July 4 — A Grand Tradition

July 4, 1920, the Elba Mine near Biwabik saw a quite refined gathering as a crowd of people listened to a speaker.  Perhaps the speech is a recitation of the Declaration of Independence or a thoughtful reflection on the importance of the day.  Maybe later there would be a parade, loud fireworks, and a lot of drinking.  But at this moment, on a warm day in the middle of summer, the Elba Mine was the scene of a more dignified way to honor the nation’s founding.

 

 ~ PHOTO COURTESY OF MINNESOTA DISCOVERY CENTER

Another year has gone by and here it is – time to celebrate the Fourth of July again! Do you have your flags ready and maybe even some bunting? You maybe have hot dogs and watermelon ready to enjoy. Remember that on PBS-TV “A Capital Fourth” is broadcast from Washington D.C. Whatever you enjoy doing, have a grand time celebrating.

Here on the Iron Range, honoring the founding of America has a long history. As the immigrants arrived here in the north country and worked so hard raising families, building businesses, and digging iron ore out of the ground, there was one day the government and the mining companies encouraged people to take a break. Blending “Old Country” ways of celebrating with “New World” events made this day fun and different from any other day of the year.

  
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