Contributed by Lee County Historical Soceity
For half a century, the tiny historical town of Loachapoka has been a venue for an exciting fall festival, welcoming thousands of visitors each October. The fair continues its’ run with regular museum exhibits — blacksmith forge, cotton gin office, the old calaboose, museum of farm implements, Native American artifacts, spinning and weaving and the state’s second oldest log cabin — for Pioneer Day on Saturday, Oct. 23.
These will be joined by once-a-year demonstrators showing off their craft: pine needle basket weaving, loom weavers and spinners, local artisans and potters will all display their wares for sale. Mules will be at the antique cane mill squeezing juice for syrup making.
Children will be able to harvest peanuts, sweet potatoes, cotton and sugar cane. Many other old time crafts will be available.
On stage at the pavilion will be the incomparable Plantation Heirs, featuring Miss Ernestine Robinson. Entertainment will continue throughout the day with well-known local artists.
Plenty of food will be available including our famous sweet potato biscuits and fritters. Camp stew, beans and greens will be cooking over the fire. Food vendors will be there with a variety of festival foods.
Gate opens at 7:00 a.m and close at 3 p.m. Bring the whole family — admission is free. The town of Loachapoka and Lee County Historical Society hope to see everybody there.