For information contact:
Herbert Rambo (856) 768-5325
HerbertRambo@ColonialSwedes.org

"Pennsylvania before Penn- Land of the Lenape and New Sweden" introduces an exciting colonial theme to Riverfront Ramble at Tinicum." The day long September 24, 2005 program at Governor Johan Printz Park features living history interpreters, interactive colonial games and crafts, exhibitions by leading historical organization, a canoe race, dancing, music and food.

The Ambassador of Sweden to the United States Gunnar Lund will make his first visit to the Delaware Valley for the festival. Ambassador Lund, who has had a distinquished career, took up his duties in washington, DC in early September.

Highlighting the celebration of the region's early history will be exclusive appearances by the Nanticoke Lenni-Lenape who lived here for centuries, and "Kalmar Nyckel," the magnificent full sized replica of the 17th century Swedish warship that brought the first colonial settlers to the Delaware River in 1638.

Lenape lifeways will be demonstrated by "Heart to Hearth Cookery" preparing seasonal foods and preserving venison, with a displays of implements and techniques of used by hunters.

Ambassador Lund and his delegation will arrive aboard the Kalmar Nyckel to join the settlers, soldiers and recently organized "Batsmankompani" of authentically dressed 17th century Swedish sailors, for a "pow wow" with the Lenni-Lenape leaders.

The bond between the Lenni- Lenape Nation and the Swedes and Finns is unique in the annals of America's colonial history and the friendship continues into the 21st century. The highlight of Pennsylvania before Penn" will be an authentic and official celebration of the "Friendship Compact" between Swedes and Lenape, first agreed to at Tinicum in 1654.

It will be an educational, and fun-filled day for the entire family, with scores of authentically dressed living history interpreters portraying daily life in a colonial Swedish encampment, including military drills, weapon and equipment demonstrations, as well as the domestic side with women doing daily chores and tending children.

Scheduled are demonstrations for black smithing, fish net making, weaving, quilting, lace tatting, woodworking, soap & candle making, trading and food preparation.

"Pennsylvania History Stage" will feature music, special entertainment by the Nanticoke Lenni-Lenape Indian dancers, a performance of "Kally's Story" by Friends of the Swedish Cabin, and first person living history presentations such as Morton Mortonsson, whose grandson John Morton was a Pennsylvania Signer of the Declaration of Independence.

The Nanticoke Lenni-Lenape, Swedish Colonial Society, American Swedish Historical Museum, Finish American Societies, New Sweden Centre-Kalmar Nyckel Foundation and several other leading institutions will have displays, including appearances by authors including Dr. Peter S. Craig, Dr. Kim-Eric Williams and George Ambrose.

The public is invited to all activities, which are scheduled between 11:00 a.m. and 5:00 p.m., with remote parking for transportation to Riverfront Ramble and "Pennsylvania before Penn - Land of the Lenape and New Sweden."

For additional information contact:

Embassy of Sweden - Washington, D.C.
http://www.swedenabroad.se/pages/start____6989.asp

American Swedish Historical Museum
http://www.americanswedish.org

Brandywine Conference and VIisitors Bureau
http://www.brandywinecvb.org

Finnish-American Society of the Delaware Valley
http://www.geocities.com/finnsphila

Kalmar Nyckel Foundation
http://www.kalmarnyckel.org

Nanticoke Lenni-Lenape Indians Of New Jersey
http://www.nanticoke-lenape.org

New Sweden Centre
http://www.colonialnewsweden.org

Riverfront Ramble 2005
http://www.riverfrontramble.com/SEA%20Page.html

Swedish Colonial Society
http://www.colonialswedes.org

Tinicum Township, Delaware County, Pennsylvania
http://www.tinicumtownshipdelco.com