By Daniel Curtin
Hometown Weekly Reporter
Danvers Engine 4 takes part in the parade. Photos by Daniel Curtin
Community members dressed in red, white and blue were out in full force on Washington Street during the Independence Day parade in Walpole last Tuesday evening.
The parade, which started at the East Walpole Fire Station at 6 p.m., made its way down Washington Street and East Street before concluding at the town center for Fourth of July celebrations.
The celebration has been going strong for over 50 years and is a staple in town. James Carr, a retired firefighter from the town of Walpole, has been involved with the parade since 1987, and was driving one of the military vehicles taking part in the parade.
“This is what it is supposed to be about,” Carr said. “This is America. I like it when the kids come out and they’re taught [about] celebrating our Independence Day. It’s a nice thing to see families get together.”
As the different fire engines passed along the route, candy was tossed to young children who were watching the parade pass by. The blaring of sirens rang loudly in the ears of those watching on the hot summer evening.
Becky McLean was at the parade sitting on the picnic benches in front of the East Walpole Market and Deli with her young son, Chip.
Young kids and families look on as the parade passes by. Photos by Daniel Curtin
“We live down the street, so we came to check it out. It was our first time and it was great,” said Becky. “The fireworks are a little too late for us, but I’m glad they had something the [kids] could do.”
Several departments from towns in the surrounding area brought their fire trucks and engines to participate in the parade. The parade also included military vehicles, police vehicles, and tow trucks.
“There were tow trucks and fire trucks,” confirmed Chip McLean. “They were really loud.”
When the parade finished, attendees enjoyed a community gathering in the town center with live music, food and refreshments.
Finally, to finish off the celebrations, a firework show lit up the night sky above Walpole.
