PC: menasha150.com
MENASHA, WI (WTAQ-WLUK) — A city in the Fox Valley celebrated the past and the present as it marked a milestone birthday Tuesday.
Community members gathered to honor Menasha’s sesquicentennial, or 150th birthday. On March 5, 1874, the State of Wisconsin approved Menasha as an incorporated city.
“We’ve had so many great things happen in this city, if you kind of look back. From indigenous people who were here using the waterfront for transportation and food, up to water power and now the recreational aspects, we’ve come a long way,” said Mayor Don Merkes. “We’re a very proud city and proud of all the things that have happened here over the years.”
To recognize the occasion, city leaders and a sesquicentennial committee planned a birthday party for Menasha. “We think that you have to have some fun,” Merkes said.
One of the highlights of the party was a “Back to the Future” encounter between Merkes and Menasha’s first mayor, O.J. Hall, who attended the party using a time machine.
Birthday wishes were sung by grade school students and the Menasha High School Band performed a few songs. Menasha’s family-owned Manderfield Bakery also provided a specially-made 150th birthday cake.
Local lawmakers also participated in the party, with State Rep. Lee Snodgrass reading a Wisconsin proclamation and U.S. Rep. Glenn Grothman submitted a congressional record insert. Gov. Tony Evers extended video congratulations, as well.
And as Sarah Bauer, sesquicentennial committee chair, said, the fun and celebrating doesn’t stop with Tuesday’s birthday party. Events will take place in every month of 2024, such as a trivia contest, a local business button hunt and a community blood drive, to name a few.
“I think what’s been really wonderful is just seeing the spirit of the people of Menasha and surrounding communities coming together and being involved in what we’re doing,” Bauer said.
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