When I was a child my Great Aunt and Uncle lived next door to the Franklin St. fire station and it was the parade route for the Bristol Rhode Island 4th of July Parade. All my in state family would gather at my aunt and uncles house from early in the am (still dark and sleeping in the cars) to miss the traffic. Because they were our Great aunt&uncle all our grandparent 6 out of 8 brothers&sisters and spouses would put together a wonderful clam boil and barbecue for after the parade and in the evening a personal fireworks display. There were at least 50+family members and friends. We had a wonderful time every year. I especially remember the 1976 celebration I was 8 it was a great 200th celebration! There has not been a 4th of July that has gone by since they had to stop doing it that my cousins and I don't remember those days,they are very special memories that will never be forgotten by those of us who were lucky enough to experience those wonderful family filled 4th's! Have a beautiful and safe 4th everyone! Don't forget to thank our veterans for keeping this Great Birthday Celebration of our Country Alive!

Dawn Winters
Johnston, RI