The Hamilton County Community Band, under the direction of Sam Ross (right) performs at the Aurora Cemetery on Memorial Day, May 27, 1986. Ross had been instrumental in the formation of the Centennial Band for Aurora’s 100th birthday celebration in 1971. The band was later renamed the Hamilton County Community Band. This would be Ross’s final performance with the band, as he died of a heart attack at the same event shortly after the photo was taken. (Photo courtesy of Plainsman Museum)
The Hamilton County Community Band is celebrating 120 years of making music with a debut performance at the Nebraska State Fair this year. On Monday, Aug. 25 at 7 p.m., the band will perform at the Earl May Fair Square.