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Date: 3/31/2021
WHATELY – The town of Whately will celebrate their 250th anniversary in 2021 and 2022.
Whately was incorporated in 1771 and named by Gov. Thomas Hutchinson after Thomas Whately, his political mentor in the British Parliament. Initially settled in the 1600s, Whately was part of Hadley until it was purchased by Hatfield from the widow and children of the Norwottuck leader Quonquont.
To commemorate the year, events will be taking place in a COVID-19-friendly manner.
On April 24, a birthday motor parade will take place at 3 pm. This will start at the town offices at Sandy Lane and continue for about 17 miles to Herlihy Park. The parade is expected to last about an hour and a half. Viewing is open to the public and free of charge.
Fire Chief John S. Hannum said, people won’t even have to leave their homes, as the motor parade will cover almost all of Whately. For those that wish to leave their homes, masks will be required and all social distancing protocols must be followed.
“We are trying to make this event as safe as possible,” stated Hannum.
Hannum told Reminder Publishing that they are seeking businesses and organizations in Whately to participate. This year, it’s strictly based in Whately, but next year everyone will be able to participate, he added.
Besides the motor parade, all additional events are scheduled to take place in 2022. This will include a gala, fireworks, chicken barbecue, and even a fireman's muster. Hannum is responsible for these events. There are also committees that are formed to assist in these and more, he claimed. Right now, large gatherings cannot take place, so the celebrations will carry on for the next year to come. Interested participants for the motor parade can contact John Hannum at JSHannum@comcast.net. For additional information on Whately’s 250th anniversary and events, visit their Facebook page or www.whately.org.