Highlight Sept. 18 on your calendar. If you don’t, you could miss a once-in a lifetime opportunity.
The date is when the Indiana Bicentennial Torch relay will pass through Bartholomew County as part of a statewide celebration of the state’s 200th birthday. The torch is passing through each of Indiana’s 92 counties starting Sept. 9.
Spectators can watch as 31 local residents take turns carrying the torch through Bartholomew County, as it winds through scenic rural areas and past some of Columbus’ most notable architecture.
They also can experience festivities planned on the Hartsville Town Square, at Simmons Winery near Hope and at the Bartholomew County Public Library Plaza in Columbus — making for a full and fun afternoon and evening.
Festivities in Hartsville actually are spread over two days, 2 to 7 p.m. Sept. 17 and noon to 6 p.m. Sept. 18, with live music, crafts, history displays, food and booths to entertain attendees.
Similar activities are planned at Simmons Winery (hours to be determined) and at the library plaza (2 to 8 p.m.) on Sept. 18.
During the main day of festivities, spectators can watch the torch reach Hartsville at about 5 p.m., Simmons Winery about 5:45 and the library plaza about 6:45.
The community volunteers who have organized Bartholomew County’s efforts to celebrate’s the state’s bicentennial deserve kudos for their efforts. They’ve given residents a good opportunity to enjoy a notable moment in the Hoosier state’s history.
