Get set for David Thopmson Days July 6
The 6th annual David Thompson Days Community Rendezvous is sure to delight locals and visitors of all ages Saturday July 6 in downtown Thompson Falls.
This unique celebration blends customized historic activities, games, crafts, and demonstrations showcasing early North American traditions, Independence Day, and the adventurous life of Thompson Falls namesake, epic explorer/fur trader David Thompson. Born in 1770, Thompson successfully established trade with natives while mapping the uncharted portions of North America and travelling over 70,000 miles by foot, horse, and canoe.
A black powder salute will also be given in honor of the late Norm ‘Rawhide’ Allen, the local iconic mountain man re-enactor and longtime Thompson enthusiast who has been a stalwart of David Thompson Days since its inception. Rawhide passed away in May this year.
The day of fun begins at 9am with primitive alt alt spear throwing lessons on Ainsworth Field, near Main & Lincoln St. The atl atl was used by native hunters prior to the advent of bows and arrows. A skilled user can hit a target over 100 yards away with the long, lightweight dart launched from a handheld sling. Later in the day instructor Don Safford will be in the fur trader camp at Power Company Park demonstrating how to make traditional spear points and arrowheads from flint.
The annual Main Street Heritage Parade begins at 10 a.m., proceeding from Gallatin Street to the East Ramp. A variety of historical periods and Independence Day themes are welcome. There’s no charge to enter the parade, although participants are asked to pre-register by 5 p.m., July 5. Entries will be arranged in a time continuum with oldest periods leading off and modern bringing up the rear.
Authentic mountain man encampments, museum quality displays, old world arts & crafts, treats, traders & trade goods will be set up in Power Company Park, one block south of the Post Office, from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m.. Throughout the day costumed re-enactors will teach primitive skills including knife and hawk throwing, flint and steel fire making, musket ball casting, black powder rifle demos, beading, fur handling, flint knapping, and more. Daughters of the American Revolution will also be on hand to assist anyone interested in tracing their family lineage to patriot ancestors.
Admission to the event is free for all ages thanks to the generous support of Blackfoot Telecommunications and the Thompson Falls Chamber of Commerce. Overflow parking is available on Ainsworth Field.
For parade or trader applications contact the Chamber at 406 827-4930, stop in at 1213 Main Street, email tfchamber@thompsonfallschamber.com, or contact event coordinator Jennifer Fielder at 406 210 5944.