Crump celebrating 30th anniversary of city’s founding Saturday with ‘River Day’ festival

A full day of celebration is planned for Saturday, Sept. 29, for the 30th anniversary of Crump’s founding as a city.
Activities for “Crump River Day” begin at 8 a.m. at Crump Community Center with a Firefighter Pancake Breakfast.
“The fundraiser for District 2 Fire Department will have pancakes and bacon,” said event organizer Sheri Kennedy.
Special events will take place throughout the day at the community center and nearby city park.
Those who have lived in the area for many years will remember the corner property as the site of Crump School. The driveway from U.S. 64 that leads to the current playground area formerly went to the front of the school building.
Crump Mayor Glen Spencer attended the school.
He recalls the building layout. “Upon entering the front doors, there was a lobby. Classrooms were to the left, and the gymnasium and cafeteria were to the right, with the cafeteria in the basement.
“The brick school was built in 1929,” said Spencer. “It burned in 1953. It was rebuilt and burned again in 1956. It was again rebuilt and remained as a school until 1976, when elementary students were bused to the new school at the time, West Hardin Elementary and older students went to Hardin County Middle School.”
A portion of the opening Crump River Day ceremonies will honor Crump School alumni.
“All former students are welcome to participate at 10:30 a.m.,” said Kennedy.
Opening ceremonies also includes a flag presentation by local members of Veterans of Foreign Wars and a speech by the mayor.
“There will be live music inside the community center and outside,” said Kennedy.
Wayne Jerrolds, John Spears and Audrey Geisel will perform.
Starting at 10 a.m., local organizations and companies will have booths, until about 4 p.m.
There will be a car and truck show at Crump City Park parking lot; pony rides by the Hardin County Saddle Club at the arena; and a corn hole tournament at the Crump Ball Park.
Design Team is offering a selfie photo scavenger hunt and more at their booth.
AirEvac will land a helicopter on the new heli-pad beside the community center and a Tennessee Highway Patrol accident car will be available to view.
The fire department will have truck tours and feature the Sparky the Fire Dog party jumper.
DreamWeavers of West Tennessee will have photo opportunities with the characters Shrek and Lurch. They will also have face painting, popcorn and yard sale items of costumes, clothes and fabric.
Tennessee College of Applied Technology Crump will have a booth with college information.
Inside the community center there will be activities by local churches, such as a toy walk, give aways, music, balloons and more.
“A 30th anniversary birthday cake will be available at the community center,” said Kennedy.
West Tennessee Valley Rally bikers will gather at the Memorial Helicopter at 12:15 p.m. to honor veterans.
“A slug burger contest will be held at 2 p.m. at the community center,” said Kennedy.
Local restaurants are running special prices.
“I think Crump River Day is going to be a great time for citizens to have good interactions together,” said Spencer.
“I hope everyone has such a fun time that they will want to have Crump River Day every year,” said Kennedy. “Hope to see every one out there on Saturday.”
Parking is available is at Crump Park and TCAT.