Central Ohio festival honors ‘Dixie’ writer

8/7/2013

MOUNT VERNON, Ohio — The Dan Emmett Music & Arts Festival kicks off tonight as it celebrates the legacy of the man who wrote the song “Dixie.”

Emmett, who was born and raised in Mount Vernon (which is northeast of Columbus in Knox County 134 miles from Toledo) was a songwriter in the 19th century who was said to be angry about the South co-opting his song as a rallying cry in the Civil War years. He also wrote a number of songs for the Union cause.

The festival opens today and runs until Sunday. It will feature historical re-enactments, performances by oldies act Phil Dirt and the Dozers, a Fine Arts & Handcraft Fair, bluegrass music, and a concert by the Osmonds.

For information about the festival go to danemmettfestival.org.