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Throwback Thursday: Earliest Parades of Downtown Lebanon
By Eric D. Tudor
Downtown Lebanon has always known how to put on a show. From festive celebrations to full-on parades marching right down Commercial Street, it’s clear that community gatherings have long been part of our story. We all remember the days when the annual Christmas Parade made its way through downtown, until it finally outgrew the space. But it got me wondering, just how far back do our parades really go? What I found might surprise you.
The earliest photo I came across dates all the way back to 1899. It shows the intersection of Jefferson and Commercial bustling with life. In the background, you can spot the old Drago Stables, which would later become the post office, and just behind that, the original courthouse. I’m calling this the first documented downtown parade.
Next, in 1900, I found reference to a street performance that included “Skeeter Kell and his Gang” along with a jazz band and other entertainment. They were part of a traveling tent show set up on what was known as the Brownie Lots on West Commercial.
By 1906, the Darr Gray Stock Company rolled into town with dancers, performers, and musicians. One of their old advertisements caught my eye because it offered what might be Lebanon’s first Ladies Night – one lady got in free with every paid ticket.
Then in 1911, the Campbell Brothers brought a full circus to Lebanon. Not only did they set up a big event, but they promoted it with a literal parade through downtown featuring lions, tigers, and bears. Can you imagine standing on the sidewalk under the arches and watching that roll by?
These are just a few of the early examples I uncovered, but I have no doubt there were many more. I hope you enjoyed this little stroll down memory lane with me. Downtown has always been the heart of the celebration.
