Phoenixville's Annual Dogwood tradition dates back to May 1943, when Retired Army Major General Edward C. Shannon, dedicated a dogwood tree in Reeves Park, as a memorial to the men and woman of the Armed Forces, many of whom had died in active service during World War II.

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The First parade welcomed an estimated 7,500 visitors joining Phoenixville’s Mayor, Arthur H. Tompkins, who served as the grand marshal and numerous distinguished guests including, General Shannon and Col. Henry Beeuwkes, who was the first commander of the newly opened Valley Forge General Hospital on the edge of town.

 

The very first Dogwood Queen was 1943 Phoenixville High School graduate Regina Glowacki, who was elected by her fellow students through the sale of War Bonds and War Stamps which netted a total of $18,154.85. 

 

During the parade, floats were very prominent among local organizations. The Rotary Club from Phoenixville had a horse-drawn float with a large Rotary wheel with the edges of the float surrounded by flags of the United Nations. The Junior Red Cross had blood donors riding along on a large float adorned by greens and a large “bottle” of blood with the words “That They May Live”. The Phoenixville High School Band, under the direction of Walter Sample, provided marching music for the soldiers marching from the Valley Forge General Hospital.

 

Today, the Phoenixville Jaycees Foundation continues the rich tradition of the Annual Dogwood Festival and Parade. With over 50,000 visitors taking part in the annual festivities and what has become the 2nd largest parade in Chester County.

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