Tonight I just happened to pick up a scrapbook that I thought was empty but when I opened it up I found that it was full of newspaper clippings from 1960 when Peru celebrated their 125th. Those who know me would not be surprised as I happen to have many vintage items. This book was put together by former Mayor Robt. Potthoff or his wife and was sold at auction.
As I read through the articles, I was totally amazed at the events and the involvement of the community as a whole. In a nutshell this was the article on the first page.
The 125th anniversary of Peru will be observed during the first four days of July with celebration features scheduled both at Washington Park and in the business district. Among the events slated for the various types of entertainment, political figures, street dances, parades, a water show "water street" day, featuring open house at the newly enlarged municipal power plant, concessions and carnival rides, skits by school students and the sundry other items that make up celebrations. Gen. Chairman Alex Ptak said that an effort is being made to interest local organizations and schools to take part in the celebration. Any group wishing to participate may contact either Ptak or progress chairman Harry Welch Sr. Tentative plans call for Friday and Saturday features of the celebration to be downtown with the other 2 days events in the park.
So my big question is "What happened in Peru in the last 50 years to the city and the residents that we no longer can join together and plan a celebration as good as that or better? Or after all the work was done, was it not a success?
The article was dated 2-22-60
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