MEEKER | The Meeker Pageant has been a tradition included in Meeker’s 4th of July celebration since 1938. It is the historical reenactment of the “Meeker Incident” — the conflict between Meeker’s namesake, Nathan Meeker, an Indian Agent sent to oversee the area and the local tribe native to the White River Valley. The conflict included two battles, the Battle of Thornburgh, also called the Battle of Milk Creek, and the uprising of the local Ute tribe that resulted in the death of Meeker and multiple other men at the settlement.
Both battles are played out by members of the community in a live, action-filled pageant each year, with real horses, guns, fire and fireworks.
The pageant is desperately looking for volunteers to join them, with an opportunity for everyone to get involved. Without the community’s help, this will be the last year for the pageant.
Volunteers are needed to help backstage and with set up, clean-up and props, makeup and hair stylists, light and sound technologists, and actors for all parts. Everyone who is interested is encouraged to join, both adults and children. For any children under 18, parents must sign a release to allow their children to participate in the pageant.
There is a small amount of time commitment necessary. This year’s practices will be June 26, June 30, and July 1 at 6:30 p.m., and a full practice dress rehearsal on July 2 at 8:30 p.m., all at the RBC Fairgrounds. The final performance will take place on Wednesday, July 3 at dusk at the Fairgrounds.
If not enough help has come by the July 2 practice, this year’s event will be canceled.
If you are interested in helping this event continue, and would like to be involved in putting on this year’s Meeker Pageant in any capacity please visit meekerrangecall.com and fill out the sign-up form or email us at [email protected]. Thank you for joining this 4th of July tradition and helping put on a great show for the community.
