In the spring of 1914 Red River Lumber Company announced that it would hold a grand 4th of July celebration to welcome visitors to its new town.  Red River officials stated its main purpose was to establish and maintain the “friendliest” relations with Susanville. On the other hand it evolved in a two-day event featuring a baseball tournament.

The Fernley & Lassen offered a special excursion train that consisted of eight passenger cars. It was sold out and the fare was $1.50 round trip. As soon as the train arrived around 10:00 a.m. a procession was formed and marched through the principal streets of Westwood. It ended at open air pavilion where entertainment and necessary orators speaking. It was followed by barbecue. The next event were scheduled baseball games. The evening consisted of a firework display and a dance. It was successful event and repeated in 1915. In 1916, Susanville reciprocated and was the host of the grand 4th July celebration.

Tim