Addison’s parade celebrates its history, and ours

Addison celebrated history Sunday — its own and that of the country — with the return of the annual Addison-Medinah Shriners Parade.

With the theme “America@250: Let Freedom Ring!” the parade marked not only the United States’ semiquincentennial, but also the 50th anniversary of the Addison Historical Society.

Fittingly, members of the Addison Historical Commission and Addison Historical Society served as honorary parade grand marshals, leading the 1.7-mile march along West Army Trail Boulevard from Lombard Road to Kennedy Drive.

Following in their wake were about 30 other community groups and regional attractions, including the Jesse White Tumblers, the New Generation Drill Team, the Model A Restorers Club and Medinah Shriners riding magic carpets and mini cars.

“We do this, one, to raise awareness for Shriners hospital for children,” said Brandon Zears of Naperville, potentate of the Medinah Shriners. “We also do it to raise money for the Shriners hospital for children.”