Another time honored event has fell victim to the coronavirus pandemic: The beloved Heritage Festival.
This year would have been the 55th year of the festival. The festival has been held every year as a fundraiser for the Marion County Historical Society. Last year more than 90 booths were set up, and thousands of people attended the event held each October.
Craft and business vendors would set up throughout the Columbia City Park along the walking path offering their wares. People from all over would come to the event.
The festival has been the biggest fundraiser for the historical society; that help supports both the Marion County Historical Archives and Museum on the west end of Second Street at the old train depot, but also the historic John Ford Home in Sandy Hook. Without the fundraiser, the organization is looking at other means to raise the necessary funds.
In an effort to make up for not holding the festival this year, the Historical Society will be holding a smoked chicken plate fundraiser on Oct. 3, the normal date of the event. The plates will be picked up that date at the museum. The meal will include a ¼ chicken, potato salad, baked beans, roll and a drink. The Historical Society is also looking into selling sweets and other items too.
If anyone is interested in purchasing a ticket, contact Lori Watts at the Marion County Development Partnership (601) 736-6385 or Carol Durham at the Marion County Historical Archives and Museum at (601) 731-3999.
