Good times found in over 70 years traditions at Emden Homecoming

 

[July 24, 2018] 

EMDEN 

On Friday, July 20, the Emden Homecoming weekend began with a chicken supper and entertainment by the Evan Webb Band as many enjoyed the cooler temperatures.

This year marked the 71st homecoming, and what began as a one-day event with a few stands has become a multiple day event that brings in many people.

Started by members of the American Legion, homecoming was taken over by the Sons of the American Legion when it became too laborious for the aging Legion members to set up. Many of the sons had fathers who were involved and knew the hard work involved in setting up homecoming but have willingly kept it going.

For many people who grew up in the area, the homecoming remains a good way to spend a summer evening.



Donna Hellman (far left) has been coming to the homecoming for many years. Hellman now lives in Lincoln, but grew up in Emden and has always enjoyed the homecoming. She said growing up, it was the thing to do in the summer.



The vendors serving traditional fair food are another popular draw.

Bob Farmer of Lincoln has also been coming to the homecoming for years and enjoys visiting with people and makes sure to eat a hotdog or corndog while at homecoming.

Live entertainment remains a popular part of the festival with bands both evenings.

Wooden board games such as ring toss and a bingo stand are also staples. To keep up with the times and inflation, they have changed the “penny pitch” to a “dime pitch.”



Mark Hoerbert, part of the Sons of the American Legion, has been helping for about 25 years, and said they have not made many other changes to the homecoming, though they did not think they could do it without a carnival.

The carnival rides are no longer a part of the festival, as it has been hard to book them for the weekend. Now, bouncy houses, slides, and a rock climbing wall have replaced the rides, and these are a popular draw for energetic kids.

Deb Wagner of Emden has been coming to homecoming since she was a child and remembers all the rides they used to have. Wagner is glad Emden still has the homecoming and people have continued to support it. She said it is a good time to get together, visit, and see old friends.

Hoerbert said he likes seeing all the people and has always been surprised to see a big crowd in a small town.

Darren Haberland, another Sons of the American Legion member who helps with homecoming every year, said it is nice seeing all the people who come from far away for it.

Haberland said the event raises money for Emden’s ball diamond, the [Whistle Stop] Library, school library, and scholarships.



Proceeds from the chicken supper go toward the Hartem FFA, who serves the meal.

The Emden Homecoming remains a place for good old-fashioned family fun.

[Angela Reiners]