Here’s To Parades, Past and Present

Float of Independent Rebekah Lodge 163, Brockton, representing first Thanksgiving

Float of Independent Rebekah Lodge 163, Brockton, representing first Thanksgiving

Before the annual Thanksgiving Parade became a tradition in town, one of the grandest parades ever held in Plymouth (and the only one with a sitting President in the reviewing stand) took place on August 1, 1921, when a crowd estimated at over 100,000 gathered to view the “Pilgrim Spirit” Pageant and Parade.

Plymouth Tercentenary celebration, parade, President Day, August 1, 1921, automobiles

Plymouth Tercentenary celebration, parade, President Day, August 1, 1921, automobiles

The parade was made up of five divisions, including 30 bands and drum corps.  Leading the procession were cars transporting the numerous visiting dignitaries. Military units, including sailors and marines, followed.  The second division consisted of veterans from the Civil War, the Spanish American War, and World War I.  Fraternal organizations ranging from the Boy and Girl Scouts to the Ancient Order of Hibernians comprised division three.  In the fourth division were floats from surrounding communities which commemorated historical events.  Finally, bringing up the  rear, came floats representing “industrial Plymouth” sponsored by local companies including the Plymouth Cordage Company.  See all our photographs of the parade here.

Posted in History/Genealogy, Premium Resources.