Wabash Days 2009

August 28, 29, & 30, 2009
Location:  Wentzville, MO

Wentzville, Missouri owes much of its history to the railroad. In 1855, a man named William Allen surveyed and developed the plans for Wentzville.  Mr. Allen was of the opinion that the Northern Missouri railroad would be essential to the growth of the town.  He then established a train station, donated the land for the construction of the railroad and recommended that area farmers donate land for the cause.  Allen laid out plans for the city with Erasmus L. Wentz, after whom the city was eventually named.  Erasmus Wentz was the principal engineer of the St. Louis Kansas City and North Missouri Railroad and was in charge of the construction and building of the railroad line that would go through the town.  Wentzville’s first train arrived in 1857, and the railroad remained an integral part of the city’s growth until after World War I.
The Wentzville Chamber of Commerce, Wentzville Downtown Business Association, Wentzville Community Historical Society and the Wentzville Community Club sponsor Wabash Days.
This family orientated three-day event takes place every year in the historic downtown section of Wentzville.  The festival features a parade, carnival, craft and food booths, historical exhibits, live music, car and motorcycle show.
Mint Jacob was invited to participate in the parade downtown Saturday morning. Since this event takes place in the historical section of town it only seemed fitting that a historical Morgan participate in the parade. Jacob went as a knight’s destrier (war horse) with his mane braided in a diamond weave. This year was the first time a horse participated in the parade and a further boon was the fact that it was a Morgan.
It was estimated that 5,000 to 6,000 people attended this event. After the parade Jacob met many children who asked questions about horses. I do believe that Jacob had the best time getting his picture taken with all of his new friends.

Deborah Siegrist
www.peppercornmorgans.com