Fourth of July at the American Village

MONTEVALLO, Ala. (WIAT) — Hundreds gathered on the grounds of Montevallo’s American Village to meet with some of America’s greatest heroes on the Fourth of July.

With the launch of a cannon and the firing of a musket, America’s 249th birthday kicked off. At American Village, families enjoyed good food and learned about the history of our country’s beginnings. For the Comardelle family, today is about remembering the heritage of the United States.

“You have a lot of great access to education, and all these great things,” said Lawrence Comardelle. “I think after 250 years, you can lose sight of how hard people worked and how many people died to give us the freedoms that we have.”

Alison Comardelle said they always try to celebrate those freedoms at American Village.

“This is [our kids’] first year to be here for the Independence Day celebration,” she said. “So, we’re really excited to share this as a family of four.”

And across campus at American Village’s Mount Vernon, an actor portraying President George Washington shared a bit of history with visitors. He also shared what today meant to him.

“It was the struggle for independence for this country,” Washington said. “So, you can do what you want to do. And go after those things that you want to go after. And be whatever you want to be in this country, versus having to fall under the confines of another country’s guidelines.”

Nearly 250 years after that struggle, Washington encouraged everyone to get involved in government.

“That way, you become part of the solution, not just complaining constantly about it,” he said.

And Melanie Poole with the American Village said to remember how those original 13 colonies came together to form a new nation.

“Remember the veterans that fought for us to preserve our freedoms,” Poole said. “Remember what this day means. And, if you have a chance, do come see us at American Village.”

Poole said the doors close at 8 p.m., and the fireworks will kick off at 9:00. She said to remember what it means to be an American.