Plans Shaping Up for 200th Anniversary Celebration

In 1812, the western half of Rehoboth incorporated itself to become the town of Seekonk. Fifty years later the U.S. Supreme Court bestowed Rhode Island with a large part of the town, forming East Providence. From that point on, however, the boundaries of our 18.4 square miles of town have remained the same. Despite the divisive start, Seekonk has much to celebrate for next years’ 200th Anniversary of incorporation.

According to Town Clerk Jan Parker, who is overseeing town-wide celebrations, plans began a year ago when she got together various departments and local groups for a meeting. With all hands on deck, anniversary celebrations will take place throughout all of 2012. While plans are still being formulated and solidified, a kick off dinner dance has been scheduled for January 21st. The $50 tickets include admission to the event at Johnson & Wales, dinner and music by Malloi, featuring Gaston Malloy, a former Seekonk High music teacher.

Other events are firming up nicely. The Kiwanis Club is organizing a 200th birthday party at the in February. Seekonk students will be presenting projects, many about the history of town, through the first week in April. An ecumenical group is hosting a music event at the Meadows for June. The Lions Club is planning on a chicken barbecue in July, and the American Legion is working on the Memorial Day Parade. The Parks and Recreation Department is also hatching an event. Each group, working in tandem, will be doing their own publicity for the individual events.

“I think it’s a landmark the town should celebrate, and a time for kids to learn the history of the town,” said Parker.

The next planning meeting for the event will be held on September 20 at 7 p.m. at Town Hall. Anyone interested in helping is encouraged to attend.