Plans are underway for the 38th annual Fourth of July Ice Cream Social to be on the grounds of the historic Maclay Home in Tipton.
Due to the current pandemic, there will be some changes in the way the day is celebrated. Grilled hamburgers and hot dogs will be served as a sack lunch containing a bag of chips. Ice cream and pre-packaged desserts will also be available at the Carriage House. Food will be served from 11:30 a.m.-2 p.m. for a free will donation. There will be picnic tables on the lawn, but families are asked to keep one household per table for social distancing.
There are no house tours this year, but there will be live musical entertainment on the grounds.
The Collins Battery A artillery unit will fire a mountain howitzer cannon at 11:30 a.m. and again at 1:30 p.m.. The re-enactors are portraying members of the Missouri State Guard that was led by former Missouri Governor Sterling Price. The "movie" round fired during the demonstration is a 4 oz. round. The sound is authentic, but a projectile is not fired.
The Friends of the Maclay Home board members are asking the community to be generous in their support. Since they are unable to give tours this year, the only income will come from donations. The home needs constant upkeep due to its 160-year age with mowing the main cost this year.
To inquire about donating or for assistance with other questions, contact Gloria Knipp at 573-230-2541.