What better way to usher in an exciting new season of events at Colonial Pemaquid State Historic Site than with a stirring concert by Maine St. Andrew’s Pipes and Drums? On Saturday, May 23 at 2 p.m, you can catch the band’s unique sound of bagpipes and drum rolls in an outdoor concert on the Fort’s original parade grounds. Sporting what is believed to be the oldest district tartan in the United States, Maine St. Andrew’s members will perform the distinctive music of Maine’s Scottish forebears. The concert event is free, other than the customary State of Maine park entrance fees. This program is brought to you by the Friends of Colonial Pemaquid.

Based in Ellsworth, Maine, St. Andrew’s Pipes and Drums has performed as a group since 1996, traveling throughout Maine, throughout the United States and into Canada participating in concerts, parades and Highland Games, and providing educational presentations to school groups. The group is comprised of members from ages 15 to 70 years. Their tartan, the official Maine state tartan, appropriately includes light blue for the sky, dark blue for the waters, dark green for the forests and a thin red line for the bloodline of the people.

Many of the St. Andrews band members first came to the group because of either an ancestral connection to the instrument’s Scottish beginnings, or a passion for Scottish heritage. Others are drawn to the instrument’s haunting sound. The group’s unique makeup of beginner musicians and veterans with many years experience translates into lessons on techniques, sharing of tips, and tutoring on the challenging instrument. The learning curve is large and supportive instruction and practice is key to bringing on new musicians and bolstering the skills of the other participating pipers.

While at Colonial Pemaquid, visitors are encouraged to tour its history-rich grounds, explore the reconstructed Fort William Henry with its permanent exhibit, view archaeological ruins, wander the cemetery, and visit the artifact museum and gift shop. Open daily from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m., from Memorial Day through Labor Day, Colonial Pemaquid State Historic Site offers a glimpse of English frontier settlement life in the New World during the 17th and 18th centuries.

Directions: Colonial Pemaquid is located off Route 130, approximately 12 miles south of Route 1 and 3 miles north of the Pemaquid Point Lighthouse. From Route 130 South, in New Harbor, turn right onto Huddle Road and follow signs to Colonial Pemaquid. From Route 32 South, turn left onto Route 130 and then immediately right onto Snowball Hill Road, following signs to Colonial Pemaquid. The Contented Sole Restaurant is on site adjacent to the museum.

For more information, visit the park’s website at www.friendsofcolonialpemaquid.org, or you may contact the park manager at 207-677-2423.