News Feature
Originally published in
The Weekly Packet, August 18, 2022
Honoring Blue Hill’s maritime heritage
The festival included street theater featuring cast members from Wicked Weather. From left: Sarah Schneider (Scarecrow), Veronica Young (Good Witch), Molly Gawler (Lion), Paul Kelly (Tin Woodsman). There were half a dozen munchkins, all from The Bay School.
by Maggie White
The third annual Maritime Heritage Festival took place on the waterfront in downtown Blue Hill on Saturday August 13. With free admission, the event’s purpose is “to celebrate and preserve the significance of Blue Hill Bay to our history, economy and culture.”
The day-long celebration was preceded by a speaker series, sponsored in conjunction with the Blue Hill Historical Society and the Blue Hill Public Library, and the day itself also included many speakers and presentations from the marine-minded. There were demonstrations, talks, a puppet show and live music to enjoy.
Amid the numerous business-sponsored tents showcasing various aspects of marine life, Goody’s Grub food truck provided sustenance while Stone Fox Creamery was selling sweeter treats as edible reprieve from the summer sun.
Some hands-on highlights included boat rides in the harbor from the Traditional Small Craft Association’s Down East Chapter; a touch tank from the Downeast Institute (visitors were welcome to hold a starfish, lobster and other sea creatures); a photo booth from the Penobscot Marine Museum; and Chase Small Craft had their boat kits on display for those inspired to someday build a vessel of their own. Other local businesses included Hewes Construction, Maine Maritime Academy, Maine Center for Coastal Fisheries, and Oceanswide.
The festival was founded by Steve Brookman. (See accompanying story “Steve Brookman brings his passion to the festival.”)
