I spent the other morning enthralled in a program titled ““Woodstock: Three Days that Defined a Generation”. The story of Woodstock was told through personal accounts and flashbacks. For those of you that are unfamiliar with Woodstock, it was a famous music festival held in upstate New York back in August of 1969. This peaceful gathering, bragged over a half a million strong; it was a true American experience to be remembered and celebrated. Even with the passing of the 50th Anniversary, folks are still passionate about their recollections. This immense gathering lasted for three solid days and to my knowledge has never been recreated in such a way.
Woodstock came at a time when the country was in turmoil with generations divided. War in Vietnam was tearing families apart as not everyone believed in free love and hippie power. Even so, their overwhelming message of peace. love and harmony shined through rain, hunger and some adverse conditions. The venue location was in no way prepared or equipped to accommodate the masses that flocked to the small dairy farm known as Yasgur's Farm in Bethel NY.
Helicopters were used to bring in musicians, as the roads were backed up with cars and eventually became one giant parking lot. But musicians were not the only thing that was brought in by air. Forty five doctors came without pay from the US Army to care for everyone from rat bites to overdoses—BTW there was only one death from overdose. This is remarkable given the amount of people in attendance and the drugs that were available. There were “freak out tents” that were erected along the perimeters of the festival for folks having a bad trip.
Food was collected and brought in by the entire Bethel community. Neighbors and organizations like Hog Farm worked tirelessly to feed festival goers. People were coming together - sharing everything- peace and love had surely been found.
I was too young to have attended this event but I enjoyed the aftermath of music left behind. I envy those of you that attended. If you were one of the lucky ones, please share your thoughts here. Thanks.