As turkey season approaches, so does the 4th Annual Heritage Day Celebration at Twin Pines Conservation Education Center. On April 16, 10 a.m. to 3 p.m., a host of volunteers will be onsite to demonstrate traditional Ozarks skills, music, and of course, the fish fry.
Demonstrations this year include: tie hacking, soap making, bowin’ and spikin, blacksmith, spinning, weaving, quilting, making rope, forestry tools, and how Native Americans used resources in the Ozarks, and much more. The Older Iron Club will again demonstrate equipment of the era.
The fish fry, funded by Missouri Conservation Heritage Foundation, is served up by Dennis McSpadden with assistance from the Twin Pines Volunteers, along with USFS Jane Mobley, and students from Mingo Job Corps. McSpadden, from Van Buren, comes prepared with gas fired cookers ready to feed more than 400 plus visitors. He will fry fish until 1 p.m., or as long as the supply lasts.
The fish fry is an Ozarks favorite, complete with catfish, hushpuppies and seasoned fries, and will be served starting at 11 a.m.
A play area will highlight old fashioned fun for the kids or the kid at heart. Activities include stick and hoop, spoons and limberjacks.
Archery, fishing, bird watching and hiking is also available this year for all ages. A special permit has been issued by MDC Director Bob Ziehmer so fishing permits are not required for the one day event. Fishing equipment and bait are provided.
There is no cost for the event and registration is not required. There will be a shuttle service provided for off-site parking on Highway 19 north in Winona. To volunteer or for more information, please call 573-325-1381.
