REED CITY — Organizers are putting the finishing touches on a four-day event this summer celebrating Reed City’s 150th birthday.
Charles Lupo, Reed City Sesquicentennial chair, said the city was incorporated as a city in 1875.
Native Americans who lived in the area at the time called it “Tunshla.” Prior to officially being named “Reed City,” the village was called “Todd’s Slashing.” Over time, people started calling it “Reed City” in reference to the lumber baron James Reed.
The city grew in prominence largely as a result of its location at the crossroads of two major railroads, placing it at the center of commerce in this part of the state.
Lupo said the sesquicentennial celebration is planned from Thursday, July 17, to Sunday, July 20.
“We really want people to get involved in the history of the places where they live,” Lupo said. “To enjoy this particular moment in history while reflecting on the past.”
The event kicks off July 17 with activities geared toward kids at Rambadt Park.
Lupo said there will be a number of “1920s kids games” such as relay races, bag races, obstacle courses, ring toss, red light green light and possibly tug of war, to name a few.
Also on July 17, a time capsule containing letters written by students will be dedicated and buried.
Lupo said the letters will be preserved in a vacuum sealed mylar envelope with oxygen absorbers to prevent oxidation of any inks used in the letters. The time capsule itself is a stainless-steel vessel provided by Yoplait. In 50 years, the capsule will be opened.
Students have been encouraged to write about what they think is important but they’ve also been given a few questions to answer, including the following: What does a typical day look like for you: What are some trends or fads that are popular right now? What do you love most about Reed City? What are some of the biggest news stories or events happening in the world? How do you use technology in your daily life?
Menus from local restaurants also will be sealed in the time capsule.
On Friday, a golf outing will be held at Spring Valley Golf Course and they’re also in the process of putting together an all-class reunion.
Friday also will be the first day of the Paul Bunyan Lumberjack Show, which is a world-famous touring group based out of Florida that puts on a variety of performances and exhibitions, including log rolling, axe throwing, standing block chopping, chainsaw carving and more.
Lupo said the Paul Bunyan Lumberjack Show incorporates local history into their productions. He said they’ll be meeting with them soon to discuss the history of the city.
The lumberjack shows will continue on Saturday, which also will feature a grand parade. Lupo said his goal for the parade is to have 150 floats in recognition of the city’s 150-year anniversary.
Also on Saturday, Lupo said they’re putting together an “Eras Ball” that will feature music spanning several decades, with participants encouraged to wear period attire.
A veterans memorial car show also is on tap for Saturday.
The celebration will conclude on Sunday with an interdenominational church service and community barbecue.
A full schedule of events with specific times will be printed in the paper when it is finalized by organizers.
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