THE TRADITION BEGAN in the midst of a time of economic stress: The Great Depression. A Dayton, Ohio, newspaper photographer, Myron "Scottie" Scott, saw a bunch of kids racing homemade cars down a hill and imagined the potential of a community event. In 1933, an amazing 362 kids showed up with homemade, engine-less cars to compete. Even more amazingly, 40,000 people lined the streets to watch the world's first "soap-box derby."

Fredericksburg joined in the fun in 1948, and although there has been a hiatus or two, the cherished tradition persists. On Saturday, 120 racers will compete in four derby divisions, zooming down William Street for a chance to represent Fredericksburg in the nationals in Akron, Ohio.

The derby is good, clean (and non-electronic) family fun--and a great way to spend your Saturday morning.