200th Anniversary of "The Star Spangled Banner" Celebrated at Wakarusa Elementaryby Amy Wenger on September 16, 2014 |
Monday morning may have arrived on a dismal and dreary note, but for anyone who was inside the Wakarusa Elementary School gymnasium, the day proved to be anything but. In a sea of red, white, and blue apparel, jewelry, hair accessories, and other patriotic adornments, the children in grades kindergarten through five raised their voices in triumphant celebration for the 200th anniversary of "The Star Spangled Banner."
Written by Francis Scott Key in 1814, the song has served as a hallmark of patriotism since being declared this country's national anthem in 1931. Wakarusa Elementary has observed this occasion as an annual remembrance for the past several years, where the children and their teachers commemorate the day with Americana themed tunes, guest speakers, and a special tribute to those who have bravely and selflessly given of themselves in the nation's armed forces and other avenues of service to the public.
Photos all courtesy of Amy Wenger.