Richmond the Beautiful, part 2

Last year we ran a collection of photos, provided by our wonderful friends at the Valentine Richmond History Center, illustrating how, exactly, Richmonders of the past celebrated the Fourth of July. Turns out, much like we do today! But with shorter shorts!

June 29, 2011; 9:41 AM • by RVANews staff

Richmond, you really are beautiful! It’s true!

We thought we’d dust off those photos, add in a couple new ones (including one featuring Yogi Bear), and let the nostalgia roll. Enjoy!

(All of the following images are from the Richmond Times-Dispatch Collection, Valentine Richmond History Center.)

Original Dixieland Strutters Performed at Carillon in Byrd Park, July 3, 1977; photo by Don Long

Henry Gonner talking about his 1913 Model T Ford Touring car to Andrew Olson at Maymont’s Fourth of July Celebration, July 4, 1988; photo by Alexa Welch

Children playing at Pine Camp Recreation Center on the north side of Richmond, July 4, 1977; photo by Don Long

Girl walking in Fourth of July parade through Byrd Park at Swan Lake, July 4, 1977; photo by Masaaki Okada

John Boyle, age 9, leading a Fourth of July parade through the Salisbury neighborhood in Midlothian, July 4, 1975; photo by Don Pennell

Fourth of July Parade, July 3, 1963; photo by Maurice Duke

Children and adults participating in a sack race at Maymont Park during a Fourth of July celebration.

Part of “Virginia Goes 4th” celebration at the State Fairgrounds

Mr. and Mrs. Cornell Webb and their children, Charles and Brenda, on the porch of their home in the 300 block of E. 19th Street

Three West End Jaycees wearing masks of Presidents Reagan, Carter and Nixon and participating in dunking booth activities during a Fourth of July celebration at the State Fairgrounds.