In a unique celebration of Independence Day, the Northwest Hills Lawn Chair Brigade has become a beloved fixture in Austin’s Fourth of July festivities. The informal group, which combines humor with choreography, is dedicated to keeping the holiday spirit alive in a quirky manner.
The inception of the Brigade traces back to the early 1990s when Jeremy and Lyn Hendricks first encountered the group during a parade. Dressed in vibrant red, white, and sparkling outfits, a cadre of women captivated the couple with their lively drill routines utilizing vintage lawn chairs. Lyn was immediately drawn in and soon became an integral part of the Brigade, eventually taking on the self-appointed role of the hospitality chair, complete with Jell-O shots for practice sessions.
Despite his support, Jeremy found himself often questioning Lyn about the Brigade’s origins, leading to amusing exchanges about whether she was part of a cult. Determined to uncover the truth, a recent inquiry into the Brigade’s history revealed its rich and entertaining background.
Ann Denkler, the long-serving leader of the Brigade, recounted her experiences with the group, noting that she frequently receives recognition in her community. Over the years, she has accumulated numerous ribbons for her participation, but even she was unaware of the Brigade’s exact beginnings when she joined in 1999.
With a spirit of inquiry, Denkler sought the origins of the Brigade, reaching out to neighbors and even accessing her long-dormant AOL account for information. Her efforts led her to Marilyn Hill-Henderson, the founding member who first gathered women to march in the parade back in 1992. Hill-Henderson’s vision was inspired by both a desire to connect with her neighbors and a nostalgic nod to her days as a high school majorette.
Her idea was further influenced by a male drill team known for their briefcase routines, which led her to consider using lawn chairs as a playful alternative. Along with fellow neighbors Pattie Meyers and Juliet Vanderploeg, Hill-Henderson initiated a tradition that began with simple performances in a cul-de-sac.
Initially dubbed the “Tacky Texas Tarts,” the group soon evolved, attracting new members like PJ Pierce, who became a key figure after enthusiastically expressing her desire to join. However, discrepancies in the group’s origin stories emerged, particularly regarding whether lawn chairs were part of the initial performances.
As the years passed, original members moved on, but the Brigade continued to thrive under the leadership of Pierce and later Denkler, transforming into a cherished community tradition. With an emphasis on inclusivity, the Brigade attracted not only women but occasionally men, creating a vibrant atmosphere that celebrated humor and camaraderie.
With growth came challenges, particularly in securing enough vintage lawn chairs—an essential element for performances. Members have utilized various methods to source chairs, including estate sales and community donations, with Denkler humorously noting the tension with her husband over her collection of 21 chairs.
In a spirited endeavor to understand the Brigade firsthand, an aspiring journalist donned a blue tutu and joined a rehearsal, immersing herself in the joyous antics of the group. During practices, members expressed their motivations for participating, with many echoing sentiments of fun and whimsy, underscoring the importance of joy in their lives.
Beyond entertainment, the Brigade fosters deep connections among its members, creating a sense of sisterhood that thrives even amidst challenges, such as the loss of a beloved member. This bond and the spirit of celebration continue to resonate within the community, ensuring the Brigade remains a highlight of the Fourth of July festivities.
As the Lawn Chair Brigade prepares to take to the streets once more, they invite everyone to join in the fun and experience the magic that comes from laughter and togetherness. Keep an eye out for them as they march proudly down Far West, showcasing both their vibrant spirit and colorful lawn chairs.
For those interested, a recording of the Brigade’s story was featured during an ATXplained Live event at Bass Concert Hall, capturing the essence of this unique community celebration.
