We have a local event called the Early Settlers Day. It's when Campbell residents have gathered to celebrate Early Settlers' Day (formally Old Settlers' day). The event began in 1892, as a way for neighboring farmers and friends to spend time together.
The event has the distinction of being known as the second oldest continuous public celebration in California, the oldest being the Tournament of Roses Parade in Pasadena.
It started out as a picnic lunch and patriotic flag-raising celebration on July 4, 1892, and then festive floats and marching band parades from 1939 to the late 1960s were added. It became a very popular event. The parade had numerous floats representing businesses and organizations like SunSweet--the dried fruit company, Future Farmers of America and the Red Cross.
Well the parade and floats are gone, but the group meets once a year for lunch. What makes this event special is remember Campbell's past, through the eyes and ears of the longtime residents who are now in their 70s, 80, and 90s.
It's a rare chance for anyone interested in knowing Campbell's history to hear stories, which will be lost and forgotten once the elders of the community are no longer around to share their experiences.
With the issue of people moving more than they use to, the Early Settlers' Committee decided to open its luncheon to anyone interested in learning more about Campbell's roots and no longer limit it to residents or community members who have lived in the community for 40 years or longer.
The 116th annual calibration was last week. If you want a taste of Campbell history, this is the event to join!
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