22nd Anniversary of Ye Olde Fiddler’s Picnic at Hemlock

Unknown Author - The Lima Recorder

16 August 1951

On Sunday, August 19, Hemlock Lake Park will be the scene of much fiddling, singing, dancing and general merriment, as half a hundred musicians and visitors gather for the 22nd Old Fiddlers Picnic and Round Up.

The annual get-together had its inception at the home of Alva Reed in the town of Richmond. However, so many musicians and listeners began to gather for the occasion that it became necessary to move the picnic to the Hemlock Lake Park location. Last year an estimated 3,500 people crowded into Hemlock Park to listen to the fiddles, the barber shop quartettes, community singing, and to watch the clog and tap dancing. Many old vaudeville and circus people participated.

Fiddlers from 7 to 92 years of age will take part in the informal program this year. Family orchestras, in fact everything in the way of entertainment has been provided for the outing. Those planning to attend are asked to bring a picnic basket. Refreshments will be sold by the Sanderson Class.

Roy Swan, tresurer of the organization, has announced that he will be present and will play. Members of the committee who will fiddle and renew acquaintances will be Charles Pierson of Rochester and the originator, Mr. Alva Reed. Matt Barry, former watershed superintendent, is president.