By: Mary Elizabeth Sullivan; the Wire
For children, families, music lovers and historians alike, Tamanend Park Day is a day in the park that is not to be missed.
“Tamanend Park Day is a free family event to honor our park history and culture,” Marian Gilbert, Upper Southampton Parks Director, said in an email. “Activities are all geared toward the environment and wildlife you would see in our park.”
The Philadelphia Zoo on Wheels will bring an up-close view of animals that live in the park, including animals of prey, as well as a squirrel, turtle and snake, starting around noon on Saturday at the Carriage House.
Just before 1 p.m., a guided environmental tour will head to Vernal Pond to see a butterfly garden and butterfly release. Plus, the insectariums will have some 37 types of insects on display for children to observe and discuss.
The annual day is jam-packed with activities for children and families. Pony rides, crafts, face-painting, balloon animals and a blacksmith demonstration are also on the agenda.
For those who may not be into exploring animals, there will be live music from Zydeco-A-Go-Go, a funky, vintage band hailing from Philadelphia with a New Orleans sound.
Beyond nature-based activities for children, Tamanend Park Day also celebrates the beginnings of the park.
According to the Park’s website, the park was originally part of the Lenni-Lenape domain, and Chief Tamanend sold the area of Bucks County to William Penn. However, the treaty was broken by Penn’s descendants, and the remaining tribe members were driven out of Pennsylvania.
In 1985, the Friends of Tamanend Park placed what are today known as the Tamanend Tribute Rocks — “weathered Delaware river glacial boulders” and a “field of white pebbles” to represent the tribe and history of what took place many years ago in the park.
“Although the Tamanend Park Tribute Rocks were placed and dedicated in the park in 1985, an official sign was placed there to explain the historical significance,” said Gilbert.
“The rocks are a symbol of trust and negotiation.”
Between nature, music, food and history, there seems to be something in store for everyone at Tamanend Park Day.
“It’s a day to celebrate our history and culture while celebrating the beautiful park that exists today,” Gilbert said.
Tamanend Park hosts this event on Sept. 10 from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. For information, visit ustwprec.com.
