Tanner House to host 52nd annual picnic and ringing of the bells July 4

The Aurora Historical Society's 52nd annual Independence Day Picnic and Ringing of the Bells will be held on the grounds of the Tanner House Museum from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. Thursday, July 4.

In addition to old-fashioned traditions, there will be a patriotic concert by the American Legion Band and an appearance by race car driver Matt McCain. The event is free.

The day will feature a petting zoo, children's entertainment by The Wonderful Wacky Juggler Andy Head, tours of the 1857 Tanner House with occasional live music by Brad Green and sons, old fashioned lawn games and make-your-own toys for children, and a blueberry pie-eating contest.

Hot dogs, sodas in vintage flavors and Oberweis ice cream will be available at nominal prices.

A highlight of the day will be children pulling the ropes of the historic bells on the lawn, to observe the national practice, established by President Kennedy in 1963, of ringing "freedom bells." The bell-ringing will be followed by a short patriotic concert by the American Legion Band.

Sycamore Speedway race car driver Matt McCain will be on hand to show off one of his racers and sign autographs. He will be participating in the Race For Diabetes sponsored by the Cosmopolitan Club of Aurora on Saturday, July 27.

Sponsors of the day are Alderman-at-Large Bob O'Connor, Alderman Juany Garza (2nd Ward) and Mike Saville (6th Ward), as well as Alderman Bill Donnell (4th Ward), Alderman-at-Large Sherman Jenkins and the Cosmopolitan Club of Aurora.

The Tanner House is located at 304 Oak Ave., off Oak and Cedar streets.

Although the house is open for free tours at 1, 2 and 3 p.m. Wednesdays and Sundays during the summer, it will be closed July 3 to allow staff to prepare for the picnic on July 4. It will reopen Sunday, July 7.