Londonderry’s observance of its 108th consecutive Old Home Day dates back to the tradition begun by Gov. Frank Rollins in the late 19th century. As reported in the archives of the Library of Congress, Gov. Rollins proclaimed in 1897, "I wish that in the ear of every son and daughter of New Hampshire, in the summer days, might be heard whispered the persuasive words: "Come back, come back!" Do you not hear the call? What has become of the old home where you were born? Do you not remember it -- the old farm back among the hills, with its rambling buildings, its well sweep casting its long shadows, the row of stiff poplar trees, the lilacs and the willows?"
Recent Londonderry celebrations have expanded to include five days of new and old traditions that range from a competitive softball match between the firefighters and the police officers to the Friday night fireworks display next to the high school. Upwards of 10,000 locals swarm to the Town Common on Saturday of Old Home Day week to watch the impressive parade and visit the 60 activity booths. Politicians thrive in the face-to-face encounters with the voters determined to have an impact on selecting the next new president. Still others proudly watch their children march in one of the most highly acclaimed high school marching bands in the country.
One of the reasons I love this tradition is the window it provides into many of the volunteer activities available for local citizens. It is so easy and so satisfying to get involved in one’s local community. On display at the Saturday celebration on the town common are a plethora of volunteer organizations ready for others to get involved and join in. It’s easy to sit back and offer critique; to complain or to throw up your hands and give up. Instead, get involved, sign up, do something. Be a part of a solution. The community is constantly changing, evolving. Play a part. Get off the sidelines and get into the game. Our community’s future beckons to you. Do you not hear the call?
Tom Dolan is a longtime Londonderry resident and former town councilor. E-mail your thoughts on his column to editor@derrynews.com or mail them to: Derry News, Box 307, Derry, N.H. 03038-4510.
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Column: Ye Old tradition lives on
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