Old Glory billowed in the warm summer-like breeze as the sun shimmered in a crystalline sky. Bewildering only in that this was autumn, but who was complaining? Certainly not those who celebrated at Deer Haven Park’s 2nd Annual Fall Festival and Open Wagon Tours. Everyone reveled in the beautiful day and the park’s festivities.
It was all hands-on for employees and volunteers alike, as the Visitor Center was abuzz with guests who came from near and far for this once-a-year event. Many had marked their calendars months in advance.
Corn husks, pumpkins, and hearty mums gave an autumn visual appeal regardless of the mercury readings. As if nature’s intent was to fill all the senses, leaf-enhanced, earthy scents permeated the air while southbound geese honked their overhead transit. Meanwhile, excitement sparked to near tangible as folks loaded onto open wagons and optional climate-controlled bus mini tours. Anticipant for the half route, roughly 45-minute journey, riders disembarked to enter a munitions igloo, and toured past varying pertinent military points of interest. Many were fortunate enough to spy white and brown whitetail deer, others reported spotting wild turkey and birds of prey.
A festival seems incomplete without artisans and food vendors. Between the Lakes BBQ from Lodi provided lunch, boasting smoked brisket, pulled pork and ribs along with homemade sides. All were a hit! While noting a busy catering and event schedule, the proprietors shared a little secret: They will soon be embarking on an exciting new adventure early next year as they open their first restaurant on Route 89 in Varick. Exciting indeed!
Raes Farms joined in the fun for their second year and brought Daisy the calf, ducks, and Red — a huge tom turkey who strutted gallantly. Artisans and crafters displayed a splendid array of lovely products, many of whom stated they’ve been creating wares for years.
A small sampling of those crafters included Bethany Calkins’ handmade leather earrings; KJP Handmade Bath Products; and Owl Ridge Alpacas, all of which had alluring displays. As did artist Elena Marin; Countryside Produce; and Wood and Glass Creations whose colorful window and ornament pieces danced in the breeze and contrasted nicely with the deep wood tones of their accompanying coasters and cutting boards.
If crafting wasn’t your thing, then the artillery, cannon balls and immensely knowledgeable Civil War Reenactors may have been. DG Caywood Camp 146 Sons of Union Veterans came dressed and exhibiting military accoutrements of the era, replete with dog tent. Not a pup tent, mind you. The dog tent moniker was born in the 1860s via both Confederate and Union soldiers, who dubbed it as such for they mused these could barely fit a dog beneath to keep from inclement weather. One of the many historical points one could learn while visiting this display. (On a sidenote: Cannonballs are extremely heavy!)
Many visitors also got to experience the military vehicle display of jeeps and weasel presented by the Military Vehicle Preservation Association thanks to members Frank Arpino, Scott Ridley, and Bill Murphy. Many of the day’s nearly 200 guests took advantage of boarding, capturing photos and learning firsthand the history of these unique machines.
Meanwhile, within the Visitor Center, raffles were held for numerous prizes ranging from a marvelously hand-crafted curly maple and walnut chest (donated by creator Keith Hay) with the DHP/SEAD insignia burned onto its lid, to free tour tickets and apparel. Door prizes were shared hourly, and gift shop items were discounted.
Celebrating autumn. Merely one of the many ways DHP commemorates the conservation of military history, nature, and unique wildlife that can only be found beyond the fence.
Dee Calvasina is an author, freelance writer and monthly columnist who supports the conservation of military history, nature and wildlife at Deer Haven Park, LLC. To support this effort, keep abreast of touring options and events at deerhavenpark.org, like them on FB, or call 8-DEER-TOURS (833-378-6877).
BEYOND THE FENCE: Celebrating autumn
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13.11.2023
Old Glory billowed in the warm summer-like breeze as the sun shimmered in a crystalline sky. Bewildering only in that this was autumn, but who was complaining? Certainly not those who celebrated at Deer Haven Park’s 2nd Annual Fall Festival and Open Wagon Tours. Everyone reveled in the beautiful day and the park’s festivities.
It was all hands-on for employees and volunteers alike, as the Visitor Center was abuzz with guests who came from near and far for this once-a-year event. Many had marked their calendars months in advance.
Corn husks, pumpkins, and hearty mums gave an autumn visual appeal regardless of the mercury readings. As if nature’s intent was to fill all the senses, leaf-enhanced, earthy scents permeated the air while southbound geese honked their overhead transit. Meanwhile, excitement sparked to near tangible as folks loaded onto open wagons and optional climate-controlled bus mini tours. Anticipant for the half route, roughly 45-minute journey, riders disembarked to enter a munitions igloo,........
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