Author: Nick Prentice

In the digital age where communication happens at the click of a button, it’s easy to forget the charm and nostalgia associated with physical postcards. Whitley County, a great community with a rich history, has held onto this tradition of sending postcards to invite loved ones back to celebrate the settlement of their county. Today, we invite you to pick up your commemorative postcards at various locations in town and join the effort to preserve these cherished artifacts.

Preserving History at the Whitley County Historical Museum: The Whitley County Historical Museum has played a vital role in safeguarding the annual caricature postcards that have been part of the county’s tradition for over a century. These unique postcards capture the essence of the community and offer a glimpse into the past. However, the museum is missing a few postcards, and they need your help to locate them.

The Missing Postcards: The following dates have been identified as gaps in the collection and are of particular interest to the Whitley County Historical Museum: 1904, 1905, 1906, 1907, 1908, 1909, 1910, 1911, 1917, 1921, 1922, 1923, 1942*, 1943*, 1944*, and 2012.

*Note: Due to World War II, no postcards were produced in 1942, 1943, and 1944.

Picking Up Your Commemorative Postcards: To participate in this fantastic initiative, you can visit any of the following locations in Whitley County to pick up your commemorative postcards:

1. Columbia City – City Hall
2. Whitley County Chamber of Commerce & Visitors Center/ Post & Mail Office
3. Whitley County Historical Museum
4. Peabody Public Library
5. Big G’s Sports Cafe
6. Murphy Jewelers
7. Kosciusko County Chamber of Commerce
8. Blue River Digital Columbia City and Warsaw Offices

By visiting these establishments, not only will you have the opportunity to own a piece of Whitley County’s history, but you’ll also be supporting local businesses and community organizations.

Preserving the Legacy Together: Your involvement in locating the missing postcards will contribute to the preservation of Whitley County’s legacy for generations to come. As the community bands together to unearth these valuable artifacts, we can gain a deeper understanding of our past and the people who shaped our county.

Imagine holding a postcard that your ancestors might have received over a century ago, capturing the spirit of the community at that time. By filling the gaps in the collection, we can paint a more comprehensive picture of the historical evolution of Whitley County and its residents.

Conclusion: Whitley County’s annual tradition of sending invitation postcards holds a special place in the hearts of its residents. By picking up your commemorative postcards today and joining the search for the missing ones, you become part of an important effort to preserve history and celebrate the settlement of this great county. Take a step back in time, connect with the community’s past, and be a guardian of Whitley County’s heritage.

As the much-anticipated 119th Annual Old Settlers Days Festival approaches, we want to take a moment to express our heartfelt appreciation to the incredible sponsors who have come forward to support this beloved community event. Their unwavering commitment and generous contributions have paved the way for an unforgettable celebration that will bring our community together in joyous unity. In this blog, we extend our deepest gratitude to all the sponsors who have joined hands with us to make this festival a resounding success.

Sponsorship plays a vital role in the success of events like the Old Settlers Days Festival. It allows us to create a vibrant and inclusive experience for all attendees, showcasing the rich cultural heritage of our town and fostering a sense of community pride. We are incredibly grateful for the sponsors who have recognized the importance of this event and have chosen to support us wholeheartedly.

To our esteemed sponsors, we want to express our sincerest gratitude for your unwavering belief in our vision and your commitment to our community. Your contributions, whether financial, in-kind, or through services, are invaluable in making the Old Settlers Days Festival a remarkable experience for all!

Your support enables us to curate a diverse range of activities, attractions, and entertainment that will captivate the hearts and minds of festival-goers. From the vibrant cultural displays to the thrilling performances, from the mouthwatering culinary delights to the engaging community activities, each aspect of the festival will be elevated thanks to your generosity.

We anticipate the positive impact your sponsorship will have, not only on the event itself but also on the lives of those who attend. Your support enables us to create cherished memories for families, provide opportunities for local businesses, and strengthen the bonds within our community.

119th annual Old Settlers’ Days Festival

Columbia City, Indiana

June 20th, 21st, 22nd, 23rd, 24th

It’s a long-standing tradition, the 119th annual Old Settlers’ Days Festival, hosted in downtown Columbia City, June 20th through the 24th. A time enjoyable for the whole family with nightly downtown carnival midway entertainment with rides, concessions and games; live local bands on the courthouse lawn, No-prep RC Drag Racing by Next Generation RC & Hobby, a two day pickle-ball tournament, a corn hole tournament, antique tractor drive by the Shrine Antique Power Club, a peddle tractor pull by More Farm Stores, and of course wrapping up with the American Legion Parade on Saturday the 24th at 6pm!

Also, new this year, we are excited to see Balloon Glow on the Courthouse Lawn! A spectacular display of lit hot air balloons on display for all to see!

Please join us June 20th through 24th for the 119th annual Old Settlers’ Days Festival. For complete listings of all the entertainment planned please visit the schedule of events and follow us on facebook at Old Settlers Days – Whitley County! We’ll see ya there!!