Bristolians prepare their homes for July 4th

BRISTOL, R.I. (WLNE) — Bristol residents take their 4th of July preparations seriously.

It’s not lost on first-time visitors like Grant Heminger of Franklin, Wisconsin.

“It’s the American dream here in Bristol, Rhode Island,” said Heminger, “where everybody’s found their niche and they’ve developed on that.”

That niche is classic Americana – with some extra touches.

The Ferris family’s historic home on High Street, built in 1878, is adorned with the traditional patriotic flags and buntings. 

But there are also red, white, and blue illuminated stars to keep the American spirit alive after dark.

Plus there’s an “At the Parade” sign — perhaps the holiday’s equivalent of “Gone Fishing.”

And new this year is a sign that says “Don’t Give Up.” It’s part of the Bristol Kindness Project to raise mental health awareness.

“You love people supporting other people, and being good neighbors,” said Ryder Harris. “That’s what it’s all about.”

That neighborly spirit is also shown by the large American flag that stretches between the Ferris home and the Daponte home next door.

“It unites us as friends and family,” said Sue Daponte. “It brings us together not only in the community, but it extends it a little bit further.”

Daponte has lived her entire life on the parade route, and for 25 years here on High Street. 

She also has enough guests at her house to need bleachers for parade viewing.

So she can handle the pressure to impress.

“Ater 25 years the pressure is gone,” Daponte said.

But it’s still leaving an impression.

“Sometimes it just doesn’t feel real,” Heminger said. “It feels like a fictional movie town. It’s beautiful. This is the place you want to be for the 4th of July.”

©WLNE-TV / ABC6 2019