Young maidens presenting the traditional Maypole dance during May Day activities herald in the spring season.
The 20th annual May Day Celebration at the historic Black House was held Saturday, an event sponsored by the Eagle Fund, Inc. The fun and educational day is presented as a fundraiser to help maintain the home as a tourist attraction and museum. Expenses are ongoing and donations are appreciated, according to Jeanette Lowery, executive director. The majestic home stands at the corner of West Main and High streets, and was one of the first residences in McMinnville. It was build in 1825 by Jesse Coffee with a design from the Federal period. The brick structure is listed on the National Register of Historic Places. The interior of the home was open for tours for a nominal fee. Offering assistance with the tours were students from F.C. Boyd Christian School’s newspaper, and the eighth-grade American history class. The lawn was filled with activities, with entertainment provided by Clark United Methodist Male Chorus, as well as its children’s chorus. They were accompanied by Maxine Weeden, and presented a lively program of gospel and inspirational songs. The traditional Maypole dance returned this year, with 16 young ladies participating in four performances. The adorable young ladies, dressed identically in white frocks and flower halos, were taught by Paula’s Dance Academy. The Maypole dance has deep roots, but was a common rite of spring at colleges from the late nineteenth century through the 1950s, heralding the spring season. Colorful ribbons are attached to the top of a Maypole (usually a tree harvested from a forest), with youngsters wrapping the ribbons in different directions, making a unique design on the pole. They then reverse their directions, unfurling the ribbons to the original position. Watching the dance evoked memories from Nelma Justice and friend Thelma Masey. Justice directed the dance about 55 years ago, when her daughter was a member of a local Girl Scout troop. ‘We held ours at the grammar school years ago, and I certainly enjoyed watching the lovely presentation today,’ said Justice. An Armed Forces Day program was given by Ken Roberts, stating the first Armed Forces Day was held in 1950. He spoke of patriotism and loyalty to our country. A menu of barbecue, hamburgers, baked beans, slaw and potato salad, as well as homemade desserts, was provided for guests to enjoy a picnic on the grounds, making for a perfect May Day celebration.
