Waterford Days, sponsored by the Fort LeBoeuf Historical Society, (FLBHS) will be held in Gazebo and Ball Diamond Park in the center of charming Waterford July 17, 3-9 pm, July 18 10-9:30 pm, and July 19, 10:30-5 pm. This free event has something for everyone; test your skill at the dunk tank, satisfy your appetite at the food court, and peruse the many craft booths. You could even walk away with a ribbon in the Marian Russell Pie Baking Contest. (Bring entries to the FLBHS tent in the park Saturday between 4-4:45 pm, with judging at 5.)
Enjoy local musical talent featuring Boys Night Out, Friday, 7:30 pm and Tennessee Backporch, Saturday 7:30 pm plus a variety of other musical talent all weekend.
Walk across the street to the ball park and enjoy reenactment groups from the French and Indian War to WWII and a USO Show! Check out military vehicles and cannons with scheduled cannon firings throughout the weekend. New this year is the old world tradesmen demonstrating skills and trades such as blacksmithing, weaving, spinning and flint knapping. Plus, meet a local Meadmaster, who makes wine from honey.
In addition to the activities happening in the parks, special events are planned all weekend around town. The annual Saturday morning parade steps off at 10:00 am and runs down Cherry Street. Enjoy more great food and rummage sales at local churches and a delicious chicken & biscuit dinner at the American Legion on Friday evening. Take advantage of community church services Sunday morning in the park. The FLBHS Campus, at the south end of town, includes the Judson House, Eagle Hotel, Fort LeBoeuf Museum and Washington Park. The campus will host many activities,including tours, book signing, Waterford Garden Club plant sale, and antique appraisals. Celebrate new additions to the historical collections.
For a small fee, hop on the Trolley, starting at the park and ending at the campus to hear about Waterford’s more famous residents and houses. For a bit more excitement, join the Haunted Historical Walking Tour, Saturday at 9:20 pm. Guides will share local stories about bizarre occurrences and infamous residents. Purchase tickets in advance in the park or at the FLBHS campus. For a full schedule, forms and more information, visit www.WaterfordDays.com or www.fortleboeufhistory.com
Waterford Days was started by FLBHS in 1975 as Heritage Days as a fundraiser to save the Eagle Hotel which was slated for demolition. They have recently acquired the Judson House and Museum and, as a result, will incur many more expenses moving forward. Waterford Days is a part of their fundraising efforts to preserve these important symbols of Waterford’s history.