Traditional pre-combustion-engine methods are kept alive at Saunderskill Farms in Accord during the annual Spring Plow, when draft horses, mules and oxen run nonmotorized implements through the soil. Visitors to the event being held this Saturday can get up-close-and-personal with these hardworking animals, and learn how it all used to be done.
Demonstrations of field plowing behind harnessed animals will clearly show how much hard work and know-how goes into the practice. Oxen teamsters from 8 to 80 years old will show off their skills and their animals. There will be wagon rides around the property, pony rides, children’s games and lots of activities for young and old, all in the name of good old bucolic fun.
A variety of local crafters will be on hand, as well as food vendors (don’t miss “nothin’ fancy” brisket, pulled pork and chicken from Outpost Barbecue and hotdogs and burgers seared to perfection by Accord Fire Company #1).
No country gathering would be complete without music and dance. This year it’s Roadhouse Revival’s Western swing, with Jason Jordan on vocals, Matt Purdy and Daniel Boone on guitar, Carlos Rojas on bass and Scott Dobbs on drums. In addition, the Metropolitan Hot Club will swing Django Reinhardt/Stephane Grappelli tunes and original compositions in the Gypsy jazz style of the ‘30s and ‘40s, with Michael Snow on violin, Michael Boyle and Aaron Lieberman on guitar and vocals and Charles Frommer on upright bass.
Hosted by the Hudson Valley Draft Horse Association and Saunderskill Farms, the Spring Plow is free to all; donations to the Association are much appreciated. It goes on rain or shine, so be prepared.
Hudson Valley Draft Horse Association Spring Plow, Saturday, April 30, 10 a.m.-4 p.m., Saunderskill Farms, 5100 Route 209, Accord; (845) 626-2676.
Join the family! 
