Pike County to mark 200 years with transportation theme

WAVERLY – Pike County is looking for participants for its June 19 Bicentennial Day parade.

The theme for the celebratory parade is “Transportation Over 200 Years.”

“It stemmed from the importance the Ohio Erie Canal played in the county,” said Jeff Pinkerton, coordinator for the executive board of the Pike County bicentennial.

“We are looking for anyone involved in transportation over the last 200 years,” said LaChona Ferguson, event planner for the Pike County bicentennial committee. “From horses, monster trucks, unicycles, EMS — anything at all to make it a great parade.”

From 1815 to 2015, canals, railroads and cars have played a role in shaping Pike County. The theme of transportation was “something that could be the cohesive bond,” Pinkerton said.

Included in the weekend celebration are county-wide skills competitions between the fire departments, inflatables, and a series of stations that will carry the theme of transportation, according to the official bicentennial website.

Hot air balloons, helicopters and trolleys — all part of the theme — will be offering rides. Historical tours, car and tractor shows, and other events will be spread out during that Saturday, Pinkerton said.

The lineup will commence at 4 p.m. in the high school parking lot, with the parade scheduled to begin at 6 p.m.

Applications to participate in the Pike County Bicentennial Day Parade can be picked up at the Pike County Convention and Visitors Bureau.