David Mugar, the businessman and philanthropist who transformed the Boston Pops July Fourth concert and fireworks show from a small local event, into a nationally-televised extravaganza, passed away this week.
Terrorism expert and frequent WATD contributor, Colonel Dave Gavigan, said he had an unusual experience when he first met Mugar. He hosted a dinner for first responders at his home.
Gavigan says this was just part of his surprise.
Mugar was 82, no cause of death was provided. The city’s free July Fourth concert started in 1929, but by the mid-1970s its popularity and crowds had dwindled.
Mugar suggested to his longtime friend Boston Pops conductor Arthur Fiedler that the show add cannon fire, church bells, fireworks over the Charles River, and a rendition of Tchaikovsky’s “1812 Overture.”
The show’s popularity soared and today it draws about 500,000 people.
Listen to the interview with WATD’s Christine James here:
