The annual Buhl Day was held in Hermitage on September 7 to commemorate the 300-acre park that Frank H. Buhl created from farmland 100 years ago.
Buhl and his wife built the park for the people of the Shenango Valley and also contributed a YMCA-like men’s club, a country club, a free golf course, a library, and many other charitable donations. Buhl Day was started in 1915 to thank the Buhls with a day of parades, food, games, and festivities.
For this centennial celebration, there was a special parade with high school bands, cheerleaders, organizations, and fire departments from Hermitage, Farrel, Sharpsville, West Middlesex, and Sharon. A 5K Run was held prior to the parade and followed the parade route.
In addition, Brian Kepple of Sharon, Lois Kilbert of Hermitage, and Terry Whalen of Mercer were honored for their extra efforts and contributions to their respective communities during the opening ceremonies, which were held at 12:15 pm. at the Performing Arts Center. These ceremonies also included the raising of the flag by Boy Scout Troop 5, and the Air Force Honor Guard from Youngstown Air Force Base.
Many organizations in town provided a variety of food items, which included meatball sandwiches, special chocolate desserts, Philly cheesesteak sandwiches, chicken, and tacos.
The town may have used banner printing companies to announce this special day and make those in Hermitage and the surrounding communities aware of the many activities scheduled.
