Ein Prosit, ein Prosit, der Gemutlichkeit was the theme at the barn of the Historical Society as the tenth annual Octoberfest was celebrated with a traditional German meal and an exciting German band.

The Double Eagle-Octoberfest Band of Canton, managed by Bob Brown, provided lively German oompah throughout the evening. The fourteen band members, in assorted and adapted Bavarian style attire led the happy crowd in such sing-along favorites as The Happy Wanderer, The Bowery, Sidewalks of New York, Edelweiss and many more oldies but goodies. A handout with the lyrics was provided, but most did not need them, except for additional verses. The younger members in the audience enjoyed the sing-a-long as well as the more senior members. The band played, sang, and led us all without any electronic amplification, which is a pleasant anomaly. Normal conversation was even possible during regular band numbers, remarkable!

A member of the band provided an amusing rendition of a dancing puppet named Otto.

Some attendees added to the festivities, by wearing decorated, direct from Germany, suspenders, hats and shirts, challenging some band members, like the percussionist in top hat and Red Sox shirt.

After dinner, dancers enjoyed favorites such as the Chicken Dance, waltzes and,of course, a polka.. The band played a rendition of five military service tunes, such as the Marine's Hymn, and Anchors Away, and invited those who served in the military to stand as their theme song was played.

All branches of the military, except the Coast Guard, were represented and recognized as the veterans stood. Robert Smith, a WW 2 veteran proudly displayed his hat decorated with multiple pins and badges he has garnered attending annual reunions and functions. His hat is a story in itself.

The menu of knockwurst, German potato salad and spiced red cabbage was prepared by Joanne and Rick Brown, who chaired and coordinated this event for the Society. The homemade apple crisp, topped with whipped cream was made by Mary Curran and Karen Fung.

No Octoberfest would be complete without German beir (beer) and wine to augment and compliment the menu, and no one thirsted or was disappointed with this service.

A raffle was offered with, what else, but German wine to the winners. This was coordinated by Shirley Melle.

Frank Melle, president of the Historical Society thanked all for coming and explained that the proceeds from this event help support projects of the Society such as the annual visit of the third graders during education week to the historical house.

A fun night of “kicking your heels up” and “letting your hair down”. Looking forward to Octoberfest 2008.