RUMFORD POINT — Resident Ben Byam is leading an effort to have a community party on the old Martin Memorial Bridge on Saturday, July 11.

The 60-year-old bridge closed on Tuesday following a dedication ceremony held for the new bridge.

“We had a Rumford Point gathering 10 years ago, anyone with any ties to Rumford Point. I kinda wanted to have another one this year,” said Byam, noting that with the end of the old bridge, this was the time.

He said 60 to 70 people came together for that last gathering.

“The old bridge is ours for that day,” said Byam, noting that he got permission from the contractors for the new bridge, Wyman & Simpson.

He said the 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. event is still in the planning stage, but he does know he wants to have a fishing derby. “Five bucks in a pool and whoever gets the biggest fish get the pool.”

“It is starting to get out there and people are saying that they’re coming. I’ve got a couple people saying there just going to bring a lunch, plop themselves on the bridge and socialize,” Byam said.

“I haven’t gotten hold of the historical society yet, but anybody whose got pictures or wants to share something,” said Byam, who added it’s a way to celebrate the old bridge that served this community for some 60 years.

“We just want a community gathering where everyone can just get together,” he said, adding that he working on getting vendors to sell hamburgers and hot dogs, etc.

Anyone with ideas or vendors who might like to participate, call Byam at 357-5444.

bfarrin@sunmediagroup.net