By DC Comics
The cover of Batman #237 is shown, one of the 13 comic books that mention Rutland. See the full exhibit, many courtesy of Royal Barnard, former owner of the Mountain Times, in an ongoing exhibit at Rutland Rec’s Courcelle Building.
Friday, Aug. 18, 6 p.m.—RUTLAND— The Rutland Recreation and Parks Department is celebrating the history of the city Halloween Parade and its ties to the world of comic books with the opening of the Rutland Halloween Parade Museum. This will consist of a permanent exhibit in the Courcelle Building featuring large painted panels that were displayed on floats in the 1960s through the 1980s, historic photos, and several comic books featuring the parade.
The main focus of the exhibit is how the parade became a destination and hub of activity in the comic community in the 60s and 70s. Most of the stories featuring Rutland and the Halloween Parade were written by artists that attended the parade, such as Steve Englehart, George Conway, Roy Thomas, and more. The Halloween Parade was the setting for the first unofficial crossover between Marvel and DC in 1972, 45 years ago.
Nathan Allen wrote an article in the Mountain Times, in 2012, that read in part: “Tom Fagan is considered the founder of the Rutland Halloween Parade, which began in 1960. A writer for the Rutland Herald, he was a well-known comic book fan who counted many famous comic artists and writers of the day as his friends. He wrote letters and encouraged his friends in the business to support his efforts promoting what would become the largest and longest running Halloween parade. Not surprisingly, the event had a strong superhero theme as Fagan and his comic book friends were often present and in costume.
And it worked in reverse, too. Soon the city of Rutland and the parade became popular location in comic books. Batman #237, Justice League of America #103, Amazing Adventures #16 and Thor #207, are just four of over 13 issues that mention Rutland specifically.”
The opening will occur on Aug. 18 from 6-8 p.m. in the Courcelle Building at 16 North Street Extension in Rutland. Light refreshments will be provided.
