Observations of the International Steampunk City and Charles River Museum of Industry and Innovation, upon the Occasion of the Recent Celebration in the Municipality of Waltham.

Waltham, Massachusetts: 7 & 8 May, 2011 saw 10,000 persons descend upon the City of Waltham and environs. A plethora of hawkers, vendors, and entertainers were to be seen, including such notable individuals as Dr. Grymm, who was voted mayor at the Town Meeting on the Sunday. [Moving picture interview forthcoming.]

This reporter was privileged to attend the gathering on the Sunday. A fantastic array of amusements met the eye as she descended from her conveyance. On the City Common were a smithy’s forge, leathercrafters, certain other vendors, and the Massachusetts High Wheelers, who offered short rides upon their innovative contraptions.

In remembrance of the War Between the States, the Salem Zouaves were encamped in Landry Park, and presented drill demonstrations to passers-by.

This reporter was pleased to find an array of eye-catching merchandise for her selection. Hats, goggles, and, ahem, corsets were among the most readily available items. Jewelry, trinkets, handworked shawls and snoods, metalwork and sculpture, walking sticks, various housewares and furniture, and (of particular interest to this reporter) a selection of inventions meant to improve the modern home, giving it a classic Victorian feel, while preserving all the conveniences we have come to expect from the 21st century, finished out a spectacular shopping experience.

After a convivial family luncheon, this reporter and her spouse were privileged to interview the Vagabonds. This gentleman and lady shared their observations of the festival with us, and pointed us to a few highlights that we had not yet taken part of. [Moving picture interview forthcoming.]

This reporter was then introduced to Mr. G. W. Smith of Thee-Gartisan Works, and some few of his associates and ‘gremlins’ as he was pleased to term them. [Moving picture interview forthcoming.]

At 3 o’clock, this reporter was on her way to join the parade. Emperor Norton and His Stationary Marching Band led the procession, joined later by Mayor Dr. Grymm. This reporter was pleased to hear a number of her particular favorite tunes performed, including “Sexy Back,” and the Mos Eisley Cantina songs.

Following a tour of the famed Charles River Walk, the parade wended its way to the Waltham Watch Museum lot, where the Emperor’s Band joined with Frenchy and the Punk in a joyous finale. Frenchy and the Punk then gave way to Mayor Grymm, who introduced Ms. Elln Hagney, Executive Director of the Charles River Museum of Industry and Innovation. Ms. Hagney shared some new information regarding attendance during the festival and cooperation with the city leaders to continue to hold this celebration in years to come. [Moving picture interview with Ms. Hagney forthcoming.]

This reporter was not able to see all she had wished to, but spent a most pleasant day nonetheless. She recommends one’s most comfortable walking shoes, and sufficient drinking water for those planning to attend next year’s festivities. Also, the assistance of a small electrified mapping device may be advantageous. This event is recommended for families, students of the anachronistic and absurd, persons who enjoy disguise and masquerade, individuals who identify as “Steampunk,” and any who would enjoy the site of a city taken over by fandom. The juxtaposition of festival attendees against the busy city streets was particularly picturesque.

Article and Photos by Nerdly

[nggallery id=28]