Tuesday, October 11, 2016

2016 Granville Harvest Fair Joins the History Books

The Harvest Fair wrapped up yesterday after three days of fun and festivities, despite a bit of uncooperative weather on Sunday. OK, basically a washout Sunday, but Monday brought us a cool, crisp, bright, classic New England fall day. Everyone who decided to come to Granville for their Columbus Day holiday made a great choice, as confirmed by the cheerful voices and laughter of the fair-goers as they congregated at the various Fair venues, including NCCHP.

The major fair location was in on the green in Granville Center but a regular bus schedule to the Noble & Cooley and NCCHP location at 42 Water Street meant there was a regular stream of visitors throughout the 3-day fair.

NCCHP museum tours were very active, keeping Matt, Liz and Jay hopping. Several people even asked for a tour of the archives project and seemed fascinated by the amazing historical documents and artifacts we've been gathering and organizing.

One item conspicuous by its absence was the huge American flag that is traditionally on display. The flag pole has deteriorated over a period of many years so we'll have to come up with some fundraising ideas to remedy that problem.

Thanks go to the small cadre of volunteers who oversaw various displays, the raffle, and so on. The Cummins diesel and the Lister Bruston were on display and running thanks to engine restorers Bob Alden and Cal Pixley, and a local friend of the museum brought his 1923 Model T which was a big hit, resulting in many smiles and cheers as it arrived. The help of all the NCCHP volunteers is very greatly appreciated.

Fairgoers visit with blacksmith Eric Krusz, who specializes in handmade iron work.
His handmade iron puzzles had everyone entertained and entirely bamboozled.
 
Engine restorer Cal Pixley has the Cummins diesel fired up. It didn't like the chill in the morning air but
as the day warmed up the engine was happy as a clam.
The Ryder Erickson hot air motor developed a problem later in the weekend but engine restorer Bob Alden was on the case and it should be sorted out soon. The hot air motor runs on the Stirling Cycle principle.

The '23 T was a popular display on Monday afternoon.
Westfield River Brewing Company was one of several vendors on hand.
A QUICK REMINDER- NCCHP will be winding down for the winter season by the end of November so be sure to plan your visit SOON. Fall foliage it at its peak so now is the time! For museum hours go to www.ncchp.org