The village of Highland Bicentennial was held Sept. 17 and 18 under clear blue skies. Several hundred people enjoyed the music, food, games, Civil War encampment, assorted vendors and fellowship.

The museum inside and outside the building held hundreds of pictures, newspaper articles, old tools including some Anderson knives, and other items such as clothing, quilts, books and dishes. There was an active blacksmith showing how metal was worked. It brought back many memories and teaching moments for the younger crowd – 80 and under.

The parade held Saturday featured units including the Fairfield school band, Girl Scouts and Boy Scouts, fire units, horse and carriage and wagon, and a Marine veteran unit. Polly Tolle Burnett was the grand marshal. She was driven by former mayor Gene Siniff. Les Leath, the village’s oldest resident, was made honorary grand marshal.

Charlotte Pack was present Saturday to sell and sign her book “Time Travels” that she had reprinted for this event and other requests. Ken Ludwick sold and signed his book “Moving the Mail in Highland County.” The festival committee had “Through the Years” reprinted that the 1976 bicentennial committee had written. Much information from the book and another one that Bessie Everhart wrote in 1976, “The Diary,” and other information was used for the celebration.

Methodist and Quaker churches services were held Aug. 6 with a church full of memorabilia from past and present members. The ghost walk held Aug. 27 featured several people buried in Highland Cemetery that were some of the instrumental people in the life of New Lexington/Highland.

The committee and the village council wish to thank everyone who made this celebration possible, including God for the beauitful weather. Many village people and former residents worked hard to make this a success. We appreciate all the money and items donated by area business people and individuals. Any money left over will be used for playground equipment and the upkeep of the park.

Submitted by Barbara Hodge.