Community invited to step back in time at Pioneer Picnic

SANDPOINT — A hundred years ago, community picnics were the highlight of summer in Bonner County.

After a long week hard at work, neighbors could be seen spending their Sunday afternoons catching up and playing games — and maybe even enjoying the rare, sweet taste of ice cream.

"This timeless scene of community gathering and simple pleasures is exactly what awaits families at the Bonner County Historical Society's Pioneer Picnic," said Hannah Combs, executive director of the Bonner County History Museum.

Planned for Sunday, July 20, from 1-4 p.m., Combs said the picnic promises to be a lot of fun as it celebrates the community and the spirit that makes the community special.

"Lakeview Park will transform into a playground of yesteryear, where today's families can experience the games, activities and community spirit that brought our ancestors together for generations of summer fun," she said.

At this summer membership drive, admission is free, but visitors will be encouraged to become a member of the Bonner County Historical Society. To encourage memberships, Combs said those joining the historical society will receive half the value of their membership back in tickets to use on carnival games and activities, as well as half off all additional tickets. Non-members can purchase tickets for $2 each.

The beloved "Velma, Queen of Fun" from 88.5 KRFY will serve as the afternoon's enthusiastic announcer, welcoming new members, explaining game rules and sharing information about the benefits of joining the group.

Refreshments including popcorn, hot dogs, iced tea and lemonade will be available for purchase, though families are welcome to bring their own picnic spreads.

Old-fashioned carnival games will delight visitors of all ages, Combs said.

"Feel the thrill of the water balloon toss and watermelon spit, rally your neighbors for an epic tug of war, and discover what life was like for early settlers as you grind wheat and pan for 'gold' just like the pioneers did," she added. "Savor the taste of ice cream made in an authentic antique churn and test your skills at ring toss and hoop stick."

The mysterious "Madame Syringa," fortune teller of the past, will reveal glimpses of bygone eras, while the popular Cake Walk offers chances to win delicious homemade treats. The community will be able to capture memories of their time at the picnic at the photo booth with vintage Polaroid keepsakes.

Live folk music will add to the ambiance with performances by Beth Pederson and local musicians.

"Adding to the community spirit, members from towns throughout Bonner County will lead various games, sharing the unique history of their communities," Combs said.

The museum, historic caboose and pioneer cabin will be open for exploration, offering visitors a deeper dive into local heritage, she added.

Founded in 1972, the Bonner County Historical Society and Museum is a private, nonprofit organization whose membership is open to all. Its operation is funded through community support, membership dues, gift shop sales, donations, grants from private foundations and support from Bonner County.

The museum is located at 611 S. Ella Ave.

To learn more about Bonner County Historical Society and Museum, search on Facebook and Instagram, or visit its website at bonnercountyhistory.org.