Pictured are the committee members who have helped to plan the commemoration of Atwood being recognized as a town in 1865. In front, from left are Jacob Semonis, Joe Irwin, Kayla Metzger, Randall Byrer, Amy Heckaman, Chad Heckaman and Pastor Jim Lawson, Otterbein Methodist. In back are Carol Huffer, Frank Pfeifer, Cathy Harmon, Jackie Clase, Jerry Clase, Pastor Mike Beezley of Aldersgate and Clunette churches, Lewis Wray; Atwood Lions Club President Clair Milliman, Pastor Tom Harman of Atwood Community Church and Atwood Fire Chief Mike Harmon. Not pictured are Bill Huffer, Jon and Tina Goon, Pastor Dennis Bollenbacher of New Beginnings Community Church and Sheriff Aaron Rovenstine. (Photo provided)

The community of Atwood will celebrate its 150th birthday Saturday, July 25, and Sunday, July 26. A variety of activities are planned, beginning with a pancake and sausage breakfast hosted by the Atwood Fire Department at 7 a.m. Saturday.

At 10 a.m., entertainment, games and displays, including jump houses, antique tractors, antique cars, marshmallow golf, hula hoop, a magician, corn hole games, some really big new farm equipment a fire department water ball contest and more will begin in Prairie Township Park and at the community building.

Lots of memorabilia has been gathered for the event. Pictures, items from the centennial in 1965, items from the former Atwood School, a paper about how Atwood got its name, the beautifully restored Atwood Bank sign and more will be on display in the community building.

An Amish bake sale will take place at Pleasant View School with homemade noodles, cinnamon rolls, bread, whoopie pies, cookies and pies. Echoes of the Past will offer homemade ice cream. There will also be elephant ears, snow cones, hamburgers, hot dogs and pulled pork sandwiches.

Saturday events will come to a close with the launching of Chinese lanterns, followed by a fireworks display.

A community church service will take place in the big tent at 9 a.m. Sunday. Aldersgate Methodist, Atwood Christian, New Beginnings and Otterbein Methodist churches will come together to prepare a service for everyone in attendance. An old-fashioned, carry-in picnic will follow.

At 1 p.m., Atwood Fire Department will hold a memorial service for two of their former firefighters, Frank Hoffer and Mike Blair, and all fallen firemen. Afterward, everyone is invited to stay, fellowship and reminisce.

Tables and benches will be available throughout the weekend according to the planning committee for the event. However, those who plan to attend are encouraged to bring their own lawn chairs for additional seating and comfort.

For questions or more information, call Frank Pfeifer at (574) 265-9768 or Carol Huffer at (574) 858-0051.