Clamoring over Conductors clams

Historic fest creates new history

Story and photos by Manor Ink Staff

A tradition dating back to the late 19th century, the Catskill Conductors Clambake, a fete originally organized by the railway workers of the Ontario & Western Company, returned to Livingston Manor on Saturday, Aug. 19. Revived three years ago by the Smoke Joint, the hamlet’s barbecue eatery, this year’s event was cohosted by the Smoke Joint and the Teahouse Music Co., and was again held on the sylvan grounds of KC’s Airport on Old Rte. 17.

Fare included the requisite steamed clams as well as shrimp, savory barbecue, foot-long hotdogs and wood-fired pizza. Patrons dined on these comestibles under the food tent while sampling local craft beers from the Upward Brewing Co. and the Catskills Brewery. Vendors offered a array of fine art and craft items, jewelry and pottery. Dette Flies promoted fly fishing and Gael Roots Community Farm shared information about the farm’s services. Entertainment, billed as the Clambake’s “Folk Festival,” was provided by a number of talented performers, including violinist and music organizer Chris Murphy, Johnny Markowski & Friends, Autumn Hollow, Eric Harrison, and Hypnotic Clambake.

Fine weather made it a perfect day to celebrate the history of Livingston Manor while enjoying the verdant pleasures of a late Catskills summer afternoon. People danced to live music, checked out the Little Beaverkill at the back of the property, and generally enjoyed chatting with friends. For people of all ages, it was again a great time!