2024 Schedule of Events
Thursday, August 8
8:00 am - 4 pm Guided Forestry Bus Tour
This year, our Forest Heritage Days event is excited to feature a captivating journey that will take you from Greenville to the northern town of Jackman, home to the renowned Moose River Lumber Mill. Wood transformation is a constantly evolving process. This excursion offers an exclusive opportunity to witness the many steps that wood goes through in between the time its received at the mill as logs and the time its ship out as a finished product. Our route will include stops at an active forest operation, providing a firsthand look at the industry in action, and a wildlife conservation area, showcasing the harmonious balance between industry and nature.
$55 per person (includes lunch). Meet at the Bartley Family Event Center, 241 Pritham Avenue, at 7:45 am
$55 per person (includes lunch). Meet at the Bartley Family Event Center, 241 Pritham Avenue, at 7:45 am
7 pm - 9 pm : Panel Discussion Headlined by Senator Angus King- Silver Jubilee of Historic Moosehead Region Conservation Transaction
Our kickoff to Forest Heritage Days will be a discussion about a pivotal conservation transaction that occurred 25 years ago. This agreement not only catalyzed the preservation of an expansive tract of land in the Moosehead Lake region but also ensured its continued use as a working forest for future generations.
Our panel aims to delve into the intricacies of this agreement and applaud its triumphs. We have reached out to a distinguished list of invitees to enrich our discussion. This includes Senator King, who held the office of Maine’s Governor when the agreement was inked, along with esteemed representatives from the Bureau of Public Lands, the Trust for Public Lands, the Forest Society of Maine, and Weyerhaeuser. We look forward to their valuable insights.
Bartley Family Event Center, 241 Pritham Avenue, Greenville, By Donation
Our panel aims to delve into the intricacies of this agreement and applaud its triumphs. We have reached out to a distinguished list of invitees to enrich our discussion. This includes Senator King, who held the office of Maine’s Governor when the agreement was inked, along with esteemed representatives from the Bureau of Public Lands, the Trust for Public Lands, the Forest Society of Maine, and Weyerhaeuser. We look forward to their valuable insights.
Bartley Family Event Center, 241 Pritham Avenue, Greenville, By Donation
Friday, August 9
8 am - 4 pm: Guided Forestry Bus Tour
Embark on a journey back in time to the historic Katahdin Iron Works. Here, the solitary remains of a blast furnace and charcoal kiln stand as quiet testaments to the once-thriving Katahdin Iron Works. From 1843 to 1890, these structures were the heart of Maine’s sole iron works operation in the 19th century, their fires burning ceaselessly, casting an ethereal glow against the night sky.
The tour also includes a visit to a bustling forest operation, an engaging discussion on bird science with John Hagan from Our Climate Common, and a glimpse into a watershed restoration site. This is not just a tour; it’s a step into the past and a look into the future of conservation. Join us and experience the rich heritage of the Maine wilderness.
$55 per person (includes lunch). Meet at the Bartley Family Event Center, 241 Pritham Avenue, at 7:45 a.m.
The tour also includes a visit to a bustling forest operation, an engaging discussion on bird science with John Hagan from Our Climate Common, and a glimpse into a watershed restoration site. This is not just a tour; it’s a step into the past and a look into the future of conservation. Join us and experience the rich heritage of the Maine wilderness.
$55 per person (includes lunch). Meet at the Bartley Family Event Center, 241 Pritham Avenue, at 7:45 a.m.
9:30 am - 12 pm Backpack Weaving 101
Join us at Forest Heritage Days on Friday, August 9, where local artisans Peggy Phillips and Pat Huckins will be showcasing their weaving skills. They will demonstrate how to weave a backpack and invite attendees to experience the art of weaving firsthand. The molds they use, which have been employed by numerous weavers including Peggy and Pat, originate from the families of Lawrence Budden, Ike Harrington, and John Webber. This interactive demonstration, featuring both black ash and reed, will take place from 9:30 to 12:00.
On Saturday, Peggy and Pat will continue their demonstrations at their booth at Forest Heritage Days. Attendees will have the opportunity to participate in hands-on activities such as pounding black ash, weaving, and preparing strips. The Saturday events are scheduled from 10:00-11:30 and 12:30-2:00.
Bartley Family Event Center, 241 Pritham Avenue, Greenville, By donation
On Saturday, Peggy and Pat will continue their demonstrations at their booth at Forest Heritage Days. Attendees will have the opportunity to participate in hands-on activities such as pounding black ash, weaving, and preparing strips. The Saturday events are scheduled from 10:00-11:30 and 12:30-2:00.
Bartley Family Event Center, 241 Pritham Avenue, Greenville, By donation
2 pm - 4 pm: Calling All Kids! Tree Tales and Forest Fun with acclaimed children's author Mary Morton Cowan
Embark on a thrilling journey with the acclaimed author, Mary Morton Cowan. Dive into the fascinating world of trees with an interactive identification game, and let your curiosity guide you through a delightful picture scavenger hunt.
Unearth the historical methods of logging as you explore how timber was once hewn and transported from the heart of the woods to the bustling sawmills. Expand your vocabulary with intriguing logging terms and prepare to be surprised by a special mystery guest! This is an adventure you won’t want to miss!"
Bartley Family Event Center, 241 Pritham Avenue, Greenville, Free admission
Unearth the historical methods of logging as you explore how timber was once hewn and transported from the heart of the woods to the bustling sawmills. Expand your vocabulary with intriguing logging terms and prepare to be surprised by a special mystery guest! This is an adventure you won’t want to miss!"
Bartley Family Event Center, 241 Pritham Avenue, Greenville, Free admission
5:30 pm - 7 pm: Masonic Bean Hole Bean Woodsman’s Dinner
Enjoy an authentic Woodsmen’s Dinner of baked beans, hot dogs, biscuits and more.
Masonic Temple, Pritham Ave., Greenville Jct., $15/person
Masonic Temple, Pritham Ave., Greenville Jct., $15/person
7 pm - 8:30 pm: Timber Tales - Unearthing the Chronicles of Maine's Logging Legacy with author Mary Morton Cowan
Maine, with its vast expanse of forestland, has a rich and complex history of logging that dates back to the colonial era. Join us for an enlightening event where the award-winning author, Mary Morton Cowan, will take us on a journey through Maine’s logging history. Her engaging slide presentation will trace the evolution of logging practices in Maine, from its rudimentary beginnings to the advent of steam-powered log haulers and sawmills in the early 20th century. The presentation will be enriched with vintage photographs, offering a rare glimpse into an actual logging operation from the past. Don’t miss this opportunity to delve into the fascinating world of Maine’s logging heritage.
Bartley Family Event Center, 241 Pritham Avenue, Greenville, By Donation
Bartley Family Event Center, 241 Pritham Avenue, Greenville, By Donation
Saturday, August 10
7 am - 10 am: American Legion Lumbermen’s Breakfast
A hearty Woodsman’s breakfast of eggs, home fries, bacon, sausage, pancakes, and more.
American Legion Hall, 218 Pritham Ave., $ 15 per person
American Legion Hall, 218 Pritham Ave., $ 15 per person
8:30 am: Scammon Ridge Headwaters Project Talk and Tour
Bryan Wentzell, Executive Director of Exemplary Forestry Management will speak to the creation of the Exemplary Forestry Investment Fund (EFIF) which came from a collaboration of Maine forest conservation groups to create a new model for timberland ownership and conservation. Bryan represents the Scammon Ridge Headwaters LLC which owns the 3,000-acre Scammon Ridge property. The EFIF seeks to demonstrate forest management approaches developed by the New England Forestry Foundation that utilize the best current forestry science to promote increased forest carbon, improved wildlife habitat, and long-term timber value. Other speakers include Karin Tilberg, Executive Director of the Forest Society of Maine and Steve Tatko, VP of the Appalachian Mountain Club. A tour of the property will follow the presentation.
Moosehead Cultural Heritage Center, 6 Lakeview Street, Greenville
Moosehead Cultural Heritage Center, 6 Lakeview Street, Greenville
10 am - 3:30 pm: Forest Heritage Days
Join us at Forest Heritage Days with fun for the whole family!
- Colby College Woodsmen demonstrations
- Experience the thrill of timber sports at Forest Heritage Days with the Colby Woodsmen's Team! This co-ed student athletic club, with a rich history dating back to 1950, is ready to showcase their mastery of both traditional and modern logging skills.
- Watch as they compete in a variety of events, including the Underhand Chop, Standing Block Chop, and the Axe Throw. Witness the precision of Splitting, the teamwork in the Two-Person Crosscut, and the finesse of the Bowsaw. Be amazed by the balance and control in the Log Roll, the accuracy in the Pulp Throw, and the unique Chain Throw. Feel the heat with the Fire Build/Water Boil, and marvel at the dexterity in Chainsaw Disk Stacking and Chainsaw Speed Cutting.
- The Colby Woodsmen's Team competes in timber sports events across the Northeast and Canada. Come and join us at the Forest Heritage Days to celebrate the spirit of timber sports and the legacy of logging! We can't wait to see you there!
- Shows at 11 am and 2 pm
- Forestry, Wildlife, and Recreation Exhibitors
- Forestry Equipment
- Activities for the Entire Family
- Chain Saw Carving Demonstrations
- FREE Horse and Carriage Rides
- Food Vendors and more!
6 pm -9 pm: R&B Dance Cruise on the Historic Steamboat Katahdin
Enjoy an evening of music and dancing while taking in the sunset over spectacular Moosehead Lake. Dance to R & B tunes with Maine Street R & B Revue. Ticket price includes Katahdin admission and band. The Katahdin’s galley will be open and a cash bar will be available – ages 21 and older only.
Moosehead Marine Museum, 12 Lily Bay Road, Greenville. $60 pp. Tickets can be purchased by clicking here.
Moosehead Marine Museum, 12 Lily Bay Road, Greenville. $60 pp. Tickets can be purchased by clicking here.
6:30 pm - 8:00 pm: "David Stone Libbey - Penobscot Lumberman, River Driver, Civil War Soldier and Writer" - with local author Tommy Carbone
David Stone Libbey was a sixth generation Mainer who lived most of his life in Howland and Newport, Maine. He was a Penobscot river driver, head bateau man, and lumbered for ship’s knees from the Maine woods to the Adirondacks. Maine Historian Fannie Hardy Eckstorm wrote of Libbey: “He was one of Maine’s thoroughbred woodsman and waterman. He was a machinist, carpenter, miner, timber-molder, farmer, clerk, foundry-man, Civil War soldier, naturalist and writer.” David wrote insightful articles for Forest and Stream and the Maine papers, including pieces on the Moosehead Lake region.
With his engaging style, Tommy’s presentation is designed to entertain with photos and woods’ ballads, while providing the heritage of this remarkable Maine pioneer, his lumbering adventures (many life-threatening), his writing as a naturalist, and his enduring legacy.
Bartley Family Event Center, 241 Pritham Avenue, Greenville
With his engaging style, Tommy’s presentation is designed to entertain with photos and woods’ ballads, while providing the heritage of this remarkable Maine pioneer, his lumbering adventures (many life-threatening), his writing as a naturalist, and his enduring legacy.
Bartley Family Event Center, 241 Pritham Avenue, Greenville