By Cary Shuman
Party organizer Artie Ells, attired in his traditional red, white and blue costume, speaks to the many guests at the annual July Fourth celebration.
Artie Ells stands alone when it comes to hosting Fourth of July celebrations in Chelsea.
Since the nation’s bicentennial in 1976, Ells has opened his Palmer Street home to hundreds of friends and neighbors each Independence Day—a tradition spanning 40 years.
This year, City Manager Tom Ambrosino personally presented Ells with a proclamation acknowledging his patriotic spirit and long service to Chelsea. Ambrosino joins a distinguished roster of dignitaries, including U.S. Presidents Reagan, Bush (41 and 43), Clinton, and Trump, who have sent official letters recognizing Ells’s civic and patriotic work.
The gathering goes by the official name “Artie’s July 4tH Celebration.” Each year on that date (postponed to July 5 only once due to rain), Artie transforms his backyard into a “Party with Artie” extravaganza where guests of all ages enjoy barbecued hot dogs, hamburgers, sausages, and steak alongside live music, pool swimming, and children’s games.
A massive 24-by-30-foot American flag adorns the space, complemented by “God Bless America” signs and red, white, and blue bunting throughout.
Artie, his wife Tish, and their son Matt—assistant director of athletic operations at Northeastern University—distributed blue “Party With Artie” t-shirts to attendees. Wearing his signature red, white, and blue outfit, Artie led everyone in singing “God Bless of America.”
How did this 40-year tradition of celebrating America’s birthday begin?
Ells explained that he received an American flag flown at the U.S. Capitol Building on July 4, 1976. This flag has been displayed at every party since.
“I wanted to hold a celebration to provide a nice day for people and honor our country and salute American patriotism,” Ells stated. “I don’t want people to forget the great country we live in and what America stands for. It never hurts to be patriotic and believe in the country that you live in.”
Notable guests over the decades have included Major League Baseball players Wade Boggs, Danny Darwin, and John Henry Johnson. Former Massachusetts Governor Edward King attended one celebration, and former state senator Francis Doris was a devoted supporter.
“It’s just a great event where a bunch of people can get together and have a good time and love each and show their patriotism,” recalled Frank Mahoney, who has known Ells since childhood.
A Chelsea High graduate from 1963, Artie grew up on Hancock Street and later played for the New Bridge Café softball team in the local fast pitch league. Alongside softball legends Eddie McCarthy, Homer Norton, Danny Cronin, Bobby Gallo, Mike Kearney, and Rollie DeSimone, Ells helped draw crowds to Carter Park on game nights.
His deep affection for Chelsea is matched by his knowledge of its history, including the now-demolished Pratt House on Washington Avenue, where President George Washington stayed during a visit.
Whether the “Party With Artie” tradition will continue next year remains uncertain within the Ells household. The event demands substantial planning, preparation, and considerable cleanup effort.
Still, Artie Ells carries enduring affection for his friends, his city, and his country.
“I’ve been blessed with so many great friends and family,” Artie said. “To me, Chelsea is my home and it’s always been my home. And without a doubt we live in the greatest country in the world.”