Crazy Fox Paper: Williamstown Parade

I like to see a man proud of the place in which he lives. I like to see a man live so that his place will be proud of him. Abraham Lincoln

Williamstown had a parade! The parade was to celebrate the Bicentennial of the Williamstown Fair which has been serving South Glengarry community since 1812. The fair grounds are nestled in the quaint village of Williamstown surrounded by beautiful large pines and is right across the road from our house. The Fair has maintained it’s country charm and throughout the years continues to be a local hub with it’s roots deeply committed to rural life.

The whole village came out to support and watch the parade go by. The theme of the parade was 1812 and the floats were decorated with period pieces and costumes. The parade started and ended with pipers, which in this community, rich in Scottish traditions is a must! As the pipers walked around the bend in the road towards the village I got a lump in my throat and as the second float approached I started to cry (I know crazy!). The second float belonged to good friends of ours, who have been farming in this area for years. The little house on the float was used in another Williamstown parade. Jennifer Vogel was just one years old when she sat on her mother’s (Cyndy) lap in 1984 and rode along the streets of Williamstown. Now, Jen had her two daughters (Margaret and Morgan), along with her brothers and cousins on the float with her. I can only imagine how my friends felt watching as their children and grand-children passed by, 4-generations of farming, still going strong.

Today, on Canada’s Day there are more events planned for the Bicentennial, a family picnic, games and maybe we will get lucky and have some fireworks tonight. I am so proud to be part of this village, where history, family and friends create this wonderful community. Happy Canada Day everyone!