Around 1972, residents of Leavenworth, Washington started
meeting to discuss how they could support the good will of the "Bavarian Village".
In 1974, these men formed a nonprofit organization "The Royal
Bavarians" with Owen Watson as their first "Kanzler" [President]. The other members were Lynn Watson,
Lenard Smith, Wilfred Davy, Bill Garett and Dick Stroup.
The Royal Bavarians is a
State registered nonprofit organization. They are members of the Northwest Festival Hosting Group, an association of
around a dozen Pacific Northwest Community Festivals, and are recognized as the official hosts and guest greeters of City
of Leavenworth.
Included in their mission:
1. Support the Autumn Leaf Festival and escort the Float in various parades in the
Pacific Northwest and provide a hosting packet for "Out-Of-Town" Festival Dignitaries when they attend
the Autumn Leaf Festival.
2. Assist the Royal
Lady of the Autumn Leaves whenever it is necessary.
3.
Support the Leavenworth Chamber of Commerce with their functions including Mai-fest and Christmas Lighting Festivals.
4. Support Christmas Concerts and other Choral Concerts by greeters
of patrons.
5. Participate in the "Adopt-A-Highway"
program and clean the roadway on Highway 2 in the Tumwater Canyon.
The Royal Bavarians donate to
the Community Cupboard and distribute Food to needy families in the Leavenworth area.
When needed, the Royal Bavaians collect stuffed "Bears" to donate to the Chelan
County Sheriff's "Care Bears Program".
