Some Serious Patriotism

I wouldn't say I'm the most patriotic person, but there's something about a parade that stirs my inner patriot. And the most patriotism-inspiring parade of all is probably the Patriots' Day parade in Concord, Massachusetts. (See yesterday's blip for all the historical details, if you're so inclined.)

It's pretty amazing to think that many of the participants (like their forefathers) march for miles to reach Concord, carrying heavy muskets, wearing uncomfortable clothing, and lacking what we would consider to be sensible shoes. The mood along the parade route, however, is spirited, and like any good parade there are plenty of drummers drumming and pipers piping.

I took this shot at the beginning of the parade. This is a fife and drum corp proceeding through Concord's Monument Square. In the background is the historic First Parish meetinghouse with its gold-domed steeple.

For anyone who's interested, I've posted a small parade of characters (both participants and spectators) here.