NORTHVILLIANS,
During the next few weeks, I will concentrate on remembrances in the Ville, starting with Election Days and Democracy. I encourage you to exercise your privilege to get out and vote November 8th – be part of this democracy we live in! Going forward, I will also be writing about our Veterans Day activities, Northville Holiday Parades through history and finally, remembrances of past Holiday Seasons.
LET’S LOOK AT THE CELEBRATION OF DEMOCRACY AND PRIDE IN THE NORTHVILLE COMMUNITY OVER TIME:
- The Northville Record reported on “local patriotism” activities all the way back to 1895, remarking that over 5,000 visitors on that year’s Fourth of July enjoyed festivities regarding the birth of our nation. Patriotism and local pride have always been part of our DNA. During this celebration of democracy, there was a sunrise 21-gun salute, a huge parade, and a fireworks finale.
- In 1927, Northville celebrated its 100th year as a Community (Centennial) by hosting the largest parade ever seen in Michigan up to that time, which was made possible with assistance from Henry Ford (Mr. Ford spent a great deal of time in town and wanted to make this historic event special).
- In times past during special events and elections, it was also mentioned in The Record that folks decorated their houses, factories and businesses in elaborate Red, White & Blue themes.
- In 1992, President George Bush and First Lady Barbara Bush slowed down their campaign train as they came through Northville’s Cabbagetown, waving to all those by the tracks. They toured past the Albert Kahn-designed Ford Valve Plant, the Chamber of Commerce building and Bealtown on their way south.
- Speaking of democracy… it’s generally agreed that no American city contributed more to the Allied powers during WWII than the Detroit area, and Northville was a great part of that activity. In fact, our town was known for being ranked in the State’s top two or three cities for commerce into the early 1900’s. Notably, the Detroit area grew to be known as the “Arsenal of Democracy,” a term coined by Pres. Franklin D. Roosevelt in a speech where he highlighted the need for cooperation between government and all citizens.
Growing up, my parents instilled in me that during the course of life, it is up to all of us to LEARN, DO and then GIVE BACK to community. I speak from the heart when I say democracy and cooperation are an ingrained part of the fabric woven into this community. My grandfather Turnbull (Electrician) led the Republican activities in town and my other grandfather Heatley (the Barber) handled the Democratic events. For them and for all of us today, it truly is about Community.
In the coming weeks, I look forward to sharing with you the many ways that Northvillians have given back to the community, including the special commemorations that are part of every November. Thank you for sharing your time and talents with this community we love!
Keep that Northville Community Faith!
Brian Turnbull
Mayor – Northville
BTurnbull@ci.northville.mi.us / 248.505.6849
(Reach out to me anytime or forward this communication to others interested.)
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