Next year is a notable year in Marion. It is the 150th anniversary of Marion becoming a city, the 100th anniversary of Old Settlers’ Day, a hospital has been in Marion for a century, and Marion Historical Museum has been in operation for half a century.

Community organizers have been meeting for more than six months in preparation of Marion’s sesquicentennial with events every month in 2011.

Brothers of the brush, centennial belles, and a town play are among the events that were held 50 years ago when the city celebrated its centennial.

According to committee chairman Dick Varenhorst, more community involvement is needed. Sponsors of the play, “Our Town,” are being sought. The play will cost approximately $1,000, with performances planned Aug. 20 and 21.

Medallions have been on sale for $25 since September with auctions being planned for the souvenirs numbered 1 through 10.

January

The brothers of the brush beard-growing contest will begin Jan. 3. Centennial belles also can participate in decorating or making bonnets and aprons the same day. Contestants must purchase a $5 brush or belle button with proceeds going to the celebration. Residents within a five-mile radius of the city may participate.

The annual local Kansas Day celebration will be Jan. 29 at Eastmoor United Methodist Church. This is Kansas’ 150th anniversary.

February

Marion Kiwanis Club will provide singing valentines as a fund-raiser for the sesquicentennial. More information will be available later.

March

The annual quilt show will be March 14 through 28 at Marion City Library.

April

Art at the Elgin is being planned with local artists displaying their pieces. Some pieces will be auctioned with proceeds benefiting the sesquicentennial celebration.

Marion Youth Advancement Committee is organizing the event.

May

An antique car and vintage motorcycle show is being planned in conjunction with a sock hop in the evening.

June

As usual, Chingawassa Days will be June 3 through 5 in Central Park.

In conjunction with the blue grass festival June 18 at Marion County Lake, other activities are being planned at the lake and will be announced later.

Marion City Library will sponsor a garden tour June 25.

July

An ice cream social and cake walk is being planned at Marion Senior Center with a movie night at the library. A date will be announced later.

August

The play, “Our Town,” by Thornton Wilder, will be performed Aug. 20 and 21 with the location yet to be determined. Marion High School alum Brett Billings will direct the three-act play. Sponsors are needed to help cover costs.

A youth poster and video contest will be sponsored by Marion Historical Museum in recognition of the museum’s 50th year of operation. More information is available at the library or by calling (620) 382-9134.

September

The 100th Old Settlers’ Day will be Sept. 24 in Central Park.

Historic tours are planned.

Beards, aprons, and bonnets will be judged.

October

A cemetery tour on a hayrack and wienie roast are planned Oct. 22 at Marion Assisted Living.

November

The community Thanksgiving Day dinner will be served at Marion Middle/High School Commons.

Christmas Home Tours are planned Nov. 27 by the library if homes are volunteered for the display.

December

An open house is planned at St. Luke Hospital, marking the centennial of hospital care in the city and the completion of renovations.

For more information, contact Marion Chamber of Commerce at (620) 382-3425.