by Tom Chillemi
A cobalt blue sky reflected in Jackson Creek, setting the stage for the first ever “sunset cruise” of the Jackson Creek Christmas Cruise in Deltaville last Friday.
In the fading sunlight, Christmas decorations accented boats, docks and houses on both branches of Jackson Creek. The sunset cruise was a hit with the early-birds, affording them a chance to see the homes as well as decorations. “This is the perfect time to be on the water,” one tour-goer remarked to his wife.
A Deltaville tradition for more than 10 years, the tour begins with a hay ride from the Deltaville Community Association (DCA) building down Lover’s Lane, which is lined with the soft glow of candle luminaries.
At the town dock, the 57-foot charter fishing boat “Tortuga” was festooned with colored Christmas lights. The historic buyboat “F.D. Crockett” welcomed visitors with a “Merry Christmas” in red lights.
Most tourists preferred to take in the decorations from the bow or along the railing, but Tortuga’s fully enclosed lounge was available for those looking to stay warm. “We owe a big ‘thank-you’ to Captain Bubbie Crown and his crew for making the Tortuga available,” said Raynell Smith, a cruise organizer. “Having just one boat has simplified the process of loading and unloading passengers.”
The DCA building, the hub of Deltaville events, was lit with the warm glow of wall sconces. Cookies on a long table waited to be chosen and enjoyed with hot cider.
Santa Claus sat near the Christmas tree, which had a model train circling it. Children and adults were mesmerized by the tiny village near the train that depicted old-time Americana. Another miniature train set had a look of a Lilliput village from Gulliver’s Travels.
The model trains were provided by the Rappahannock River Railroaders Club.
There was plenty of time for children and the young-at-heart to sit on Santa’s lap and tell him if they’ve been naughty or nice.
The DCA collected $660 in ticket sales and had 132 paid adult admissions and approximately 40 free children’s tickets. “I think our visitors had a wonderful time and will think of Deltaville as a welcoming place to come,” said Smith, who thanked all who made the event a success.
Visit http://www.SSentinel.com to view a slideshow featuring last Friday’s activities in Deltaville.
