The Derby Days Origin Story
The following is an excerpt form the 1973 Derby Days souvenir book given out at the 20th annual Derby Days.
In 1953, the Trullinger & Eustice Store observed its 50th year of business in Yamhill by inviting the public to share in a day of celebration. A breakfast was erred and generous prizes-including a refrigerator and twenty dollar gold pieces were given away. Everyone attending seemed to enjoy the old time atmosphere and gaiety. The anniversary celebration sparked the beginnings of Derby Days
Joann Allyn & Tracy Martin dressed up for Derby Days 1953
In May 1954, through the dedicated effort of a number of Yamhill businessmen, preparations for Derby Days began. Frank VanLoo, Joe Allyn, RJ Wulf, Don Mahar and Rev. John H MacDonald were enthusiastic organizers.
Don Mahar, who was the local barber, was interested in soapbox derby racing, and with this activity in mind, the celebration took form. Five hundred black derby day hats were made available at T&E and VanLoo Grocery to advertise the upcoming event.
Rev. John MacDonald from the Methodist Church, solicited money from the community. With $135.00 collected, prizes were provided for the races and other expenses. Joe Allyn, manager of T&E Store and RJ Wulf, of Wulf Fuel Co., pooled together $10.00 and hired Heck Harper-a radio and TV personality-to spend- art of the day in Yamhill. He entertained with western music and talk from a flatbed truck in front of T&E. The store, celebrating it 51st anniversary, held a drawing and gave away many prizes.
About 2,000 people witnessed the parade and the antique display. Miss Yamhill - Barbara Jean Strode, rode in a 1928 Ford driven by Richard Wade.
The day’s activities were focused along the Main Street, where clubs and churches provided booths where a varied menu of food and fun was provided. Mrs. Arlene Reiner and Mrs. MacDonald recalled nearly burning up the electric skillets making hamburgers all day. Derby hats, vests and armbands were worn by some and provided a nostalgic atmosphere.
Yamhill Derby Day soapbox races 1954
The soapbox derby ramp was constructed near the Methodist Church, with lumber donated by Frank Stiller. The street was blocked off and the little cars sped down the hill by the old fire hall and were hopefully stopped by assistants below. The prizes were presented by Mrs. MacDonald and her daughter Mrs. Lee Shinn.
Twenty two boys participated in the lively event. Harold Thies received 1st prize, Larry Belt received 2nd, and Dennis Mahar received 3rd.
Horses at the Derby Days in 1954
That first Derby Days event raised $35.00 for the community and was considered an outstanding success.
In 1955, the Derby Day queen and court were added to the list of activities. A free merry-go-round was provided by Davidson’s Bread Company through the efforts of Frank VanLoo. The Yamhill Firemen sponsored a public dance at the Masonic Hall.
In 1956, the chug-mobile races joined the roster. These small-engine hand-built cars raced in the intersection of Main Street and provided hours of wild entertainment. Bales of hay were placed around the area to separate the spectators from the race, which was a very spirited and always noisy and exciting. Those participating in this race were Wayne Stonebrink, Sherill Adcock, Don Mahar, and Charles Stiller.
Wayne Stonebrink on a Chug-mobile on Main Street in Yamhill 1956
The goal and atmosphere of Derby Days has varied very little since those first celebrations in the 1950s. A kickoff breakfast, talent show, various surprise events and a souvenir booklet have been added over the years. The chug-mobiles have disbanded.
Jerry VanLoo & George Stewart at Derby Days in the early 1950s
Many, many people are responsible for Derby Days outstanding success for twenty (now 70+) years, and their greatest reward is that you keep coming back.
Derby Days Booklet from 1973 on the 20th Anniversary