WHAT, WHERE, AND WHEN IN OLD KENILWORTH – Fourth of July 1925

The Fourth of July Parade in 1925 was declared the “biggest and most successful” in the then 18-year history of the Borough. It is reportedly the first parade in floats upon trucks were in the parade.

Hosted by the Kenilworth Volunteer Fire Department, the grand marshal was Aaron C. Ogden, fire chief. In the parade were members of the fire department and its band led by John Butler, additional bands, borough officials, the VFW, Boy Scouts, school children, members of the American-Italian Society, fire apparatus, including the department’s first motorized fire truck – a Reo, and a long line of automobiles decorated in red, white, and blue.

Police Chief Alfred Vardalis led the parade on a route from the firehouse over through Downtown, then back past the firehouse to 21st street, then down to the New Orange Park section, then back up to the Boulevard via 23rd St. and, finally along the Boulevard to Harding School. There a crowd of 600 people jammed the auditorium for a patriotic program with notables of early Kenilworth including James Arthur, Levi W. Naylor, and Chief Ogden giving speeches. Music included singing of the “Battle Hymn of the Republic,” “Hail Columbia,” and the “Star Spangled Banner.”

The day’s activities included a baby parade with prizes awarded for the prettiest child, the most originally dressed child, and the most comically dressed child. Numerous field day events were held for boys and girls in various age categories, with prizes awarded for first, second, and third place. It was a grand celebration for the town that was formed in 1907.

Research provided by Walter E. Boright, Ed. D., historian, and Historic Signs, Inc.

Persons with inquiries about this or other aspects of Kenilworth history may contact Dr. Boright at drbori@aol.com or 908-256-5200.

(above) Parade float in front of old Washington Avenue firehouse featured Boy Scouts camping out, and persons attired as Betsy Ross and Uncle Sam.
Photo credit: Historic Signs archives