The tradition continues: The Korth Family and the Ragamuffin Parade

Carnival and parade Sunday, October 25, rain or shine. See inside for details.
October 23, 2009
by Wayne Bass

William Korth, the owner of Korth and Shannahan Painting and sponsor of the 2009 Ragamuffin Parade and Carnival, bounded into the New Castle Recreation office with a smile and a proud gait. “I just want to share with you a picture that my Mom pulled out of the scrapbook. She is so happy that I’m sponsoring the Ragamuffin Parade and Carnival.” Mr. Korth pulled out a photo of his siblings dressed as the Seven Dwarfs at the 1963 parade. (He was born eight months later.)

It became obvious why Will was so willing to sponsor the parade. In fact, Will sold the idea of sponsoring the parade to the Recreation Department, when it should have been the other way around.

History, tradition, fond memories—all reasons for Will’s strong emotional attachment to the event and the New Castle community. What better way to show love for something than to support it?

Join the Town of New Castle and Korth and Shannahan Painting as we create new memories for the young and young at heart at the Annual Ragamuffin Parade and Carnival on SUNDAY, OCTOBER 25 . The Carnival begins at 12:30 p.m. at New Castle Town Hall and the Parade begins at 3:30 p.m. at the New Castle Train Station. In case of rain, we’ll use Bell Middle School, at 50 Senter Street.  Hotline information (914) 238-2540.

Here’s the caption that appeared with the photo printed in 1963:

HOW DO YOU dress seven children up for the Halloween? Mrs. Jerome Korth of 2 Rose Lane, Chappaqua, found one answer and put it to the test Saturday as the New Castle Recreation Commission held its annual “Ragamuffin Parade” from the railroad station to the Bell School. Portraying the Seven Dwarfs, are from left, Vicki, 4, as Sneezy; Jimmy, 7, as Grumpy; Madeline, 6, as Happy, Ellen, 8, as Doc; Katy, 10, as Sleepy; and Marian, 1 who plays Dopey from the vantage point of her stroller, Jerry 13, as Bashful, was too bashful and didn’t quite make it. Asked what she’d do if there was an eighth, Mrs. Korth had the right answer: “Then we’d have Snow White too.”

Wayne Bass is Assistant Superintendent of the New Castle Recreation and Parks Department

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