Alton
Bay Water Bandstand
Alton commissioned Hampshire Pewter to create a custom
ornament featuring the water bandstand, one of the few remaining bandstands on
inland waters in the entire country. In 1928, Alton Racing Association, a group
of boating enthusiasts, had the idea to create a bandstand in the middle of the
water that would serve as a judging stand for boat races and host band
concerts. It was built by six men including brothers Lester and Edward Downing.
The total cost of the bandstand was $1,573. The bandstand’s foundation was created
by building a crib filled with rocks, during the winter months, when the ice
was frozen. The bandstand was then built when the ice melted.
Over the years the bandstand was the site of many
concerts, but they mostly stopped due to the trouble of transporting entire bands
across the lake, as well as poor acoustics. It hasn’t been used by race boat
observers since the 1950s. From its water location in Alton Bay, the bandstand
is a beloved symbol of the town and summer residents. It is illuminated at night
and a Christmas tree is put up during the holidays. Over the years the bandstand
had seen some wear and tear, so it was renovated in 2019 and the result is
beautiful. The town had a celebratory day for the renovation including an
antique boat show, a waterski show, a concert and other events.
The ornament features the bandstand along with an American flag and a windsock. It reads 1928 Water Bandstand across the top rim and Alton Bay, NH across the bottom.
If you would like an ornament featuring your town, business, or organization, please call us at 603.569.4944. To see more of our custom pieces please visit our custom page https://www.hampshirepewter.com/custom-made-pewter-corporate-gifts or our blog https://www.hampshirepewter.com/blog.asp