250th Anniversary Concert by Robert Anderson
Harpswell’s souls from the past will be awakened on Sunday, July 6, 2008 at 2 P.M., by the sound of music and merriment in the graveyard behind the Old Meeting House in Harpswell Center. This concert, celebrating Harpswell’s 250th birthday, will be performed by the celebrated Centennial Brass Band of Portland, under the direction of Maestro Jon Hall, and will revive and enlighten the spirits of past and present Harpswell folk with 1870s music, period instruments and authentic clothing from the era.
“This is a must attend event,” claims Dave Hackett, President of the Harpswell Historical Society (HHS). “The day’s activities will be a milestone in the celebration of our community and our ancestors who pioneered the way to Harpswell today.”
This July 6 concert is just one of the many events planned for the Harpswell 250th Celebration. The 250th Celebration Committee has worked countless hours to ensure the year’s festivities are well organized and a fun time to have by all.
“We are working with just a four thousand dollar budget for the entire year’s events,” Hackett states. “If it weren’t for the many dedicated volunteers we’d could never pull it off on that meager amount of money. But so far, so good,” Hackett adds. “And I can’t thank the volunteers enough for their conviction on placing Harpswell’s birthday in the history books for future generations to admire.”
The concert should prove to be a who’s who gathering, with invitations to Governor Baldachi, Senator Susan Collins, Representative Leila Percy, members of Congress, Senate, County Commission, former Harpswell Selectmen, historians and many more honored guest.
“The concert is of course open to everyone,” states Julia Stevens, coordinator of the invitations mailed to honored guests. “The festivities are free, and we’re hoping for good weather and a fun time for all who attend.”
Stevens says that the concert will take place regardless of the weather, and that the Old Town Meeting House and museum will be open to the public. Punch and cookies will be available, along with nonprofit venders raising money for the HHS.
“We encourage people to bring a lawn chair for the concert, and a picnic lunch if you wish,” suggests Doris Ash, member of the 250th committee. “Stay as long as you want, enjoy the company of friends and neighbors, and make new friends.”
A toast to the town is fitting for such a gala celebration, and a sparkling punch will be served prior to the band finale. Harpswell resident and published Maine author, Gary Anderson will be making the toast to and for the town. Following the toast the band will be playing their encore, highlighted by the firing of two cannons. After the roar of the cannons people are encouraged to relax, take in the historic surroundings of Historic Harpswell Center, and stay and visit and enjoy.
“This (Harpswell’s 250th birthday) will only happen once,” says Hackett. “It is a very significant milestone in the town’s history, and for anyone who wants to be a part of this historic event, I encourage you to attend. Its going to be a lot of fun,” Hackett adds,”The music will be great, and a good time will be had by all. Hope to see you there.”