DANVILLE, IN (March 18, 2024) – Businesses, churches, civic groups and individuals are submitting their ideas for projects and events to honor the county’s 200th birthday.
Some events are familiar and will incorporate a Bicentennial theme this year. Others, are designed to leave a legacy for future generations and include a Bicentennial or history element.
When you submit your idea to the Bicentennial Committee for official endorsement, approved applicants will have the use of all Bicentennial logos, a listing on the Bicentennial website and additional support by reaching the community through a press release sent to local media.
Ten new endorsements join the list of projects and events officially endorsed by the committee, with hopefully, many more to come.
New endorsements include:
· Lenten Lunches – Danville Christian Church is hosting a free Celebration Picnic from 11:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. on March 25. Guests can enjoy a display featuring Danville Christian Church and their history in Hendricks County. Historic tours will also be available.
· Copper Top Customs – Throughout the month of April, Copper Top Customs will display a photo history of the Town of Clayton, including the 1870 Clayton Baptist Church and other buildings in the downtown area.Watch their Facebook page for more information on a Bicentennial – themed celebration against the backdrop of the Millcreek Mural painted on the south side of Copper Top Customs.
· Gardening For All Ages – From 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. on April 27 at the Hendricks County 4-H Fairgrounds the Hendricks County Master Gardeners will host their annual event with a twist. In addition to educational sessions, demonstrations and more than 50 garden-themed vendors and displays will focus on gardening over the years. In addition, the children’s activities will have a specific focus on the pioneer life of children.
· Avon Tri Kappa Bingo Night – On Nov. 7, the popular annual bingo event will feature a Bicentennial theme, including a county history display, bingo callers dressed from the 1930’s (when Bingo officially began), historical trivia questions and giveaway prizes.
· Eric MD Bell Funeral Home – The funeral home will place a headstone on the unmarked grave of their first client, buried in Lizton. In addition, a history of the Eric MD Bell Funeral Home, operating since 1859 is currently being completed.
· Visit Hendricks County – Visit Hendricks County partnered with local photographer/videographer Nate Crouch to compile a history of the county to create excitement and inspiration for the county’s Bicentennial.
· Hendricks County Historical Museum – On Aug. 25, the Hendricks County Museum will host a ‘Hat’s Off to 200 Years Tea’ at the Hendricks County 4-H Fairgrounds. Throughout the tea, clothing and headwear worn in the county over the past 200 years will be on display. The cost is $25 per person and tickets can be reserved at hcmuseum@co.hendricks.in.us.
· Hendricks County History – Reann Poray is the manager of the local history department at the Plainfield Public Library as well as the editor for an updated Hendricks County History, focusing on post WWII to present day. Every township will be included as well as numerous authors involved. The book will be published and available at public libraries and for purchase.
· Lend-to-Scan Day – From 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. Aug. 17, the Hendricks County Museum will host Lend-to-Scan Day. Drop off historic photographs, allow one to two weeks for the team to scan in items to be added to digital collections and pick up photos once completed. They’re looking for photos that fit the themes of town, architecture, schools and business.
· Road Rally – At 9 a.m. Oct. 5, the Hendricks County Historical Museum will host a road rally, leading participants through the county to visit spots that early settlers in Hendricks County walked, set up business and farmed. Historic notes on each featured location will be provided. Cost is $20 per car.
The community can begin planning their event or project now. The committee is looking for ideas that are open and accessible to the public, create a legacy for the future, engage and inspire youth, are educational and tied to the celebration of the Bicentennial.
Submit your project or event for endorsement on the Bicentennial website at Hendricks200.com.
The Bicentennial Steering Committee exists to support and encourage the Hendricks County community in their efforts to celebrate our community’s past, present and future. For more information, visit Hendricks200.com or email Hendricks200th@gmail.com.
