‘The day will be the most memorable in the history of America. I am apt to believe that it will be celebrated by succeeding generations as the great anniversary festival…It ought to be solemnized with pomp and parade…bonfires and illuminations from one end of this continent to the other, from this day forward forevermore.”

John Adams wrote the above words on July 3, 1776 to his wife after the Continental Congress proclaimed the American colonies independent of England.

The illuminations Adams wrote of are fireworks — an American tradition that goes back to our country’s very beginning.

On Independence Day, many Lincoln County residents enjoy shooting fireworks purchased at local fireworks stands.

“Fireworks can take away any stress, or things going on in your mind,” Bryer Townsend said. “Shooting fireworks are a great way to make memories and have family fun.”

Townsend runs a fireworks stand on Hwy 84 with his wife Cassidy and family. Cassidy said she believes fireworks bring out an adult’s inner kid when they walk under their tent.

“I’ve seen grown ups that are more excited than the kids,” Townsend said. “I see a lot of grandparents buying for their grandchildren. It’s great for entertaining the kids and making memories.”

According to American Pyrotechnics Association, more fireworks are ignited on the Fourth of July than for any other national celebration in the world. Last year 225.3 million pounds of fireworks were purchased.  Consumer fireworks revenue has grown from $284 million in 1998 to $695 million in 2014. Display fireworks have seen a similar trend, rising from $141 million to $332 million.

In an interview with National Geographic, APA executive director Julie Heckman said 90 percent of consumer fireworks revenue is based on Independence Day, and in the professional display industry it makes up 75 percent.

Locally, stand workers say they are flooded with business the closer it gets to the 4th, and even big ticket items sell fast.

Brandon Hood, of Hood’s fireworks on Hwy 84, said they have a repeat customer who typically spends $2,000 or more at their stand.  Bryer Townsend said the most expensive items at their stand range from $300 to $400 dollars, which include consumer fireworks similar to what is seen at a professional show.

Fellow employee Adam Whittington said shooting fireworks is a great way to enjoy time with family.

“It brings everybody together— some people that don’t shoot fireworks don’t know what they are missing.”

Brandon Hood said that while selling fireworks in the days surrounding the Fourth might take some of the excitement out of shooting fireworks with his family, seeing the joy in his children’s faces makes it all worth it.

“I have young kids, and seeing them enjoying it really makes it worthwhile,” Hood said.