Three well-known gentlemen were named this year’s Old Trusty grand marshals.
Mike Anderson, John Stark, and John Taylor have been staples in the Old Trusty world and their community, and were recognized for their efforts and passion during the daily parade Sept. 7-8.
ANDERSON
His efforts at Old Trusty have been in the works for the past 27 years. He has consistently lined up performers for the grandstand shows, as well as music under the shade tree.
Anderson’s efforts also extend to getting the color guard together for the National Anthem before the start of each parade.
He is also always filling in wherever he is needed, and his efforts have not gone unnoticed.
STARK
For the past 22 years, Stark has been a dedicated volunteer with the Clay County Historical Society. He began his journey at Old Trusty Days assisting the late Ted Lowman, with the iconic Avery Steam Engine, and continued to preserve this vital piece of history after Lowman’s passing.
For the last four years, Stark has been a familiar face at the Ag Machine shed, where he shares his knowledge of the steam-operated Allis Power Plant. The plant once powered the old hospital in Hastings.
Old Trusty organizers said Stark’s passion for historical preservation and his commitment to educating the community is truly inspiring.
TAYLOR
His help with the show extends beyond just helping his neighbor, but also with tractors and anywhere else he may be needed.
He helps Bob Mihm with anything Mihm asks Taylor to do, such as putting tractors to work much like a dynamometer.
“I want to thank the Clay County Historical Society for asking me to be a grand marshal,” Taylor said. “It is an unexpected honor.”
