Crowds gathered on a warm and sunny Saturday, Sept. 20 to watch Collinsville’s annual Pioneer Day parade - an event that brings together families, local leaders and community pride.
Serving as emcees on the main stage, Jessica Edwards, Austin Lewter and Mikayla Reed announced the parade.
The heart of Collinsville was on full display as the community gathered around Main Street to watch a variety of parade participants ranging from civic leaders, youth organizations, first responders and local businesses. The parade kicked off with Officer Willis of the Collinsville Police Department leading the lineup, followed by representatives from the Grayson County Sheriff’s office, Collinsville Fire Department, and Whitesboro Fire Department.
From there, a long and exciting lineup of beautiful floats brought cheers from spectators. Community pride and spirit ignited with appearances by Grand Marshal Keith Albert Welch, Frank’s Towing, Toys for Tots, The Playhouse, Judge Bruce Dawsey and Commissioner Lindsay Wright, Kari’s Cuts and Curls, Rafter C Sand and Gravel, Bo Mows, CFM Septic, HoundTown Grooming Spaw, Whitesboro Riding Club, Keep Collinsville Beautiful, Collinsville Varsity Cheer (sponsored by Kate Nix), CAYSA and finally the Whitesboro Cub Scouts.
Grand Marshal Welch is a proud, lifelong resident of Collinsville. He holds deep roots in Collinsville as his great-grandmother came to the small town in 1859 from Jackson County, Missouri, and settled on the farm that he resides at now. The farm she established has remained in the family for generations. Welch’s father, Albert, farmed here from the early 1940’s through middle 1980’s before turning the family farming tradition over to him. Welch has a brother, Charles, and two sons, Brian and Greg, who now continue the proud family legacy and farm with him.
Everyone who participated brought creativity, spirit and community pride to the parade, but three entries especially stood out. Coming in first place with their amazing float was Collinsville Area Youth Sports Association (CAYSA).
Following in second place was Kari’s Cuts and Curls with Rafter C Sand and Gravel.
With a third-place trophy in hand was Keep Collinsville Beautiful, whose efforts through community beautification, cleanups and other programs make a visible impact in the community.
Honorably mentioned were the Whitesboro Cub Scout Pack 1, the Play House and the Mighty Pirate Band. After the parade, spectators crowded around to watch an exciting performance by Collinsville’s Mighty Pirate Band and Varsity Cheerleaders. Their performance wrapped up the parade with thunderous applause, energy and prideful hometown spirit.
The annual Collinsville Pioneer Day Parade remains a highlight of the community calendar every year. It is a cherished event that showcases the town’s history, celebrates its people and brings different generations together with a sense of community pride. With community participation and support, this tradition continues to connect Collinsville’s past, present and future.