IT’S TIME to celebrate in Shadyside which was incorporated as a village 100 years ago in December.

The community continued in that status until 1970 when it became a city. The community, however, reverted to a village after the 1990 census.

In honor of its incorporation, special, varied events began today and will continue through Sunday. In addition, there are brochures available, featuring the town’s unique loop.

Shadyside has had a long association with the narrow gauge railroad. The centennial celebration is featuring the narrow gauge and area history displays in the Community Building, and Bill Logan, a railroad historian, will speak on that railroad’s history Saturday from 4-5 p.m.

Individual historical loop strolls featuring past and present sites are slated today until 5 p.m., and the library will provide loop brochures, light refreshments and bus transportation with a tour guide for those who prefer to ride. A movie is planned from 2-4, and the Shadyside football game will be an away event.

Food, crafts, entertainment, an open tour of Mayflower Vehicle Systems, a parade Saturday at 2 p.m., an antique car show Saturday from 4-8 p.m., music by the Community Band, Shadyside High Alumni Band, the Vinyl Classic Band and Joe Mastracci are among the activities included on the schedule.

Saturday’s activities will conclude at the football field where the Hawaiian Fire Dancers will perform with fireworks to follow.

After Sunday morning church services, a community social will be held at the basketball courts, and social entertainment is planned. Activities will continue until 5 p.m. when closing remarks are scheduled.

Chamber centennial calendars, mugs and Remembrance/Recipe books will be sold during the celebration.

THE VILLAGE’S name dates from the late 19th century. A resident James Leisure planted evergreen trees along the turnpike bordering his land and then hung up a small white board on which he had painted the word, “Shadyside” In 1879, when the narrow gauge railroad was constructed, a mall platform, known as Shadyside Station, was opposite Leisure’s gateway.

Shadyside’s rich history is being brought to the forefront with centennial activities.