By 1808Delaware
Delaware will be taking a journey back in time this October as the community comes together to celebrate one of its most famous sons, Rutherford B. Hayes, the 19th President of the United States. Sponsored by Main Street Delaware, the annual R.B. Hayes Days is set to deliver a rich blend of historical insight and family-friendly fun through a series of events from October 2 to October 4.
This celebration, designed for all ages, offers a perfect opportunity to connect with the past while enjoying interactive activities and tributes to Hayes’ legacy. The event lineup is both educational and engaging, making it an exciting few days for residents and visitors alike.
Reflecting on a Pivotal Election: Lecture on October 2
The series of events kicks off on Wednesday, October 2, at 4:00 PM with an illuminating lecture entitled, “The World Turned Upside Down: The Election of 1876.” The guest speaker, Josh Dubbert, historian at the Rutherford B. Hayes Presidential Library & Museum, will explore the complexities of one of the most controversial elections in U.S. history.
The 1876 presidential election between Hayes and Samuel Tilden was a hotly contested race, with results so fraught that a special electoral commission had to be formed to declare a winner. Dubbert’s presentation will cover the political tension of the time, the aftermath of the disputed results, and Hayes’ eventual rise to the presidency under unusual circumstances. Held at Ohio Wesleyan University in Slocum Hall, this talk will be a must-see for history buffs looking to deepen their understanding of this pivotal moment in U.S. history.
Honoring Delaware’s Native Son: Statue Tribute Ceremony
The celebration continues on Friday, October 4, at 9:30 AM with a Statue Tribute Ceremony to honor the life and legacy of Rutherford B. Hayes. The ceremony will be held at the Hayes statue located at 2 South Sandusky Street in downtown Delaware.
Hayes, born in Delaware, Ohio, and educated at local schools before attending Kenyon College and Harvard Law School, rose to national prominence through his public service. His presidency is remembered for its efforts in leading Reconstruction and civil service reform. This tribute ceremony offers an opportunity for residents to reflect on the enduring influence Hayes has had on his hometown and the nation.
Speakers will share insights into Hayes’ contributions as a president, a military leader during the Civil War, and an advocate for civil rights and government reform. It will be a poignant moment for the community to come together in appreciation of their local history.
First Friday Fun: R.B. Hayes Birthday Celebration
Later that day, from 6:00 to 9:00 PM, the excitement ramps up during Delaware’s beloved First Friday event, which has been transformed into an evening birthday celebration for R.B. Hayes. The celebration will take place at the Hayes statue, offering a festive atmosphere where history and fun collide.
Attendees can grab a photo with President Rutherford B. Hayes and First Lady Lucy Hayes, with live reenactors appearing at the top and bottom of every hour to greet guests. The reenactors will bring Hayes and his era to life, adding a unique and personal touch to the festivities.
Families can take part in 19th-century games and activities on the lawn outside the Delaware Welcome Center, just a half-block east of the statue. The games, suitable for all ages, will offer a glimpse into what leisure and recreation looked like in the 1800s, creating a perfect blend of education and entertainment for children and adults alike.
The community will be able to engage with history in an interactive and enjoyable way, experiencing firsthand the spirit of the era in which Hayes lived. This fusion of historical tribute and community engagement is at the heart of the R.B. Hayes Days celebration.
Community Spirit and Historical Education Combine
Hayes Days stands as a testament to Delaware’s deep connection to its past and its commitment to celebrating its most notable figures. Thanks to the efforts of Main Street Delaware, this celebration offers something for everyone, whether they’re a local history enthusiast, a family looking for a fun day out, or someone simply interested in learning more about the city’s rich heritage.
Each event is carefully crafted to reflect not just the legacy of Hayes himself but also the values he stood for—public service, education, and integrity. The variety of events over these three days ensure that attendees of all ages will walk away with a deeper understanding of Delaware’s impact on national history.
And with all events being free and open to the public, this celebration is not just a tribute to the past, but a gift to the community today.
Image: 1808Delaware
