The City of Brentwood’s first official 50th community event, “A Golden Gallop” parade, is set to roll through Maryland Farms on Saturday, April 13th at 2pm, rain or shine. The parade title is a nod to the historic roots of the Maryland Farms area, which was previously a horse farm owned by J. Truman Ward until the 1970s, when the commercial business park was developed. The parade theme, Show Us What’s Golden about Brentwood, is a way for the community to dress in their golden best and celebrate.
The Parade Grand Marshal, Jim Redd, is the city’s oldest living founder. Redd was appointed as a Brentwood City Commissioner on January 12, 1972 and served one term, which ended in 1974. He was part of the first five-member city commission board. “I am so proud to have served on the committee to help incorporate Brentwood, which has grown into this beautiful city we celebrate today,” Redd said. Brentwood currently has seven elected city commissioners who will also be featured in the parade.
More than 100 registered parade entrants will roll down the 1.5-mile parade route, which begins on Virginia Way near Tractor Supply Company, then heads north on Ward Circle, west down the eastbound lanes of Maryland Way, south on Powell Place and back to Virginia Way. Brentwood Police will close all four lanes of traffic on Maryland Way from Ward Circle to Powell Place and other roads along the parade route will close to traffic at 1:45pm and reopen once the parade concludes.
Parking for the public will be available at most vacant lots along Maryland Way businesses, south of Old Hickory Boulevard. Those participating in the parade will be able to park in designated lots closer to Virginia Way. Family-friendly and specific school meet-up locations are indicated on the parade map. Parade Director Lynn Stallcup said this is the best way to ensure easily meeting up with friends. “We all know that our children love us, but they also really love their friends. These designated areas will make it more helpful for everyone to enjoy the day,” Stallcup said.
There will be a Sponsor VIP section in front of Brentwood City Hall, located at 5211 Maryland Way. Mayor Jill Burgin said this section will receive a little extra attention. “Parade participants will stop briefly at this portion of the parade route to honor those business sponsors who have donated to make this year’s celebrations free for the community,” Mayor Burgin said. “Brentwood is thankful for such generous businesses and individuals who are eager to celebrate Brentwood at 50 years,” Burgin added. Tractor Supply Company is the year’s presenting sponsor.
The community is encouraged to visit Brentwood City Hall on parade day which will be the headquarters for 50th memorabilia. Commemorative items for sale will include a custom watercolor map or canvas print of historic Brentwood icons, T-shirts printed with the historic map, and The Brentwood I Remember book by local author John Oden. Those interested can learn more about the items online and will be able to pay by cash, check, or credit card. All proceeds of these sales will support city programs like historic preservation and parks.
The parade is expected to last about an hour and includes more than 20 equestrian groups, antique automobile clubs such as the Corvette Club, both the Brentwood and Ravenwood High School marching bands, cheerleaders, ROTC, Boy and Girl Scout groups, businesses, and other specialty groups such as the Dancing Divas and the A+ Twirlers.
The City of Brentwood was incorporated in 1969 and is celebrating throughout 2019 with three big events. The Brentwood 50th Steering Committee is spearheading the planning for the city parade and other events planned for the year. The next event, BrentFest, will be held at Crockett Park on Saturday, June 15 from 3-10 pm and will feature live music, a kids zone, and a beer festival. If you are interested in volunteering at BrentFest, please visit www.brentwoodtn50.com or email [email protected]
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