For fifty-nine years, with the exception of a year off for COVID-19, the tradition of an annual dinner has continued. The dinner actually started as a boast. In 1941 State Representative Will Christian proudly told his fellow legislators that he and his family were self-reliant. Everything they needed to eat could be (and was) produced on their farm in Grant County. To prove that statement, Representative Christian invited a select group of politicians to his home for dinner. As a result, the first unofficial Grant County Home Products Dinner began.
In 1962, the Grant County Chamber and several local citizens revived the dinner, naming it the Grant County Home Products Dinner. The Dinner was still a showcase of locally grown products, but it evolved into a dinner to which the public and elected politicians were invited. In September 1963 the first “modern” Dinner was served. Each year, dignitaries, the people of Grant County, and people from all over Western Kansas gather at the Civic Center for the annual dinner, where approximately 1200 people are served.
The menu consists of: barbecued beef, whole wheat-rolls, sweet corn, pinto beans, scalloped potatoes, candied squash, watermelon, cherry tomatoes, strawberry jam, and butter as well as milo doughnuts and ice cream for dessert. Foods on the table not produced in Grant County are tea, salt, pepper, sugar and coffee, however the coffee is roasted and ground locally.
The Home Products Dinner Committee is proud to announce the featured entertainment for the evening. Comedian Sid Davis has a show filled with non-stop laughter! Sid’s unique humor is fueled with relatable topics that audiences of all ages find hilarious. His priceless wavering ego is kept in check with two kids and a very patient school teacher wife.
The buttons are available at American Implement, Bank of Ulysses, City Hall, First National Bank, Golden Plains Credit Union, Grant County Bank, Grant County Drug, Grant County Senior Center, Lowe’s Market, Ulysses News or contact the Grant County Chamber of Commerce. There will also be button sales available at the door. The cost is $10.00 per button, which includes the meal, collector button and live-entertainment. Dinner proceeds benefit the Grant County Scholarship foundation.
The Home Products Dinner will be held Tuesday, September 20 at 7:00 p.m. at the Grant County Civic Center.
Comments
No comments on this item Please log in to comment by clicking here