On the weekend of July 14th – 17th, Kingfield celebrated its Bicentennial Year and the High Peaks Alliance was there to share the experience.

On Saturday, the 16th, Depot Street was lined with booths. Our own booth was set up and manned by AmeriCorps member and Maine Conservation Corps Environmental Steward, Dylan Cookson, and Trail Master, Bud Godsoe.

The road had been blocked off and made accessible to foot traffic only. Local businesses and non-profits sold sugary snacks and grilled meat. Visitors were walking and socializing all over the town.

We admit we were not as popular as the booth that sold Root Beer Floats. The High Peaks Alliance sold raffle tickets, and hats, and distributed brochures on membership and the Fly Rod Crosby Trail. Those who visited our booth had already walked the streets sampling the local fare. They came with full bellies, and questions about the High Peaks Alliance, the Fly Rod Crosby Trail, and other local outdoor recreation opportunities.

We were fortunate to have many visitors and a great view of the parade. We were even more fortunate to have been assigned a place next to the booth selling ice cream sandwiches. They were some of the most appealing snacks on the street that day and were being sold by a group of industrious local children, saving up for college.

We also earned the support of several Union Soldiers who happened along our booth.