New York CB Reopening Celebration

by Dave Guay

 

On Aug. 4, 2007, the Washington County Covered Bridge Advisory Committee held a Gala Re-Opening Celebration to officially re-open the Rexleigh CB (NY-58-03), Eagleville CB (NY-58-01) and Buskirk CB (NY-58-04 & NY-42-02.

Buskirk was dedicated first with much fanfare with the Cambridge Band on hand to play some rousing marches and the Star-Spangled Banner. Many dignitaries were on hand to give speeches and to laud those responsible for this event, which were many. A group of Irish dancers performed for all assembled. After the ribbon cutting ceremonies, vintage cars, trucks & even a motorcycle with a sidecar on it went through the bridges. This was also done at the other bridges being dedicated that day.

Also, you could stop by the Shushan CB (NY-58-02) to visit the museum, and sample some freshly made potato chips that were made by hand with a vintage potato chip making machine that is on display in the museum.

After all the dedications were finished, all were invited to come to the "Old County Courthouse" in the village of Salem, NY for some live music, art vendors, raffles and to purchase some commemorative t-shirts and a book written by Robert G. McIntosh titled, "The Covered Bridges of Washington County, N.Y." and covered bridge memorabilia being sold by the N.Y.S.C.B.S., and free ice cream (donations gratefully accepted of course).

The weather was perfect and all seemed to enjoy themselves. The Washington County Covered Bridge Advisory Committee should be very proud of the dedication ceremonies.