Main Sections

Annual French Heritage Day

photo by Cheryl White At the first annual French Heritage Day, Grace Foshay age 14, of Bridport spins alpaca yarn from her family farm.

photo by Cheryl White Louise Forbes from Cornwall stands amongst a few of her beautiful handmade baskets.

photo by Cheryl White Ideas from the old country add power and progress in the new country at the Vergennes Heritage Day July 8, 06.

photo by Cheryl White Crafted carrying yoke, spoons, rolling pin and other old time wooden essentials and a host of other exhibits pictured below.

photo by Cheryl White

Tuesday July 25, 2006

By Beth Crosby

    The first annual French Heritage Day was held on Saturday, July 15th at the Vergennes City Park in Vergennes. The event was sponsored by the Vergennes Area Chamber of Commerce, a division of the Addison County Chamber of Commerce. Over fifteen vendors from around Vermont demonstrated their craftsmanship and talent to a large crowd throughout the day. Some of the talented vendors included knitters, weavers, and chair caners. The Vermont French-Canadian Genealogical Society and the D.A.R. provided anyone who was interested with an opportunity to research their family tree. In addition, The Vermont Folklife Center was on hand acquiring histories from local French residents to add to their archives.  

On display were antique farm tractors, antique engines, and antique cars, provided by local residents. The day included performances of French Canadian Fiddle music by local musicians and food was provided by Cindy's Snack Bar. Local restaurants added a French flair by offering French cuisine. One local restaurant, Eat Good Food, sent French speaking waitstaff with samples of French food and menus out into the park encouraging event attendees to visit their place of business. Another local restaurant, Christophe's on the Green, offered homemade ice cream and sorbet, while other local merchants contributed to the event by hanging French words in their windows and playing French music in their places of business. The farmer's market offered another treat for attendees of French Heritage Day.     

A wonderful time was enjoyed by all. Anyone wishing to participate in next year's French Heritage Day or has questions about the event, please contact Marguerite Senecal at the Addison County Chamber of Commerce at 802-388-7951.                

Printer Friendly

Top

Advertisements

Search our Archives