More than a century ago, Independence Day looked a little different in Poplar Bluff.
While searching early editions of the Poplar Bluff American, we came across an announcement published on May 8, 1918, describing plans for that year's Independence Day celebration. Rather than holding festivities on only July 4, organizers decided to expand the celebration into a two-day community event on July 3 and July 4.
Even during the difficult years of the First World War, the people of Poplar Bluff were preparing for a celebration that combined patriotism, community, and recreation.
Although the article is brief, it offers a wonderful glimpse into the traditions and priorities of our community more than one hundred years ago.
A Two-Day Celebration
The newspaper announced:
"Independence Day will be celebrated in Poplar Bluff this year on July 3 and 4."
The Butler County Fair Association, which was responsible for organizing the celebration, determined that one day simply wasn't enough. Instead, nearly every scheduled attraction would be spread across both days, allowing residents and visitors more opportunities to participate.
Stores would remain open on July 3 while many would close for all or part of July 4, allowing businesses and families to take part in the festivities.
Entertainment for the Entire Community
According to the announcement, organizers planned an impressive variety of attractions.
Among the featured events were:
- Two aerial exhibitions by nationally known aviators
- Horse racing and harness racing
- Pageantry
- Athletic competitions
- Public orations
- Fireworks
- Community amusements
The newspaper summarized the goal simply:
"...everything to make the two days really festive occasions."
It paints a picture of a community coming together — not only to remember the nation's founding, but to enjoy time with neighbors and celebrate together.
Railroads Helped Bring Everyone Together
One small detail in the article reminds us how central the railroad was to daily life.
The Missouri Pacific Railroad agreed to operate special shuttle trains between downtown Poplar Bluff and the Butler County Fair Grounds, providing transportation throughout the celebration at reasonable cost.
Today we think of parking lots and automobiles.
In 1918, the railroad was the easiest way for many people to reach large public events.
A Community Worth Celebrating
Articles like this remind us that history is not made up only of wars, elections, or disasters.
Sometimes history is found in the anticipation of a holiday.
One hundred seven years ago, families in Poplar Bluff were making plans much like we do today — looking forward to fireworks, speeches, parades, music, recreation, and spending time together.
While many things have changed since 1918, the desire to gather as a community and celebrate our nation's independence remains remarkably familiar.
As we celebrate Independence Day today, we remember not only the events of 1776, but also the generations of Poplar Bluff residents who have gathered year after year to honor the freedoms they inherited and hoped to pass along to those who followed.
Photos
Poplar Bluff's Fourth of July, 1918 — as announced in the Poplar Bluff American, May 8, 1918.
Source Attribution
Primary Source
Poplar Bluff American (formerly the Daily American Republic archive), May 8, 1918.
Accessed through: Newspapers.com historical newspaper archive
Voices of the Past is an ongoing Historic Poplar Bluff series highlighting original newspaper articles that capture everyday life in our community. Rather than simply telling history, these articles allow us to hear the voices of the people who lived it.
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