MEXICO – The charter symbolizing the incorporation of Oxford County 200 years ago gallops into the River Valley area around noon on Tuesday.
For more than a year, the Citizens Advisory Board has been making plans for not only the arrival of the charter, but also for a variety of craft demonstrations and other events.
Louise Arsenault, chairwoman of the committee, said a group of Ellis River Riders, dressed in early 19th century garb, is expected to arrive at the Mexico Recreation Park around noon, following a five-mile trek from Frye Bridge down Route 17.
At noon, the charter will be presented to a group of fourth-graders from Meroby Elementary School. Copies of the charter will also be given to youngsters from Rumford Elementary School, St. Athanasius and St. John School, Virginia Elementary School and the River Valley Christian School.
Special speakers will be Larry Glatz, chairman of the Oxford County Bicentennial Committee, local legislators, selectmen and town managers, and representatives from Rep. Michael Michaud’s and Sen. Susan Collins’ offices.
Demonstrations of old-style cooking, basket weaving, spinning and creation of dream catchers will be ongoing beginning at 9 a.m.
Those who want a special stamp cancellation marking the bicentennial are asked to bring a stamped envelope for the postmaster to cancel, from 9 a.m. to noon.
The riders will then travel to Dixfield on Wednesday where another copy of the charter will be presented to fourth-graders.
Those attending are asked to bring lawn chairs and rain gear. The events takes place rain or shine.
The charter began its trek from Boston in March and is being taken by horseback or on foot to each elementary school in Oxford County. The county was part of Massachusetts when it incorporated in 1805.
The grand celebration will take place on June 11 in Paris, the shire town of Oxford County.
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