I spent Saturday, September 8, 2018 at the 4th annual Barrineau Park Gathering. I love the name of that local festival. As a member of a group that has to look for as many sources as possible for the funding of our endeavors, I spend several Saturdays a year helping to man a booth at one of the many local festivals. Whatever else the festival is focused on the main attraction is the gathering of people. I always enjoy the conversations, some with those I have known most of my life, some with those I meet for the first time, have an enjoyable visit with and never see again. “The Gathering” is a very good name.
The picture shows the display I set up. I had for sale: wooden trucks, cars, buses and planes; handmade necklaces; and books from ASHS's bookstore. Sales were pretty good, but mostly were a backdrop for visiting.
The Harris family in the booth next door was selling Mattie Harris' fashion creations and several other things. I had my booth by myself so I couldn't roam to see the details. They were also taking the opportunity to advertise their business: upholstery, rush, caneing, wicker, rattan, wood refinishing and repair, fashion designing and sewing of all kinds. (I have their card if you need any of those services.) I took the opportunity to recruit them for Sawmill Day. Come meet them and our other interesting vendors on May 4, 2019.
On my other side was Lathram Chapel United Methodist Church, giving away cold water, popcorn and Rice Krispie treats, all labeled, “Living Water.” That group was also good for interesting conversations and a few necklace sales.
My new friend Tyson had a ball exploring the wooden vehicles. I explained to him that my booth wasn't a “Don't Touch” booth and he was welcome to play as long as the trucks didn't leave my tent. I'm pretty sure he was responsible for several of my sales.
The wire wrapped shell necklaces inspired a retired Navy Seal to tell me about his shell collecting experiences in various parts of the world.
The Northview High School students on hand to help whenever and wherever they were needed were proof not all teenagers are problem children. (in my opinion, most are not.)
There was entertainment on the stage inside the school building, good food and a lot of other vendors I didn't get a chance to meet. All in all a very good gathering.
If you like gatherings, be on the lookout for Flomaton's Railroad Junction Day on September 22nd as well as the festivals in Baker and Munson in October and the Barnett Crossroads Christmas celebration in December. There will also be Christmas parades in all the local towns and communities. At all of them, various things will be the featured attraction, but the important thing is the gathering.
Jerry Fischer asked me to mention the river cleanup taking place this weekend. Sign up with Jerry on Thursday, September 13th (call 850-256-3980 for more information). Jerry will be giving out t-shirts to volunteers and leading the effort to clean the trash from the Escambia River and its surroundings.
Our next meeting is Tuesday, September 18th at 6 pm in the Leach House Museum, 4th and Jefferson in Century. Our museums are open on Saturdays from 10 am until 2 pm or anytime by appointment. Call me (850-417-9803) or Jerry (850-256-3980) or any ASHS member you know for appointments.
