Happy Fourth of July, Detroit

Detail of a Fourth of July parade in Detroit’s Campus Martius, 1866, from a carte de visite in the Burton Historical Collection. You’ll want to see it in full resolution here — it’s pretty remarkable.

On July 4, 1866, one hundred and twenty-three battle-stained and bullet-marked flags, belonging to the Michigan regiments, were formally presented to the State. Many members of the decimated regiments took part in a procession connected with the exercises, and their appearance with the torn flags brought tears to many eyes.

Silas Farmer, History of Detroit and Michigan

Too somber for you? Maybe old-timey fireballs in the street are more your pace.

Whether it brings you somber reflection, hazardous explosives, or some alchemy of both, we hope you enjoy your holiday.

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