Annual Strawberry Festival raises $1K for Historical Society

By Tara Vocino

Approximately $1,000 was raised for the Historical Society, and money went toward the Garden Club programming during Saturday’s Annual Strawberry Festival at the American Legion Hall.

“Before refrigeration, June was the only time you can get strawberries,” Historical Society President Laura Eisener said. “The saying goes, ‘Never marry a girl who wants strawberries in January.’”

Frederic Tudor harvested ice from Stephen’s Pond and Lily Pond in 1806 to begin early refrigeration efforts. People used to pick strawberries in backyards. Strawberries are 91 percent water, according to Eisener.

Garden Club Co-President Donna Manoogian said they wrote a $100 check to the Historical Society. The club sold plants outside alongside local vendors.

The turnout was so large that Eisener was afraid that they’d run out of strawberries.

Everett resident Kathleen Carlton, who was wearing a strawberry t-shirt, said it was a lot of fun. Malden resident Linda Roller, who was enjoying a strawberry shortcake, said the event welcomes summer.

Outside on the lawn, Belmonte STEAM Academy fifth grader Nicole Hurrondo, 10, bought Jibbitz pens from vendor Danielle Hodgkins. “It showcases my personality,” Hurrondo said. “If I’m getting stressed, I can play with them.”