as a man named Robert Shurtleff and enlisted in the 4th Massachusetts Regiment in 1782.
Sampson fought in several skirmishes and extracted a musket bail from her own thigh to avoid having her gender discovered by military doctors. She was later Honorably discharged and became the only woman to receive a full federal military pension for her service.
Keeping tradition alive were various tractors belonging to Shirland families. The Bates family who now have nine generations featured a 1976 Case tractor, which is now 50 years old.
The Bates son Mike and his wife Sue drove the Bates “Spirit of 76 tractor which fully embraces an American theme with its red, white and blue colors.
Rachel Speaker reflected, “Seeing family after family grow and change over the years is very nostalgic. I love that I have so many years of photos with the Spirit of 76’ tractor.”
Becky Edwards said, “My brother who is a local farmer Chris Kaeding always brings his combine with an American flag for the National Anthem.
We have been going to this parade since I was little. I have so many amazing memories, one of which was being Little Miss Shirland in 1980. This is the best parade around!”
Diana Weiser shared these sentiments, “I love the Shirland parade! Growing up in the area- aka in the twin city of Harrison, along with almost all of my family in Shirland I try my hardest to never miss the parade. It is the BEST!
So many memories flood my heart and soul. I love seeing crowds of people fill the streets for this Amazing day, we are blessed beyond measure!
The Winnebago County Sheriff's Department ensured safety on the parade route.
At the parade’s conclusion Kerry Krebs asked that everyone join in the singing of our National Anthem, resulting in a breathtaking sound, in honor of our nation's 250th anniversary.
Deb Pontenberg said, "I loved the National Anthem being sung at the end of the paradae. Everyone stood up with hands over hearts and sang along , or respectfully listened, this is such a great tradition!
The Walter Graham Rockton American Legion Post #332 followed with a 21 gun salute.
