(Chelsea Update would like to thank Kevin Fraham for the information and photos in this story,)
The very first Fall Festival was held at the Waterloo Farm Museum in 1962, when the museum had been in existence for a mere 9 months. This gave birth to the beginning of an annual event, now referred to as Pioneer Day.
Sunday, Oct. 6 was a beautiful breezy day for the folks who came out for the 60th year of celebrating (no events during COVID).
Exhibits from LaSalle and his trek across this part of Michigan in the 1600s as well as stories of a 1774 family breaking flax and their life experiences in that time. Horse drawn wagon rides were enjoyed by families, the Realy house was open to tour with knowledgeable volunteers, including the newly refurbished parlor and girl’s bedroom with 1880 reproduction wallpaper, demonstrators were on site showcasing their talents, talented local musicians entertained young and old alike with songs and stories, a children’s area allowed little ones to play and learn about life on the farm.
The newly renovated Bakehouse provided fresh popped popcorn and the scrumptious Waterloo Museum recipe Molasses Cookies.
The Flower Barn was well stocked with handmade beautiful Autumn arrangements/wreaths. The Farm Wagon was full of delicious home baked cookies, brownies, breads, cakes, pies and other treats from our numerous volunteers. The Farm Wagon also offered fresh pretzels and more molasses cookies.
Brought back was our pie judging competition. Congratulations to all that entered and our winners and our kid’s pie eating competition.
Mark your calendars for our next event Christmas on the Farm, Saturday, Dec. 7.
