“The purpose of the Madison County Bicentennial observance is to commemorate the two hundred years of Madison County’s existence, 1823-2023. The goal is to be inclusive of all county residents and to create an awareness of all facets of our county history through education, special events, fellowship, and celebration.”
Information Courtesy of the Bicentennial Committee. More information on Madison County’s Bicentennial can be found HERE.
Events
Alexandria-Monroe Township Historical Museum Reopening: On April 15 at 11 a.m., the museum located at 313 N. Harrison Street, opens for the season, with updated exhibits. A Spanish hamburger lunch will be available.
200th Anniversary of the Pendleton Methodist Church: On April 16, in celebration of this historic anniversary, Nancy Wynant will present on the history of the church at the Pendleton Historical Museum in Falls Park. The event is scheduled from 2 to 4 p.m.
Alexandria Veterans Remembrance: On June 29, 7 p.m., at the Emery Lee building in Beulah Park, County Historian Stephen Jackson will present a program on Alexandria Medal of Honor recipient Andrew Johnson Cummings, and also discuss the historic visit to Alexandria by the most decorated WWI American veteran, Alvin York.
Bicentennial Birthday Bonanza: On July 23, the major bicentennial “signature event” will occur with a county-wide community “birthday bash” in downtown Anderson. The event will feature entertainment, food and other refreshments, fun activities for kids and families, and displays about Madison County’s history. It will be preceded on the same day with a community gospel and spiritual music concert at the Paramount Theatre. All churches in the county will be invited to participate.
Madison County Start Your Engines! August 4 and 5 will be “The Madison 200” race weekend, a partnership with the Anderson Speedway in honor of the bicentennial. Friday night will see a “Checkered Flag” gala, and race being staged the next day! Look for further details as the exact date and time for these fun and exciting events.
Pendleton Porch Parties: On August 20 from 1 to 5 p.m. historic homes in and near the Pendleton downtown will host “porch parties” inviting the public to see their beautiful porches and learn about their history. Presentations will also be made that afternoon at the South Madison Community Foundation.
Frankton History Club Sigler Cemetery Tour: On Sunday, September 17, as part of Frankton’s Annual Heritage Days, the Frankton History Club will host a “Pop-up Museum” and shuttle rides and tour of the Sigler Cemetery.
Gruenewald Historic House: On the afternoon of October 1, The Gruenewald Historic House will participate in the bicentennial through re-enactment of life within the home circa 1923, featuring members dressed in period garb, food, entertainment, and fun family activities on the grounds.
Community Movie in the Park: On September 9, an evening of family fun to celebrate Madison County’s unity as a county will occur at Jackson Park in Anderson. Informational booths, vendors, and a movie in the park including a highlight of the contributions of Madison County’s black community will be featured.
The Madison County Historical Society: The MCHS will host multiple historical lectures, exhibits and other presentations throughout the year. Their “First Sunday” monthly lecture series given by Madison County Historian Stephen Jackson will feature each of the fourteen townships of Madison County. In addition, a series of historical presentations at public libraries and other venues throughout the county is planned.
All event information is subject to change. Please check the website for the most up-to-date information.
