Clay County history Pioneer Reunion Parade celebrates the United States 250th Anniversary

HENRIETTA, Texas (KAUZ) - The final day of the Henrietta Hometown Pride Tour ended with a big celebration Friday as the community came together for the annual Pioneer Reunion Parade.

The parade is a multi-generational event that connects the young and old through a shared history in Clay County. This year’s theme celebrated the 250th anniversary of the founding of the United States.

Floats were created by high school students, community organizations and first responders, lining the streets of Henrietta as the community celebrated its history and honored the pioneers and founders of America.

Billy Carlton, who has served as the parade marshal for 25 years, said the annual themes help people connect with the area’s history.

“It means a lot because it’s the heritage of this county, you know, and we try to remember that every year with a theme and stuff to help build some interest and get this thing where people can remember what the pioneers did,” Carlton said.

Parade participant Brandt Ellsworth said the event draws people from Henrietta, surrounding communities and larger cities, including former residents who return for the annual reunion.

“I mean, it’s not only just the support that we have here in Henrietta, the people from the surrounding communities and surrounding other big cities. You know, we’re having visitors that used to live here and they’re just coming for the big reunion, pretty much,” Ellsworth said.

While the people who organize the parade don’t have a float of their own, Carlton said the parade committee still receives plenty of appreciation from the community.

“It really warms our hearts to see the people. And when we pass through it, we’re the last things to go through, is my parade committee. And we get thank yous from everybody up and down the line. And so it’s really a great thing for all of us,” Carlton said.

Parade officials said an even bigger parade will take place Saturday at 10 a.m. for those who missed Friday’s celebration.