Phoenixville Dogwood Festival

Phoenixville's Annual Dogwood tradition dates back to May 1943, when Retired Army Major General Edward C. Shannon, dedicated a dogwood tree in Reeves Park, as a memorial to the men and woman of the Armed Forces, many of whom had died in active service during World War II. The First parade welcomed an estimated 7,500 visitors joining Phoenixville’s Mayor, Arthur H. Tompkins, who served as the grand marshal and numerous distinguished guests including, General Shannon and Col. Henry Beeuwkes, who was the first commander of the newly opened Valley Forge General Hospital on the edge of town. The very first Dogwood Queen was 1943 Phoenixville High School graduate Regina Glowacki, who was elected by her fellow students through the sale of War Bonds and War Stamps which netted a total of $18,154.85. During the parade, floats were very prominent among local organizations. The Rotary Club from...