Live Music on the Mighty Mississippi

On August 23rd, the LeClaire Levee Pavilion was filled with the sounds of Celtic, bluegrass, and American folk music as the nationally acclaimed band Switchback took the stage for a free community concert. It was an absolutely beautiful day on the riverfront, providing the perfect acoustic backdrop for singers Marty McCormack and Brian Fritzgerald to entertain the LeClaire crowd with their signature harmonies, instrumental talent, and captivating storytelling.

Celebrating Our Immigrant Roots

The concert was much more than just a musical performance; it was a vibrant tribute to the resilience and culture of the region's early settlers. Centered around the theme, "The Music of the Irish and Scottish Immigrants," the event honored the ancestors who played a vital role in building LeClaire and the surrounding Quad Cities.

Switchback’s performance highlighted the rich cultural heritage brought by those who sought a new life in America. Through their music, the duo paid homage to the families who arrived after enduring immense hardships overseas, including:

• The aftermath of the Battle of Culloden

• The Scottish Highland Clearances

• The Irish 1798 uprising

• The Great Famine

These immigrants brought with them a profound, enduring work ethic and a beautiful musical tradition that continues to thrive and bring our community together today.

Exploring "LeClaire's First 100 Years"

In addition to putting on a fantastic show, Marty and Brian took the time to tour the Buffalo Bill Museum. Their visit perfectly aligned with the museum's brand-new exhibit, "LeClaire's First 100 Years."

Just as Switchback's music tells the stories of early immigrants, this new exhibit offers a deep dive into the specific events and people who shaped LeClaire during its foundational century. The concert on the levee served as a fantastic, interactive extension of the exhibit, quite literally bringing the history of the era to life through song.

A Special Thanks to Our Sponsors

Community events of this caliber are only possible through strong local partnerships. We want to extend a massive thank you to the Scottish American Society of the Quad Cities (SASQC) and the Buffalo Bill Museum for co-presenting and sponsoring this unforgettable afternoon.

Thank you to everyone who joined us on the riverfront to celebrate our shared history and enjoy an afternoon of incredible live music. If you haven't yet, be sure to stop by the Buffalo Bill Museum to experience the "LeClaire's First 100 Years" exhibit for yourself!