For the Reporter

Auburn turns 123 this week, and City and community leaders are throwing a party.

The Auburn Downtown Association and the City of Auburn present the second annual birthday celebration, from 5 to 8 p.m. Friday, at the City Hall Plaza, 25 W. Main St.

The theme is “Our Town.” Auburn Poet Laureate Dick Brugger created a poem about Auburn, which has been translated into four commonly spoken languages in Auburn. The poem translations will be on display throughout the event venue.

Longtime families are creating story boards, and the White River Museum will display items from Auburn.

Anna Belle, the calf, from the historic Mary Olsen Farm, will appear at 6 p.m.

The Fabulous Murphtones will perform on stage.

Jason’s Bakery and Zola’s Café will provide free cupcakes. Simply Kettle Corn and the Longhorn BBQ Truck will sell snacks. A no-host beer garden will include local craft beers.

Auburn became an incorporated city in June 1881. At that time, however, the city was called Slaughter after U.S. Army Lt. William Slaughter, who served and was killed during the Indian Wars of 1855-56. Slaughter and his troops were assigned to protect settlers of the White River Valley.

For more information, visit www.auburndt.org.