PHOTO ESSAY BY DAVID WELTON
Whidbey Life Magazine Contributor
July 6, 2016
Whidbey Islanders had two simultaneous celebrations: our country’s 240th Independence Day and the 101st Anniversary of the Maxwelton Fourth of July Parade. The well-organized event was attended by thousands and all had a good time.
WLM staff photographer David Welton was present to record the festivities.
A contemporary Uncle Sam, aka Bob Bowling, greets marchers at the foot of Swede Hill Road.
Korean War Veteran veteran Herbert Weissblum, of the Whidbey Island Marine Corps League Color Guard, led the parade.
This year TWO gorillas shared their bananas, courtesy of The Goose Grocer.
Chickens and ducks and marchers tossed candy to children along the two-block parade route.
Racecars sped along Maxwelton Road to Dave Mackie Park.
Others chose to walk the whole parade while hula-hooping.
Candidates Helen Price-Johnson, Angie Homola and their political supporters exercised their First Amendment rights.
Dan Anderson, in traditional Swedish garb, marched with Island Strings as he played his nyckelharpa.
Patriotic attire was mode du jour.
Fun and games, and hot dogs awaited at Dave Mackie Park.
David Welton is a retired physician and staff photographer for Whidbey Life Magazine.
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WENZEL
Bravo to Dave Welton who is always there in prime form to capture the heart and essence of our community. I so appreciate being able to see the highlights, as this is the first Maxwelton parade I have missed in a hundred years!
Thankyou Rhonda, this is my favorite parade! I am hoping for a grandson named Max, so that Max Welton can be grand marshall of the Maxwelton Parade!