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Blennerhassett Island hosts events

By Wayne Towner

Special to the Times

PARKERSBURG — A number of special activities are planned on Blennerhassett Island Historical State Park through the end of June and the month of July.

Information about all of the events is available by calling 304-420-4800. Boat tickets are sold at the Blennerhassett Museum at 137 Juliana St. in downtown Parkersburg at $10 for adults and $8 for ages 3-12.

≤ The second Rendezvous on the River of the summer will be today through Saturday on the island. Muzzleloaders and mountain men will be gathering on Blennerhassett Island for a rendezvous. Authentic campsites, demonstrations of camp life and period dress will be featured throughout the event, which takes place during regular island hours.

≤ On June 27 and again on July 18, “Tea on Tuesday” will be held at Maple Shade on the island. Participants will enjoy food and tea and will be part of a historic Putnam-Houser House tour, known as Maple Shade. Horse-drawn wagon transports preregistered guests from arrival to Maple Shade and return. Space is limited to 24 attendees and reservations are required. The cost is $26 per person. Departure from Point Park is 11 a.m. and the tea begins at 11:45 a.m.

≤On July 1, the Nature Walk “Trees Have Feet Too” will be presented at 2 p.m. Visitors will learn about the large trees on the island, their ecological roles, functions of roots, bark, leaves and their importance to everyday lives. There is no fee to participate in the nature walk. Visitors should ride the 1 p.m. boat to the island to make sure you get to the nature walk.

≤ On the Fourth of July, Blennerhassett Island honors the sacrifices made by our forebearers during the War for Independence and the continuing efforts made by our country’s men and women today for our liberty with a bell ringing at 2 p.m. The bell will ring 13 times to signify the 13 American colonies.

≤ On July 7, the Island Belle will offer a dinner cruise in conjunction with Downtown PKB’s monthly Point Park Music Series. This month’s concert will feature Draw the Line – Tribute to Aerosmith.

Ticketholders can take a ride on board the Island Belle sternwheeler and a delicious meal while paddling down the Ohio River, ending back at the Point in time for the concert. Reservations are required and the cruise price is $27 for adults and $21 for ages 3-12, with price subject to change.

≤ On July 20, the next “Brunch with Margaret” Blennerhassett will be held. The cost is $43.95 per person. In the program, Margaret is portrayed by Carolina Alvarez and asks her guests to arrive at the Museum of Regional History at 9 a.m. for a 10 a.m. sternwheeler departure for her island. Margaret provides a glimpse into the 18th-century frontier life she and Harman experienced while living on an island. She will also share intriguing stories about Aaron Burr, Thomas Jefferson, and Alexander Hamilton.

≤ From July 24-28, Blennerhassett Island will present its first “Blennerhassett Kids – Hands on History Day Camp” with activities in the museum and on the island for kids to learn more about nature and history. Each day will be a different theme about history and will have lots of hands-on learning. Morning drop off is 9:30 a.m.; afternoon pick up is at 4 p.m. Reservations are required and the cost is $145 per camper, ages 8-12. All campers will receive a backpack, camp shirt, and more.

≤ On July 29, the Moth Watch Night will be held frm 8:30 p.m.-midnight as part of National Moth Week. Families are invited to come to the island and enjoy the evening of exploring and fun as :moth sleuths.” An educational program will also be part of the evening before the watch. Reservations are required and boat tickets for Moth Night is $15 for adults and $12 for ages 3-12.

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