Freedom Fest Draws Attention to Greenwood's Heritage

Greenwood's "Freedom Fest" Independence Day Celebration drew 143 visitors to the Old Jail Museum on July 4 where they explored exhibits concerning the Civil War in South Sebastian County. Visitors hailed from many nearby communities and from cities as far afield as Seattle, Washington and London, England.

SSCHS Vice President Glenda Wallace arranged for Historic Society members to serve as guides aboard an historic green trolley. The trolley transported riders to historic sites about town as the guides provided facts about Greenwood's past. Over 300 riders took advantage of the opportunity to escape the heat and learn a little local history.

Our ties to the "wild west" were not forgotten during the celebration. The Lawbreakers and Peacemakers, an historical reenactment group performing on the town square, related and re-enacted the true tale of a local disagreement that ended in a shootout and two murders. Herschel Parker, songwriter and guitarist and member of the group, entertained the crowd with his songs about the legendary Belle Starr and U.S. Marshal Bass Reeves.

Several of the historic buildings at the Old Jail Museum Complex were closed July 4 because of the extreme heat. Those buildings have re-opened and are once again welcoming visitors during regular operating hours.

Rain Didn't Dampen Spirits

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The celebrants of Freedomfest 2010 were not deterred by a little rain. Brave folks with umbrellas ventured out and enjoyed the morning's festivities. By mid afternoon, the sun was shining and the Square was rocking to the sounds of “Mr. Cabbage Head and the Screaming Radishes”, “Common Thread”, “10 Spur” and “Fordamatic."

The Old Jail Museum had a steady stream of visitors. Many youngsters were guided by docents through the displays of artifacts from South Sebastian County's early days. They asked insightful questions. Here's hoping they left with a new interest in history!

Celebrate Our Freedom July 3

Free trolley rides with a tour guide will be one highlight of Greenwood's Fourth of July celebration- occuring this year on July 3. When the bell clangs and the trolley stops at the Old Jail, step off the trolley and into the 19th century. Our docents will be happy to show you around. Admission is by donation. Hours July 3, 9AM-6PM.

The City of Greenwood has an old-fashioned fun-filled day planned on the town square. See you there!

9:00 AM Turtle Race- BYOT (bring your own turtle)
Firecracker Walk (musical chairs)
Hubba Bubba Bubble Gum Contest
9:30 AM Watermelon Roll
Soap Bubble Buckets
10:00 AM Sack Races, Three Legged Races
10:30 AM Hoola Hoop Contest
Double Dutch Jump Rope Contest
11:00 AM Sponge Run
Uncle Sam Says (Simon Says)
11:30 AM Water Balloon Toss
Big Ball Balance Run
Noon Free lunch! (Hot dogs, chips, drinks, ice cream)
1:30 PM Free music events begin and run through 11 PM
9:15 PM Fireworks!

Make the Museum Part of Your Holiday Celebration

The Old Jail Museum Complex is extending its hours Saturday, July 3, from 9AM-6PM. Admission is by donation. Come see our exibits including WWI, WWII and Civil War artifacts, as you reflect upon and celebrate our liberty. Our 1848 Vineyard Log Cabin, Old Barn, and Redwine Old Schoolhouse remind us of the sacrifices and joys of pioneer life in rural America.