I didn't realize how big it was, of course. I read the offering, but when I left Saturday for my morning walk/coffee, I ran back for the camera (and called everyone I could think of in my excitement) and grabbed my cowboy hat. The best discovery was the 17th century family enjoying some morning tea, quietly tucked away in a historic courtyard. I tried my hand at "The bowles" and watched a new generation explore a different sort of gaming.
The festival itself held a multitude of old timers excited about their shipping knowledge and experience. The range was vast. The silversmiths and the navy seals, and the ship-in-a-bottle builders and the historians...I talked to everyone, and contrary to New England stereotype, everyone talked to me.
Alex Bellinger, Ship Model Builder and teacher
Silversmith from Old Newbury Crafters
A colonial shows off his 16' pike, simultaneously fending off the cavalry and infantry.
The Navy showed off various cannon and military maneuvers.
Using a historic fencing sword replica and dagger, I offer the photographer a potato.
They also offered free tours of the Friendship of Salem.
After circling the crowd at least twice and running through one set of batteries, I walked the main drag on Essex Street before soaking my feet and heading out again. Along the way, a lovely girl performed Irish Step to her father's fiddle.
The weather was heartbreakingly perfect. The humidity was low, the temperatures were reasonable, the sun was kind. I was sad to come back home at the end of the day, so I quickly soaked my tired feet and head out again... to a short a cappella concert at the Corner Bookstore and dinner at Tavern in the Square. I had the braised tuna which came with a fortune cookie. The fortune?
Indeed. :)
What a fun day! your photos are great... especially like the one of the rigging... and the one of your feet in the hammock. Aren't you glad you did your toe nails?
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