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Parade - 14th Annual Ovilla Heritage Day, Sept. 1999
14th Annual Ovilla Heritage Day, September 25, 1999

Ovilla Heritage Day

Founded in 1844 in Ellis County, Texas, one year before Texas became a state, Ovilla is a place of fertile land, towering trees, and rolling terrain. The community remains small and close-knit, having no schools and a rural carrier for mail, but it boasts two historical markers, a volunteer fire department with certified EMTs and paramedics, a mayor and five-member city council, a planning and zoning commission and board of adjustments -- all serving without pay!

By decree of Mayor A.C. Phillips in October 1985, Ovilla Heritage Day was instituted as an annual celebration of the history and heritage of Ovilla. The 14th Ovilla Heritage Day, September 25, 1999, celebrated the strong sense of volunteerism, community pride, and togetherness that creates a special quality of life in Ovilla. It was marked by a parade, musical and dance performances, and a special salute to World War II veterans, who served as parade marshals. Nearly 100 booths offered for sale a variety of foods and an array of crafts. The event was documented in a video presentation by a team of volunteers coordinated by the mayor. Other documentation includes a two-page report, a poem, a poster, flyer, ribbons, local newspaper coverage, and photographs.

Originally submitted by: Joe Barton, Representative (6th District).



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The Local Legacies project provides a "snapshot" of American Culture as it was expressed in spring of 2000. Consequently, it is not being updated with new or revised information with the exception of "Related Website" links.

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