When researching the phenomenon of block parties for The Westmoreland Museum of American Art’s current exhibit of that name, chief curator Jeremiah William McCarthy learned that they originated in New York City during World War I as people pooled resources to give soldiers a send-off to war.
Block parties spread around the country, as communities came together to celebrate special occasions — including the crazy, lazy, hazy days of summer.
The Greensburg museum got into the act on July 29, hosting The Block Party for “Block Party” on its terrace.
If guests arrived hungry, there was Indian food from Divya’s House of Spice in Penn Township and sandwiches and wraps from Yumzio Bistro in Greensburg.
If they were thirsty, libations were available.
If they were craving something cool and sweet, they could stop by the sundae bar hosted by Millie’s Homemade Ice Cream of Pittsburgh.
For fun, there was a print-making activity, face painting, balloon art and the museum’s signature art scavenger hunt in the galleries.
Guitarist Tim Woods and his namesake band provided a bluesy soundtrack.
Greensburg Volunteer Fire Department’s 1949 Seagrave fire engine was in the parking lot, with information on the antique vehicle available from. Sgt. Christian Lake and fireman Clyde Snyder.
Seen: Bob and Pat Thompson, Jon and Nina Lewis, Barbara Ferrier, Roxie Sumner, Leo Porterfield, Doreen Blandino, Suzanne English, Scott and Natalie Williams, Joe and Lorraine Poletini, Edward and Pattie Almaro, Keith and RoseAnn Orr, John and Renee Leszczynksi, Greg Zambano, Tom Balya and Rose Marie Muzika, Beatriz Rossi and Hayden Fowler, The Westmoreland’s CFO Suzanne Wright and her husband, John, and their relatives visiting from Virginia: Rob and Kim Wright and Paul Garcia and Laura Wright with their daughters, Madi and Emma Garcia.
