The Old Settlers Picnic Association will host the 131rst Old Settlers Picnic Sunday.
The first event on Aug. 2, 1893 was held to honor two elderly pioneers — Kasson Freeman and John Fisher. High attendance at this first picnic inspired the organizers to hold one annually.
In 1905, they formed the Old Settlers Picnic Association (OSPA) and began raising funds to purchase a permanent picnic ground. The present Old Settlers Park reflects two purchases. In 1912, with funds from the Association, Leelanau County bought a five-acre parcel adjacent to the Methodist Episcopal Church, which was built in 1896. In 1917, the Association funded the county’s purchase of the church, with the Methodists stipulating that the church “shall not be used for dancing.”
The day begins at 10:30 a.m. with a service in the Old Settlers Chapel, followed by a barbecue lunch prepared by the Empire Masonic Lodge. The menu includes roast beef, cowboy beans and fresh sweet corn, served until 3 p.m.
There will be music by Rodney Brier; kids’ games and prizes; a shingle mill demonstration; silent auction; and bake sale.
Also included will be election OSPA officers and cash prizes will be awarded to the youngest person in attendance; oldest woman; oldest man; longest married and shortest married couples.
Old Settlers Picnic Grounds is located on the southeast shore of big Glen Lake.
