Annual Historical Day at lighthouse this weekend
By PATTY RAMUSLighthouse tours, strawberry shortcake and wood carving demonstrations are among the activities that will await attendees of Historical Day at Sturgeon Point this weekend.
The event will take place 10 a.m.-4 p.m Saturday at the Sturgeon Point Lighthouse, located at the end of Point Road, which intersects Lakeshore Drive north of Harrisville.
"It's one of our main fund-raisers, and it's a fun get-together for the whole family," said Gordon Bennett, president of the Alcona Historical Society. "Our main goal is to continue raising money to paint, and refurbish and restore some of our lighthouse that's falling apart. We've raised over $11,000. We need to raise $35,000."
More than 10 exhibitors will be present during the afternoon. Bill and Isa Hastings will show wood carvings, wood burning and painting. Tom Hubert will have hot air and cycle engines. Stan Darmofal will give amateur radio presentations. Kathryn Cubalo of the East Shore Art Guild will exhibit paintings, while several artists will demonstrate painting techniques, Bennett said.
From 1-2 p.m. a kite flying contest will take place. Attendees will be able to climb the lighthouse tower and the Bailey School will be open.
The historical society will sell strawberry shortcakes while chips, brats and burgers will also be served. Attendees will hear music by Rose Ann Armstrong, Tom Miks, Sharon Ziske and Myron Wiebrauk, Bennett said.
Artist Robert McGreevy will present a painting of the Genesee Chief to the historical society. The vessel was the first steam ship known to serve Alcona County. In previous years, McGreevy has donated other paintings to the historical society for the lighthouse museum, including ones of the Marine City and the Vulcan, Bennett said.
Patty Ramus can be reached via e-mail at pramus@thealpenanews.com or by phone at 358-5687.
