The Bracken Cavaliers of Bristol were one of the best drum and bugle corps in Pennsylvania from 1924 to 1974, writes JD Mullane for Philly Burbs.

They used to be a mainstay at public celebrations throughout Bucks County and won a slew of titles in the state and racked up local and regional wins.

“When you saw those uniforms, and you heard those drums, it was powerful, it was emotional,” said Art Younglove, a former member and later director of the corps in the 1950s and 1960s.

But as times and tastes changed, the corps came to an end in the mid-1970s.

Now, Younglove is hoping for a final blast of glory for the Bracken Cavaliers, who will mark their 100th anniversary next year. He is calling all cadets who once marched with the corps to return to Bristol to perform at Historic Bristol Day.

“Some of us are still around,” said Younglove.

A group of alumni horn players also continued to perform as the Cavaliers. They practice twice a month and group up on special occasions to hold fundraisers to travel and perform.

Read more about the Cavaliers in Philly Burbs.

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