MAR_APR_2014_FINAL_3-15-16

Holden Martinolich, 4 th generation, wearing his great- grandfather’s fireman, 2011.

Ali Rouse Royster with her grandparents, Mary Ann and Carroll Barrilleaux, during the Firemen's Fair Parade in 1984.

Currently there are 8 fire companies that comprise the Thibodaux Volunteer Fire Department. How many volunteers does the Thibodaux Fire Department have? Today we have almost 500 members. We are the largest volunteer fire department in the state, and one of the largest in the nation. It seems harder and harder to attract members to volunteer. This is not just a local issue, but a problem across the country. When did the Fireman’s Fair begin? Is the Fireman’s Parade the oldest parade in the state? This is not an easy answer. In the early days, activities were geared to the artistic, cultural, and social life of the community. The first account of a theatrical performance was put on by Proctor Fire Co. No. 2 in 1871. During the shows, ladies prepared and served soda, ice cream, cake, and punch. It was not until after WWII in 1949 that the fair began to take shape with food booths and carnival rides like we have today. It is assumed that the parade started in 1857 based on writings of the Thibodaux Sentinel. In 1874, the Thibodaux Sentinel headlines read, “The fifteenth annual parade of the Firemen of Thibodaux.” Had the firemen paraded every year without interruption they would have started in 1860. Based on the fact that there were three years missed during the Civil War, the conclusion can be drawn that the firemen of Thibodaux have been holding parades since at least 1857. This was the same year that the Carnival Krewe of Comus started parading. Since Comus was considered to be the oldest parade in the state, and they no longer parade, the Thibodaux Firemen’s parade is now considered to be the oldest parade in the state. What do you think it means to the firemen to see the community lined up to watch them in the parade? To me it shows that the community is appreciative of the service

that the fire department provides. The community is showing their support for a job well done throughout the year. The citizens of Thibodaux and the surrounding area have always supported the fire department, because they know the fire department will always be there for them. Coming out for the parade is one way of showing support, but the residents of the area also show support by coming to the fair to support the department financially. Is the Fair/Auction the main income for the TVFD? Yes, the Thibodaux Firemen’s Fair is the main fund raising event for the fire department. All proceeds are used to operate the department and purchase fire-fighting equipment. The revenue generated by the fair/auction is about half of the money needed to operate the department. The other funds come from private grants and tax support. Tell me about the food. I’m pretty sure that’s everyone’s favorite part! Each company runs a food booth, and they are required to sell at least three food items in each stand. Each company has members who serve on our fair committee to decide what will be served. Our volunteers aren’t just sitting back and relaxing during the fair- they are working! What are some important things to note about this year’s fair? THIBODAUX'S FIREMEN'S FAIR Dates: Thursday, May 1 thru Sunday, May 4 Where: Fireman’s Fairgrounds, located at the corner of Tiger Drive and Parish Road in Thibodaux Price: There is no admission charge, and parking is free. • Pay One Price Rides ($20) will be on Thursday, Friday and Saturday! • There is a $10,000 raffle. Each chance is only $1.

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MY ROUSES EVERYDAY MARCH | APRIL 2014