One look will tell you how terrific those strawberries tasted

Sanatoga baseball great Bobby Shantz was on hand

By Beth Scherer
of the Lower Pottsgrove Historical Society,
for The Sanatoga Post

SANATOGA PA – Not rain, not strong winds, and not high temperatures and humidity could derail the success of the Lower Pottsgrove Historical Society’s annual Strawberry Festival earlier this month at the former Sanatoga Chapel on East High Street, its members reported.

Despite the worst Mother Nature might throw at it, they added, it was again a hit with the public’s taste buds and the society treasury.

Oppressive heat and humidity, strong winds that almost blew its tents onto the highway, and a storm’s downpour during the day couldn’t dent the festival’s flavorful atmosphere. Hundreds turned out for the June 11 (2011) event, which served up and sold strawberry desserts to delight the palate. It also provided entertainment from former baseball big leaguers Bobby Shantz and George Moore, and hand-clapping tunes by The O’Such Rhythm and Music Band.

A new fund-raiser tried this year by the society – a raffle of 23 different, merchandise-filled baskets donated by local merchants and its members – earned almost $700.

“Thanks to all who came out that day to support the Lower Pottsgrove Historical Society,” it said in a Friday (June 17) e-mail. “An even bigger thanks to all the members who gave so much time prior to, during, and after the festival. We couldn’t have had a great day without the members’ dedication to keeping the history alive in Lower Pottsgrove!”

Good friends shared good eats while attending the festival on East High Street

A basket raffle, assorted bargains, and baked goods sales raised extra income

The John O'Such Rhythm and Music Band provided entertainment

Photos by Glenn Isett