Celebrate Independence Day at city's oldest house

By Daron Walker

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Clara Irwin's 4th of July Strawberry Party

Thursday, July 4
3-6 p.m.

click to enlarge

Celebrate Independence Day at city's oldest house

The Elijah Iles House
628 S. Seventh St.
ileshouse.org

Independence Day is coming up fast, and what better way to begin the day's celebration with this popular, annual event in Springfield. Clara Irwin's 4th of July Strawberry Party takes place at the Elijah Iles House, the oldest building in the capital city. Clara and Robert Irwin were the second owners of the home and hosted a strawberry party for years on the property south of Cook Street where the house was once located and where Clara raised prize-winning strawberries. The family-friendly, free event includes live music by Peaches and Bacon, strawberry shortcake, refreshments and a group reading of the Declaration of Independence. After the event, there's still plenty of time to see fireworks somewhere at dusk. The Elijah Iles House Foundation manages the house, which dates back to 1837. Donations are accepted.

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