The Palo Pinto County Centennial celebration was officially opened Saturday, May 4, at high noon in ceremonies conducted at the reviewing stand east of the Baker Hotel in Mineral Wells.  John H. Smith, county judge, spoke briefly proclaiming the week and urging all citizens of the county to participate to the fullest in all programs.

The High School Band of Mineral Wells played selections, directed by Dwight Miller.

Saturday afternoon at 3 o'clock the Centennial parade got under way on Mineral Wells streets and it continued for about an hour despite rains which had fallen intermittently for the past two days and which continued throughout the parade.  Crowds lined Oak Avenue down which the parade traveled and side streets were also viewing places for the throngs who watched.

Military bands, High School and Junior High Schools from over the county participated, providing various kinds added to the splendid scene.

Several side saddles were in evidence along with buggies, wagons, surreys, ox-wagons and other horse-drawn vehicles.

The Fire Department displayed its oldest and newest, and this is true of the military equipment.  Large families were seen peeping out from under wagon covers in some and other reminders were of early days.

The Centennial Queen, the Duchess and their attendants in formal attire rode in the parade.