Mendocino Fourth of July Parade, 1883. Photograph taken by Ira C. Perry, Mendocino City, California. (Gift of Emery Escola)
Uniformed men mounted on horses advance eastward on Main Street, followed by a marching band and then ranks of other walking people. Above the street are many large flags waving in the breeze atop very tall “liberty poles.” Both sides of the street are lined with people standing on boardwalks.
On the left of the image is a photography studio (indicated by a sign), belonging to Ira Perry. Toward the center right of the photo is a tall building with a sign reading “DRUGS,” which is the store of J. D. Murray. To its right is Chung Kow’s laundry and wash house. Next on the right with a tall flag pole mounted on the roof is the two-story Jarvis & Nichols store with the Wilson Hotel in the same building. Next is John Barry’s barber shop and home, then the first Brown & Gray store. Farthest right is C. O. Packard’s drug store.
Celebrate the Fourth of July on the Kelley House lawn, offering the best parade viewing spots directly across from the judges’ platform on Main Street! Enjoy dance music with DJ Dylan, munchies, margaritas, wine, and beer from North Coast Brewing Company, plus non-alcoholic options. Bring a picnic basket or pick up a hot dog at Rotary Park just down the street, and bring it back to enjoy with your drinks. Thank you to our generous sponsors: North Coast Brewing Company, Old Gold Jewelry, and Harvest Market. 11am-3pm. 45007 Albion Street, Mendocino. Admission is FREE, though we appreciate all donations!