158th G.A.R. Bean Dinner set for Aug. 17 in New Castle

The 158th annual Grand Army of the Republic (G.A.R.) Bean Dinner will take place Sunday, Aug. 17, at McElwee Park in New Castle. The event, held every year on the third Sunday in August, honors veterans and their families while raising funds for the veterans emergency fund and park maintenance.

A church service will begin at 9:30 a.m., followed by opening ceremonies and a flag raising at 10:45 a.m. led by the Mohawk Valley 4-H Club.

Food will be available from 11 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. with both drive-thru and sit-down options. The menu includes soup beans cooked over an open fire in iron kettles, cornbread, potato salad, shredded chicken, ham or hot dog sandwiches, pie and a drink. Meals are $12 and include soup beans and cornbread or baked beans, potato salad, a sandwich, pie and a drink.

Music will be provided from noon to 1 p.m., followed by a performance by the Walhonding Rube Band from 1 to 2 p.m. Presentations honoring veterans will also take place throughout the event.

The tradition dates back to 1867, when the Charles C. Nichols Post of the G.A.R. was formed to support widows and orphans of Civil War veterans. Originally held on the Nichols Farm west of New Castle, the dinner was moved to McElwee Park more than a century ago after the land was donated to the community.

Contributions are appreciated and help support park upkeep and local veterans.

For information, contact Lisa Locke Johnson at 740-507-3814.