‘Glorious Fourth’ showcases cabin’s 150th anniversary

Independence Day in Franklin County will begin with a look back.

The 233rd anniversary of the country will be celebrated with the 150th anniversary of Dietrich Cabin during “Glorious Fourth — Territorial Independence Day Celebration,” which will be 8 a.m. Saturday at the cabin in City Park, Fifth and Main streets, Ottawa.

“What we’re doing is based on actual Fourth of July celebrations in the territorial time,” Deb Barker, Franklin County Historical Society director, said.

Letters the historical society has from the 1850s always mention the reading of the Declaration of Independence as part of the holiday observance, Barker said.

So just like the Kansas settlers did it, the Declaration of Independence will be read Saturday morning.

“I’m excited about being one of the readers of the Declaration of Independence,” Richard Nienstedt, Ottawa city manager, said. “It’s the document which is the basis of our country.”

Other local residents, who will read parts of the Declaration of Independence, include Blaine Finch, attorney; Brad Howard, KOFO Radio owner; Jeanny Sharp, The Ottawa Herald editor and publisher; and Tom Weigand, Ottawa Area Chamber of Commerce president.

As a veteran and someone who grew up with many family members and teachers as veterans, Nienstedt said he believes that Independence Day celebrations today don’t have as much patriotic emphasis as those in the past.

“I remember that the Fourth of July was a big deal and how important it was to be an American and how important our freedoms are,” he said.

Plans also include the firing of a cannon, Barker said.

Nienstedt said during his time in Fort Scott, firing cannons was typical of Independence Day celebrations.

“It kind of lends to the occasion.”

Barker also will read a letter John Adams wrote to his wife, Abigail, July 3, 1776, about what his thoughts were about future Independence Day celebrations.

“It ought to be solemnized with Pomp and Parade, with Shews, Games, Sports, Guns, Bells, Bonfires and Illuminations from one End of this Continent to the other from this Time forward forever more,” Adams wrote.

“I think he got it pretty well,” Barker said.

The celebration will conclude with words about the 150th anniversary of Dietrich Cabin and its history and significance in Franklin County. Some members of the Dietrich family will be on hand, Barker said.

A territorial breakfast of corn cakes, cider and coffee will be served after the proceedings. The community is invited and is encouraged to bring lawn chairs or blankets.

“By doing this at 8 a.m., it’ll be a nice, solemn way to start the day,” Barker said.