Good Old Fashioned Fun in Port Jefferson For Old Home Week

The genesis for this old fashioned event-filled weekend came from the , curated by Laura Warren and Kathleen Cash, at the called "Celebrations and Parades in Port Jefferson." The exhibit inspired our local not for profit coalition to join in and organize some low-key good family fun. 

Barbara Ransome, Director of Operations for the has greatly helped to coordinate a series of activities for Saturday, August 6 and Sunday, August 7. 

The exhibit is open from 1-4 p.m. on both days and will include images from Old Home Week in the early 1900's. In its , this event brought people from both New York and Connecticut to partake in competitions, parades, sporting events, etc. 

In honor of its centennial, there will be old fashioned events for the whole family.

Come on Saturday evening where you will be treated to the sounds of the Mudcats. This fine banjo group, led by Bruce McDonald plays music from the 1920's, 30's, & 40's. Their instruments include banjo, guitar, mandolin, washboard, auto harp, violin, whistles, and bass. You'll have a tough time sitting still when you sense their great rhythm and zest. In 2006 they won the international blues competition held in Memphis.

The bar and snack bar will be open on the ferry, though passengers are welcome to bring their own food. (They may not bring alcohol aboard, however.) Reserve your tickets by calling 631-802-2162.

"The original Park City crossed the Sound from 1898 to 1949 and ferried passengers to the 1911 Old Home Week," said Fred Hall, general manager of the ferry.

That ship, built in Port Jefferson, was 143.6 feet long, carried up to 600 passengers and cost $50,000. is 208 feet, carries up to 1,000 passengers, 90 cars and cost $7 million when it was built in 1986.

"Incidentally, 'Park City' is the nickname for Bridgeport," Hall said. "Because it has two beautiful parks designed by Frederick Law Olmsted."

On Saturday see contestants take part in a which will culminate on Sunday with a "row boat" race. How much fun is that!

The will have . The Chamber will host three-legged and potato races on Sunday in . Weather permitting there will be Delta kite flying by . Don't miss out on the fresh stands on Sunday.

is joining in the fun so stop by their bank garden lot and see some adorable kittens, a timeless love.

The will also be hosting several fun activities. 

Port Jefferson Chamber of Commerce member, Barbara Ransome's energy and enthusiasm has sparked great interest and promises to deliver a wonderful "Home Town" event. Come join in the fun. 

For further information and event details, call the office at 631-1414.

The photo from Old Home Week in 1911 is from the historical section of the Port Jefferson village website.

Nomi Solo is a member of the and vice president of the Port Jefferson Conservancy.