A look back at Homecomers

Southeast Missourian archives A panoramic photo from the 1909 Jackson Homecomers, the second annual celebration.

Southeast Missourian archives Boys watched the 1971 talent contest at Jackson Homecomers.

Southeast Missourian archives Pam Arnold tried her luck in the ladies skillet throw contest in 1989.

Southeast Missourian archives Concessions at the 1970 Jackson Homecomers.

Fred Lynch photo Jackson Homecomers in 1981.

Southeast Missourian archives Bumper Boats at the 1986 Jackson Homecomers.

Southeast Missourian archives Jackson Homecomers ride in 1983.

Fred Lynch photo Keiki McBride, center, of Cape Girardeau, smiled after bring crowned the 1987 Jackson Homecomers Queen. Cheryl Schreiner, left, of Oak Ridge, was first runner u, and Julie Janet, right, of Perryville, was second runner up.

Southeast Missourian archives City of Jackson employee Jim Bell set up lights on stage for Homecomers in 1988.

Southeast Missourian archives Opening night of the 1988 Jackson Homecomers.

Photo courtesy of Jackson Heritage Association A celebration at the old courthouse.

Photo courtesy of Jackson Heritage Association Another photo of the old Jackson courthouse.

Photo courtesy of Jackson Heritage Association Another view of the old courthouse.

Southeast Missouri archives Gina Beussink, center, of Gordonville, was the 1988 Homecomers Queen. Pictured with 2nd runner-up Shelley Pietsek, left, of Ste. Genevieve, Mo., and first runner-up Jaclyn Smith of Cape Girardeau.

Southeast Missourian archives A toddler rides the merry-go-round in 1970.

Southeast Missourian archives Old friends catch up at the 1970 Jackson Homecomers.

Southeast Missourian archives Eric and Heather Birk of Jackson steer bumper boats at the 1989 Homecomers.

Southeast Missourian archives Curtis (left) and Blake Ackman steer bumper boats in 1986.

Southeast Missourian archives Jason Barber of Cape Girardeau (striped shirt) plays a game at the 1987 Homecomers.

Congressman Bill Emerson tried his hand at "fishing" with ping-pong ball at Homecomers in 1989. (Fred Lynch)

Southeast Missourian archives A scene from the 1983 celebration.

Southeast Missourian archives Three girls take a ride during the 1971 Homecomers.

Southeast Missourian archives A scene from 1971.

Photo courtesy of Jackson Heritage Association A panoramic shot from the first Homecomers celebration showing both courthouses.