In 1952 Mrs. Olga T.Weber, a mother and homemaker made a decision, that one person could make a difference. She didn't want others to forget or take for granted their rights and freedoms. So in 1951, Mrs. Weber started to hand out copies of the US Constitution, Bill of Rights, flag booklets and patriotic leaflets to local schools, churches, libraries and the public. She encouraged the first celebration of Constitution Day, September 17, 1952 in Louisville after meeting with Mayor Gerald Romary and the city council. This is when she created the Louisville Constitution Day Committee for "the preservation of the Constitution" Mrs. Weber also petitioned municipal officials to establish an official, annual Constitution Day, to honor the ratification of the Constitution in 1789.

In April of 1953, Weber was successful in having the Ohio General Assembly proclaim September 17th as state wide Constitution Day.

Congress passed a resolution creating Constitution Week. The Senate and the House approved her request and President Dwight D. Eisenhower signed it into law.

On April 15, 1957, the city council of Louisville, Ohio declared the city, Constitution Town. In 1958 the Ohio State Archaeological and Historical Society donated four historical markers for the main entrances to the city which explained Louisville's role as the originator of Constitution Day.

The Louisville Constitution Day Committee still continues to hold activities throughout the year, including a community banquet, a queen's pageant, prayer breakfast and of course, the parade.

Jim Yerkey President
Daniel J. Wilcox Vice President

Billi Janet Treasurer

Martha Bell Secretary

Karen Yerkey

Patt Fallot

Joyce Hudnell

 

Anna Jule Whitmer