By Ryan Guarino, Troop 55

Bristol's Patriotic float of Uncle Sam, and to the left the famous "War's End Kiss," This Occurred after World War I between a nurse and a sailor Recently my family and I visited Bristol, Rhode Island to participate in their annual 4th of July Parade festivities. It contained many floats such as a float of the Mayflower and that of the Constitution. This parade is the oldest continuous 4th of July parade celebration in history, this being its 224th consecutive year. Bristol is known to be the most patriotic town in America, and is known for being committed to preservation. The town's unique red, white, and blue center line down the middle of Hope Street and High Street marks the path of the parade. It took an act of Congress to approve the patriotic road lines.

Furthermore, the parade includes local school bands, scouts, military, firefighter units, local politicians, and other local organizations. Least we forget the magnificent views of Narragansett Bay. After the parade many tourists visit the well known 4th of July carnival held a block from the parade. Here people can enjoy such things as the Ferris wheel, Bumper Cars, Rock Climbing, and other admired rides. Not surprisingly, the National Trust for Historic Preservation has awarded Bristol National Recognition as a vacation designation for 2009.

Bristol's marching band from Roger William University. The National Trust recognized only 12 communities that offer cultural and recreational experiences different from typical vacation destinations. Bristol was cited for being a "Quintessential New England waterfront town," with and "unwavering commitment to preservation."