152nd annual Old Soldiers & Sailors Reunion invigorates interest in local history
ERIE — The 152nd annual Old Soldiers & Sailors Reunion always draws large crowds to the week of festivities. The most iconic being the free bean feed, featuring Navy beans cooked over open fire in boiling cast iron pots. This annual event lends Erie its nickname of Bean Town, U.S.A.
This tradition has become one of the most highly anticipated events for Erie every year, going back to 1873. For over 150 years, former and current military members have come together for a reunion. In the early days, attendees camped, ate beans, and told stories around the campfire.
Early celebrations were held around Neosho County, but not always in Erie. In 1904, it became a permanent part of Erie’s culture.
“This is the highlight of our year,” Pat Ritchey, a member of the Erie Historical Society, said. “And next week is the county fair, so it’s two weeks of things being really busy.”
Today, the reunion spans nearly a full week of activities for both locals and visitors, including a scavenger hunt, activities in the parks for local children, a beer garden, dancing, fun runs, a car show, a flea market, fireworks, a parade, and a rodeo.
The Mem-Erie Historical Museum opens for the busiest activities, and an allschool reunion is held during the celebration. “My dad was military, and I try to come over when I can,” attendee Chuck Dawe said, who came over for the parade.
“I think it’s a good thing.”
After Saturday’s parade, several visitors took a break from the heat to explore the museum, including several rodeo participants.
Taylor Inman, a teen from Lenapah, Oklahoma, said he loves to stop by the museum every year when he attends the rodeo. Inman said this was his eighth year visiting during the Old Soldiers & Sailors Reunion. “I like getting to see all the old guys smiling and laughing with everyone,” Inman said.
Remington Barrett of Wann, Oklahoma, said she appreciates how humble the atmosphere is.
“When you come from a small town and go to another small town, it makes you feel right at home,” Barrett said.
Richey said the reunion has always drawn people to Erie.
“You can always tell when someone is not from Erie,” Richey said. “They don’t like beans.”
A recipe by Marge Dunham on display at the museum says the Reunion beans are made with 50 pounds of Navy beans per kettle, five to 10 pounds of bacon, two pounds of onions, one cup of salt, and “As much pepper as you want.” Most importantly, it notes that the beans should never be stirred until they are ready to serve.
Richey says the reunion gives both past and current military members a place to share their stories, which is what the reunion has been about since the very beginning.
“This gave them a place to eat beans and tell tales,” Richey said. “This was their mental health session.”
