By Kevin Shannahan
Several thousand festival goers enjoyed themselves at the Annual Marthaville Good Ole’ Days Festival, held this past weekend, Sept. 15-16. This year’s Festival marks the 25th anniversary of what has become one of our parish’s most beloved traditions. This year’s event was especially noteworthy in that former Louisiana Governor Edwin Edwards was the parade’s Grand Marshal. He and his family rode in a beautifully preserved 1931 antique car. The former governor, 90 years young, showed he hasn’t lost a step as he spoke to the crowd after the parade.
While the parade was the highlight of the festival, it was far from the only activity going on. There was an antique car judging, singing groups from various churches, performances by school dance and cheer groups and a Nashville Music Show. A kids’ area entertained the younger set. The festival also served as a reunion for the Marthaville High School’s classes of 1947, 1957 and 1967. The parade featured 73 entries ranging from the Lakeview’s USAF Junior ROTC Color Guard to Natchitoches Central’s Chiefettes, Cheerleaders and Maroon line. The hometown Marthaville Hawk cheerleaders and spirit group were joined by Sabine parish’s Ebarb High cheerleaders. The First Baptist Church of Marthaville even brought a tank for “The Lord’s Army.” The fire department, antique cars, library bookmobile and a full complement of area pageant queens rounded out the parade roster. The popularity of this fun family event can be deduced from the fact that Randall “Fuzzy” Hennigan reported he threw 71 pounds of candy and 2,700 beads from his 1964 Mustang (a beautiful, one owner, car I might add!)
The Marthaville Good Ole’ Days Festival is a superb weekend of family fun and togetherness. It is small town America at its best! The NPJ is looking forward to next year.
The Natchitoches Parish Journal is donating this event’s photography. Copy protection is turned off and downloads enabled. Anyone may download any the wish. If you do download a photo you like, please consider a donation to the American Cancer Society in lieu of payment. I was particularly touched by Miss Cure on the Cane’s speech during the Queen’s Presentation.