Early on a warm saturday morning in May 1993,
several hot air balloons landed on Valleyfield Road in Longford North.
As part of the Preakness Festival, dozens o
f hot air balloons
were launched from Druid Hill Park, and the light winds blew them
northward. A rare treat was offered for residents who looked
toward the southern sky. Some of the balloons stayed high and
drifted further north and it became evident that several balloons were
getting lower as they aimed for a landing on Valleyfield Road.
Neighbors gathered as the baskets landed safely in front of their
homes. Soon the recovery teams arrived to pack the balloons and
baskets in their trailers.
A memorable day to be sure!!
PHOTOS AND TEXT PROVIDED BY MR. BILL THAYER