By all accounts, it was a great Scopes Centennial Celebration in July.
From the sold-out performances of Destiny in Dayton, the dramatization of the Scopes Trial presented in the courtroom where the trial took place, the symposium, the classic car display, to the Dinner with the Cast, attendees expressed their appreciation and encouragement, and left Dayton with a better understanding why we celebrate the trial.
July’s festivities kicked off July 10 with a “grand opening” of the newly renovated Circuit Courtroom where John Scopes was put on trial. County Executive Jim Vincent welcomed a crowd of county employees, cast members’ families and friends, and complimented the county crew that completed the task.
On July 11–12, sell-out crowds filled the courtroom as the Destiny cast brought the Scopes Trial to life. Outside on the courthouse lawn, visitors enjoyed a variety of games and exhibits – not to mention free hot dogs and ice cream.
On July 16–17, speakers examined some of the many aspects of the Trial, from its origins to the reverberations our society is experiencing today.
July 18 and 19 wrapped up the celebration with a display of 1920s-era vehicles from the Coker Museum in Chattanooga, two more sold-out performances of Destiny, and Dinner with the Cast at Dayton City School—moved from the courthouse lawn because of rain.
