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Larchmont Kicks Off 125th Anniversary Celebration With Time To Spare

LARCHMONT, N.Y. -- No one can accuse Larchmonters of being procrastinators or party-poopers. Clad in outfits dating to 1891, officials gathered at Village Hall on Thursday to detail plans for a yearlong celebration of Larchmont's 125th anniversary of incorporation -- which is officially on Sept. 22, 2016.

Kicking off Larchmont's 125th anniversary were, from left, Rich Hargrave, Ron Fernandez, Ray Maldonado and Carleen Kizer.

Kicking off Larchmont's 125th anniversary were, from left, Rich Hargrave, Ron Fernandez, Ray Maldonado and Carleen Kizer.

Photo Credit: Jon Craig
Dresses as an 1891-era firefighter, Ray Maldonado greeted Debbie Manetta as she entered Larchmont Village Hall.

Dresses as an 1891-era firefighter, Ray Maldonado greeted Debbie Manetta as she entered Larchmont Village Hall.

Photo Credit: Jon Craig
Fred and Carey Federspiel, circa 1891.

Fred and Carey Federspiel, circa 1891.

Photo Credit: Jon Craig
Visitors to Thursday's news conference at Larchmont Village Hall were greeted by Fred J. Federspiel, left.

Visitors to Thursday's news conference at Larchmont Village Hall were greeted by Fred J. Federspiel, left.

Photo Credit: Jon Craig
A banner marking Larchmont's incorporation in 1891 served as a backdrop.

A banner marking Larchmont's incorporation in 1891 served as a backdrop.

Photo Credit: Jon Craig

For starters, the village is inviting anyone of any age, including non-residents to design a logo to brand the 125th anniversary festivities that will span one year beginning on Sept. 22 of this year. The logo entry deadline is March 9 and the winner will be announced 10 days later. The theme can be anything "that encapsulates the great spirit of Larchmont,'' according to committee member Maria Massimi. Entry forms can be found at www.larchmont125.org.

Public events and educational programs are being planned to honor Larchmont’s growth and development since Quaker refugees settled from New England in the 1600s. Later, as wealthy residents of New York City established estates, Larchmont developed an early reputation as “a summer playground for New York’s elite.” 

At a news conference, Larchmont Mayor Anne McAndrews said, “We want to take the occasion of the village’s 125th anniversary to speak not only of the past but of the village’s future. Today is a fantastic start to what will be a fantastic celebration of Larchmont’s 125th birthday.”

Village Trustee Peter Fanelli said, "This year-long party will have something for everyone. It’s going to be a fantastic celebration.”

Among the village festivities planned are living history trolley tours, a "decades" parade and filling a time capsule to be opened in 2041 -- capped off by an 1890s-style gala ball in September 2016.

Larchmont 125 Chairwoman Dee van Eyck fondly recalled the village's centennial celebration 23 years ago, which included a parade, tea and fireworks. "That is a great memory, she said. "I love this village. I can't wait to get this party started."

Van Eyck and Fanelli also planned to make an appearance on Thursday's 7:30 p.m. edition of The Local Live which can be watched on Cablevision Channel 75 and Verizon Channel 36. The community television broadcast also offers a live stream at www.lmctv.org where each show is archived.

On Sept. 22, 1891, the Larchmont Manor Company was dissolved and the community was officially incorporated as the Village of Larchmont. 

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