CARMICHAEL, CA (MPG) - Once a colony, now a proudly unincorporated community in Sacramento County, Carmichael marks its 112^th anniversary this Saturday, September 25.

A day-long festival in Carmichael Park will commemorate the 1909 real estate venture of town founder Daniel Carmichael. The Georgian-born entrepreneur purchased two large chunks of the old San Juan land grant and carved these into 10-acre blocks. Pioneers bought farmlets for around $1000 each. Prior to this development, Charles and Mary Deterding raised food crops on river bottomlands now occupied by Ancil Hoffman Park.

Earlier families had established ranches a few miles north. From the 1860s, the Coyle farmhouse stood where Mercy San Juan Medical Center now sprawls. Other trailblazers included the Deweys, the Kellys and the O’Donnels; these clans are now honored by streets names, parks and schools. Before Daniel Carmichael’s settlers populated the colony, only scattered dwellings punctuated vast spaces between the American River and Sacramento City.

Saturday’s anniversary promises much festivity. With a 10 a.m. kickoff, the program includes a pirate school and buccaneer-themed games. A live music slot features classic rock hits from the Mere Mortals band. The Kingdom of Lost Souls will present medieval-style battles. There will also be obstacle courses, cornhole, and mural making for kids.

A mini zoo will offer bunnies, goats and other farmyard critters for petting. A Founders Day tradition continues with a giant car show that assembles at the Grant Avenue park corner. Admission for most attractions is free. Food and beverages will be available for purchase from food trucks.

Anyone may attend Founders Day. For more information, call (916) 485-5322.