WORTHINGTON-For the 1,200 residents in this quaint town tucked into the mountains, a “sense of community is very strong,” according to Evan Johnson, who has called Worthington home for 34 years.
Evan Johnson, chairperson of Worthington’s 250th celebration, stands outside Town Hall.
Johnson is leading a team of volunteers who are putting the final touches on the town’s 250th birthday, and encourage area residents across the valley to celebrate with them.
“We have planned an ambitious schedule of events that will appeal to all ages,” said Johnson recently during an interview at Worthington Town Hall.
The sestercentennial celebration opens on June 29 and runs through July 3. For details including parking and venues, visit www.worthington250.com. Admission is free to all events.
In A Brief History of the Town of Worthington, 1762-2018, writers Diane Brenner and Pat Kennedy note that the first pioneers came as a group from Preston, Conn. in 1762.
“Like many, they left a town that felt overcrowded, seeking new opportunities and cheap land,” note Brenner and Kennedy. “Most of the new settlers were men. Marriage records show that many Worthington residents went back to Preston after a period of years to find spouses, while newcomers continued to migrate during the next decades.”
Johnson said current trends show that “relatively new” residents wish to escape the big city feel and want to experience the open space that the town affords.
“People want to look up at the night sky and see the stars and enjoy the quiet nights,” said Johnson.
The town’s celebration begins Friday, June 29 at 5 p.m. with music by Pete McLean and Mike Ingram, followed by the Berkshire Mountain Boys at 5:45. A free potluck dinner is open to all and begins at 6 p.m. Attendees are welcome to bring a food item to share. During the course of the evening the winners of the beard contest which was begun in January will be announced. The three categories are the longest beard from a bare chin, longest beard, and the most artistic beard. The music continues at 8 p.m. with Old Country Road and then at 10 p.m., Jim Kaminski closes out the first night’s performances.
“Jim Kaminski is a local Worthington favorite who is one of the founding members of the band Fat,” said Johnson.
On Saturday, June 30, the celebration begins with the Worthington 250th Anniversary Parade, leading off at 10 a.m. from the airstrip along Huntington Road to Starkweather Road.
“Parade participants include five bands, town officials, a local Girl Scout troop, and 12 fire companies with vehicles,” said Johnson, adding the audience will also see oxen and horses pulling carts, a stagecoach, a horse and buggy, and antique tractors and cars.
Floats will also be a special attraction for parade viewers as the Historical Society, Worthington Library, Worthington Health Center, Liston’s Bar & Grill and a local dairy farm will all be decked out with special themes. In addition, floats will feature winners of the longest beard contest, local gardeners, and snowmobiles, and state Rep. Stephen Kulik, D-Worthington, will lead the parade.
“The Town of Granby is also celebrating a 250th birthday so they will be bringing their float,” said Johnson.
Musical performances throughout the day will include Marriam Massaro and Ghia Orchestra, beginning at 1:30 p.m., followed by Mary Whelan at 2:45, Laura Wetzler at 4 p.m., Sarah the Fiddler at 7 p.m., and Bannish Misfortune at 9 p.m.
On Saturday and Sunday, a petting zoo will be offered for kids. Additionally, on Saturday, a teepee and historical presentation is slated, as well as performances by Trevor “The Games Man.” On Sunday, disc jockey Dale Griffin will be spinning tunes. On both days, five food trucks will be set up across from Town Hall and an art show is slated. Also, demonstrations will include horse shoeing, pottery, and creating a Windsor chair, and a variety of community organizations will also have tents. For persons interested in purchasing merchandise to celebrate the occasion, hats, T-shirts, tote bags, historical note cards, mugs and bumper stickers will also be on sale.
Throughout the celebration, photographs and artifacts from the town’s 200th anniversary will be displayed, as well as histories of local families, some extending back seven generations.
“Valley Eye Radio will also record 15-minute segments on Saturday and Sunday so that families can share their memories,” said Johnson, noting it is necessary to sign up via the website to participate.
On Sunday, July 1, musical performances include Earthriders at 1 p.m., followed by Laurie Israel at 2:15 p.m., and The Gray Divas at 3:30 p.m. At 5 p.m., pianist Rorianne Schrade, the Hilltown Chorale and Sweet Adelines will perform, followed by the Gerry Noble Trio at 8 p.m., and The Wild Goats at 9:30 p.m.
On Monday, July 2, the theme is “Discover Worthington Days” and small businesses will be opening their doors to showcase their products and services, including studios of artists. A map of six old cemeteries will also be available. A Worthington Talent Show is slated from 7 to 9 p.m., featuring readings and abbreviated play productions.
On Tuesday, July 3, a “Farewell Tuesday” celebration is planned, featuring music at 5 p.m. by the Resurrection Airmen and at 6:30, Fat will perform as part of its 50th anniversary tour season. Fireworks at the airstrip will go off starting at 9:30 p.m. In the event of inclement weather, the fireworks will be rescheduled for July 6. If there is a change in the fireworks schedule, the notice will appear on the website.
“We hope area residents attend our celebration because we know how to have a good time,” said Johnson.
