Genot Picor is a popular French-Huron Metis storyteller from Clinton Township, Michigan who will be appearing at this year's River of Time Living History Encampment.

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Tah, Dah!!! 20th Annual River of Time Splashes on Local Scene Friday

Encampment in Veterans Park Features Living History Through the Ages

September 20, 2009
By: Dave Rogers

Want to attend Mrs. Lincoln's tea party?

How about hearing the Gettysburg Address by a re-enactor portraying Honest Abe?

Sit down and do some "larning" at Kathy Hoard's Colonial School?

Listen to a French-Huron Metis Storyteller, Genot Picor?

Those are just some of the attractions at of the most successful outdoor entertainment events ever held in Northeast Michigan, the River of Time, that marks its 20th year next weekend.

The events and attractions are many, varied and as historically correct as possible, says Jan Rau, chair of the 20th annual event.

The sounds, sights and smells of history will be on display for those who want to immerse themselves in times past, she said.

The annual River of Time Living History Encampment is poised to receive thousands of visitors as well as re-enactors and other participants at the venue on the bank of the Saginaw River in Veterans Memorial Park.

Busloads of school children will be first to experience the pageantry on Friday that also marks the 7:30 p.m. opening of an art exhibit in the Bay County Community Center.

Spanning Native American early days in the region through the Colonial, French and Indian, Mexican War, the Wild West, World Wars I and II and Vietnam Conflict, the River of Time has it all -- for everyone.

Visitors may shop sutler's row, visit historical camps, see live re-enactments and witness military skirmishes. Dozens of re-enactors from the Civil War, French and Indian and various military periods in the nation's history will be camped in the park during the event.

Admission is free, but donations are always welcome, and needed, the organizers of the Bay County Historical Society state.

It showcases a time line of eras in the history of North America, the society states.

The encampment is slated to be open to the public Saturday Sept. 26 9 a.m. to 10 p.m. and Sunday Sept. 27 9 a.m. to 4 p.m.

Among other events during the encampment are an Indian paddle dance, Genot Picor French-Huron Metis Storyteller, Military Tattoo, Tactical Military Demonstration, Wild West Show, Candlelight Walk, Church Service and Quilt Raffle Drawing.

Popular vendors are Ma & Pa's Kettle Korn and Little John's Root Beer. A general store features tins, dried flowers, wooden nickels, silver dollars, vases, cookies, crafts, books and various items fitting the historical time line. The general store is located on the porch of the Meyer Log Cabin, an authentic pioneer building originally located in Frankenlust Township now preserved in the park.

Musicians scheduled to play on Saturday and Sunday include Just Jammin', Christian Cowboys, the Kuhlman Family, the Midland Highlanders, Thru the Myst, Tittabawassee Fife and Drum Corps, the Rostollans and the Singing Strings.

Program books are available at the main entrance and include maps of the encampment and a schedule of all activities. "Be aware there are different events at the same time, so choose the presentation you'd enjoy most, and just follow the map," says Ms. Rau.

Parking is available north of Veterans Memorial Bridge in Vets Park but a shuttle bus will not be available.###