Middletown >> A tribute to Middletown Days, which takes place June 19 through 21, is on view at Gibson Museum now and into July.
A Pomo tule boat on loan through July and the photo portion of the previous display from Harbin Springs — Lake County’s first resort — are simultaneously on display.
Middletown Days has been a summer happening in the youngest and most southerly Lake County town since 1961, featuring a parade and a set of horsemanship events. Gibson has compilation of posters, photos and memorabilia of past Middletown Days.
Initiated by members and friends of the Pope Valley Riders 20 miles away, the intent was to provide a more convenient location for competitions. The group also felt keenly the need for gymkhana training of young riders.
Families donated land in 1961 to create Middletown’s Central Park — an ideal place for an arena, with bleachers fashioned of 2-by-12s on walnut crates.
From the beginning the hide pull has been a favored event, on the part of both the audience and participants old and young, male and female. The roster of competitions eventually expanded to become a full-fledged rodeo.
There will be prizes, a barbecue, a Saturday night dance and Sunday breakfast.
A tradition of summertime parades stretching from the 19th century, typically on the Fourth of July, was incorporated into the initial program for Middletown Days.
Annual parades feature an array of riders, floats, antique autos and farm equipment and entries by local merchants.
For further information, email gibsonmuseum@gmail.com, call 809-8009, or the Middletown Central Park Association at mcpa1961@gmail.com or 987-8285.
Gibson Museum & Cultural Center is located at 21267 Calistoga Road in Middletown.
