We Are All Connecticut Yankees:
Diversity in the 19th and Early 20th Century

Celebrating Ethnic Origins

Americans have always been proud of their diverse ethnic origins. Parades and holidays have traditionally provided opportunities for different groups to celebrate their heritage and share their traditions with their fellow citizens.

< Although the specific event depicted is not known, the costumes of the young women in this photograph reflect a wide spectrum of ethnic and religious backgrounds.

Chinese Dragon
Connecticut Tercentenary Parade
Hartford, October 12, 1935
Photo CD: 0533 File: Img0069.pcd

< In the parade celebrating the 300th anniversary of the founding of Connecticut on October 12, 1935, a traditional Chinese dragon represented the Asian origins of many Hartford citizens. Many other floats were sponsored by different national and religious organizations.

Tyrol Wagon at Berlin Fair
Berlin, 1906
Photo CD: 0542 File: Img0003.pcd

< Fairs provided a good opportunity for people to dress up in traditional national clothing. Berlin, named for the city in Germany, sponsored an agricultural fair from 1882 to 1919. The fair was revived in 1949.

Link to other essays in this Journey:

>> Introduction: We are All Connecticut Yankees
>> Becoming Americans
>> Diversity In The Workplace
>> Immigrant Entrepreneurs

>> Guideposts
>> Suggestions for further reading