Watsonville

Black text on a yellow star on a black background

Created for the 1955 4th of July festivities in  Watsonville, California, this campaign artifact was sold by the community to raise prize money. According to the Parajo Valley Historical Association, the population was about 13,000 residents from 29 distinct cultures in 1955. The vast majority were immigrants with a great deal of pride for their adopted country. All normal commerce stopped for the celebrations, and every aspect of the town was influenced by the merry makers. Visitors from afar attended to compete in the marching band, decorated floats, and enjoyed the many dances, picnics, and evening fireworks.