In commemoration of Greenville’s 150th anniversary, members of the town’s anniversary committee hosted a scavenger hunt to honor town history.
On Saturday, Oct. 15, about 20 Greenville residents participated in a townwide scavenger hunt, the first in town history. Participants had the option to choose between a driving route that stretched approximately 7 miles across town and 34 locations to visit, or a less-extensive walking route through Main Street with 15 locations.
Greenville 150th Anniversary Committee member Charles Buttrick said the purpose of the event was create a fun way for residents to learn about Greenville’s history.
“We are trying to bring in a little history and educate the new generation of Greenville residents,” said Buttrick.
Starting at 9 a.m., both groups began their journey at the Chamberlin Free Public Library on Main Street and were asked to find the location that corresponded with questions such as “Where is the highest point in Greenville?” and “Where was the first bridge built over the Souhegan River?” Once participants found the correct location, the answer was in a bucket that was placed at the landmark. Those who completed the scavenger hunt had their names placed in a hat, and community members had the chance to win 150th anniversary celebration merchandise, including hats, T-shirts and coffee mugs. Among the winners, Greenville residents Deb and Steve Spratt were the first group to complete the walking route with a time of 20 minutes.
As a resident of Greenville for the last 22 years, Deb Spratt said the scavenger hunt was a new way to learn about Greenville’s history.
“It’s a lot of fun,” said Spratt. “I thought I would have done better.”
According to committee member Barb Eaton, residents are unsure about making a scavenger hunt an annual event. Nevertheless, Eaton said this year’s event was one for the books.
“I think it’s great. We had never done this before,” said Eaton. “I think it’s good for people to know about their town.”