SUMMERTIME FUN – Wise Countians flock to Joe Wheeler Park the last full week of July to enjoy food and fellowship at the Wise County Old Settler’s Reunion. A carnival, complete with ferris wheel and games, always draws a crowd. Messenger photo by Joe Duty
The Wise County Old Settler’s Reunion is the oldest recurring public event in the county.
The weeklong reunion is held the last full week in July at Joe Wheeler Park off Farm Road 51 South in Decatur.
The reunion got its start in the late 1860s when Confederate veterans met under a full moon in covered wagons with their families to visit comrades before the fall harvest.
Today, the reunion grounds are filled with cabins, where many families spend the entire week. A campers’ meeting on Sunday afternoon kicks off the activities where winners of the camp decoration contest are announced.
A carnival with rides and games is located on the reunion grounds, and entertainment is provided nightly at the pavilion. Non-profit organizations sell food and drinks, and the Decatur Lions Club is in charge of parking.
The organization uses the parking fee to contribute to worthwhile community projects.
Admission to the reunion is free, though there is a charge for carnival rides.
