By Jerry Curry, Staff Writer

Nathaniel Smith, Editor

Old Settlers Days Festival is one of the best throughout the fall season. First established in 1875, this annual event is held in order to commemorate and honor the pioneers of old who had settled the wilderness lands of the Indiana Territory. Little by little, communities began to grow; one such community being Washington County.

This free festival lasting two days will be October 5 and 6 from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. with the only exception being a church service that will occur in the village on October 6 at 8 a.m. Old Settlers Days is held at the John Hay Pioneer Village located at 307 E. Market St., Salem, and it will have plenty of attractions for all types of interests.

Visitors will be greeted by many local food vendors, arts and crafts, and many historical reenactments. In addition, the Stevens Memorial Museum is open to exploration as well as the nearby Depot Railroad Museum located at 206 S. College Ave., Salem.

Old Settlers Days will also be hosting several local musicians for your listening pleasure. Starting the musical festivities off will be the Corydon Dulcimer Society on Saturday from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. Following up the Corydon Dulcimer Society will be local blues, rock and folk musician Jared Kearschner from 2 p.m. to 4 p.m. And finally to wrap up the music, the Salem Guitar Club will be playing from 1:30 p.m. to 2:30 p.m. on Sunday.

Make sure to bring an appetite! The many food and drink options will include hot dogs, pulled pork, ham, beans, chili and more served from the Canton Christian Ladies Group ($8 combo meal or $4 à la carte), as well as booths offering products such as fresh apple cider.

Old Settlers Days is a must-see event in the Washington County area for any fans of food, community fun, or history. So, be sure to make an appearance at the 2024 Old Settlers Days Festival!