Have you heard? There’s a special birthday happening in Tyler County very soon, and celebrations are being planned!

Are the celebrations for a prestigious resident? No, although many of them have birthdays every day. Is it a tribute to a monument within the county? You’re on the right track, but guess again.

Give up yet?

The upcoming celebration happens to be in honor of Tyler County’s 200th anniversary, and everyone from city municipalities to independent organizations and citizens are gearing up for the bicentennial “birthday” bash. Tyler County may even get its own seal in honor of this monumental event.

Middlebourne will be celebrating this summer, from June 21-23, combining the 200th anniversary of the town with that of the county. A plethora of activities and entertainment is planned to fill the weekend, including a parade, dinners, music, and other shows and festive activities.

Dozens are working hard to make sure this two century celebration is the best it can be. Boards are meeting, backs are bending, and heads are being scratched. The people in charge of plans might make it look easy, but keep in mind how much work goes into putting such spectacular events together.

You may be asking yourself where you fit in all of this? Hopefully everywhere! Perhaps you have an interesting artifact or archive of the county’s history. Perhaps you know stories stretching all the way back to the county’s formation. If nothing else, don’t forget that you are a living, breathing (hopefully celebrating) piece of county history.

You don’t have to be a resident of Tyler County to join the festivities. Perhaps you’re a neighbor or enthusiast, or you have relatives who live here. Come and celebrate with us. We’d love to have you!

The Tyler Star News is getting ready, of course. We’re keeping our eyes and ears open to stories regarding the bicentennial. Those stories can involve past happenings, present preparations, and future events. If you would like to pass along ideas or information, our phone number is 304-652-4141, and we’re located on 720 Wells Street in Sistersville.