History buffs and families alike have the opportunity to time travel this month, as Knapp Heritage Park marks its 20th anniversary with a celebration of pioneer life. The event, taking place in Downtown Arlington, promises a day of learning and fun without a price tag. According to the City of Arlington, the Arlington Historical Society invites the public to join the festivities from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. on Saturday, Sept. 28.
The event's setting, Knapp Heritage Park, is nestled at 201 W. Front St., conveniently positioned by the George W. Hawkes Downtown Library. Nancy Tice, President of the Arlington Historical Society, described the anniversary celebration as a great family-friendly opportunity to explore Arlington's storied past. The day's agenda includes guided tours, costumed interpreters, and artisans demonstrating time-honored crafts such as butter churning, woodturning, and the folk art of corn husk doll making.
All of this is made possible by a piece of Arlington’s history itself, the park was donated by descendants of James and Mildred Knapp. James Knapp, a local bigwig in law and land, left his mark on Arlington's infrastructure, contributing to the creation of major highways including State Highway 360. Dedicated in 2004, the park presents a tangible narrative, with the Knapp's office, historic cabins, a blacksmith barn, and relics from the city's early leadership and their famed mineral well. The event not only serves as an educational experience but also as a fundraiser, with proceedings aiding the park's maintenance, managed by the Arlington Historical Society and Fielder Museum.
