Winthrop '49er Days

By Laurelle Walsh Minor traffic delays, parking puzzles and a line of cars waiting to get through the valley’s only four-way-stop are to be expected during this weekend’s ’49er Days celebration. At noon on Friday (May 8), the Ride to Rendezvous wagon train will pass through downtown Winthrop.  Drivers are advised to use caution during […]

The last time John and Carol Lester were treated like royalty was when they were the “Belle” and “Dandy” of the Antique Auto Rallye in the 1980s — now the Winthrop Vintage Wheels Show — an event started by Carol’s parents, Herb and June Gatewood. Now the Lesters, who have been involved in countless community events over the decades, have a second chance to be …

By Laurelle Walsh Community spirit, poise, and public speaking ability are among the qualities the ’49er Days Committee looks for when selecting the celebration’s junior royalty. The three girls selected for the honor this year — Queen Lily White, Princess KayDee Sims and Princess Monica Chavey — possess those qualities in droves, along with radiant smiles and lots of […]

olish those cowboy boots, dust off that hat and iron your best Western shirt, Winthrop’s premier event – ’49er Days – happens this weekend with activities on main street, in the park and at the Winthrop Barn.

For the 70th year running, the Methow Valley’s Old West-themed town welcomes locals and visitors to celebrate its history and

“Buckboards and Petticoats” is the theme of this weekend’s ’49er Days celebration (May 9 – 11), presented by Washington Outfitters and Guides Association and the Winthrop Chamber of Commerce. Winthrop’s 69th annual tribute to our Western heritage will surely deliver on its promise of horse-drawn conveyances, frilly finery and 10-gallon hats. Add some strings of pack mules […]

By Laurelle Walsh

Visitors and locals who descend upon Winthrop during this weekend’s festivities should expect minor traffic delays, parking puzzles and a line of cars trying to get through the valley’s only four-way-stop.