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On Saturday, August 14, 1937, almost 5000 people crowded the village streets to attend the first Elba Volunteer Fire Department Field Day. It was the largest celebration the village had seen in years and attracted just about everybody within the township. Originally held at the four corners (Main, Chapel and Mechanic Streets), organizations entered floats while kids decorated bicycles and entered their pets into the parade. Open-air dancing was held in the evening. Games such as speed races for the boys and girls, bicycle races, soap box derbies, tire rolling, rolling pin throwing, hanging clothes, pie eating contests, tug-o-war contests and water fights kept young and old entertained.
In 1938, a new tradition began; an automobile was offered as a prize. During the war years, Field Day underwent some changes. In 1943 and 1945, with gas rationing prevalent, horses and buggies were utilized instead of motorized automobiles, and a $1000 war bond, instead of the car, was award as the grand prize. In 1944, Field Days was called off altogether as the threat of infantile paralysis epidemic swept the area. Through the 60’s, 70’s and 80’s the Firemen raffled a brand new Cadillac. Now you’ll find different makes and models and for 2003 you even had a choice from 3 different models.
Another change in 1947 prompted the first ever "Onion Queen" competition. All interested single girls between the ages of 17-22 residing in the Village or Town of Elba could apply. Voting to select the five final candidates was done by mail, and the Queen was selected after the parade. She was awarded $50 and the four runners-up received $15. Miss Leanna Gateson holds the honor of being the first-ever Elba Onion Queen. This program evolved over the years and for many of them neighboring towns were allowed to compete. It has switched back to an all Elba program in 2003 and includes Juniors instead of Seniors.
Though Field Days has seen many a change through the years, the one thing remains constant: Elba pours out its community pride and spirit for this two-day event. Field Days has been so entrenched in the lives of Elba citizens, that vacations and reunions are routinely scheduled around it. For many, it is a time to renew friendships, see fellow classmates and their children, teachers or return home for a family gathering.
On August 7th and 8th of this year (2009) the Elba Volunteer Fire Department will provide their town with yet another Onion Harvest Festival or Field Day as we are used to calling it. Come home and visit your only Town Reunion!
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