1948

Committee Appointments - Band-Roxey Stockwell; Dinner-King & Iona Little; Entertainment-Mrs. Segalini; Dance-Bob Deware; Parade-Mr. Hoag; Sports-Elmer Davis; Decoration-Harry Bowdoin; Advertising-Dick Small.

 Discussion included:

• All events held on the 4th - Parade, Sports, Dinner, Social, Ball Game, Dance. 
• raising price for dance from 60¢ to $1.50 per couple.
• finding a "snappier" Parade Marshall.
• dinner committee estimates 400-500 people were fed.
• only kitchen help in kitchen and only diners in eating rooms. Crowds caused great confusion to the committee.
• should dinner be served buffet style another year?
• loss of $23.50

1949

Committee Appointments - Parade-Ray Brown, Dinner-Mr. & Mrs. Fred Warren, Dance-John Munsey, Entertainment-Betty Deware, Sports-Al Sumner, Soliciting-Curtis McClary, Decorating-John Zanes & Dick Small (for the summer people), Publicity-Laurie Wilkins.

Discussion included:

• greater care be exerted in hanging the flag.
• guards be maintained at door to keep diners from over-running the building.
• no fees would be charged except for the dance.
• parade band from Rochester will participate.
• profit of $83.88

1950

Committee Appointments - Parade Band-Roxey Stockwell, Parade-King Little, Sports-Elmer Davis, Dance-Howard Osler, Decorating-Boy Scouts, Dinner-John Gard, Bill Dunn & Freddy Warren, Entertainment-Iona Little, Publicity-Laurie Wilkins, Collections-Grace Segalini.

Discussion included:

• hired Al Whitney Band for dance.
• parade committee reports definite lack of enthusiasm.

1951

Committee Appointments - Dinner-Israel Willard, Parade-Ray Brown, Program-Julia Munsey, Sports-John Munsey, Dance-Iona & King Little, Soliciting-Leona McClary, Publicity-Laurie Wilkins, Decorating-Bertrude & Curtis McClary.

Discussion included:

• voted to have Sanbornton Band for parade.
• estimated 400-500 people fed at dinner.
• seven service men attended dance free of charge.
• dance orchestra paid $30 and police paid $5
• profit of $70.00

1952

Committee Appointments -Dinner-Mr. & Mrs. Harold Bryant, Parade-Robert Maheux & Kenneth Nutter, Program-Ruth Maheux, Sports-The Boy Scouts, Dance-William Dunn, Decorating-The Boy Scouts, Soliciting-Margaret Gard and Grace Segalini, Publicity-Mary Willard.

Discussion included:

• Sanbornton band hired for parade.
• hired orchestra for dance and raised admission fee to 75¢for adults and 40¢ for youngsters and children under 12 are admitted free.
• will sell ice cream and tonic at the school building as store will be closed.
• loss of $16.65.

1953

Committee Appointments -Parade-Mae Willard & Iona Little, Music for Parade-John Munsey, Ball Game-Kenneth Nutter, Dance-John Munsey, Decorating & Flag-Bertrude McClary, Dinner-Curtis McClary, Entertainment-Ruth Maheux.

Discussion included:

• will not solicit for funds this year.
• Mae Willard & Iona Little resigned - each committee member to try to get one float into parade.
• Voted to allow Fire Department Sirens to have a booth for sales of anything except food.
• voted to have the dance the night before the 4th.
• hired Sanbornton band for parade.
• 174 tickets sold for dance.
• loss of $136.98

1954

Committee Appointments -Dinner-Dick Clark, Parade, Dick Willard, Dance-Mary Willard, Entertainment-Donna Gard, Sports-Robert Maheux, Soliciting-Ruth Stockwell, Decorating-Curtis & Bertrude McClary.

Discussion Included:

• voted to pay the School Board $19 charged for the 1953 celebration.

1956

Discussion Included:

• will have a booth and sell hot dogs, hamburgers, ice cream and tonic.

1960

Discussion Included:

• voted that money now in the bank remain in the Gilmanton Corners for the celebration of 4th of July or if the 4th of July Association dissolves, the money be spent on a picnic for the Gilmanton Corner children.
• voted to have no celebration this year - not enough present.

1961

Committee Appointments -Parade-Dick Clark & Joe Clairmont, Sports-Bob Maheux & Louis Segalini, Dinner-Bea Adel, Iona Little, Gen Guidi & Doris Thies, Variety Show-Grace Segalini & Ruth Maheux, Tonic Booth-Ray Thies, Gloria Munsey & the Boy Scouts, Posters-Gloria Munsey, Dance-Kay Clairmont & Louis Guidi, Soliciting-Ruth Maheux, Iona Little, John Bryant, Jack Adel, Stanley Chamberlain, Arthur Brown, Grace Segalini, Dick Clark.

Discussion included:

• Theme - Gilmanton First Family - 1761.  committee decorated a float to commemorate celebrating the 200th anniversary of the first family to settle in Gilmanton 
• to hold an old-fashioned 4th of July this year.
• dinner will still be free, but will be solicited for.
• variety show will last 1½ hours, twelve numbers lined up.  There will be no admittance fee.  Will ask Maurice Munsey to be funny man.
• Boy Scouts will get one-half of the tonic booth profits.
• Floats by Kinsman Organs and the Youth Organization.  Others include fire trucks, Boy Scouts will march, Gilman's horses.  Prizes will be given for 3 best floats.
• Leonard Virgin offered to play for parade if committee furnishes a truck with a piano on it - didn't work out.  Lines Boy and Herb Munsey will play drums for parade.
• will put up tent to serve dinner outside.
• Leonard Virgin Orchestra hired for dance, 8pm to 12am.  Selling tonic, coffee & sandwiches at dance.  Tickets 75¢.
• Fire Department Sirens donated use of their tables for the dinner.
• Sports included foot races, tug of war, bike races, money mixed in pile of sawdust and softball game.
• profit of $101.97

1962

Committee Appointments -Band-Dan Adel, Dinner-Jennie Copp, Mrs. Donaghy, Bea Adel, Iona Little, Mae Willard, Sports-Carl Moorehead, Jack Adel, Dance-Grace Segalini (resigned), Bob & Ruth Maheux, Bob & Marge Chamberlain & Kay Clairmont, Program-Mary Stockwell (resigned), Herb Munsey, Parade-Joe Clairmont, Louie Segalini, Ray Brown, Advertising-Ruth Maheux, Soliciting-Margie Chamberlain, Jennie Copp, Mae Willard, John Bryant, Jack Adel, Joe Willard, Harold Barrows.

Discussion Included:

• not to pay more than $100 for band.
• Leonard Virgin Band for dance.
• will train Bea Adel and Alberta Brown for majorettes if the band we hire doesn't have any.
• will see about using stage coach in parade.
• suggestion that we hold celebration at Smith Meeting House was voted down.
• Tilton Drum & Bugle Corp for parade.
• Floats from PTA and Fire Department trucks
• will sell tonic and ice cream
• discussed theme centered around Mary Butler
• grab bags available from Sybil Bryant
• suggest holding the dance the night before the 4th in future years.

1963

Committee Appointments -Dinner-Marjorie Couture, Parade-Henry and Darlene Page & Ray Brown, Sports-Carl Moorehead, Dance-Iona Little, Advertising-Marjorie Chamberlain, Soliciting-William Sanville, Jennie Copp, Carl Moorehead, Henry Page & Roger Couture.

Discussion Included:

• Cub scouts will have a booth selling tonic and ice cream.
• committee will furnish paper for floats.
• the Shy-Debs will be the dance orchestra.
• dance refreshments will be coffee and hot dogs.
• a new kettle will be purchased for the dinner.
• all materials to be returned to the president for use another year.
• suggestion to use a megaphone for the celebration.
• looking for a trailer to carry cannon and need to pay $10 for $500 insurance on cannon.

1964

Committee Appointments - Parade-Dana Hunkins, Dinner-Irene Hunkins, Sports-Carl Moorehead, Program-Grace Segalini, Dance-Rose Willard, Advertising-Jane Maheux, Soliciting-Ruth Maheux, Dick Willard, Barry Donaghy, Betty Smithers, Joe McClary, Rick Segalini.

Discussion Included:

• suggestion that dinner and parade not be held - have hot dog stand, games, prizes and a program for the children.
• maybe hire Richard Moulton's sound truck instead of a band for parade.
• fire department will put up flag and banners.
• personal invitation will be sent to residents of Sawyer Lake and Shellcamp.
• suggestion to set up novelties concession.
• Boy Scouts will operate tonic booth.
• Tilton Drum & Bugle Corp available for parade.
• Al's Rhythm Band for dance
• Sell refreshments at dance.
• Tickets for dance 75¢ for adults and 35¢ for Gilmanton students.
• Trophies for floats.
• Parade aware categories - Funniest, Prettiest & Most Original
• Might be able to get balloons for children from Sunbeam Bakery to be distributed by clown (Ruth Hunkins) in parade.

1965

Committee Appointments - Dinner-Gloria Munsey, Ruth Maheux, Bunny Brown, Parade-Carl Moorehead, Sports-Jack Adel, John Bryant, Cliff Stockwell, Advertising-Henry Page, Dance-Betty McClary & Betty Smithers, Soliciting-Linda Willard, Jane Moorehead & Alice Adel, Program-Alice Adel, Linda Willard.

Discussion Included:

• With the 4th of a Sunday, it was decided to have dance on the 3rd.
• Ask Tilton 49ers Drum & Bugle Corp to be in parade.
• Received permission to use Academy hall without charge.

1966

Committee Appointments - Dinner-Gloria Munsey, Ruth Maheux & Bernice Brown; Parade-Fred Buccarelli; Dance-Betty McClary, Betty Smithers; Sports-Jack Adel, John Bryant, Cliff Stockwell; Soliciting-Peg Bartholomew and Frank Hill; Advertising-Mr. & Mrs. Brenig.

Discussion Included:

• Very little interest - maybe cancel activities
• Dane Geddes combo for dance - sell tonic & chips.
• Marching band for parade will be Ray Ladieu

1967

Committee Appointments - Dance-Carl Moorehead, Fred Buccarelli & Betty Smithers; Parade-Joe McClary & Ray Brown; Posters-Harold Brenig; Dinner-Carol Adel; Sports-Jack Adel; Soliciting-Frank Hill & Dick Willard; Coffee Booth-Betty Smithers & Mary Adel; Table Committee-John Bryant, Terry Cassavaugh, Thomas Smithers & Vic Thompson.

Discussion Included:

• Dance will be on July 3rd, 8:30 to 12am. No refreshments will be sold.  Increase tickets to $1.
• Will ask to borrow dinner equipment from Fire Department.
• Will have coffee and donut concession in the morning.
• Will not have a bonfire due to danger.
• Parade will form at Dr. Buccarelli's.
• Will have pony rides.

1968

Committee Appointments - Dance-Bo Twigg; Parade-Joe Willard; Sports-Jack Adel, John Bryant & Cliff Stockwell; Posters-Harold Brenig; Dinner-Gloria Munsey; Soliciting-Dick Willard.

Discussion Included:

• Blanchette Combo for dance
• Lakes Region Aires and Ray Ladieu band for Parade.
• Discussed getting a caterer for dinner.
• WEMJ sound truck will cover parade.
• Dinner chairman resigned - caterer too expensive - Candace & Rose Willard doing dinner.
• Loss of $10.27.
• Purchased 75 serving bowls and spoons - to be stored and used by Fire Dept.

1969

Committee Appointments - Sports-Dick Willard; Dinner-Candace Willard; Parade-Jack Adel; Posters-Candy Willard & Jaime Lines; Dance-George Twigg; Soliciting-J. Lines, M. Munsey, B. McClary, J. Moorehead, J. Willard.

Discussion Included:

• Having a float to represent the 4th of July Assoc. - maybe use Academy bell as theme.
• Approval to use Academy hall.
• Agreed to purchase food and solicit cakes.
• Set up dinner buffet style.
• Suggestion to not solicit funds, except for Academy bell fund.
• Dance band will be P. Blanchette.
• Asked PTA to do coffee concession.
• Entire committee to meet with Selectmen regarding bell and use of hall.

1970

Committee Appointments-Dance-George Twigg; Parade-Maurice Munsey & Mort Young; Sports-Terry Cassavaugh & Vic Thompson; Dinner-Arlene Hunkins; Advertising-Ethel Thompson; Soliciting-May Willard, Candy & Joe Willard, Gloria Munsey, Nancy Stevens, George Twigg, Mickey Young, Ginny Grant.

Discussion Included:

• Donated $200 to Gilmanton Scholarship fund & voted to donate this year's profit to fund.
• Blanchette Combo for dance.
• PTA will have coffee & donut concession.
• Will raffle a bottle of cheer at dance.
• Fed 475 people.
• Bo Twigg, Joe Willard, Ginny Grant & Dana Hunkins will check on fixing bell.

1971

Committee Appointments-Dinner-Joe Willard, Dance-Janice & Bob McWhinnie; Parade-Mickie Young & Roger Clark; Sports-Jack Adel & Cliff Stockwell, Soliciting-Jane Moorehead & Betty McClary; Posters-Ethel Thompson & Candy Willard.

Discussion Included:

• Estimate from Wayne Sharp to fix bell tower for $200.  Will ask Town to help pay.  Historical Society donated $50 towards repairs.
• Dance band will be Blanchettes (5-piece).
• Will raffle bottles of cheer.
• Parade band will be $70.
• Ball game will be between men and women from Iron Works.
• Profit of $66.92.
• Tabled Shellcamp's request to help pay for fireworks.

1972

1973

Committee Appointments - Parade-Jack Fanning & Tommy Smithers; Dance-Joe Willard; Sports-John Bryant & Razor Brown; Soliciting-Razor Brown & Lynn Fanning; Advertising-Lynn Fanning; Dinner-Gloria Munsey & Joe Crowley.

Discussion Included:

• Voted to continue dinner on donation basis.
• No liquor allowed in hall.
• Voted to audit books by Jack Fanning, Joe Crowley and Tom Smithers.
• Dance tickets $3 per couple and $1.50 single admission. 
• Raffle 2 bottles of cheer at dance.
• Voted to stop giving quarters to children in parade.
• Trouble finding band for parade.
• Rent table space at $5 for flea market tables. 
• Little League to have tag day on the 4th.
• Have tonic & ice cream concession on the 4th.
• Hold off soliciting for money until June 2nd to not interfere with Fire Department's canvassing for funds.
• Will contact Sheriff for dance.
• Lakes Region Aires for parade.
• Trophies for parade.
• Dance band to be Country Travelers.
• Will have horse shoes beside Church.
• Will have ribbons for pony pulling.
• Kindergarten can have refreshment booth.
• Bowls to be stored at Fire Station, flags at McClary's.

1974

Committee Appointments-Parade-Jack Fanning; Dinner-Joe Crowley; Sports-Jack Adel and Cliff Stockwell; Soliciting-Razor Brown; Advertising-Lynn Fanning; Dance-Maurice Munsey.

Discussion Included:

• Funds on hand - $252.50
• Have minstrel show.
• Dinner admittance by donation.
• Allow tag day by Little League.
• Dance band will be Duke and the Country Cousins - $200.
• Dinner will be hot dogs, beans, rolls, cup cakes, Coleslaw, coffee, Kool-Aid.
• Also selling cold drinks, coffee and donuts and French fries.
• Parade will have Belmont High School Band.
• Parade trophies will be 1st, 2nd and 3rd prizes each for Most Original, Antique Cars, Prettiest and Funniest.
• Suggested antique car and senior citizen as parade marshal.
• Made donation to Gilmanton Kindergarten

1975

Committee Appointments - Dinner-Joe Willard; Dance-Carl Moorehead & Neil Roberts; Parade-Jack Fanning; Games-Herbie Brown & Jack Adel; Soliciting-John Bryant; Advertising-Lynn Fanning; Coffee Booth-Maurice Munsey & Mary Adel.

Discussion Included:

• Dick Willard and Susan Roberts will meet with Selectmen over problems that may arise.
• Dinner to remain by donation.
• Invite everyone to play in ball game after dinner.
• Townsmen Band for dance - 9pm to 1am
• Get started right away on the 1976 (Bi-centennial) Celebration
• Will sell sodas, coffee, donuts and ice cream.
• Ok on selling PTA cookbooks and Gilmanton Sports Council Memberships.
• Kindergarten will run tonic booth for donation.
• Inspect bell for safety - wheel is weak.  Can be rung at midnight for 15 minutes.
• Hire Town Police Officer, Bob Hilton for dance.
• Ending account balance - $271.80

1976

Committee Appointments - Parade-Jack Fanning; Sports-Jack Adel & Herbie Brown; Coffee Booth-Mary Adel.

Discussion Included:

• Suggestion that everything be free.
• Historical Society wants to work with the 4th of July Committee
• Let the Elementary School come up with the theme
• Theme was "The Heritage of Gilmanton".
• Dance on the 3rd.
• 4th is on a Sunday, so parade will be on July 5th
• All bells in town will be rung on July 4th at 2pm for 2 minutes.
• The Gilmanton Bi-Centennial Committee will give a trophy for the best float in the parade.
• Andy and the Gamblers will play at the dance.
• The John Yeaton band (12-15 piece) will play in parade.
• Dinner served in the Academy hall.
• Admission to dance will be $2 ea.
• Declined to allow the American Legion Auxiliary (or any other group) to sell chances at the 4th.

1977

Committee Appointments - Parade-Jack Fanning; Dinner-Linda Gullage; Soliciting-Monk Munsey; Dance-Razor Brown, Posters-Linda Brown

Discussion Included:

• Dance will be on Saturday, 7/2 and Parade on Monday, 7/4.
• Suggestion to have separate raffle to raise money.
• Need to fix bell rope.
• Need hot water at the Academy.

1978

Committee Appointments - Dance-Ruth Maheux, Parade-Monk Munsey; Sports-Corner Fire Department; Soliciting-Joe Willard, Advertising-Linda Brown.

Discussion Included:

• Price for dance to be $2.50 each
• Razor will shave by the next meeting
• Perhaps a future campaign for Miss 4th of July
• Voted to spend $300 to purchase as many tables as possible.

1979

Committee Appointments - Parade-Joe Willard; Dinner-Mae Willard; Sports-Fire Department; Dance-Jane Gray & Doris Hoffman; Soliciting-Monk Munsey, Outside refreshment booth - Tracy Smithers.

Discussion Included:

• R. Moorehead will set up Horseshoe tournament, greased pig contest and log rolling.  Will purchase 2 pigs and raffle them off after.
• No flea market this year.
• Money to be given for parade winners this year.
• Historical Society would like to assist in restoring ringing of bell.
• Bert Phillips has taken care of outside electrical problem at the Academy.
• Need to fix rear steps at Academy due to condition.
• Have John Yeaton band for parade.
• Purchased material and built 8 tables.
• Need to have flag cleaned.
• Voted to request State flag be donated to Association by Governor.

1980

Committee Appointments - Parade-Carol Austin; Dance-Lura Riggs; Adult Sports-Jim Zarta; Horseshoes-Rick Moorehead; Kids Games-Fire Department; Dinner-Mae Willard; Soliciting-Monk Munsey; Refreshment Stand-G&M Munsey.

Discussion Included:

• Parade will come down over the hill this year and go to Nutter's.
• Have arm wrestling, greased pole & dunking booth.
• Rhythm Reunion band for dance.
• Rope off area next to Church for floats.
• Bell can not be rung because of condition.

1981

Committee Appointments - Dance-Jane Gray & Ed Kelley; Parade-Jack Fanning; Soliciting-Carol Austin; Sports-Fire Department, Joe Willard & Jim Zarta; Coffee & Donuts-Ruth Maheux & Gloria Munsey; Advertising-Jane Gray.

Discussion Included:

• Get estimate to fix bell.
• Look into getting a flag pole for the Academy.
• Should sell balloons.
• Profit of $371.30

1990 

Committee Appointments - Parade-Sarah Harris & Carl Moorehead; Dance-Don Guarino.

Discussion Included:

• Will give cash prizes instead of trophies for parade.
• Will give quarters to all kids in parade.
• Dance will be on 7/3 - $5 per couple or $3 each.
• Don Guarino band for dance - $250 - no alcohol allowed in building.
• Will raffle bottles of cheer at dance.

1991

Officers -  President-Nancy Lines; Vice-President-; Secretary/Treasurer-Candy Daigle.

Committee Appointments - Dance - Brett and Brenda Currier;  Parade - Mickey Daigle & Art Brown; Games-Carl Moorehead and Frank McClary; Dinner-Cliff & Jeannette Stockwell & Dodie Smithers.

Discussion Included:

• Dates - 
• DJ Don Bladja for dance - will have raffle of donated items
• Parade starts at 10am - High Street to Nutters - trophies for Most Original, Most Beautiful and Funniest
• Floats and other parade entries included antique cars, trolleys, race cars, German Shepherd dogs, Fire Department, PTA, Xmas Tree Plantation, motorcycles, horses and Legion as Color Guard
• Quarters for kids in parade
• Horseshoes, Volleyball
• Sit-down dinner served in Academy
• Sell balloons
• Encourage craft tables - $5; no charge for non-profit organizations selling raffle tickets, etc.
• Will have greased pole, rope ladder game
• Dimes for games prizes
• Trash barrels and trash pickup donated by Ralph Goodwin
• Explorers will do coffee and donuts
• Bell rope pulley broke
• Loss of $47.99

Other Activities - Volleyball on Roxey's lawn. Sack races for the kids. Sit-down dinner served in the Academy meeting hall.  First crafts tables. Held separate raffle. 

1992

Officers - President- Nancy Lines; Secretary/Treasurer-Candy Daigle.

Committee Members - Dance - Tom & Dodie Smithers; Parade - Mickey Daigle; Games - Karen Stockwell;  Balloons - Carol & Steve LaRoche.

Discussion Included:

• Dates - Fri. 7/3 Dance; Sat. 7/4 Parade
• First year for snack shack versus sit-down dinner.  Served in Academy hallway.  
• Hung flags on Academy and Church.
• DJ Sara Moulton for dance
• First year for dash plaques awarded to all vehicles
• Gilmanton Historical Society opened for day
• Church sponsored art show
• Windy Hills Kennel canine demonstration
• Held separate raffle
• Craft and sales tables
• Parade at 10am
• Town providing insurance as part of Parks & Recreation Activities
• Cotton Candy this year

Final News Release:

GILMANTON 4TH OF JULY - 1992 

Although the rain came in force for our 1992 4th of July Parade, so did the people. The organizers knew the Parade would go on, rain or shine. They set up coffee and donuts for those who would brave the rain. Before they knew it, they had a fine parade forming and lots of people looking for balloons, cotton candy and full dinners. We were able to utilize the interior of the Academy and had what turned out to be one of the nicest 4th of July days in recent memory.

The dance on the 3rd was also well attended. Raffle tickets went fast and many won lots of great prizes which had been donated by several area merchants. Sarah Moulton did her usual fine job in providing the tunes which all enjoyed.

Many stayed for the dinner on the 4th which included homemade bread by Pauline and Ena Price and homemade beans by Ena Price and Mary Richardson. Others enjoyed old fashioned steamed hot dogs and cotton candy.

There were many who participated in the parade. Three plaques were given for Most Beautiful, Funniest and Most Original. All the floats also received a 1992 Dash Plaque. We were very proud to have the Legion color guard lead the parade again this year, and the Fire Department made a great showing with their equipment and members.

The Historical Society Museum was open for the day and many enjoyed viewing the History of Gilmanton.  Rain or no rain, all the kids enjoyed the outside games put on by Karen Stockwell. Several vendors and craftspeople set up their displays in the auditorium of the Academy.

All proceeds from the day go directly towards the 1993 festivities. If you missed us this year, we'll do it all again in 1993.  We want to take this opportunity to thank everyone who supported our 1992 effort to provide Gilmanton a day to be enjoyed by all.

1993

Officers - President- Nancy Lines; Vice-President-Kip Richardson; Secretary/Treasurer-Candy Daigle.

Committee Members - Parade-Mickey Daigle; Games - Judy & Scott Ellis; Dance-Bill & Jill Smith; All others-Steve & Carol LaRoche, Tom Smithers, Mike Shane, Mark Jesseman, Glen Lines, Arthur Brown, Steve & Patty Morin, Rick & Heidi Segalini, Carl Moorehead.

Discussion Included:

• Dates - 
• Add decorated trash barrels
• Received donation from Town towards event - $150
• CCI donated repairs to Academy bell wheel
• Dance - DJ Sara Moulton
• Added Judges Choice award
• Historical Society Museum open
• Variety show with Daniel Anderson-Ferre
• Windy Hills Kennel canine demonstration
• Face Painting

• Held separate raffle

• Craft and sales tables

• Added French Fries & onion rings

• Developed Parade Route map

• Borrowed large flag from Burger King

1994

Officers - President- Nancy Lines; Vice-President-Kip Richardson; Secretary/Treasurer-Candy Daigle.

Committee Members - Parade-Mickey Daigle; Games - Judy & Scott Ellis; Dance - Bill & Jill Smith; All others-Steve & Kristie Owens, Carol & Mark Jesseman, Tom & Donna Gilbert, Glen Lines, Ena & Bill Price, Carol & Steve LaRoche, Mary Richardson, Arthur Brown, Steve & Patty Morin, Rick & Heidi Segalini, Mike Shane, Willis Hyslop, Julie Perkins, Becky Price, Carl Moorehead 

Discussion Included:

• Dates - Sat. 7/2 Dance, Mon. 7/4 Parade
• Donation from town ($150)
• Began video library of event
• First year to erect tent (use donated by George Twigg)
• DJ Sara Moulton for dance - sold pizza and soda
• Door prizes at dance - winners - Brenda Currier, John Gullage, Patty Morin, Mike Silverman, Fran Green
• Parade - Small Drum & Bugle Corp, horses, T-Ball, Tucker, Harleys, Crime Watch, Windy Hill Kennels, cannon, 4-H float, Legion
• Bagpiper
• Held raffle separate from dance - prize winners - Brian Sheehan, George Roberts, Jim Demers
• Craft and sales tables
• Added STAFF shirts
• Give prizes for games instead of money
• Windy Hill Kennels canine show
• Variety show by Daniel Anderson-Ferre
• Added ice cream sandwiches
• Horseshoes
• Dance on Saturday, 7/2, Parade on 7/4
• Belfry needs more work
• Purchased 4x8' lighted yellow letter sign and lettered 1st sandwich board sign
• Started giving small hand flags to all parade participants as well as ribbons to kids
• Historical Society open

1994 New Year's Eve Dance sponsored by the 4th of July Association

• Tickets $7 each
• Co-chaired by Jill Smith, Heidi Segalini & Sarah Moulton.
• Sarah Moulton DJ

1995

Officers - President- Nancy Lines; Vice-President-Kip Richardson; Secretary/Treasurer-Candy Daigle.

Committee Members - Parade-Mickey Daigle; Games - Raelyn Adel; Dance - Sarah Moulton, Dodie Smithers, Jill Smith; All others-Steve & Kristie Owens, Mark & Carol Jesseman, Tom & Donna Gilbert, Glen Lines, Mike Amaral, Teresa Ferrara, Tom Smithers, Carolyn Dickey, Mary Richardson, Ena & Bill Price, Bill Smith, Mike Shane, Craig Jennings, Steve LaRoche, Julie Perkins, Carl Moorehead.

Discussion Included:

• Dates - Sat. 7/1 Dance; Sun. 7/2 Fireworks; Tues. 7/4 Parade
• Six tables and other supplies from previous 4th of July Committee found in Town Hall in Iron Works
• Fiftieth anniversary of VJ Day
• Donated $100 to Phase II Academy Renovations
• Fireworks - First year - Held at Crystal Lake Park - $2,000 show - small snack shack (dogs, drinks, blondies, t-shirts, glow sticks)
• Held raffle separate from dance - winners: R. Spaulding, Jeff Valas & Roger Porosky
• First year for Gilmanton 4th of July T-Shirts & Hats
• Sent out solicitation letter, members donated and members canvassed for additional donations for Fireworks
• Purchased 2 large flags for display on Academy grounds
• Town Donation of $150
• Face Painting & Balloons
• Dance prizes to Pam Fecteau, Gordon Jones, Tracy Richard, Heidi Segalini, Gretchen Lafleur, Janice Sawyer, Joan Lasse, Beulah St. George, Ronald Merrill
• Parade included Loudon DARE car, Larry Frates Lawn Chair Brigade, race cars, tractors, horses, Fire Department, NHIS Pace car
• Don Guarino Band, "Nobody Named Al",  at Fireworks
• Need to fix bell rope
• Daniel Anderson-Ferre Variety show, Windy Hill Kennels canine demonstration & Karate Demonstration
• Tried White Hot dogs and Lemon Squeeze Treats on menu
• Dance DJ Sarah Moulton
• Had T-shirts (Stars & Stripes Forever, heather gray w/red & blue lettering) and "Lest we Forget" VJ Day hats for sale
• Historical Society Museum open

1995 New Year's Eve Dance sponsored by the 4th of July Association

• Tickets $7 each
• Co-chaired by Jill Smith & Sarah Moulton
• DJ Sarah Moulton

1996

Officers - President- Nancy Lines; Vice-President-Kip Richardson; Secretary/Treasurer-Candy Daigle.

Committee Members - Parade-Mickey Daigle; Dance - Nancy & Glen Lines,  Games - Terry Smithers & Brenda Currier; All others - Jill Smith; Steve & Kristie Owens, Mark & Carol Jesseman, Tom & Donna Gilbert, Mike Amaral, Teresa Ferrara, Carolyn Dickey, Mary Richardson, Ena & Bill Price, Jill Smith, Arthur Brown, Julie Perkins, Dave & Carol Allen, Mike Shane, Cliff & Jeannette Stockwell, Mr. & Mrs. Shastany

Discussion Included:

• Dates - Sat. 6/29 Dance, Sun. 6/30 Fireworks, Thurs. 7/4 Parade
• Town Donation - $1,500.
• Roger Maine DJ for dance
• Two banners donated by COKE
• Raffle separate from dance - Winners - Richard Duchasne, Tom Fogg & Eileen Sleeper
• Moonwalk for kids at 4th
• Rain before Fireworks - $2,500 show - Cut brush and cleaned up parking area at Crystal Lake - Boot Scoot'n Boom Ba Band - added Fried Dough & cotton candy to Snack Shack - Snowmobile Club sold popcorn
• Daniel Anderson-Ferre Variety show, Windy Hill Kennels canine demonstration & martial arts demo
• Tried chips w/dogs @ Fireworks
• Parade had fife & drum, Legion, Doodle Bugs, Lawyers Brief Case Brigade, horses, Church, Grainery
• Posted dam side of Crystal Lake Road "No Parking"
• Purchased fryolator and grill
• Parade day added frozen yogurt

Fireworks - Rain.  Attendance down.  Boot Scoot'n Boom Ba Band.  Added Fried Dough & Cotton Candy.

1995 New Year's Eve Dance sponsored by the 4th of July Association

• Tickets $8 each
• Roger Maine DJ
• Included 50/50 raffle

1997

Officers - President- Nancy Lines; Vice-President-Kip Richardson; Secretary/Treasurer-Candy Daigle.

Committee Members - Parade-Mickey Daigle; Fireworks-Mark Jesseman; Balloons-Tom Gilbert; Dance - Candy Willard, Ginger Stockwell; Games - Terry Smithers; All others - Steve & Kristie Owens, Carol Jesseman, Donna Gilbert, Mike Amaral, Teresa Ferrara, Carolyn & John Dickey, Mary Richardson, Ena & Bill Price, Julie Perkins, Jodie Gullage, Wendy Parent, Wayne & Karen Gray, Craig & Linda Jennings.

Discussion Included:

• Dates - Sat. 6/28 Fireworks, Thurs. 7/3 Dance, Fri. 7/4 Parade
• $2,500 fireworks show
• Received Gilmanton 4th of July flag cookie cutters donated by Patti Bradley
• Face painters
• Town donation of $2,000
• OK Chorale will sing at 4th
• Lloyd Miles DJ for dance
• City Limits band for fireworks
• Parade had Lawn Chair Brigade, Legion, Fife & Drum, Windy Hill Kennels, oxen, martial arts, oxen team
• Purchased 10x20 tent
• Moonwalk
• Used second sandwich board sign
• Printed same t-shirt design, but on front of shirt
• Raffle separate from dance - winners: Cheryl Thayer, Thomas Wescott, Dan Gullage

1998

Officers - President-Terry Smithers; Vice-President-Nancy Lines; Secretary-Candy Daigle; Treasurer-Tom Gilbert.

Committee Members - Parade-Jack Fanning; Fireworks-Mark Jesseman; Balloons-Tom Gilbert; Dance - Wendy Parent, Candy Willard, Jodi Gullage; Games - Amy Fanning; All others - Steve & Kristie Owens, Carol Jesseman, Mickey Daigle, Donna Gilbert, Mike Amaral, Glen Lines, Teresa Ferrara, Carolyn Dickey, Mary Richardson, Ena & Bill Price, Julie Perkins, Wendy Parent, Wayne & Karen Gray, Erin Gilbert, Liz & Steve Bedard, Siobhan Connelly.

Discussion Included:

• Dates - Sat. 6/27 Fireworks, Fri. 7/3 Dance, Sat. 7/4 Parade
• Fireworks - $2,500 show - Don Guarino band
• Repaired electrical panel @ park
• Dance DJ Lloyd Miles
• Tried parade registration form
• No longer selling balloons at fireworks
• Parade had Legion, Fife & Drum, Blue Grass and OK Chorale, Windy Hill Kennels.
• Town donated $1,250
• Used Slide instead of Moonwalk
• Historical Society will be open

1999

Officers - President- Nancy Lines; Vice-President-Kip Richardson; Secretary-Candy Daigle; Treasurer-Tom Gilbert.

Committee Members - Parade-Jack Fanning; Fireworks-Mark Jesseman; Balloons-Tom & Donna Gilbert; Dance - Nancy Lines & Amy Fanning; Games - Amy Fanning; All others - Steve & Kristie Owens, Glen Lines, Carol Jesseman, Mike Amaral, Teresa Ferrara, Wayne Jesseman, Carolyn Dickey, Wayne & Karen Gray, Mary Richardson, Ena & Bill Price, Mickey Daigle. 

Discussion Included:

• Dates - Sat. 6/26 Fireworks; Sat 7/3 Dance; Mon 7/5 Parade
• Moonwalk & Cotton Candy for Fireworks
• Designed and purchased temporary tattoos
• Hold Lawnmower races at the Fireworks - sponsored by Turfpro -1st prize-Jim Munsey, 2nd prize-Greg Downing, 3rd prize-Brett Currier
• Doing French Fries at Fireworks
• Hung flag backwards on Academy (Union goes in upper left corner)
• Received $2,500 from Town
• Great weather for Fireworks - Held $3,500 show - Don Guarino band will play
• DJ at dance - Lloyd Miles
• Academy bell needs work - Falardeau did some work on bell - paid $550
• First year to offer iced coffee too
• Had donated one new picnic table for use at Academy
• Canine demonstration by Windy Hills Kennel
• Legion leading parade
• Used Twigg's tent at parade
• Purchased new Sales Tent

2000

Officers - President- Nancy Lines; Vice-President-Mark Jesseman; Secretary-Candy Daigle; Treasurer-Tom Gilbert

Committee Members - Parade-Jack Fanning; Fireworks-Mark Jesseman; Balloons-Tom & Donna Gilbert; Dance - Jodie Gullage & Amy Fanning; Games - Judy Ellis; All others - Steve & Kristie Owens, Glen Lines, Carol Jesseman, Mike Amaral, Teresa Ferrara, Roxey Connelly, Wayne Jesseman, Carolyn Dickey, Wayne & Karen Gray, George Gray, Mary Richardson, Ena & Bill Price, Mickey Daigle, Katie & Judy Ellis. 

Discussion Included:

• Dates - Sat. 7/1 Fireworks; Mon. 7/3 Dance; Tues. 7/4 Parade.
• $4,000 fireworks show
• Town donated $2,500
• Had slide instead of moonwalk for kids
• OK Chorale and Don Guarino band at fireworks
• Purchased 2nd small tent for cooking
• Face painting on parade day by Katie Ellis
• Setup lawnmower races - sponsored by TurfPro - no contestants
• Did Year 2000 ball caps
• Sarah Moulton DJ at dance
• No water at Academy for drinking or washing hands - State is supplying bottled water
• Purchased first 6 pole flags to decorate Corner's area
• First year for using "soda server" table - worked great
• Purchased new fryolator to use with existing one
• Designed Theme "Coming Together to Celebrate"
• Historical Society to make presentation on parade day to people who worked on renovating the Academy
• Purchased new R/W/B bows for Academy light poles
• Purchased "Gilmanton 4th of July" ribbons for parade walkers this year

Final News Release:

GILMANTON 4TH OF JULY CELEBRATION - 2000

The Gilmanton 4th of July Association would like to thank the community and the region for making the annual 4th of July Celebration a well attended and fun time once again this year.

A large crowd attended the Saturday night fireworks at the Crystal Lake Park.  The OK Chorale and Don Guarino’s band provided great music.  Children played on the giant slide and everyone enjoyed great food.  Wendal Beck of American Thunder choreographed a great fireworks display that was appreciated by all in attendance and enjoyed by everyone around the lake.  The Parks and Recreation Commission and staff provided a great facility for this event.

The traditional 4th of July eve dance was well attended at the Academy where DJ Sara Moulton played tunes for everyone.  Many individuals and businesses donated raffle prizes that were awarded throughout the night.  The Academy bell rang at midnight, ending a great evening.  The Academy continues to provide a place for residents to come together to celebrate, and the Board of Selectmen and staff provide full use of this great facility to the Association for these events.

The 4th of July activities at the Academy are always the main focus of the 4th of July celebration.  Parade winners included Bruce Locke (Most Beautiful), the Cub Scouts (Most Original), Mr. Bookworm (Funniest), Albert Eastman (Antique Car) and Leif Erickson (Judges Choice).  Many other individuals and organizations, including the Fire Department, participated in the parade, making it a fun time for everyone.  The day also included children’s games, the giant slide, face painting, music, a canine demonstration by Windy Hill Kennels and great food.

The 4th of July Association wishes to thank the voters of Gilmanton for their support through the annual budget.  These funds cover a portion of the cost of the fireworks display.  The remainder of that and other costs are covered by the sale of food and promotional items and the very generous contributions of individuals and business sponsors.  All of the work in putting on the celebration is through volunteer efforts of members of the community and additional help is always needed and appreciated.

Please visit our web site at www.oocities.org/gilmanton4thofjuly/ .  Join your friends and neighbors in celebrating this important Holiday – Gilmanton Style!

2001

Officers - President- Nancy Lines; Vice-President-Mark Jesseman; Secretary-Candy Daigle; Treasurer-Tom Gilbert.

Committee Members - Parade-Jack Fanning; Fireworks-Mark Jesseman; Balloons-Tom & Donna Gilbert; Dance - Amy Fanning; Games - Judy Ellis ; All others - Steve & Kristie Owens, Glen Lines, Carol Jesseman, Mike Amaral, Teresa Ferrara, Wayne Jesseman, Carolyn Dickey, Roxey Connelly, Wayne & Karen Gray, Mary Richardson, Ena & Bill Price, Mickey Daigle, Katie Ellis, Omar Clairmont, Kevin McCaffrey, Paul & Cathy Lines, Frank & Tina McClary. 

Discussion Included:

• Dates - Sat. 6/30 Fireworks; Tues. 7/3 Dance; Wed. 7/4 Parade
• Wendal Beck scheduled for Fatima fireworks on 6/30 - he provided alternate crew (Bob Duncan) for our fireworks
• Don Guarino band at Fireworks
• Fixed Academy bell so it wouldn't jump out of cradle when rung
• Church sold strawberry shortcake & displayed quilts on parade day
• OK Chorale sang at Parade
• Had moonwalk for fireworks & parade
• Had cotton candy at fireworks
• Received donated tent from Gunstock - 30'x70' in sections w/side curtains
• DJ Lloyd Miles for dance
• Face Painting on parade day
• Legion & Windy Hill Kennels in parade
• Martial Arts and Canine demos
• Marine Corps color guard in parade
• Purchased 6 more pole flags to decorate Corner's area
• Purchased 2 picnic tables for Academy grounds
• Set up Gilmanton 4th of July Web Site
• Purchased two strip flags to decorate front of Academy in place of hanging one large flag on building
• Added youth-theme t-shirt to "coming together" shirts and more ball caps
• Distributed "Parade Safety Tips" to keep candy (and kids) out of road

Final News Release:

GILMANTON 4TH OF JULY - 2001

“Wow, what a week! Thanks to everyone's hard work, it all came together and the entire week went very well!" exclaimed Nancy Lines, President of the Gilmanton 4th of July Association. "We only have an ongoing volunteer staff ranging from 15‑20 persons so I would like to especially thank our "jump in" volunteers who show up, ready‑to‑go in their staff shirts the day of each event. Your prompt arrival is a very pleasant and welcoming surprise. It eases our stress for that particular event!"

Threatening weather for the Gilmanton fireworks held off and they blasted off on Saturday, June 30th at dusk. Wendal Beck and his fireworks staff provided Gilmanton with a great fireworks display. "It was a sold out night," said Candy Daigle. "All the food and most of our 4th of July "wares" just disappeared." Don Guarino and his band set up on the old bandstand and were a huge hit! Great live music, friends and family were the topics for the evening.

The celebratory dance on the evening of the 3rd was a great success. The DJ, Lloyd Miles, played a large selection of music for all to enjoy.  Many door prizes and drawings took place. A 50/50 drawing was won by Steve Ainsworth. Many homemade wreaths (made by Jilma), along with NASCAR and Gilmanton T-shirts were also given away. Thanks to Amy Fanning and Jilma Mitchell, the organizers, the dance had a great turnout and many happy dancing feet. If you listened carefully around midnight you could hear the Academy bell sound off...another annual tradition of ringing in the 4th.

Gilmanton's week long 4th of July celebration ended on Wednesday the 4th with a great day had by all. Again, the threatening weather cooperated completely and all of Gilmanton responded by coming out in style with red, white and blue being the colors of the day. Townspeople were out early on a sunny fourth to enjoy coffee and doughnuts, and to experience the last details of "set-up" taking place.

Jack Fanning, the Parade organizer, said "The parade line-up went well once we got everyone in a determined order. We had so many participants this year which was really great to see, and the parade is getting longer every year. Carolyn and John Dickey graciously provided coffee and breakfast sweets at the line-up on High Street. Every vehicle in the parade received a bronze dash plaque (donated by Daigle Construction) and every "walker" received a ribbon. Small American flags were also provided to everyone. The Parade Awards went to: "Most Beautiful" - Cub Scouts Pack 242, which was a great campsite scene set up on Brian Forst's big rig flat bed; "Most Original" The one man band by Alfred Wedel; "Funniest" Willis Hyslop, Jr. and family in the "Jalopy"; Best Car - 1957, red & white Ford Fairlane, owned by Ron Mandigo of Pittsfield; "Judge's Choice" A Revolutionary Group dressed in authentic attire, also from Pittsfield.

The food tent on the 4th sold out of everything except for two orders, of onion rings, 10 brownies and maybe a few sodas. The other individual vendor tables on the grounds also reported great sales. The 4th closed out with kids' games, i.e. sack races, etc. on the Academy lawn and of course, cleanup.

Although donations weren't as forthcoming this year, the Gilmanton 4th of July Association was still able to purchase two new picnic tables for the town. They may be seen at Crystal Lake Beach or at the Academy grounds depending on where they are most needed. Also purchased were more American Flags for the phone poles lining Routes 140 & 107. "We hope you enjoyed the week-long celebration and all the festivities," commented Nancy Lines, "Please join us next year ...maybe as a volunteer? Or on a float? See you then!"

2008

The Gilmanton 4th of July Association (G4JA-

www.oocities.org/gilmanton4thofjuly) couldn't have asked for a better day AND evening to celebrate the fourth in Gilmanton. The weather was superb and everyone came out in droves to join in the fun.

The parade was the largest ever and there were spectators lining the entire parade route.

Parade winners, as recognized by our Judges, were...

Best Decorated Kids Bike: 1st Place-Brady Clark, 2nd Place-Beck McClean, 3rd Place-Kyla Mercier.

Funniest: Family Entertainment Radio Kristi & Joe Laurendeau of Gilmanton.

Most Original: Pinewood Derby Cub Scout Pack 242, Gilmanton Iron Works.

Most Beautiful: The Granite State Boy Scout Troop 242, Gilmanton Iron Works.

Best of Show/Antique Car: Thunderbird hardtop owned by Bill & Lois Porter, Franklin.

Judge's Choice: Thomas W.Smithers III, Chain Driven Antique Truck, Gilmanton.

For 2009: The parade route may change slightly as per a recommendation by Gilmanton's Chief of Police. The Parade may turn down and end onto Meadow Pond Road. This would provide ample parking for parade participants loading back up into their vehicles and ultimately have Route 140 blocked for less time. The Association, in cooperation with the Town of Gilmanton, will further discuss and a final decision will be announced.

It was Gilmanton's largest fireworks show ever and Wendell Beck of American Thunder stated that he and his staff thought it was the best show they had ever displayed! The crowd obviously agreed according to overheard exclamations post fireworks.

Thanks to Gilmanton Youth Organization (GYO) for fabulous food at the parade/fireworks and for the Crystal Lake beach clean up the next morning (thanks to Rich Hillsgrove and family)!

The Gilmanton 4th of July Association (G4JA) would like to thank our annual crew of volunteers for once again pitching in and making it all happen. The Association couldn't do it without your very generous donation of precious time and expertise!

- Sign & face painter, ad and pr/poster persons: Kristie Owens & Jamie Clark

- Parade coordinators/line-up: Jack Fanning & Mark Jesseman

- Balloons/food prep: Liz Bedard & Steve Owens

- Parade tent set up/general equipment haulers: Glen Lines, Paula Gilman, John Dickey, Dr. Scott & Lisa Robinson

- Fireworks novelty sales/parade refreshments: Carolyn Dickey, Meg Nighswander & Dr. Hal Bush

- Waste management/recycling: Doug Kaplan & Ralph Goodwin! Thank you!!!!!

- Grandstand music: Don GuarinoŠBob & The Hay Balers

- Parking cars: Scott Clark & John Dickey

- No Parking signs on Crystal Lake Rd: Jay Reed

- Fireworks barrier fence: Mickey Daigle & Mike Amaral

Thanks also to the Town of Gilmanton for budgeting 2008 monies toward the fireworks and to the Gilmanton Police and Fire Departments for your presence at all functions. A special thanks to Judy Williams and Gary Lines of Parks & Recreation at Crystal Lake Park for hosting the July 4th throngs and finally, thank you to the citizens of Gilmanton for your generous donations! These monies will go right back into the G4JA account to help pay for advertising, novelties, parade awards/ribbons/flags, etc. and of course fireworks for 2009!