In 1865, Augusta observed the Fourth of July in peace after the war had been won, celebrating with a procession, an oration, and a dinner at the Augusta House. The day began with a cavalcade of Fantastic Bummers marching through the streets dressed as outlandish characters, mounted on horseback and riding in decorated carriages. The procession included soldiers, government officials, fraternity society members, firefighters, citizens, and several floats. Among them was The Car "America," bedecked with flowers, patriotic emblems, and flags, and carrying young ladies representing every state in the Union. The float was drawn by 10 horses attended to by African-Americans, many of whom were former slaves.