Everglades City Welcomes Back Its Annual Fourth of July Parade

Seven historical figures out of Marco Island’s past took part in the annual Fourth of July Parade in Everglades City. Traditionally held the last Saturday in June, this year’s fell on June 26, 2021. Following the roar of the Nineteenth Century cannon, the raising of the flag ceremony, and the Color Guard salute, they were introduced on the steps of City Hall along with local, county, and state officials. The VIPs rode in golf carts at the front of the parade or joined enroute to wave at the men, women and children gathered along the parade route. This year the Historical Re-enactors were surprised to receive a trophy for a winning entry for their participation.

The Parade kicks off the 2021-2022 season portrayals for the Historical Players who have prepared sixteen programs to bring “Marco Island’s Past to Life” before audiences in county libraries, community clubs and organizations in the months ahead. Watch for them or contact Betsy Perdichizzi for more information.

Historical Characters in the parade include:

Tommie Barfield - Queen of Marco Island –helped Barron Collier create Collier County and is portrayed by Betsy Perdichizzi.

Deaconess Harriet Bedell - Missionary to the Indians – is portrayed by Marion Nicolay.

Betty Collier - wife of W. T. Collier and “Mother of the Island” – is portrayed by Barbara Malta.

Captain Bill Collier is portrayed by Lee Pershing.

Hazel Pettit Griffin - first nurse on the island – is portrayed by Evelyn Case.

Jane Hittler - Grandmother of the YMCA, Urgent Care, and a woman of significance – is portrayed by Mary Lou Jankowski (her daughter).

Wells Sawyer - Artist and Photographer of the Pepper Hearst Expedition - is portrayed by Carolyn Rosenfeld.