“Large Crowd and All Had Good Time,” reported the July 8, 1904 Skidmore Standard:
The Day Closed With a Grand Display of Fire Works at Night
The Fourth has come and gone. The day was fittingly observed here. Elder W. A. Haynes, pastor of the Christian Church, delivered an address in the forenoon, which was very appropriate. Senator Francis M. Wilson of Platte City was present, but owing to the condition of his throat, he was compelled to excuse himself from delivering an address. The Declaration of Independence was recited by Miss Julia M. Ward. Speeches were then delivered by Revs. Campbell, Welton and Edmonds. An Address by Hon. C. F. Cochran, Congressman from this district, was the next on the program, which was well received by the large crowd which had assembled to hear him.
The amusement committee had arranged for several races which proved to be interesting to all present.
The drill put on by the Royal Neighbors certainly shows the mark of good leadership and the people were loud in their praise.
The fire works was next in order, which was carried out at the north part of West High street. The Skidmore band furnished music for the occasion with the aid of the glee club. The music was of a good quality and enjoyed by all. The large crowd which was present were very orderly and all seemed to enjoy themselves.