Merrill’s centennial starts next week

By Candy Nevers
Merrill town manager
    When the town of Merrill celebrates its centennial next weekend it will be in the true spirit of Captain William Merrill for whom the town was named. He was a seaman who settled what was back in 1840 a remote, wild land. By 1911, the area was incorporated as a town. We plan to celebrate 100 years of civic pride and good citizenship in the old-fashioned Yankee tradition.
Contributed photo
CENTER STAGE — Randy Rockwell and Krista Nelson tried out the new stage by giving a free gospel concert while volunteers helped beautify Millstream Park for Merrill’s 100th anniversary.
    Like other sea captains, Merrill was known for his tough, rugged nature and his ability to endure hardships. He was also known for sticking with a job until its completion. The current residents of Merrill are the same. And, they proved it preparing for our 100th anniversary.
    A centennial committee has been working since April 2009 to plan a wonderful family friendly celebration full of surprises that will be an incredible experience for children as well.
Proud of  our veterans
    The centennial’s main theme is recognizing and honoring our veterans because we realize that we benefit from freedoms like no other people on earth. In that spirit, we are giving thanks to our veterans for the freedoms we enjoy.
    Historical records document the large numbers of Merrill residents who went into battles as far back as the Civil War. And, for that, we thank and honor our past and current members of the military. The veterans of the Frank B. Holden Legion Post 52 will be the grand marshals of the parade on Saturday. All veterans are welcomed to join the celebration.
Volunteers pitched in
    The committee, with the tenacity and endurance of an old sea captain, began planning the festivities while simultaneously working on the renovation of Millstream Park where the festivities will take place. Volunteers have cleared land, chipped brush and spread and seeded loam in addition to building and planting a rock garden. They also planted trees that were purchased by residents as “family trees” or  as “memory trees.”
    Volunteers also built a stage for outdoor concerts with donated loam, gravel, building materials, paint and mulch. We invite you to stop by the Merrill Millstream Park at 53 Route 212 to enjoy the fruits of the labor of a small town with a big spirit.
Contributed photo
FLOWER GARDEN — Jill Bustard was among the many volunteers who planted flowers, purchased by residents, to give a face-lift to the park in Merrill where many centennial events will take place.
    The stage will get plenty of use on Saturday, Aug. 14, when several vocalists and musicians from The County give a free concert. There will be something for everyone — gospel, country and rock music at various times into the evening hours. This is your chance to hear some great music. So, bring a lawn chair and come on out, relax and enjoy.
    On Sunday the Bethel Pentecostal Youth group will be serving birthday cake and ice cream.
Legends, phenomena and fun
    Captain Merrill (or his ghost – who knows for sure?) will actually set up a small village in the park. He will be around to tell stories and allow those special persons who can see him to ask questions about the past.
    And, perhaps the phenomenon of “Campbell’s Light” will show up. Some may recall the legend of the lonely Merrill resident named Campbell. He had few possessions with the exception of a huge lamp whose light could be seen for miles. When Campbell answered President Abraham Lincoln’s call for volunteers in 1861 to help “put down the rebellion,” he told his neighbors that his light would be seen if he did not return from the Civil War.
    There will be many events during our three days of fun and events with a few surprises for the children. Check the paper for a complete listing next week.