Shannon 4th of July 1876
Contributed by John Sharp
July 4th 1876 the Nations Centennial
Shannon need not be ashamed of its centennial for as the bills predicted "an enjoyable a time was spent here on the 4th as any place in the country,” and we now have the satisfaction of saying to those who visited other places that “you would have had a better time at home.” The day was all that could have been wished for, and they who returned on Monday evening with forebodings that the day would be a damp one were awakened in morning by the roar of cannon, to find the sky clear and a bright prospect before them. The streets wore a holiday appearance at 9 o’clock being thronged by happy people of both sexs. Flags were flying, cannons firing, and joy beaming in every countenance. At 10 o’clock, the procession headed by the Black Oak Band, marched to the stand in the bower that had been fitted up for the occasion. The committee had done their work well and deserves the thanks of our people for the fine bower and appointments. The exercises were opened with some very appropriate remarks by Jethro Mastin, followed by prayer by the Rev. W. H. Fouke. Miss Kittie Moran then read the Declaration of Independence in a clear distinct voice, being heard at the farthest extent of the bower and won her herself the admiration of the entire audience. Mr. Geo. C. Mastin then read a history of Shannon from its earliest date. This was one of the most interesting features of the day. It was read admirably show great painstaking, and was highly appreciated by all, more particularly by the older ones, whose memories were carried back to early days by the mentioning of names and events now almost forgotten.
The oration was then delivered by Thos. A. Smith, M.D., and although brief was spicy and highly instructive. We would like to write at length concerning the history and oration, but my space is too limited for that. The exercises closed with the benediction. Home talent was employed exclusively, and the character of the exercises was such as to make Shannon feel proud of its contribution to the culture, morality, and ability of its citizens. At 1 o’clock religious services were held in the Evangelical Church, W.H. Fouke officiating. The music under the direction of Henry Flory was exceptionally fine and the attendance was very good, showing our people do not forget the power to whom we are all indebted for all the blessings we enjoy. In the afternoon a match game of baseball was played between the Stars and the Nationals of Shannon.
A display of fireworks was made in the evening and thus ended our centennial celebration. We heard no complaints this morning, and we are sure everybody enjoyed themselves. Although the saloons were opened all day there were no problems.
From the Shannon Express - July 13, 1876
Illinois - "Our Way"