The LCA will host a commemoration gathering on May 19 at 1:00 on the Main Street church lawn across from the Flood Memorial. There will be a short introduction and a recounting of Myron Day’s heroic ride down River Road from Haydenville to warn Leeds village about the approaching flood. His warning yells as he charged into Leeds and down Main Street saved many lives. A hero’s memorial tree will be planted nearby to honor Myron Day.

An original song about the flood, written by John Daniel of Grove Avenue, will be performed, followed by a reading of the names of Leeds residents who perished in the flood.  We are looking for people of various ages to take part in the reading of names. We will have a microphone, so no worries if you have a soft voice. If you’re interested in being one of the nine readers, please email leedscivicassoc@gmail.com. Original art pieces that use glass and ceramic shards smoothed and sanded by years spent in the Mill River will be on display. Art pieces with themes specific to the 1874 flood will also be on display. If you would like to have an art piece included, please email LeedsCivic.org. by April 20.

“Follow the Flood- Self-Guided Tour” markers will be posted in Leeds through May and June. A total of 21 markers will be along Mulberry and Main St. sidewalks, and along part of the bike path south of Mulberry St. Each marker is unique to its location, will have a historical photo and/or map, and a description of what took place at that site on the morning of May 16, 1874. A total of 85 markers will be posted from Williamsburg to Northampton.

A small crew of volunteers is needed to put up the Leeds markers during the last week of April. If your skill set includes working with a hand drill or auger, email: heidi@heidistevens.com.

Please see the event schedule here.