Yesteryear: Evansville Centennial Celebration
by Pat Sides
During the week of May 11-17, 1947, Evansville lavishly observed the centennial of its city charter. A packed schedule of events, sponsored by the Chamber of Commerce, proudly recognized civic milestones throughout Evansville’s long, distinctive history.
The wide variety of entertainment ensured a broad appeal to members of the community. Throngs enjoyed such events as concerts and balls at the Coliseum; an industrial exhibition at the Armory; air shows at the municipal airport; history displays at the Evansville Public Museum; and banquets at the McCurdy Hotel.Â
Numerous block parties were also thrown around the city, and Bosse Field featured such amusements as a “hillbilly“ concert, fireworks, and a Miss Evansville Centennial contest.
No celebration would be complete without a huge parade. The float pictured here commemorated the opening of the Evansville-Henderson bridge over the Ohio River in 1932. Beginning at Bosse Field, the procession stretched down Main Street to the river before regrouping to continue on West Franklin Street to St. Joseph Avenue.
