Very fun time yesterday at the Waterford Heritage Days in Waterford, NY. The celebration has been going on all week, but last night there was a band and a quite nice fireworks show. The band was “Johnny Rabb”, a four piece rockabilly type ensemble.
Liam Neeson's secret identity?
Look at that bass player's intensity!
Check out the intensity on that bass player! He was really banging it out. I think you have to have reeeeeal dedication to be an upright bass player. I mean, I played trombone for about 13 years in grade and high school and I know how tough that thing was to carry around!
I have never been to Waterford before, but I think I will go back. The people were all very nice, and there is a State Park I would like to visit there, Peebles Island. It was closed to traffic last night so I wasn’t able to cross the bridge to it. I took a couple pictures from the Waterford Visitor’s Center, though.
Peebles Island State Park
One of the largest pieces of Waterford’s heritage seems to be the Button Fire Engine. They were produced in Waterford in the 1840s. There were several on display last night, and tonight there will be a parade featuring even more of them. The craftsmanship is really stunning, and many of the owners obviously work hard to keep them looking pristine.
These two guys are enjoying the Buttons
The night ended with a great fireworks disply over the Erie Canal. They launched from a barge in the middle of the canal, and were bursting literally directly overhead. It was a wonderful way to end the night. The people of Waterford were all very friendly, offering advice on what to see and where to go when I come back. Thanks also to the folks at the Waterford Museum for the directions and advice on parking.
[...] From Brad Utter comes this link to a blog from a photographer who was in town for the festivities and quite enjoyed [...]