Remembering the past
Wiegert Prairie Fall Fest
PALMER — This year’s Fall Fest on the Wiegert Prairie Farmstead will remember “Stories of the Past” with a reenactment — both the traditional Civil War one and the less seen variety commemorating the 1969 moon landing.
Next Sunday, visitors can hear stories of the past through a unique firsthand experience of the family and farming heritage.
“We have a couple things unique this year that we haven’t done in the past,” said James Conway, ranger naturalist for Pocahontas County Conservation.
In addition to the two demonstrations, a tractor ride from Gilmore City Fun Days will display 10 to 15 antique tractor varieties at lunchtime at the 36th annual event.
But that’s not all.
Two alpacas will also join the pet and farm animal fare typically shown during the event on the 1900 farmstead.
The free event starts at 10 a.m., with a church service at 10:30. PAC FFA members will be on site to hand off grilled food from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m., in addition to the kettle corn, homemade pie, root beer floats, cowboy coffee and ice cream.
If your stomach still has room after that, try your hand at the apple cider press.
“It’s a really big piece of our heritage,” in Pocahontas County, said Conway. “Wiegert Prairie Farmstead is a pillar of our county.”
The farmhouse, smokehouse, barn, crib, school house, and church will also be open for tours. Other displays and demonstrations include blacksmithing, firearms, weaving, quilting and organ music.
Prairie rides and live music will also add authenticity and fun to the family friendly event.
“Our motto is ‘conserving our natural heritage for those who follow,'” he said. “We really tie that all in there.”