A monumental family reunion

BREMEN, Ind. -- Through the Great Depression, World War II, 17 different presidents, the COVID-19 pandemic and much more, the Laidig family has never failed to come together for a reunion around the Fourth of July. 

It was on July 4th, 1923, that John and Mary Laidig and their 12 children went out for an Independence Day picnic.

This year marks the 100th time the family has gathered and did so with a record attendance of around 350 people.

Family members traveled from all across the country; some from as far as California, Arizona, Boston and beyond to reunite where the very first family picnic took place.  

Memories abound at the gathering, with some recalling how their grandparents brought fresh fruit to the post-meal softball game, and others look back fondly on water balloon fights and games in the park.

With the tradition holding strong at year 100, the reunion organizers are positive the youngest generation will carry them on to 150 and beyond.