Annual Chicken Dinner sets the stage for a great first night at the 76th Emden Homecoming

 

[July 23, 2023] 

The weather was great for the 76th Emden Homecoming festivities on Friday, July 21 and people filled the streets of downtown Emden.

During the morning and early afternoon, many people were out shopping at one of the many garage sales in Emden.

The evening’s activities began with a supper of chicken, mashed potatoes, green beans and a dessert served by members of the Hartem High School FFA. Hartem Agricultural teacher Sarah Barton said the chicken supper is their biggest fundraiser.

Those who wanted more traditional festival food could get a Korn dog, fries and a drink at the booth ran by American Legion Post 506.

Emden’s Dovetail Inn, which opened around a year ago offered street food in “boats” with such fare as backyard burgers, smoked meatloaf hoagies, catfish po’boy, chicken tenders, southwest chicken or beef nachos, ribs, catfish and hotdogs.

For those with a sweet tooth, there was a variety of ice cream, shakes and sundae flavors.

 To reigning Little Miss Emden Mia Westen, getting ice cream is the best part of homecoming.

Children’s activities included basketball, a fishing game, bouncy houses, a rock climbing wall and face painting. Kids enjoyed these activities well into the evening.

Other games were ring toss, dime toss and ever popular Bingo with cash prizes up to $100.

Lillian Rademaker loves playing ring toss and winning liter bottles of soda.

Musical entertainment was provided by the group Stereo Typical, who played classic rock from the 70s and 80s.

Jennifer Dipasquale of Lincoln was out enjoying their music and danced to a few tunes. She said Stereo Typical had a great selection of songs.

Kathy Meeks of Bloomington, who grew up in Emden, said she enjoys seeing friends and family she hasn’t seen for a while when she comes to the homecoming.

Former Emden resident Ron Fink now lives in Denton, Texas. He and his wife made a long trek to Emden earlier this week as they travelled to the area on a train. Fink also enjoys seeing old friends and relatives at homecoming. He planned to donate the Hartem Stag jacket he wore in high school to the Emden Historical Society.

Since the village of Emden was established 152 years ago, there is a lot of history. Those interested in learning more about Emden’s history could stop in the Emden Historical Society building and see artifacts donated by many different Emden residents. New exhibits included newspaper clippings from events over the years.

Further down the street was another open house at the newly renovated Air BNB in downtown Emden.

Owners Mark and Keri Dalki along with their dogs Bob and Seger welcomed anyone who wanted to see the home with an open concept living room and kitchen, two bedrooms and a bathroom. The hallway was lined with old railroad photos and memorabilia since the railroad is right behind the home. Those interested in learning more about this place to gather and enjoy the small town can join the Emden 190 group on social media.

After the sun had set, people milled about playing Bingo and visiting well into the evening. Friday night provided another great night for food, fun and festivities. The fun continued Saturday with more garage sales, a parade, kiddie tractor pull and more evening activities.

[Angela Reiners]