Enjoy an internationally renowned American music legend perform his blend of rockabilly and Americana classics as the Titan of the Telecaster, Bill Kirchen, gives the inaugural performance in Ramsaysburg's new Riverside Amphitheater! Come early to picnic and enjoy the Homestead property.
Knowlton Township Historic Commission (KTHC) is thrilled to host Kirchen, as we inaugurate the Ramsaysburg Homestead’s RIVERSIDE AMPHITHEATER with a solo performance on Sunday, August 26 at 3:15pm. Mike Esposito, master of the resonator guitar, will perform at 2:30. A suggested donation of $10 per person helps support future events. The concert will take place rain or shine and is open to the public.
Grammy nominated guitarist, singer and songwriter BILL KIRCHEN will perform his blend of rockabilly and Americana classics. Kirchen first gained national recognition as a founding member of Commander Cody and his Lost Planet Airmen. His trademark guitar licks drove their Hot Rod Lincoln cut into the Top Ten in 1972. He has released ten CDs on his own and recorded and/or played guitar live with a who's who of Americana and Roots Rock 'N' Roll, among them Gene Vincent, Link Wray, Bo Diddley, Hazel Dickens, Doug Sahm, Hoyt Axton, Emmylou Harris, Maria Muldaur, Dan Hicks, Nick Lowe and Elvis Costello.
Concert organizer and KTHC member Rick Clarkson is known for his fourteen-year tenure as director of the Knowlton Riverfest. Upon joining KTHC in late 2017, Mr. Clarkson collaborated with KTHC member Dr. Dennis Melillo, who has organized the annual Ramsaysburg Summer Concerts in the Barn Series since 2013, to arrange this special outdoor event in the new Riverside Amphitheater. Clarkson notes, “Bill Kirchen is the perfect performer to kick off the first Riverside Amphitheater experience. It’s not just his fabulous guitar playing ability but also his personality and stage presence that make him appealing to diverse audiences. Once you see him in person, you become a fan. I’ve been a fan of Mike Esposito for over twenty years, he’s a master musician who is always a pleasure to see perform. With a little coaxing Bill and Mike could be persuaded to play a tune or two together, that would really be something to hear.”
The Concerts in the Barn series is supported in part by a grant from the Warren County Cultural and Heritage Commission.
About the newly established Riverside Amphitheater
The Riverside Amphitheater is positioned under a canopy of trees between the historic barn and the scenic Delaware River. It was recently developed by members of the Knowlton Township Historic Commission with help from Ramsaysburg Historic Homestead supporters. This beautiful setting is available for concerts, weddings and community events.
“The new amphitheater is situated in a wonderful picturesque setting,” says Clarkson. “For those who choose to attend. expect to see beautiful lawn areas, shaded by tall maple and ash trees which help to create a welcoming atmosphere and wonderful acoustics, a terrific place for a concert.”
2:00 Gates Open
Gates open at 2:00. Concert goers are asked to bring their own seating. Seat location in the amphitheater is on a first-come, first-served basis. Concert goers are encouraged to bring a picnic in advance of the show and enjoy the grounds of the Historic Homestead. Picnic tables are available and coolers are welcome.
Directions:
The Ramsaysburg Historic Homestead is located at 140 Route 46 at the junction of State Highway Route 46 and Hope-Ramseyburg Road, just south of the historic village of Delaware, New Jersey 07833. From Route 80 take Exit 4B and head east on Rt. 46 for 4.3 miles. For more information visit the website at www.ramsaysburg.org, find us on Facebook “Ramsaysburg Historic Homestead,” or send your email to RamsaysburgHomestead@gmail.com.
Parking
Upon exiting Route 46 at the Ramsaysburg gate guests will be directed to the onsite parking area on the Ramsaysburg grounds. Spaces are limited. Once onsite parking is at capacity, guests are to use the offsite parking at Knowlton Fire and Rescue Building - 1/2 mile west on Route 46. Address: 4 Roy Ace Street, Delaware, NJ 07833. A shuttle will transport guests to/from the Ramsaysburg site.
Ramsaysburg Homestead
Historical park. The public may access the river here for fishing or to launch small watercraft such as canoes or kayaks.