Harvey A. Humphrey Ball
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The Harvey A. Humphrey Ball is an event that has been held annually for over half a century, with the exception of the years 1941, 1942, 1943, 1944, 1971, 2004, 2005, and 2006. This wonderful and extravagent takes place in Rochester, NY to commemorate the greatness of not just one man, but many Harveys. In each and every one of the years that the Ball was held, it was a magnanimous and unanimous success.
Throughout the years, the Ball has taken on many forms and faces. From the HUAAC days of the 1950's, to ACDC's surprise appearence at the 1986 event, it is considered by many to be one of the greatest, if not the greatest, celebrations of American Freedom.
Typically the event is held as a Black Tie Affair, with Formal Attire required. The exception, and it was a memorable one, was the 1976 Ball which coincided with the American Bicentenial. To celebrate the importance of the American way of life, attendees were required to wear powdered wigs and stockings.
Usually held at 593 Mt Hope Ave, across from the home of the University of Rochester President, distinguished guests such as Senators, Congressmen, and Swansons have been known to attend. Its signficance to American history is indisputable. Although Balls have traditionally been recognized as a strictly European affair, this particular event marks a special epoch in the ressurection of genteel traditions in America.
One of only a few events of such magnitude in upstate New York, local historians see it as a defining moment in Rochester's history. Although the city is often only associated with Kodak and Xerox - businesses which are now ailing as the digital revolution has destroyed their competetive edge - the Ball helps distinguish Rochester as a city of culture, class and cachet.
The origional motivation for the Ball was Harvey Humphrey influential and patriotic catch phrase, "I may not be Martin Van Buren, but I still like to eat."
While the majority of Americans understand that Martin Van Buren was short, they fail to comprehend that he was still President. It was with Harvey's bold statement in mind that the original founders of the Ball began this annual affair. Today the significance of Harvey's great assertion is celebrated by a massive Party every spring.
Harvey's address to the attendees at the 1963 Ball stills maintains its significance today, despite the world's reliance on technology and the internet. His concluding remarks should be remembered and cherished by all. "I thank you for attending this event; it is big and there are a lot of you. Rochester may only have two tall buildings, but you can one day be tall too!"
