Last week was quite a week. It included the last scramble of fact-checking and history buffing with the first round of invitations drop-off and poster printing. And then it was the first public Margaree Walking Tours, open to everyone in the community as Free Feedback Tours to see what it’s all about and to share stories of the Margarees.
The Tours began as an idea that suddenly came to life this past weekend. Perhaps the crowd I’m most nervous in front of is the local crowd. Thankfully and, of course, everyone was kind, generous and good humoured.
The feedback stories were very interesting. I learned more about the Gaspereau barns and sweet sound systems on the south-west during fishing seasons. We discussed about the architectural features of the Myles from Nowhere foundation. And I’m still looking to confirm rumours of bawdry activities at the Belmont Hotel. Each stop, everyone learned a little something new.
The feedback on logistics was also encouraging. The distance to number of stops ratio was just right. Though there are no proper sidewalks along this section of the Cabot Trail, the walk wasn’t too long and the cars were not a distraction. There were some surprising locations (I won’t share which ones) and the impressive beauty of the Margaree River speaks for itself. And, of course, the Creamery ice cream stop is a highlight.
Thanks again to everyone who came out to these first tours. I appreciated all your feedback and took it to heart. The tours are better than ever and are now ready for everyone.
The first ticketed tours run this Thursday, July 9th to Sunday, July 12 at 12 noon, starting at the Margaree Forks Visitor Information Centre and Library gazebo. You can purchase tickets here or pay cash at the “door”.
Big thanks to Vanessa and Steven Childs-Rolls for coming on the tour with their family and taking these lovely photos.
Do you have stories of Margaree Forks you’d like to share? Any thoughts on the tour? I’d love to hear them!