Old Settlers Days set for July 29-30

Pulaski County Museum & Historical Society provides families and visitors to Waynesville the opportunity to experience life on the plains as settler families once lived during Old Settlers DaysJuly 29-30. The living history camps open 8:30 a.m. both days and are located alongside Roubidoux Creek and Park just north of the National Park Service Trail of Tears walkway. 

Denise Seevers is president of the Pulaski County Museum & Historical Society and event manager of Old Settlers Days.   

“Old Settlers Days has been a Waynesville event since 1980,” she said. “This event is not just for locals, it is for visitors, too. It allows families and friends the opportunity to come out and enjoy themselves, learn and experience the past while having fun.” 

The Old Settlers Day event has brought in visitors from all over Missouri and surrounding states, more in previous years, she said. It is believed that this year will not be any different.  

“The crafters and food booths allow for shopping and great food,” Seevers said. “It brings attention to downtown Waynesville as well as the surrounding towns and communities. Once visitors see our community and what we have to offer they often come back. The event boosts tourism and benefits local businesses.”  

Along with the tentative schedule for Old Settlers Day, the weekend will include the Army Engineer Association Sverdrup Chapter 5K run/walk beginning at 8 a.m. July 29 along with pony rides offered all day. There is Tumbleweed Jail, where for a small fee you can put a person of your choice in jail, then a second fee is paid for their release.  

The weekend will also include Revolutionary War reenactors, who will have a living history camp set up and will speak about life during that time period and a Civil War Living History camp with demonstrations and skirmishes. A skirmish is an engagement with limited commitment between the forces and without decisive results. . . think of it as a tussle between individuals.  

“Old Settlers Days is not just a fun event; it is a teaching event also” Seevers said. “The living history camps, and the reenactors, give us all a glimpse into our past. It is important to remember the past, so we do not repeat the many mistakes. It also encourages keeping traditions alive, such as campfire cooking, conversations and making our own items when possible.” 

Old Settlers Day T-Shirts will be available for purchase for $15, or you can preorder your shirt at the 1903 Courthouse Museum Saturdays 11 a.m.-3 p.m., through Pulaski County Historical Society Facebook Messenger or via email pulaskicomo@hotmail.com 

Among the many vendors in attendance are Kettle Korn, Ruby’s Ice Cream, Sam’s Sweets and Treats, Amy’s Smoke Shack (pulled pork, brisket, pulled pork nachos, sides), Chuck Wagon Soda and Lemonade and Snow Crème, Paradise Deli (brats, knockwurst, wienerwurst, sauerkraut, turkey legs, potato salad), Eventful Catering (brisket, pulled pork, and sides), Kountry Kitchen (Philly cheesesteak, Italian beef/chicken, wings, fries, cheeseburgers, tostadas), Mette Enterprises (knife forge demonstrations, chainsaw art), Jozo’s Art (paintings, sketches), Dogs in Business (vintage items, antiques, vintage clothing), Nana’s Creations (crocheted hats, scarves, potholder, hotpads, purses, Christmas ornaments, magnet, jewelry), face painting by PFAA and Rock painting by Missouri Extension for kids and more.  

For more information please contact Denise Seevers at pulaskicomo@hotmail.com or follow the Pulaski County Museum and Historical Society Facebook page.