(Madison, NY – Feb. 2016) The Village of Madison is gearing up for its two-hundredth year, and it needs volunteers to help get the celebration started. Mayor Barbara Clark, along with a committee that includes local historians, teachers, authors and politicians, has planned an event-filled celebration for spring of this year, and is calling on local businesses and individuals to help.
The actual date of incorporation for the village took place on April 17, 1816. The bicentennial committee has planned for a “birthday” celebration on that day, which will include the winning artwork and essays of Madison Central School students, visits from state lawmakers, guided bus tours which will feature information on some of Madison’s past “characters,” and of course, birthday cake.
On May 14, local historian Linda Ford will hold a presentation on Madison’s notable women, and during Memorial Day weekend, many additional events will be held. Aside from the annual parade and firemen’s chicken barbecue, there will be a dance, a reenactment of the dedication of Madison Central School, church services, a lantern cemetery tour and much more. Actual times, places and details will be given closer to the event dates.
Currently, the committee is looking for local businesses and individuals interested in helping with the bicentennial celebration. Anyone interested in participating, entering a float in the parade, or donating time and materials should contact Mayor Clark. All potential volunteers are welcome to attend the next committee meeting, which will be held at the Madison Legion/Historical Society on Sunday Feb. 21 at 3 p.m.
For additional information, please feel free to contact Mayor Barbara Clark at (315) 893-1894, or at villageofmadison@yahoo.com, or Madison Historian James Ford at jnford47@hotmail.com.