Photo Essay: “Mardi Gras Balls of Years Past”

Carroll County Times Article for 21 January 1996

By Jay A. Graybeal

Two years ago, the Historical Society revived a recent tradition of sponsoring an annual Mardi Gras ball in Westminster. The St. Mary’s Guild of the Ascension Episcopal Church sponsored annual Mardi Gras balls from 1966 to 1974; the event benefited a number of local charities. Each year the volunteer committee selected a different theme and decorated the Riding Club with a colorful decorations.

This selection of photographs presents a pictorial overview of some of the past balls. The Historical Society would like to thank Dr. and Mrs. Jack Harshey and Ascension Episcopal Church for loaning the images for this article.
Photo caption 1: Mr. Wilfred Biegert Koch donned an Indian headdress for the 1st Annual Mardi Gras Ball held in 1966. Courtesy of Ascension Episcopal Church.
Photo caption 2: Mrs. Wilfred B. Koch wore a print dress, moccasins and headband at the 1st Annual Mardi Gras Ball. Mrs. Koch served on the committee that planned the 1st annual ball. Courtesy of Ascension Episcopal Church.
Photo caption 3: Mr. and Mrs. Herbert H. Liggon, Jr. posed near the home of the seven dwarfs at the 5rd Annual Mardi Gras Ball held in 1970. The theme of the 1970 ball was “Fairy Tales.” Courtesy of Ascension Episcopal Church.
Photo caption 4: Dr. and Mrs. Jack Harshey went as Aladin and a genie at the 7th ball in 1972. “Around the World in Eighty Days was the theme in 1972. Courtesy of Dr. and Mrs. Jack Harshey.
Photo caption 5: Mrs. Allan W. Roadcap and Mr. Frank H. Libman were crowned King and Queen of the 9th Annual Mardi Gras Ball in 1974. “Under the Big Top” was the theme of the last ball. Courtesy of Ascension Episcopal Church.
Side bar copy: The Historical Society will host the 3rd Annual Mardi Gras Ball on Saturday, February 17th at Wilhelm Ltd. Caterers in Westminster. Co-Chairs Janet Hollinger and Molly McEvoy and a dedicated committee have planned a fabulous evening of New Orleans style food, music and entertainment. Live music will be provided by the Peabody conservatory’s David Alan Bunn Sextet. The band is well known for it performance of authentic jazz and big band music. Wilhelm’s will prepare an authentic meal of cajun/creole cuisine. For reservations or additional information, please contact the Historical Society at 848-6494.