For more than 143 years the people of Washington County have been meeting for a gathering they call Old Settlers Days. Stephanie Vines, a Washington County Historian and Depot Director, explained the significance of the tradition and what citizens can expect from the event this year.
Old Settlers Day has free admission but is open to donations and will take place October 7-8, 12 p.m. to 5 p.m.
Vines, all smiles and enthusiastic, began with, “before you ask: there will be parched corn.”
With Old Settlers Days being known for the parched corn and apple cider, Vines believes that, “there would be a protest if there was not any.”
This year there will be several new vendors which include boutiques, a spoon carver, a wood burner and other demonstrations. There will also be painters and entertainers within the village. Performances at the amphitheater will showcase new artists and bands.
Carole Clodfelter, Salem High School’s art teacher, said, “This will be the second year Salem High School art will be displayed at Old Settlers Days. Local art shows are a great opportunity for our students to share what they have accomplished while in art.”
In addition, it is a positive way for students to contribute to events within the community.
Old Settlers Days originally started in the 1880s as a picnic with Washington County settlers. It became bigger and eventually was moved to the village area where it is now located.
When asked what Vine’s favorite part of Old Settlers Day is, she laughed out, “besides the food?”
Vines then explained she loves that everyone has the opportunity to appreciate the county’s history as much as she does. “It is a way for us to connect to our history. History is not static, and we too are a part of it. Thousands of small decisions our ancestors made led us to this very moment.”
High school sophomore Jaylyn Hamilton said, “Helping set up at Old Settlers Day and interacting with people gave me volunteer hours. It was a really fun experience and I would definitely do it again.”
Other events taking place at the Stevens Museum and village are worth noting as well. October 27 there will be a showing of Hocus Pocus at 7p.m. at the amphitheater. Admission is free.
October 28 the village trick or treat will begin at 5p.m. The event will begin at the museum and wind through the village.
Check out the Salem Lions News Network interview with Vines here: https://youtu.be/cEVddeM4UFg?si=v37acYcQrjYMKWGx
Follow the Stevens Museum on Facebook or look at their website for more information at https://johnhaycenter.org/index.php/attractions/stevens-memorial-museum .
(Photo from johnhaycenter.org)