In the spirit of Thanksgiving, the National Historic Trails Interpretive Center is hosting a Gratitude Celebration on Saturday, November 30, inviting the public to express their appreciation for their ancestors, US Department of the Interior The Bureau of Land Management reports.
This free event encourages participants to share stories and photos, celebrating the legacies of those who came before.
Attendees are encouraged to bring photocopies of historic family portraits to contribute to the “Ancestor Board” and share their personal stories with volunteers, helping to create a collective memory of the community.
“Our ancestors possessed a fortitude that seems strange to current generations… We envisioned a day for families to honor older generations through storytelling and pictures, fostering a greater appreciation of the past,” remarked education technician Stacey Moore.
The event aims to not only honor past memories but also to create new ones. Guests can explore the historical displays at the Center, participate in pioneer games with family and friends, and enjoy special presentations and live music throughout the day.
Musical entertainment will feature Buffalo Bill Boycott and Dr. Jo, award-winning performers from the Western Music Association, who will present their “Holiday Roundup” program at 11 a.m. and 2 p.m. This program includes a mix of songs, stories, poems, and entertaining skits inspired by the traditions of cowboys and pioneers in the Old West.
Additionally, Trails Center volunteer LeAnn Smith will present “Tragedy and Triumph on October 19, 1856” at 1 p.m. Her program highlights the heroism of the Martin Handcart Company during their crossing of the North Platte River at Bessemer Bend. Smith aims to balance the narrative by sharing both the tragic and triumphant aspects of this significant event in pioneer history, emphasizing the heroic deeds recorded in pioneer diaries.
For further details about the Gratitude Celebration, interested individuals can contact Stacey Moore at 307-261-7780 or via email at samoore@blm.gov. To stay updated on Trails Center programs and events, follow BLM Wyoming on social media or visit the Trails Center’s website at BLM National Historic Trails Interpretive Center.
