Crossposting $ 5 - New Years Eve Celebration of General Meade

Since half of the name "Agile Philly" pertains to Philadelphia, it is appropriate that Agile Philly highlight those lesser known events in the city that are uniquely Philadelphian.

In that light, General George G Meade who defeated General Lee at the Battle of Gettysburg, and who just recently turned 200 years old on Dec 31st, 2015

The General was the theme of our October All-Day Conference on October 23rd.

Always a grand event at his current residence, many a champagne toast will salute his gallant life and many deeds. Brigantine Lighthouse and Fairmont Park are two examples of his talent and energy known to us locals.

This event begins at 11:00 am with a formal parade starting at noon, and it will end in the early afternoon (when all the champagne is gone. Many of us bring extra to keep things going.) This party in the afternoon leaves plenty of time for other frivolities later in the evening.

Why Champagne ?

The great man did not drink whisky or beer, but only drank champagne when he did drink, so we toast him with champagne. Note that Beer will also be available. Great food, drink and company will abound, just for a picture of Lincoln ( $5 ) !

Be there early for parking at 11:15 am and to see the sights and sounds of true Philadelphians.

No RSVP is required, but there is a $5 admission charge, since quantities of Champagne will be distributed and consumed. There is no charge for those who come in civilian or military attire of the Civil War.

It can be unusually icy cold and windy over by the gravesite overlooking the Schuykill River, so dress accordingly for that stop.  The other stops are not bad.  All events are outside except for getting in line for Chili. 

This is bound to be the event of the winter, so as they say in the 21st Century . . .

. . . Be There . . . or Be an equilateral four-sided polygon

Directions to Laurel Hill Cememtery at 3822 Ridge Avenue, Philadelphia, PA 19132
http://www.thelaurelhillcemetery.org

http://www.generalmeadesociety.org for more information about the worlds greatest general, George Gordon Meade

P.S. The statue includes the General's devoted horse, Old Baldy, a survivor of many wounds from many civil war battles including Gettysburg. He is the only civil war participant around today who you can look eye to eye with. Unfortunately, I hear Old Baldy will not be attending the ceremony because of his current mobility problems.

Old Baldy still resides here in Philadelphia, and is usually seen dutifully welcoming visitors to the GAR Museum in the Frankford section of the city.

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Old_Baldy_(horse)

Short courses that include Gettysburg is found at

https://manor.edu/academics/adult-continuing-education/civil-war-institute as well as SATURDAY MAY 19 Symposium on the Gettysburg Battle that changed US and World history.