Members of the Shepherdstown Volunteer Fire Department carry the American flag down German Street, during the Fourth of July Parade on Friday. Photo by David Pennock

SHEPHERDSTOWN — Before heading out to see firework shows in the evening, many people in the community gathered for another July 4 tradition, as they marched down German Street in Shepherdstown for the annual Fourth of July Parade.

Since the tradition started, the Rotary Club of Shepherdstown has organized the parade every year, making sure the event goes smoothly. Starting at 11 a.m., visitors began waving their American flags to celebrate the beginning of a nation.

Paul Teter joined the Rotary Club of Shepherdstown just last week, but after volunteering at the parade last year, he knew he wanted to get involved again. Teter has loved parades since he was a kid, often getting involved with his church.

After attending Shepherd University, he fell in love with the small town and wanted to find ways to get involved and volunteer to help support the community. Teter believes that one of the things that makes this parade special is that it brings everyone together to celebrate.

“There are so many different groups in the community that come together to celebrate America,” Teter said. “There is a variety of groups like the Dogs and Cats of Shepherdstown and so many others, and it’s great to see them come together.”

Two students at Jong Hap Mu Sool Mixed Martial Arts give a demonstration on German Street, during the Fourth of July Parade on Friday. Photo by David Pennock

This year, the parade had 78 different entries, including several pageant winners, classic cars and local organizations, such as the Shepherdstown Kiwanis Club, the Historic Shepherdstown Commission, the League of Women Voters in Jefferson County and many more. Hundreds of people gathered to march, ride and watch as the parade traveled down German Street.

Michael Clarkson Jr., owner of Yummy Butter, partnered with Evolve to host a pop-up shop for his business. Taking advantage of the festive atmosphere, he decided to check out the parade with his son, Michael III. It was his first time watching the Fourth of July Parade, so he was excited to see what it was all about as he watched with his son on his shoulders.

“Having a celebration like this is important, because we’re in a free country,” Clarkson said. “It’s important to recognize the people and service members who made us who we are and continue to protect this nation. I think we need to have more events like this in small communities.”

Though they didn’t know what to expect throughout the parade, Clarkson said his son was very excited to see the police officers, because that was what he hopes to be when he grows up. The parade gave them the chance to see the officers in person, as well as several firetrucks and other organizations that work to keep Jefferson County safe.