Patuxent Sojourn 2008
Liz Vanden Heuvel
The Sojourn is over for this year! It was a great success, including
fairly mild temperatures and rain only at night. On the weekend days we
had over 70 participants – less on weekdays as we made our
way from Kings Landing in Calvert County to Solomon’s Island
and the Bay at Drum Point.
On the way down the river we enjoyed information sessions about the
efforts at oyster restoration and the Maryland terrapin research and
the status of the terrapin now that the law against catching it is now
in force. Children – and adults - had an opportunity to
actually hold a terrapin in their hands. We had stopped at Cremona
– an 18th Century manor house still occupied and were warmly
greeted by the host.
In addition, we had a visit from Chief Tayac of the Piscataway Indians
while we were camped at Jefferson Patterson Park. We learned something
of the history and present status of Native Americans who still live in
the area. At Broomes Island we had a chance to hear from former Senator
Bernie Fowler who has been a champion of the Patuxent River and the Bay
since the 1970’s. Spirit of the Sojourn Awards were presented
to Lauren Webster, Restoration Coordinator for the Patuxent Riverkeeper
and to the Watermen’s Association. The young folks from
Baltimore who traveled with us were presented with a leadership award.
The food was excellent and the contra-dance went well. The company was
enjoyable. and we wish that you had been there, too!
Plan to join us next year in the second half
of June when we hope to paddle the upper Patuxent once again.
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