By John Estridge
Union County’s Bicentennial celebration started off with a bang Monday evening, February 1.
A candle-light opening ceremony was held, beginning at 6 p.m., in front of the courthouse in Liberty. Jeff Mathews, a retired Navy Veteran and Union County native, was the first speaker at the program. He opened the program with the Pledge of Allegiance. He then talked about what the Pledge meant to him.
Next Mathews talked about growing up in Union County.
According to Mathews, his initial plan, when growing up in the county, was to get out of Union County as quickly as possible. That desire led to him joining the Navy. As he fell in love with the Navy, moving around the country and seeing the world, he also fell in love with his native land, his native county. Then, his plan and desire was to get back to Union County.
He stated how proud he is to be from Union County. Then, he read the Bicentennial proclamation.
Following Mathews, Linda Brookbank read the Bicentennial’s mission statement. Following that, she sang “Back Home Again in Indiana” and “God Bless America.”
Jeff Adams was the next speaker, talking about Brownsville history. He talked about the importance of the Whitewater River’s east fork as it flows past the town. He also talked about some of the families who have populated the town for generations. He ended his brief speech by talking about what a wonderful place Brownsville is to raise families.
Liberty Church of Christ Pastor David Soper said a prayer for the Bicentennial.
To end the program, members of the Liberty American Legion Post 122 fired its cannon down Union Street.
Main Bicentennial events are slated to run from June 27 through July 11. Events are planned to be held throughout the county. Volunteers are wanted and needed. Also, any groups in the county can have activities which coincide with the celebration.
Union County was formed in 1821 from parts of Wayne, Fayette and Franklin counties. Union County derived its name because it was a union of those disparate counties.
So great to see the celebration and follow. We are out of town. Good be able to catch up!
I am looking forward to the events and celebrating our community.