Passaconaway Valley Heritage Day – September 30, 2017
On Saturday, September 30, 2017, the White Mountain National Forest and White Mountains Interpretive Association (WMIA) will host “Passaconaway Valley Heritage Day” at the Russell Colbath Historic Site, 12 miles west of Conway on the Kancamagus Scenic Byway.
From 9:30 am to 4:30 pm, historic artisans, educators, and living historians will offer programs and demonstrations to the public on the grounds of the historic Russell Colbath House. Remick Country Doctor Museum & Farm interpreters will offer interactive, historical children’s activities throughout the day, local musicians will provide period musical tunes, and area artisans will show off their historic spinning and dying crafts.
Additionally, the Fifth Massachusetts Battery, Light Artillery living history unit will be encamped on the field in front of the Russell Colbath barn, where they will offer a glimpse at the life of Civil War soldiers. Though the Passaconaway Valley never witnessed the Civil War conflict first hand, its inhabitants were greatly affected by the war. Three Civil War veterans are buried on the grounds of the historic Russell Colbath House. At 11 AM, 1 PM, and 3 PM the Fifth Massachusetts will offer a short program, including an artillery firing demonstration.
Russell Colbath House will be open throughout the day, offering visitors a chance to take a tour of the 1830s home—the last remaining house of the Passaconaway farming community that once called the valley home. The event is free and open to the public
In celebration of National Public Lands Day all day use fees on the White Mountain National Forest will be waived on September 30th. The Forest Service is waiving standard amenity fees at hundreds of recreation sites nationwide in recognition of National Public Lands Day.
While day use fees will be waived across the White Mountain National Forest, fees will remain in effect for overnight camping, cabin rentals, permits, reservations, and activities offered by concessionaires.
For more information about the White Mountain National Forest: www.fs.usda.gov/whitemountain
