While you enjoyed the 2016 Parade of Roses Tournament this year, with it’s corporate sponsored megafloats and amazing eye-popping floral displays, you might have been surprised to find out there was a time when any foothills community of modest means could participate.
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| 1906 – Altadena School prize-winner |
For almost seven decades, through the late 1960s, Altadena had a float entered in the parade. (Read more about how escalating costs forced Altadena out of the competition.)
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| 1957 Entry |
The grassroots appeal of Altadena’s floats, marching bands, equestrians, grand marshals and boosterism typified the Rose Parade’s small town charm when foothill communities were pivotal to the event.
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| 1928 Altadena Mecca of the World The discovery of King Tut’s tomb created a fashion obsession around the world. Altadena was not spared. |
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| 1916 Man of War on a Bed of Roses |
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| Check out the little local sailors on board. |
By the late 1920’s the Chamber of Commerce was involved, and the theme often served to promote the community. This float was all about boasting access to the great outdoors via Altadena.
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| 1931 Bridal Path of the Foothills |
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| 1938 The Night Before Christmas Students and teachers from Altadena elementary school rode on this float. |
See the entire exhibit, Altadena in the Rose Parade, at AHS, 730 E. Altadena Drive, Altadena, CA 91001. We’re open Monday, Tuesday and Friday from 9 am -1 pm and by appointment. We’re staying open Saturdays, too, from 2 pm – 4 pm through January 16, 2016.
The exhibit runs through June 2016.