Glasgow has a diverse and complicated history as well as a proud and engaged Black community; in fact, about 9% of the town’s population is Black and the area continues to grow in diversity. A committee of engaged individuals, including the FCS Agent, was formed to bring the Old Timers Reunion back to Glasgow. This event was previously held in our community annually at Donnelley’s Park and presented by a committee of Black leaders in our town (including members of First Baptist and Hopewell churches). During these festivities, folks of all ages including families who have moved away are encouraged to come home to Glasgow and celebrate their rich rural history. 

This year the event was planned as a weekend-long series of festivities occurring Labor Day weekend 2021. Beginning on Friday a meet and greet was held at the local, Yancey’s Restaurant, it continued on through Saturday with a community reunion festival at Twyman Park, and concluded Sunday with a combined community church service at the historic Ralph Bunche Center. The highlight of the reunion weekend was the festivities in Twyman Park. In addition to fellowship, door prizes, food trucks, and bouncy houses a DJ and live band sponsored by our local Tourism Commission entertained the crowd throughout the day.

Folks seem to be extremely excited about this event; a fish fry presented prior to the reunion to raise money for the activities brought a big crowd and 700+ in profit. Approximately 230+ individuals were in attendance at the park reunion per sign-in sheets. Several folks arrived in town early on Friday to attend the Meet and Greet at the local restaurant. In addition to bolstering local restaurants and other small businesses, food trucks were supported the day of the reunion; in fact, the food trucks sold out early! Participants completing the online survey came as far as Clarksville TN and Louisville KY; survey participants provided positive feedback and constructive suggestions. They expressed being happy about seeing folks they hadn’t seen in 35 years or more. By most accounts, the revived reunion was a community success!