The historic America Ground in Hastings town centre will be the site of a massive celebration to tie in with American Independence Day on Sunday July 1st.
Plans for this year’s event are now well underway and the event is focusing on fun for all the family.
This year’s plans include a re-enactment of the events that happened in Robertson Street, Trinity Street and Claremont in the 1800s which led to the area being known as the America Ground. The show will be staged by William Parker school. The celebrations will open with the official unveiling of the America Ground mural.
The mural is based on the history of Roberston Street and the town centre area. In the 1800s it was occupied by residents living in shanty style houses who had a reputation for drunkenness and lawlessness. Hastings Corporation and the Earl of Chichester tried to get some control over the situation, but were met with resistance and hostility by those living there.
The occupants of the area declared themselves independent from the rest of the town and hoisted the American Stars and Stripes flag. Thus it became known as America Ground. Councillor Trevor Webb, Cabinet Member responsible for Quality of Life, said:
Last year’s celebrations were a tremendous success, and naturally we want to build on this. The plans this year look exciting especially the re-enactment by pupils at William Parker School I hope lots of people will go and support them. I am particularly looking forward to the unveiling of the mural opening this event. There is no doubt that the end result will be dramatic and enhance the unique character of this historic area.
Please check the local media for further details on The America Ground Celebrations.
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This page last updated: 12/07/2001