In 1927 a 25-year-old former air mail pilot from Little Falls MN named Charles made history by flying non-stop across the Atlantic Ocean from New York to Paris. A brave bit of navigating, this, and in the end history was made.
Friday evening was perfect for the outdoor reception; handshakes and hugs were in abundance along with introductions and memories. The Claiming Ceremony was a success and in the name of the Queen, Barley John's was ours for the weekend.
Saturday morning we started the Gentleman's Tour from Merlin's Rest as usual but this time we went south to find pastry at the Turtle Bread Company. We were not disappointed. Pressing on, we continued south to Minnehaha Falls; an amazing scenic spot where we were eyed suspiciously by the tourists.
We had to continue on so most of us found the hidden trail through the woods that put us on the Ford Bridge. On the bridge was another vista of the Mississippi river gorge that was not to be missed. Turning north along the river, the missing Nutters caught up at the WW1 war memorial. Beautiful granite stonework with bronze plaques was poised before another stunning river vista.
East on Summit Avenue was next on our route and we took in the views of the stunning Summit mansions. Once we arrive at Commonwealth, we turned to Grand Avenue for lunch at the many restaurants with outdoor dining. We were not done however so a bit further down Grand found us having ice cream at The Creamery.
A nice long descent down Grand took us to Irvine Park, then City House (closed for a wedding). We paused for a bit to enjoy the view of the paddle wheeler heading upstream but since Merlin's Rest was next on the route we pushed off for the long route back.
Sunday Morning found us back at Barley John's for the day. The Cycle Jumble was exceptional this year with plenty of quality bicycles and parts for sale. The Gravity Race and Day-Old Pastry Joust was next on the list and for the first time we had spectators out on the lawn watching what Nutters do best: coasting, chatting and eating pastry. Many thanks to Andy, Noah and Jess for running this amazingly obscure event. The non-hub-gear division was won by Owen Lloyd on his Raleigh and the hub gear division was taken by Mike Knutson on his Pashley. Pressing on, we completed a short loop through the neighborhood, stopped for a group photo then beelined back to Barley John's to get the taps open. Beer and pizza was the order of the day and everyone settled into a chair to enjoy the "Stories both True and Otherwise". We concluded this beautiful day with awards and prizes for all and for some, another beverage.
In these modern times, we are challenged occasionally by gatherings such as the ABCE; not in distance or duration but in making new friends, enjoying the odd vista or making a difficult decision from a menu. Fatigue, hunger, storms and navigating were challenges for Lindberg but not for us Nutters who put our faith in our ever faithful and 'umble 3-speed bicycle.
Date(s): September 17, 18 & 19, 2021. Album by STO. Photos by STO. 1 - 57 of 57 Total. 1719 Visits.
