Three Island Crossing set Saturday

Wednesday, August 9, 2006
The late Marv Wootan leads his oxen across the river during a previous crossing.

Glenns Ferry will celebrate its 21st Annual Three Island Crossing, a recreation of the 19th century Oregon Trail pioneer crossing of the Snake River, Aug. 11-13.

This year's event will be a memorial to Marv and Wayne Wootan, two key players in the development of the crossing who both died in accidents during the last year.

Events begin with a parade on Friday, Aug. 11, at 7 p.m., from the Elmore County Fairgrounds to Three Island Crossing State Park, and is open to everyone, including vehicles, bikes, walkers, equestrians, wagons, etc. Lineup begins at 6 p.m.

Following the parade, entertainment will be held at the park continuing until 10 p.m.

Saturday morning the Glenns Ferry Moose Lodge will sponsor its annual Pioneer Breakfast. Service will be from 7-10 a.m. Cost is $5 for adults, $4 for senior citizens, and $3 for children 12 years old and under.

Opening ceremonies for the crossing begin at the park at 9:30 a.m. with the actual reenactment beginning at 11 a.m. A number of wagons will attempt to cross the river on the historic crossing site at that time. The crossing remains as dangerous today as it was 150 years ago.

The cost for entrance to the park for Saturday's activities is $5 for adults. Children 12 years old and under are admitted free. The $5 includes a souvenir collectors' button reflecting the theme of this year's crossing. Buttons are now available at the Glenns Ferry Chamber of Commerce Office. They also can be purchased Friday evening at the Three Island Crossing Organization Booth at the state park, or at the park gate on Saturday.

Artisans, crafters, food vendors and entertainment will be available from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. on Saturday.

Entertainment during this year's Crossing will include: Karolyn Gaines, The Boise Cloggers, Bonafide, Emily & TJ, the Shoshone-Piute dancers, Thom Simpson, The Weil Family, cowboy poets, Emily Eldridge and the Old Time Fiddlers.

The Snake River Gunslingers of Twin Falls and the Cowboy Fast Draw Association also will be hosting a "Townsfolk Alley" at the Three Island Crossing celebration, Aug. 12.

The public is invited to stop by the Snake River Gunslingers booth and try their hand at Cowboy Fast Draw. The Snake River Gunslingers will provide the single action revolvers, holster rigs, and wax bullets.

A prize will be given for the fastest shot of the day as participants get a chance to relive the gunfights of yesteryear and participate in the one of the fastest growing western action shooting sports today.

At 9:30 a.m. on Sunday, there will be a Community Worship Service at the state park. There is no charge to enter the park for the service.

For more information contact the Glenns Ferry Chamber of Commerce at 366-7345, Jean Allen at 366-2354 or Dale Smith at 366-2710.

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