Kilties Drum and Bugle Corps to lead the Springfield Christmas Parade in celebration of 100 years
The Central High School Kiltie Drum and Bugle Corps have been a staple of the Springfield Christmas Parade for decades, but this year they’re taking the leading role of Grand Marshals in recognition of their 100-year anniversary.
“Being asked to be the grand marshals of the parade was both surprising and deeply honoring,” said Sunday Wildschuetz, Kilties sponsor and former Kiltie. “It fills us with pride to know that our community values and celebrates the legacy of Kilties and enjoys the spark of joy we bring to the holiday season.”
The current group of Kilties and alumni will lead the parade on Saturday, Dec. 13, starting at 2 p.m. in downtown Springfield, Mo. This opportunity shows the important impact the Kilties have had not just on Central and Springfield Public Schools, but on the community of Springfield.
“The Kilties and the other musical entries are my favorite part of the Springfield Christmas Parade. Their music and energy really bring the whole thing together and make this a can’t-miss holiday event,” said Marilyn Glorfeld, manager of the Springfield Christmas Parade. “The Kilties’ 100 year legacy is an incredible feat and something we need to celebrate. We’re honored to have them as our Grand Marshals for this year’s parade.”
The Kilties hold the distinction of being the oldest continually running, all-female uniformed Scottish drum and bugle corps in the United States. They have been a proud Springfield tradition since their founding in 1926 by R. Ritchie Robertson.
“Celebrating the 100th anniversary of the nation's oldest all-female, uniformed drum and bugle corps feels both powerful and emotional,” said Wildschuetz. “It is a century of dedication, discipline, parades and sisterhood that is a part of something extraordinary. It is a unique organization of women, mothers/daughters, aunts/nieces and sisters with a legacy that is unmatched. One hundred years later, we are still marching forward and looking into the future.”