Wanted: Individuals or families to enjoy one of Rhode Island’s most historic and picturesque forests, to experience pumpkin painting and even roast marshmallows on an open fire.
If the Neutaconkanut Hill Conservancy were to have placed an advertisement for Saturday’s Family Day, it probably would have read – in part – like the lines above.
But the gathering – to be held in the Meadow at the summit of famed Neutaconkanut Hill in Providence, which also borders Johnston – will be much, much more than just a walk in the woods.
“We will begin at noon with activities throughout the afternoon,” said Ellie Panichas, the former director of the conservancy who also spent 10 years as the non-profit’s president. “Our group has worked hard over the past decade in bringing back long-neglected and abused forest land, and it is now 88 acres of pristine forest.”
Panichas – on behalf the Neutaconkanut Hill Conservancy – issued an open invitation for families to turn out Saturday for a series of guided walks and many fun-filled activities for children and adults that will be held in the meadow at no cost.
One reason there’s no charge is that The Center for Orthopedics located in Johnston has signed on as the day’s major corporate sponsor. Moreover, the Providence Parks and Recreation Department and Neutaconkanut Hill Conversancy are the day’s co-sponsors.
“This is the only natural forest in Providence,” Panichas said. “Beyond its beauty, the hill is steeped with history. It was the boundary agreed upon between Roger Williams and the two Narragansett sachems. Therefore, it is the beginning of our city and state.”
Panichas, who is a veteran of the state’s public relations field and a highly-active member of the Women’s Guild at Holy Cross Church on Hartford Avenue, went on: “Our group has reached a major goal in saving the hill, and now we want to introduce it to as many families as possible. This event, our sixth annual Family Day, attracts a large audience, but this year we’re hoping to expand and have a record turnout.”
If the list of events the Hill Conservancy has planed offers any measuring stick, Saturday’s Family Day just might break all attendance records.
Panichas announced that John McNiff, a National Park Service ranger, will present his colorful program on Roger Williams and Native Americans who live on and near the hill starting at 1 p.m.
“He’s a colonial historian with a background in archaeology and anthropology,” Panichas said. “His presentations are always interesting, educational and most important fun.”
Saturday’s Family Day on the Hill will also give people an opportunity to walk the forest trials with various members of the Conservancy and enjoy music and tales of the season.
Members of the Providence Fire Department will also be on hand to provide “Tours of the Truck,” while the Providence Police Mounted Command will “prance their horses.”
The day will also include pumpkin painting, games, fun for the children and even a chance to roast marshmallows on an open fire.
As noted, the entire event is free and open to the public.
“Please bring your children and families to experience this unique forested area for a day of recreation and celebration,” Panichas said. “We urged walkers and hikers to dress for walking the trials. We’re looking forward to a record-setting and fun Family Day.”
Neutaconkanut Hill is, as noted, an 88-acre forested park with walking/hiking trails and spectacular views. Rich in history, the Hill was founded in 1636 and was the northeast boundary and highest point in Providence, with an elevation of 296 feet above sea level.
“In all seasons, the beauty of this woodland is a classroom in nature,” Panichas said. “From the hilltop meadow and several hiking trails, people will have spectacular views of the city and nearly a quarter of the state.”
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