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From The Dubois County Daily Herald
Monday, July 1, 1957

Special Events Each Day During Week-Long Fete

Pioneer German Days officially open at 5:30 this evening in Jasper, heralding six days of celebration filled with special events and festival atmosphere.

According to Arthur C. Nordhoff, general chairman for the first annual affair, at least twenty special events are scheduled throughout the week in addition to the festival market stands which will operate on the Public Square through-out the six-day event.

Today was “Preparation Day” as booths and stands were erected and displays readied.   Although the festival itself was to open about noon today, the opening ceremony, including a short welcome by Mayor Lorey and other dignitaries, is set for 5:30 P. M.

Chairman Nordhoff explained today that the celebration has two purposes:   to keep alive the high traditions of German-speaking people in America and to commemorate those German pioneers who transplanted their heritage here and made it a part of the American way of life.

Each day of the fete, which will continue through Saturday, will feature special events of a variety to attract the interest of everyone.   In most instances, the events will tie in either with the pioneer or the German theme, or both.   Such activities as a musical festival, kiddie carnival, German movie, German eating specialties, sports events, a relic museum and document gallery are only a few of the features.

Since a national holiday, Independence Day, falls within the week, a giant parade is to be held on Thursday, July Fourth.   At least thirty units, including bands, floats, military units and special attractions, are expected to be part of the line of march.  

A more detailed Calendar of Events will be found elsewhere on this page.