The City of Harrison’s first mayor, Archie Mason, will serve as grand marshal for the annual Fourth of July Parade.
Mason is a lifelong resident of Harrison and a Navy veteran who served in the Korean War. He managed Schlemmer's Feed, a family-owned business for 27 years, until he retired.
Before Harrison was designated a City, Mason was mayor of the Village of Harrison. He was then elected the City's first mayor in 1981. He served the community in elected roles three times over the course of 25 years. He recently turned 91.
“He is very proud and humbled to have been chosen to serve as the grand marshal,” said his daughter, Jean Mason.
The parade begins July 4 at 4 p.m. from the intersection of George and Broadway streets. The parade, featuring dozens of floats and organizations, will travel west on Broadway to State Street, north one block to Harrison Avenue, then proceed east on Harrison to Washington.
Following the parade, family-friendly festivities are planned at the Community Center (300 George Street). Starting at 5 p.m., there will be live music by P&G Big Band and food, drinks and adult beverages available for purchase. There will be a cornhole tournament at 6 p.m. and live music by HiFi Honey Band at 7 p.m. Fireworks will start at dusk.
Groups wishing to participate in the Fourth of July parade must complete an application linked here.
The Harrison Recreation Commission coordinates the annual Fourth of July events. More recreation events, City meetings and more are provided on the City Calendar.