The following appeared in The Rock County Herald on July 7, 1905.
Was a Grand Success
Such Was Luverne’s Celebration of the Glorious Fourth
6000 People Were in Attendance
Notwithstanding Preceding Unfavorable Weather Conditions, Luverne Observes Our Nation’s Birthday With a Notable Successful Celebration—Occasion Graced by Presence of Governor John A. Johnson Who Delivers Inspiring Address—Splendid Program Carried Out to the Satisfaction of All
This article is continued from last week.
Ring Ride
While the ring ride on Main street was in progress, the streets were fairly packed with pleasure seekers who divided their time between watching the riding and the other attractions on the streets. There were a large number of entries for the ring ride and this popular sport provided much enjoyment for all present. The prizes for the contest were awarded as follows: First prize, double driving harness, to Julius Wiese; second prize, riding saddle, to Will Sodemann; third prize, riding bridle, to Fred Lutgens; fourth prize, whip, to Ed. Biss.
Street Sports
The various street sports took place on Main street immediately after the ring ride. The result of the races was as follows: 50-yard free-for-all, Irving Jargo first, Percy Mingus second; 100-yard race for boys under 12, J. R. Jones first, Walter Robinson second. In the 400-yard relay race there were three teams of four men each. In the first team, which won the race, were Irving Jargo, Martin Snook, Geo. Gilbertson, Percy Mingus; in the second, Albert Helling, A. Schaeffer, Ed. Wiegel, Frank McClintock; in the third, Dewight Hulett, Verne Canfield, Chas. Preston and F. Brown.
Tug of War
The tug of war between the north and the south ends of the county was won by the south side. There were ten men on each side, the team from the north being captained by Wm. Goettsch, and that from the south by A. W. Scott.
Greased Pig Chase
The chase for the greased pig closed the sports. The pig was turned loose in front of the Vienna bakery and was captured by one of the contestants before it had scarcely left the box and also before the starters had given the word. It was accordingly again started and after a spirited chase was captured by R. S. Bailey. The pig mounted the sidewalk and ran through the crowd, scattering the people right and left and was caught in the doorway of the Eagle Clothing store.
Band Concert
The program of the day’s entertainment closed with an hour’s concert by the South Dakota Fourth Regiment band and the Luverne band at 7 o’clock in the stand prepared for the purpose at the bank corners. The concert won high commendation for both bands and was greatly enjoyed by all who heard it.
Carnival of Fun
Contrary to general expectations the crowd did not greatly diminish at the close of the sports, but nearly all remained to participate in the fun looked for in the evening. And all who looked for fun found it in any quantity desired. From early in the evening until 11 o’clock it was fast and furious. All along Main street “confetti battles” raged furiously, and those who had restrained themselves from shooting fire crackers during the day indulged in that sport to their heart’s content. While no public fireworks were displayed, a number of excellent displays were made by private parties in various parts of the city, which were greatly appreciated by those who had the opportunity to witness them.
Indoor Entertainments
The indoor entertainments also drew large crowds. The vaudeville show in the Opera house by the Novelty Vaudeville company called out a packed house and all who witnessed the performance were well pleased. The dance in Union hall under the auspices of the Luverne band and Hook and Ladder company No. 1, furnished amusement for a crowd which taxed the capacity of the hall to the utmost. The music for this dance was furnished by the Hyke-Millhouse orchestra. Another dance, given by the Fourth Regiment band in the Opera house after the show, also entertained a fair-sized crowd and added to the evening’s enjoyment.
All Are Pleased
So far as the Herald can learn, all are pleased with the celebration. The program of entertainments was an excellent one, everything promised was given, everything came off promptly on time, and everything was free. If in the judgement of those in attendance the celebration was worthy of the day and creditable to Luverne, the object sought has been accomplished. To the credit of those who planned the celebration and did vast amount of work required, it is only fair to say that the celebration was most admirably conducted.
Donations to the Rock County Historical Society can be sent to the Rock County Historical Society, 312 E. Main Street, Luverne, MN 56156.
Mann welcomes correspondence sent to mannmade@iw.net.