Lexington is planning its 300th birthday party — a nine-month celebration beginning Sept. 21. What’s happening and why the celebration is all told in the celebration’s new website www.lexington300.org.
“The website is a place where Lexingtonians and the world at large can learn about Lexington’s 300th,” Cheryl Meadow, webmaster, explained. “We want it to be a site that entertains as well as informs.”
“The website is also a dynamic location where all Lexingtonians can become involved — either as readers or contributors, or both,” Meadow said. “We hope everyone participates.”
Lexington was incorporated as a town in March 1713. In celebration, the 300th committee is planning events beginning with a gala ball Sept. 21 and opening ceremonies, a town-wide picnic, country fair and dances through the ages Sept. 22. Events continue through Memorial Day 2013 focusing on both Lexington’s past and its present.
“We are finding wonderful images of the town’s history, including the 200th anniversary celebration in the library’s Worthen Collection. Take a peek. The pictures are a fascinating look at Lexington’s past and we’re excited to share them. And of course, we are also including photographs of present-day Lexington people and places.
Keeping with the 300th theme of “We are Lexington,” everyone is encouraged to submit brief essays of their favorite Lexington memories as well as past and current photographs, to be posted on the site. Eventually it will be a place to share a favorite video moment although this portion of the website is not ready yet.
An example of a memorable moment is from Sue Schiffer, long-time resident, community volunteer and current Co-President of the Lexington Education Foundation (LEF): “I feel fortunate to live in a town where education is held in high esteem. One of my favorite Lexington memories is the first time I attended an LEF Grantee Reception and heard the excitement in the voices of the grant recipients.” (LEF funds a competitive grants program for Lexington educators, through donations from area residents and businesses.) “It’s a powerful experience hearing the grantees share their plans for implementing their grants in the public schools and witnessing their dedication to their profession and to the children of Lexington.”
Each week, the website will be updated with a new “Image of the Week” as well as rotating feature articles. Regular website contributors include Dick Kollen who writes about what happened this week during Lexington’s past. Polly Kienle focuses on Lexington history. Town Clerk Donna Hooper dips into the town’s achives for her contributions. Van Seasholes writes about notable Lexingtonians of the past 75 years. Shelby Kashket’s pieces look at current Lexington business and technology. Susan Rockwell, chair of the 300th committee, takes a humorous look at the town’s history. Jessie Steigerwald and Tanya Morrisett, the 300th events co-chairs, highlight the celebration events in their contributions. Mary Gillespie tells of her favorite places to go in Lexington for adults, while Jane Hundley will explore favorite places for kids.
“Along with the feature articles, calendar of events, and memories and images from the town’s residents, the website will also chronicle all the events over the nine month celebration, Meadow says. “It will become a repository of the 300th celebration that will become a resource for future historians.”
Cheryl gratefully acknowledges the foundation that Harry Forsdick laid for the website and appreciates his continued support as it develops.
If you want to volunteer to assist on the website or on a special event, you can sign up on the Volunteers page of the website. Eventually it will be the location for reserving free tickets for certain 300th events.
