Few are fortunate to be selected and honored as a Rhododendron Festival princess. However, to have a mother share that experience with her daughter 18 years later, makes it all the more exceptional. Linda Hayman Kalista and Alicia Kalista Albritton recently shared their fond memories and impact the annual event continues to have for them.
Linda Hayman Kalista was a senior at Siuslaw High School in 1973. As the Rhododendron Festival approached, she expressed an interest at school to be considered for a Rhody princess. Five were to be chosen. After being selected, each princess sold Rhody buttons to accumulate points, with the most buttons sold earning the title of Queen. Although she hadn’t acquired the most points, Linda was excited to be selected as a Princess.
First established in 1908, the Rhododendron Festival grew to become an annual celebration considered among the oldest festivals in the state.
That year, the Rhody Court was interviewed at the local radio station, and also made numerous out of town appearances. Accompanied by chaperones, and driven by Bill Karnowsky, they participated in the Lebanon Strawberry festival and parades at Newport, Waldport, Eugene, and Springfield. Without hesitation, Linda sums up her experience of being a Rhody princess as “a fun time”!
Today, the Rhody carnival and parade continues to be among the popular events of the festival. Linda recalls the princesses were instructed how to wave to parade viewers for their 1973 parade ride in a convertible Cadillac. The parade included 70 entries. 600 gallons of free clam chowder was distributed to everyone wearing a Rhody button.
Alicia Kalista Albritton was a 1991 Junior Princess while a Siuslaw Elementary School 4th grader. One student from each grade was chosen. For her family, it was a particularly special moment, as each Junior Princess was crowned by her father in the school gym. Alicia’s father had been on leave from military service, and able to return to Florence for the occasion. He is pictured in uniform, standing behind Alicia.
20,000 folks enjoyed the Parade activities that year. Among the events was the Seahorse Stagecoach Beach Rides wagon. The stagecoach provided sight-seeing rides along the beach from the North Jetty parking lot during the weekend.
THINGS WORTH SAVING
While speaking with them, it was clear an appreciation of their festival experiences remain close to their hearts. It’s easy to understand why Linda and Alicia have kept their princess dresses, sashes and crowns. The items provide special remembrances, just as the events of each year’s Rhododendron Festival continues to do for them, and all of us lucky enough to be there to enjoy it with friends and family.
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- Story by Deb Lobey
- oralhistory@spmuseum.org