Attendees at this year’s Rhubarb Festival in Shawano could win an outdoor bench handcrafted by former Judge Tom Grover among other prizes.
Sponsored by the Shawano County Historical Society, the sixth annual festival will be held Saturday at Heritage Park.
Grover served as a circuit court judge in Shawano and Menominee counties for 35 years before retiring in 2011.
“I am trying to support the historical society because it is an asset to the community,” Grover said. “(The bench) is something people could use in their garden.”
The garden item most in demand at the festival, of course, is rhubarb.
The tart plant is often used in desserts and jams. At the festival, it adds its unique zest even to lemonade, brats and barbecue sandwiches, as well the more traditional desserts such as pies, tortes, bars, cookies, breads, muffins, cakes and jams.
When not eating, and even while eating, fest-goers also can learn more about Shawano County’s heritage. The historical society will be offering tours of its nine buildings, including six museums.
“They can learn where the first European settlement was here in Shawano,” said Jenette Griepp-Berkobitz, society board member.
Zachow Depot, dedicated after last year’s festival, will be open to visitors interested in artifacts from the 1940s.
An N-scale model recreation of Zachow is located in the depot’s freight room, with the buildings, roads and landscape authentic to the late 1940s. The model is very similar to an aerial photo taken of the area.
Music from the early 19th century will be provided by three groups: Middle Ages, Cliff Ellertson’s Friends and Fred Beyer.
“We try to have traditional folk music from the era,” Griepp-Berkobitz said.
In addition to Grover’s garden bench, other drawing prizes will include gift baskets containing items such as Green Bay Packers paraphernalia, chocolate, wine and gardening supplies.
The Shawano Woman’s Club will sell potted plants at the event for the third consecutive year.
The event is held in conjunction with the Jumpin’ June Jamboree on Main Street in Shawano. Horse-drawn carriages will be available to transport guests between the events.
Special transportation between the events also will be available to handicapped and elderly visitors for the first time.
Shawano County’s Aging Unit donated the bus and Menominee Transit will provide the driver.
“The cooperation of (both agencies) is appreciated,” Griepp-Berkobitz said.
Proceeds from the Rhubarb Festival help the Shawano County Historical Society support Heritage Park.
Categories
