Erie, Kan., Legionnaires celebrate 150 years of beans

One-hundred fifty years ago, Civil War veterans in Erie, Kan., determined that the best way to rekindle memories of fighting together would be by eating together. The menu was familiar: navy beans seasoned with pork, onions, salt and pepper.

Thus began the Old Soldiers & Sailors Reunion in the community of about 1,100 residents. The reunion evolved into a free communitywide bean feed that today draws crowds from across the state and beyond.

The American Legion Family of George L. Hendricks Post 102 in Erie has led the massive undertaking for nearly 60 years, filling the cast-iron kettles, lighting the wood fires, tending to more than 1,200 pounds of beans and dishing them out free of charge. This year’s bean feed is set for Friday, July 14, at 6 p.m., on the courthouse lawn.

Friday’s bean feed is the apex of a big week in Erie, led by the local Legion Family and Mainstreet Memories.

A scavenger hunt Monday, July 10, is followed by the 43rd American Legion IPRA (International Pro Rodeo) World Championship Rodeo July 12-13, with performances beginning at 8 each evening.

The American Legion coordinates children’s events in the city park starting at 6 p.m. July 13, including sack, turtle and bike races.

The beans will be in the kettles early Friday, July 14, with the feed to begin that evening, followed by events for all ages, including a concert, fireworks and a street dance.

Saturday, July 15, the 150th Annual Old Soldiers & Sailors Reunion kicks off with a 5K walk/run, includes truck and engine shows, arts and crafts at the city park, a golf scramble, and the big parade, themed this year “Honoring Veterans Past & Present.” A Civil War re-enactment is planned for 12:30 p.m., followed by games, food and an 8 p.m. youth rodeo.