FRANKLIN—Several events are planned as the City of Franklin marks its 50th anniversary this year.

On Dec. 22, 1961, Franklin became a city independent of Southampton County.

A committee of volunteers is planning events, including a Christmas parade on Friday, Dec. 2, and celebration on Friday, Dec. 9, at the Regional Development Workforce Center at Paul D. Camp Community College; the latter will benefit the Boys & Girls Club of Franklin.

“It is not planned that the events and activities during the year will cost a great deal,” said committee member Holt Livesay. “However, the committee has no source of funds other than contributions from interested citizens.”

A banner and signs for entrances to the city need to be funded, and T-shirts need to be paid for before they are sold to recoup production expense, Livesay said.

“Tax-exempt contributions to help pay for these activities and small items would be greatly appreciated,” he said.

Donations can be made payable to the Downtown Franklin Association and mailed to 120 S. Main St., Franklin, Va., 23851. Write “Franklin 50th Anniversary” on the memo line. Any excess contributions will be donated to the Boys & Girls Club.

Nancy Parrish is planning to write a historical cookbook and would appreciate donations for the project. Parrish is looking for old, local recipes and potential buyers for the book. She can be reached at 562-2458.

For information on the anniversary events, call Livesay at 562-2600.