In celebration of the first annual Hamlin Heritage Day August 27 and in recognition of the town's Sesquicentennial, children of all ages are invited to grab their crayons, watercolors, pens and ink and make a picture of a piece of Hamlin that has survived over the last 150 years.

Whatever Hamlin and its history mean to you - an orchard or a horse drawn plow or a well known building or a picture of Hannibal Hamlin himself for whom the town was named (and whose birthday is August 27) or any topic that tells something about Hamlin's history - can be drawn, painted, illustrated or represented in any fashion on an 8 1/2 x 11 inch piece of paper. Drop the artwork off (identified with your name and phone number) at the Hamlin Town Clerk's office where it will be displayed. It is planned that the artwork will be the beginning of a scrapbook to be displayed and added to in coming years. All participants will be given a copy of "A Young People's History of the Town of Hamlin" a coloring book prepared by Town Historian Mary Smith which portrays 'Hamlin's colorful history.'

The Sesquicentennial Committee is still developing plans for the entire family to enjoy Hamlin Heritage Day, August 27, to be held at the Town Hall beginning at 6 p.m. A supper will be available for purchase by the Lions Club until the official ceremony begins at 7 p.m. Various town, county and state officials will be in attendance that evening to honor past supervisors and present the first Hamlin Heritage Awards. Entertainment will be provided throughout the evening. Free birthday cake and beverages will be available at the end of the evening. Souvenirs of the town's history will be available for purchase and there will be free bubbles for children attending. A free drawing will be held with the winner in attendance that evening receiving a framed copy of the Town of Hamlin folk art map.

In the spirit of the Sesquicentennial theme, the committee invites everyone to come dressed in period costume - whether it be something around 1852 when the town was formed or the 1940s or '60s or '80s. Pick up an official nominating form at the Town Hall to enter a candidate for the first Hamlin Heritage Award honoring those residents of Hamlin who have made lasting contributions to the quality of life in the town.

For information, contact the Town Clerk's office or Paul Rath, chairman of the Sesquicentennial Committee.