WE DID IT

Posted on September 12, 2016

WE DID IT! After months and months of planning and preparation, we happen to think we pulled off a pretty epic piece of the Indiana Bicentennial Torch Relay. The Indiana Bicentennial Torch began its journey this past Saturday like many of our visitors often do: enjoying Holiday World. The torch got a bird’s eye view while sailing high in the sky around the Crow’s Nest. Even Holidog, the much-loved mascot of all of Holiday World, got to hang onto it for a while! And not only were we celebrating Indiana's 200th birthday, but it's also been nearly 200 years since Abraham Lincoln and his family cut through the wilderness and built their home in Spencer County. With dual reason to celebrate, we made sure our Bicentennial Celebration was one to remember. The torch passed through Indiana's first National Park: Lincoln Boyhood National Memorial, and onward into the scenic Lincoln State Park. Finally, Rockport Mayor Harney concluded the county's final leg from the beautiful grounds of the Spencer County Courthouse to the historic Lincoln Landing site where Abe launched his flatboat to New Orleans in 1828, a trip that opened his eyes to the cruelty of slavery and shaped his actions to abolish slavery 35 years later. The torch rode along by various means of transportation including a hay wagon, golf cart, horseback, fire engines, antique automobiles, and even a pioneer log cabin on wheels (parade-float-style). It was carried while walking, jogging, and even some sprinting. It made stops at some of our biggest sites and attractions and was passed through the hands of 19 inspirational, ambitious, highly regarded torchbearers. With such a unique path of travel, it's safe to say the torch got the ultimate tour of Spencer County. Check out the footage below for a glimpse of how Spencer County’s leg of the Torch Relay turned out: Thank you to everyone who helped make this happen, to the many families and supporters who came out and cheered along the torch, and to all 19 of the torchbearers -- your willingness to participate and enthusiasm was invaluable. A strong team was critical in pulling this off and there were countless individuals who came together and contributed to its success. Thank you, thank you, THANK YOU!