Category Archives: Civic Events

Outstanding Historic and Community Events, Firsts, Famous Visits and Milestones

1980, Ronald and Nancy Reagan Visit Marion

Posted on by October 17, 2013

Ronald and Nancy Reagan 1980With the 1980 Republican presidential nominations looming, Ronald and Nancy Reagan visited Marion on January 10, 1980. They arrived at Williamson County Airport at 5 p.m., held a brief conference and continued on to the Marion Ban Dor Inn for a fund raising dinner followed by a rally held at the Marion Civic Center, culminating at 8:45 p.m. after which the Reagan’s boarded their plane and returned to Los Angeles.

Reagan, of course, got the nomination and won the presidential bid, defeating incumbent Jimmy Carter, becoming our 40th president. The Marion Daily Republican article covering the event is as follows. Continue reading →

1913, Annie Oakley Visited Marion

Posted on by October 14, 2013

Annie OakleyThroughout its long history, the Williamson County Fair has featured many famous celebrities and entertainers. None was more well-known or beloved than Annie Oakley, the legendary sharpshooter. “Little Miss Sure Shot” once put on a demonstration of her uncanny marksmanship right here in Marion. As a matter of fact, it is believed that this appearance was Annie’s last with a traveling show, ending a spectacular career which had begun in 1884 with the world famous “Buffalo Bill’s Wild West.” Continue reading →

1866, The Cholera Epidemic

Posted on by October 8, 2014

According to Milo Erwin’s history of Williamson County, “The cholera made its first appearance in July 1849, but caused only a few deaths. It re-appeared in 1866, and lasted for six weeks, during which over twenty five persons were taken away, and the city of Marion vacated. Among the deceased were the three beautiful Ferguson girls, ladies without parallel in all the arena of beauty and refinement.” Continue reading →