ROCKPORT — Fifty years ago, Rockport natives Karen Muniz and her brother Leo Devellian decided to honor America on its Bicentennial by riding their unicycles in the town’s Fourth of July parade.
This Saturday, the siblings will replicate that feat during this year Fourth of July parade, which will honor the 250th celebration of the signing of the Declaration of Independence.
And as they did in 1976, Devellian, a Boxford resident, and Muniz will be donning period dress for the ride.
“Fifty years ago, I was dressed as Betsy Ross and he was dressed as Uncle Sam,” Muniz said. “We will be dressed the same way on Saturday.”
For Devellian, mounting the unicycle is a snap. He has much experience participating in bicycle races, including competing in the Mount Washington Auto Road Bicycle Hillclimb.
“My brother is a great cyclist,” Muniz said. “This comes easy to him.”
Devellian admits the inspiration for participating in Saturday’s parade comes from his sister.
“It’s only because she asked me,” he said. “I haven’t been on a unicycle for the past 50 years.”
Devellian said his father essentially was the reason the pair rode in the Bicentennial parade.
“The only reason I learned is because our dad bribed us,” he said. “I was able to ride from point A to point B.”
For Muniz, the renewed effort will take a little doing.
“It’s just a unique thing to do,” she said. “Some of my friends who are still around have said that it’s great we’re doing this. We’ve had that kind of response.”
Like her brother, Muniz said she has not ridden a unicycle in decades.
“I need to practice a lot before I do this,” she said.
Muniz, who still lives in Rockport, said the pair will ride again to honor their father, Richard Devellian, who lived in Rockport for a time.
“My father was an adventurer,” she said. “He lived life to the fullest. He was kind of known around here. He did so many things with a positive attitude. We’re trying to observe his legacy. We’re definitely doing this to honor him.”
Muniz said it was her idea to ride again.
“It was definitely my idea,” she said. “My brother is very kind to do this. I think the most important part is being able to do this and have fun 50 years later.”
Stephen Hagan may be contacted at 978-675-2708, or shagan@gloucestertimes.com.