The historic milestone marked last weekend by Bedford Hills was an event to remember. Under azure skies, several hundred members of the community danced to show tunes, scavenged for historical facts, gobbled up their neighbor's pie, walked the historic district, swayed to a gospel choir and caught up with new and old friends at Depot Plaza.
The centennial celebration honored the naming of Bedford Hills, changed from its former name of Bedford Station. There were touches throughout the day reminiscent of 20th century living, including the Edwardian clothing worn by the event organizers.
Elin Sullivan, who co-chaired the event with Mitch Horn, cited the weather as particularly delightful, noting that the 72 degree day provided the perfect backdrop for all of the planned activities. "The scavenger hunt was a big hit—it's been so fun to see kids learning and having fun," she said.
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Alice Walsh, Maggie Walsh and Lydia Savitt, all students at Bedford Hills Elementary School, were almost done with the hunt when Patch found them picking up a clue near the train tracks.
"I'm a little stuck on finding the war memorial," said Savitt. "But I'm having fun."
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All scavenger hunt participants received a locomotive key chain for participating, and their completed activity sheet was entered in a raffle prize drawing at the end of the day.
Notable guests include Town Supervisor Lee Roberts, Congressman John Hall (D-NY), and Assemblyman Bob Castelli (R- Goldens Bridge).
The pie contest included judges David Carmichael, pastry chef at the New York Palace Hotel, and local pastry whiz Fran Steenman, owner of La Tulipe.
Lorraine O'Connor of Bedford Hills took first place for her apple pie; Arlene Santos of Lincolndale came in second for her toasted coconut cream pie and Owen Wallace of Bedford Hills took third place for his chocolate pecan pie.
In the junior category, it was a four-way tie between Bedford Hills residents: A blueberry pie from Olivia Hopf, a chocolate cream pie from Paloma Wallace, a blueberry apple pie from Alice and Maggie Walsh, and a pecan pie submitted by Annie Barbera.
For town historian John Stockbridge, the highlight of the day was the palpable community spirit. "Bedford Hills has always been an eclectic hamlet, and today shows that we have so much character and volunteerism," he said.
Click on the video for a highlights reel of the festivities.
