Posted by Vintage Power Wagons on Thursday, June 03, 2004 at 6:43PM :
Were just a few days away and busy as hell here in Iowa. Jay Good has been here for 3 weeks now and has been an immense help, Henry Rabe showed up Monday from California and last but not least, Bob Decker from NJ showed up this afternoon. Nailing down a ton of last minute details. There had been some talk of the trail ride at Dale Kerr's being canceled, but this is NOT the case. I spoke to Dale yesterday and he informed me that we were certainly welcome. He has leased the property to some hunters, but not being hunting season, there will be no problem. We were especially concerned about the 5" of rain we recieved in 2 hours the other night. The little creek near my house normally 6' wide was a raging whitewater river over 100' wide. Dale said 10 miles from here they only got 1 1/2" so we should be in good shape.
We have also added an interesting addition to our trip to Bonaparte on Wednesday night.
Gene Buch told us about an amazing famous restored round barn, 52' diameter and 70'high.the only one of it's kind anywhere. We will stop by for a 20 minute tour before heading for Bentonsport and then onto Bonaparte for dinner. Bonaparte has limited seating and service, so will need to spread our arrival out between 4:30 and 7:00 on Wednesday night. Ben and Rose, the owners are nice folks, we had dinner there the other night before the rain. I'm sure the Desmoine River is as high as it's been in a number of years.
The town of Bonaparte should have several antique shops open so while some wait for dinner, there will be plenty to do. It's quite a beautiful site. The entire town is on the National Historic Register. We think you will all enjoy it. If you are planning on making the trip, we will be leaving at 2:45 sharp on Weds afternoon. We have a planned route to follow and will have maps available in your registration packets. For late comers on Wednesday,we will also have maps for a shortcut to Bonaparte, should you miss the planned road rally and arrive late.
The road rally is about an 80 mile round trip, so if your PW is a bit on the iffy side, suggest you ride with someone else or take your regular car or truck. Bonaparte is about 30 miles from Fairfield. Think it will be fun. The Bonaparte Retreat is an old Grist Mill, built in 1836 and is one of the oldest structures in Iowa. Really a great building! All of us are looking forward to having you as our guests for 4 days of Power Wagon Heaven! See you next week or sooner!
Dave Butler
Vintage Power Wagons