Parke County residents and visitors will have an opportunity to step back into time this weekend as the Bridgeton Rendezvous is slated to commence in Bridgeton.
The festivities will begin April 26 at 10 a.m. and last until 5 p.m. and on Sunday, festivities will last from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Both days feature a taste of authentic pioneer living in a beautiful historic setting, according to event organizers. In addition, it is free to attend and there is free parking.
"There is something for all ages, and it is free. The weather is supposed to be beautiful this weekend," Celia Case told The Parke County Post.
According to Case, Bridgeton, Parke County and surrounding areas played a vital role in history during the French and Indian War, the American Revolution and the Civil War.
"The Midwest was a pivotal turning point for our country during the American Revolution. There was the Battle of Vincennes that was a key battle in our area and impacted the entire Northwest Territory. We have a lot of history in Parke County that is very interesting as well. We will have 40 period accurate reenactors, as well as a military unit from the War of 1812 and the French and Indian War," Case told The Parke County Post.
Case said on Saturday those in attendance will have the opportunity to experience a black powder shoot, as well as a hawk and knife throw and primitive bow shoot.
The Jonah Fish Fry benefitting the Bridgeton Volunteer Fire Department will take place Saturday from 2 to 7 p.m.
On Sunday, there will be a novelty shoot at 11 a.m. and a skillet throw at 2 p.m. Both days will also feature hearth cooking at the 1822 log cabin, live demonstrations at the Bridgeton Mill, and plenty of vendors available.
Case said the 1822 log cabin was rebuilt by her family and will feature live cooking demonstrations, as well as the chicken on a string.
"It is a real chicken suspended by the fire place. You go back every 20 minutes and give it a spin. It is a low tech rotisserie and it cooks the chicken on all sides. It is interesting to see. The real pioneers in our area lived this way," Case said.
As for what her favorite part of the rendezvous is, Case admitted it is the opportunity to educate people about how life was in Parke County previously and the historical impact the county had.
"My favorite thing is teaching others, especially kids, the history of our area and watching their face light up and their interest come to life when they realize how the events that happened right here in our area were important to the early history of our country. When they see hands on how their ancestors lived, history becomes exciting and interesting. So much progression of history took place right here," Case said.
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