Humboldt County residents were gearing up for big Fourth of July events this week 100 years ago. One of the larger attractions advertised was auto races in Ferndale. There were multiple races set and a band would perform.
“Plenty of speed and a thousand thrills — a full day of spizz, fun and excitement — something worth going to see and remember,” the advertisement stated. A local Humboldt County resident was part of the action. “Joe Goodale, from Falk, driving a 16-valve Ford made some fast time and will give the other drivers a run for their money,” an ad on July 3, 1924, stated.
Advertisements stated the track was watered and there would be “no dust.” Fortuna also had big plans for the Fourth — and actually celebrated it on the holiday. These days, the celebrations are always on July 3.
Plans for the 1924 celebration included dancing, baseball, fireworks and a grand U.S. history pageant “representing the highlights and main phases of American history.
” “An invitation is extended to all veterans of the Civil War to be present and ride in the pageant,” the Humboldt Times reported on July 3, 1924. The Fortuna event included a massive fireworks display and the Times stated representatives went to San Francisco to get the latest designs. “A large 3×5 American flag will be pictured in the sky, and a Light of Liberty with 50,000 candle power,” the Times reported.
“Various pictures such as the Devil among the Tailors will be shown, fiery comets wil.
