Charles (Chuck) Kensinger

Around thirty miles from Springfield, Missouri, east on Interstate 44 is Marshfield. President George H.W. Bush visited there in 1991, and he was the second sitting President to do so. Harry S. Truman came in 1948 to be in the annual Independence Day Parade. This is the longest-running parade west of the Mississippi. For the Christian, it is a family-friendly event.

The square around the Webster County courthouse is filled with rides, food vendors, music, and during election years speeches. This will not be one of those years.  This is no sophisticated big-city event. This is a county fair celebration.

The parade features antique tractors, horses, classic cars, bands, and patriotic floats by churches and civic organizations. Those who like the glitz and glamour of the Macy’s parades may want to skip Marshfield. No show-stopping here. Unless the livestock gets loose. If you are anti-American or atheist, do not attend if you are offended easily. Almost every area of America has a small town that goes all out for the Fourth of July. Marshfield is one of the Ozarks.

At one time it was unusual to visit Marshfield for the parade without running into a cousin or someone else from childhood. Most of the family have left Webster County, but a few family members and friends are still around. The crowds are larger and as with any gathering, more people mean crowding and rude behavior. Because of this and the fact that Springfield now has a Mid-Town parade, Marshfield no longer has the draw for my family that it once did.

These days you will find us at the Midtown Springfield Independence Day Parade. You do not have to ask about the date. The parade steps off from Central and Benton at 10:00 a.m. Bring your own folding chairs, a blanket, and anything you need while you wait until it starts. The route is down Benton Ave. to Washington Park.

At the park, there will be an ice cream social with games and fun activities for the whole family. Food trucks and other vendors will be available. Remember that fireworks are illegal inside the city limits of Springfield year-round. There is no permission for them even around the fourth of July.

Enjoy your Independence Day celebration wherever you are.  The Fourth of July is about the anniversary of the signing of The Declaration of Independence. Without that brave act by dedicated men, the United States of America would not exist. Have fun and support our Constitution and the government that President Lincoln said is by us, for us, and through us.

©Copyright 2025 by Charles Kensinger