Published date May 20, 2024 01:08PM
Written by James Logue JR TNEDITOR@tnonline.com
The town of Weisport, just across the Lehigh River from Lehighton, has a lot of history.
It’s that history that led Dr. Keith “Jake” Boyer and others to organize what will hopefully be the first of many Living History Days at the borough park, sponsored by the Weisport Historical Society. be.
“I’m from Weisport,” Boyer said. “I was born in Weisport. I grew up in Weisport. I still live here, but I will probably die in Weisport.
“I just love this town. There’s so much we can do to promote this area,” he added.
Capt. Lynn Otto of Tremont, Schuylkill County, is the commander of the Augusta Regiment and Weiser Battalion, which recreates groups from the French and Indian War era.
He does re-enactments in many areas, but this site was unique because of the Army and Fort Allen, built by Benjamin Franklin in 1756. The fort is long gone, but the well still stands behind his apartment building across from the borough park.
“I’ve always loved history,” Otto said. “My father did everything to encourage me. However, I have to say 75% of the credit goes to Fess Parker, who played Davy Crockett in the movie. I wanted to do a reenactment. I thought about the Civil War era, but I decided to go with mid-18th century Pennsylvania.
Kim Otto of Tremont gave a demonstration of weaving and garment making. Her Mary Malecki of Forks was exhibiting some of the popular games of the time. Additionally she had many tents and exhibits of artifacts from that time.
Living History Day featured a guided tour by Chad Surfus, a performance by the Lehighton High School Band, refreshments by Jacob’s UCC Church, and a bake sale by Lehighton’s Boy Scout Troop 145.
Dr. Boyer also thanked Ruth Busch, who contacted Lynne Otto and came up with the idea. Also: Sandy Perkowski, Nick Smith, Todd Serfas, Chad Smith, Jacobs UCC, Tom Zimmerman, Boy Scout Troop 145, Franklin Township Fire Department, and Monroe, who was in charge of the PA system.・I also expressed my gratitude to Mr. Berger and the Weissport Borough Council.
Mary Malecki of Forks had a display of some of the games that were popular around the time of the French and Indian War.
On the right is Kim Otto of Tremont demonstrating weaving. With her is Rick Kramer of Lehrersburg in her full military uniform. Check out the photo gallery at tnonline.com JAMES LOGUE JR./SPECIAL TO THE TIMES NEWS
