Third Sunday Tradition
The sign says it all “Welcome to Historic Sulphur Well”. Photo | Jobe Publishing Archives
By PJ Martin
Editor
The Herald-News
It all started back around 1845 when a local landowner named Ezekiel Neal discovered a gushing mineral-laden water (Sulphur, magnesium, and iron) well while drilling for saltwater at about 180 feet. In 1903, Catlett W. Thompson built the Beulla Villa Hotel across from the park where the well is located and built a swinging bridge across to the well so guests could enjoy the mineral water (for health purposes) and the community of Sulphur Well grew from there.
The 3rd Sunday tradition began in the 1880s with a group of young people who selected the 3rd Sunday in August as the get together or homecoming date and families have been returning every year since.
Historically, people came and set up tents at ‘the grove’ and stayed to enjoy fellowship, tent meetings, and singing. Over the years it evolved into the 3rd Sunday in August homecoming.
This year the tradition continues with a slight change. Instead of two days, this year’s celebration is all compacted into one full day of activities.
On Saturday, August 19th the day will begin at 7:15 a.m. with registrations for the 5K Run/Walk that occurs at 8 a.m.
At noon the opening ceremonies take place with the invocation, the singing of My Old Kentucky Home, and community speakers.
As usual, there will be lots of good food, merchandise and crafts for sale, and games for the kids. At 1 p.m. is a Pet Show for the kids. After the show until 4 p.m. will be games for kids of all ages to enjoy.
The antique car and truck cruise-in will take place from 3 – 6 p.m. and there is no entry fee. Door prizes and awards will be presented at 5:45 p.m.
It wouldn’t be the homecoming without the 22nd annual Liz Jefferies Memorial Duck Race at 5 p.m. which has some great prizes this year. A gas fire pit, a Blackstone griddle, and rocker camping chairs are just the top 3 prizes.
Local talent begins performing at 6 p.m. with Marley Edmunds, Bryant Stockton, and Cara Bishop, then at 9 p.m. Little David & Bad Country take the stage.
The day ends at 9 p.m. with the kid’s glow stick shower which consists of glow sticks shot from a cannon into the air for the children to catch and have fun. The night ends with Thunder Over The Well fireworks.
Shine up your vehicle for the show, adopt some ducks, and we will see you at the well!
Lots of people attended the 3rd weekend in August Homecoming back in the 30s and 40s. Photo | Jobe Publishing Archives
