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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.”
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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]
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