In yesteryear, Orleans celebrated Fourth with Independence Balls, firing of canons, ringing of bells

By Catherine Cooper, Orleans County Historian

 “Illuminating Orleans” – Volume 6, No. 19

Invitation to an Independence Ball held in Gaines, July 4, 1848.

GAINES – In 1848, residents of Gaines celebrated the July 4th holiday at an Independence Ball, held at the Assembly Rooms. Hamilton’s Cotillion Band provided the music.

In 1849, residents of Medina celebrated the holiday “with the usual ceremonies of the day: the ringing of bells, the firing of canons, processions, music, readings, orations, toasts and fine words.” In Carlton, boat excursions were available at the Oak Orchard Harbor while landlubbers enjoyed “dancing on the green.”

In 1850, activities at Oak Orchard harbor began with a national salute at sunrise, excursions on the lake and a display of fireworks in the evening.

In 2026, Orleans County residents continued the tradition of celebrating Independence Day with processions, music, and activities, ending with a display of fireworks in the evening.

This year, we had the added element of marking the 250th anniversary of the signing of the Declaration of Independence. The document was read aloud at some venues.

If you were unable to attend a reading, you may access the text at https://www.archives.gov/founding-docs/declaration-transcript.