[Wilks]

So I know we have the lighting of the Fort coming up. Can you tell me a little bit of the history of the fort? 

[Tom]

Yeah, that the lighting actually was created, The event was created by Annette Smith. And it was a part of the 100th anniversary celebration of the construction, Fort Seward 1904 to 2004. And was originally part of a whole month of special activities planned, and it’s kind of what’s remained. And a big shout out to Annette. She kind of retired from the event this year, but it’s a big production and a bunch of us others have stepped in to see if we can fill her shoes.

[Wilks]

 So what’s going to be happening at the fort this Saturday? 

[Tom]

It’s kind of exciting deal, there’s a big cannon blast with the cannon going off, and then all the lights around the fort come on, the house lights. And then we cut immediately to a live nativity scene on the parade grounds behind the traverse cabin with the gospel readings, kind of a reenactment of the birth of Christ and Christmas carols. And then everybody kind of comes around the corner, and there’s a bonfire and hotdogs and chili dogs and cookies and music and you can roast marshmallows and hot dogs . So it’s kind of Norman Rockwell Christmas kind of thing. 

[Wilks]

I think that’s the kind of I can get behind. Any cost for anyone?

[Tom]

 Well, in fact, there is there’s couple 100 bucks that in the great generosity, Annette and her neighbors always provided the whole event is free. You can come anytime you like, this year, the distillery stepped up and is picking up the expenses. So we’re very grateful to them for that. The Presbyterian Church puts on the Nativity Tableau and then it’s just kind of come and see your neighbors, and there’s no obligation. You know, if you just want to come for the bonfire, you can do that. If you just want to hear the cannon blast and see the lights, you just drive around and just drive the loop. It’s kind of all those corny Americana things that after you lived here for a couple of years you kind of come to love and in a way and it’s a kind of a genuine expression of the spirit of the season, I think. 

[Wilks]

Tom Morphet, thank you very much. 

[Tom]

Thanks, Brandon.

The firing of the cannon and lighting of the fort takes place at 5pm sharp, Saturday evening. For more information, call 766-2708.