149th GAR Bean Dinner to be Aug. 21
NEW CASTLE – The 149th annual GAR Bean Dinner will be Sunday, Aug. 21, the customary third Sunday in August at McElwee Park in New Castle.
The day begins with church services at 10 a.m. hosted by the New Castle Ministries. Everyone is welcome. A local Boy Scout troop will lead flag rising at 11:15 a.m. followed by a full menu meal including sandwiches, potato salad, coleslaw, homemade pies, cakes, and such specialties as soup beans cooked over an open fire in iron kettles, and cornbread.
Local historian Chris Hart will be portraying a Civil War character at noon followed by a performance of the Walhonding Rube Band at 12:45 p.m. and the crowning of the new Bean Queen or King. This being the 100th anniversary of the Walhonding Rube Band, they will have a walk down memory lane with pictures and history with the help of Ken Smailes, WTNS Radio. In addition, David Snyder from the Walhonding Valley Museum will bring some local history and local officials and candidates will be on the grounds to visit and listen to concerns.
The Grand Army of the Republic Bean Dinner is held annually in commemoration of the Charles C. Nichols Post formed in 1867. Historically, the Bean Dinner was held on the Nichols Farm west of New Castle. On bequeathal of McElwee Park to the community many years ago, the commemoration was transferred to its present location.
The park is open for picnics and family reunions. Any contributions will be greatly appreciated and are used for park upkeep and improvements only.
Contact Karen Allen Locke at 740-824-3792 with any questions.
They are also looking for a small Civil War reenactment group to help celebrate their 150th annual GAR Bean Dinner next year. If anyone has any information, contact the number listed above.
Category: Arts & Entertainment
