In 1876, Searsboro became an incorporated town and held its first election. Now, 150 years later, the small town will commemorate its sesquicentennial with a special celebration on Saturday, Sept. 12.
Community members along with past and present Searsboro residents and anyone who holds the small town close to heart are invited to the celebration.
A parade that goes down Main Street will kick off the 150th celebration at 2 p.m. From 3-7 p.m., family-friendly events will take place including water games at the fire station, carnival games at the basketball court, a bounce house at Searsboro Telephone Company, and a car show on Railroad Street. Several food trucks will also have their windows open between 3-7 p.m. near city hall including Fire on Wheels Pizza, Katie’s Donuts, Paparoni’s, and Road Trip Coffee. A mobile bar featuring old-fashioned spirits will be open from 2-10 p.m. Free Suikerspein cotton candy will be handed out.
The bags will be flying at a cornhole tournament starting at 4 p.m. at the fire station. Registration ($5 registration fee) starts at 3:30 p.m. All skill levels are welcome, and cash prizes will be handed out to the top-three teams. Grab a partner or arrive solo and get matched up – it is guaranteed to be a fun time of friendly competition!
Starting at 7 p.m., Paul Michael Davis will bring the rock and roll to the street dance on Main Street. The evening will conclude with a fireworks show at 9 p.m.
The 150th celebration has been in the works for months thanks to the hard-working committee of event organizers along with generous sponsors – Searsboro Telephone Company, First State Bank, and local donors.
Important dates in Searsboro’s early history
Apr. 27, 1855 – A parcel of land that was to become the town of Searsboro was purchased from the U.S. government by Joseph B. Foss.
1869 – Foss conveyed the land to Lampkin Lacy who later sold it to W. H. Dunnick that same year.
Oct. 25, 1870 – Reuben Sears, for whom the town is named after, purchased the land from Dunnick.
Jan. 12, 1871 – 80-acre town plat filed and later approved in September. First home is built in 1871.
Aug. 20, 1876 – Searsboro became an incorporated town.
