Dec 10
19
Heritage Festival 2010
The 45th Annual Heritage Festival and Flea Market was a successful event again for 2010, thanks to Ann Simmons and all the folks working with the Marion County Historical Society. They served up some good chicken, cooked by the Mayor and some tasty burgers and dogs cooked up by the Columbia Lions Club. A large variety of local entertainers performed over two days ranging from gospel vocalists, country bands, musicians, songwriters, and even an interpretive dance troupe.
The festival started on Friday evening with a Gospel Sing on the Zellco Stage that featured acts like Carl Lynn Trio from Sumrall, Pine Burr Church of Jesus Name, the Little River Trio, the Union Baptist Church Quartet with Kevin Scarborough, and House of Prayer with Clay Gatlin, Maggie Ingram, and David Burns.
On Saturday morning, Mayor Reed Houston gave the opening prayer, Billy Douglas sang the National Anthem, and Cub Scout Pack 77 presented the colors. First UPC of Varnado Youth gave an energetic interpretive dance performance. Demetra Carney, Tori Gay, Trysta Morgan, and others sang gospel songs. Many of the entertainers and members of the audience felt like it was a sort of homecoming for musicians who originate from our area. Members of House of Prayer came here from Hattiesburg to perform. Randy Branch traveled all the way from Fairhope, Alabama to perform his original music and the Doug Duncan Band assembled together from various parts of the state for their performance. This was the first time that some of these musicians have played together in decades.
There were plenty of activities for the kids and lots of flea market and crafts booths. Of course, the “Pretty Baby” contest was a huge hit, as were the carriage rides through the park and the puppies on display. The Heritage Festival and Flea Market is a popular annual event that takes place on the first Friday and Saturday of October. If you would like to help with the next Heritage Festival or if you can help to preserve the history of Marion County, please stop by the Marion County/City of Columbia Museum and Archives on Second Street on weekdays between 9am and 1pm or contact the Marion County Historical Society at 601-731-3999.
