2011 Fall River Calendars for Sale
From today’s Herald News, by Deborah Allard:
A celebration of the 100th anniversary of the Cotton Centennial is the theme of this year’s Fall River calendar. Sponsored by the Fall River Scholarship Foundation, the calendar features scenes from the weeklong 1911 festivities that attracted elected officials, including President William Howard Taft.
James Rogers, editor of the calendar, said the actual dates of the centennial were June 19 to 24, 1911.
Thousands of people attended the parades, carnivals, the Ringling Bros. Circus and especially the crowning of the Queen of the Carnival. The event was held in front of City Hall, where 4,000 people saw Miss Marion Pierce Hills win the title.
One of the major events was a horse show that was held at North Park. A highlight of this was a showing of prized Arabian and Morgan horses that were bred by Spenser Borden Sr.
The automobile parade began at the south end of Highland Avenue, made its way through the side streets to Bedford Street, and then proceeded on Main Street to South Park. Nearly all vehicles were decorated with flowers and ribbons and were occupied by well-dressed women prominent in the social circles of the time.
Exhibits at the armory featured a local trade show that highlighted the latest manufacturing equipment. The library sponsored an exhibit of artwork from the famous Fall River school artists. Prominent among them was Robert Spears Dunning.
The appearance of President Taft was a recognition of the important role that Fall River played in the country. Taft arrived in a private yacht at the pier, walked along Water Street to his car and then proceeded to tour the city before riding in the large parade that was held on Friday that week.
“Victorian Vistas: Fall River 1901-1911,†by Dr. Philip Silvia Jr., provided the background information for the calendar.†Pictures came from the private collections of Arthur Silvia, Patrick Cookson and James Rogers.
Calendars are available at Silvia’s Florist, 515 Broadway; New Boston Bakery, 279 New Boston Road; K & G Crafts, 260 New Boston Road; Cafe Arpeggio, 139 S. Main St.; Standard Pharmacy, 246 E. Main St.; or by calling Rogers at 507-675-0800.
Calendars will also be sold at the Christmas craft fair at Durfee High School on Dec. 4 and 5.
