By Erich Martin & Jeff Bohen
“Welcome, friend”
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That’s what the sign that greets people as they entering the merchant district on Mill Street in Bristol Borough.
Thousands of Bristol’s friends came out to the borough on Saturday to celebrate Historic Bristol Day. The streets were flooded with thousands and Mayor Pat Sabatini said it was a “glorious day for all who came out to celebrate.”
Radcliffe Street was filled from one end to the other, with offerings for everyone from the many vendors talking part in the celebration of Bristol.
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The Bristol Cultural and Historical Foundation offered “A River in Time” as this year’s theme spotlighting the borough’s connection with the Delaware River. A historical tour connected to the event
“The day is great because it provides a lot of history and brings a lot of people into the town,” said Jim Sell of the Rotary Club of Bristol and Bucks County Community College’s Lower Bucks Campus.
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Elected officials and candidates for office also came out to celebrate with the community too.
Congressman Mike Fitzpatrick (R-8) said, “Families and small businesses – like those here in Bristol – are at the heart of our economy and our communities. Bristol Borough Historical Day reminds us that where we came from is more than just a part of the past – it’s the part of our future,” as he greeted Bristolians wading through the masses on Radcliffe Street.
State Senator Tommy Tomlinson made an appearance stopping every two feet to say hello to those attending.
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Democratic candidate for Congress (PA-8) Kevin Strouse and fellow candidate (D-6) Dr. Kim Rose shook hands and greeted voters as they waded through the masses.
Mill Street was also brimming with activity as shoppers were greeted by offerings from new and old businesses alike.
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Children crowded the Bristol Stop, a brand new business, as they came in for free water ice.
Rick Naylor, owner of Spibonik Thrift, described business as “brisk” as a horse carriage filled with kids trotted down Mill Street.
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Kids lined up for face paintings and other Halloween creations on one of the business district as shoppers filled the new breakfast lunch shop the Bristol Stop who welcomed all children and families coming in for a bite to eat with free water ices.
In front of All State Insurance, free coffee and beverages were offered as neighbors hugged neighbors on the beatific fall day celebrating Bristol.
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“Bristol was the shining light of Bucks County on Saturday,” Sabatini said.
