Media release from Summerville Main Street:
Round up the whole family and head to the Summerville Depot (119 East Washington Street) on Saturday, June 7, for an unforgettable day packed with Wild West adventures, a double steam engine train arrival, a rubber duck race, Jeeps, live music, and more! Festivities run from 10:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m., and best of all—admission is free.
This action-packed event celebrates cowboy culture with live re-enactments, blacksmithing demos, western-style vendors, and an authentic look at frontier life, thanks to the Aces & Eights Living History Group. The crowd-favorite Ducky Derby, postponed from May, will also make its big splash alongside a community Jeep Cruise-In and the spectacular arrival of the Tennessee Valley Railroad Museum’s double steam engine.
A Step Back in Time with Aces & Eights
Bringing the spirit of the Old West to life, Aces & Eights, a southeastern reenactment group, will recreate a 19th-century tent city and saloon—complete with a working Faro board, one of the era’s most popular gambling games. Guests will meet historical characters like Jefferson “Soapy” Smith, a notorious Georgia-born con man who made his mark in the Alaskan frontier.
Live historical gunfight reenactments will take place at 11:00 a.m. and 2:00 p.m. at the Couey House. Between performances, group members will be mingling for photos and sharing their knowledge of cowboy life and frontier history.
Live Music, Cowboy Clowns & More Family Fun
The Jon Payne Pavilion at World Friendship Pocket Park will feature live performances from Nashville recording artist and songwriter Jaycee Lynn, filling the air with music all day long. And for the little cowpokes, the always-entertaining Cowboy Church Clowns return with their signature brand of family-friendly fun.
2025 Ducky Derby – Make a Splash, Win Cash!
The eagerly anticipated Summerville Main Street Ducky Derby kicks off at 2:00 p.m. Over one thousand rubber ducks will race down Town Creek—from Southern Bedding to the Depot—vying for cash prizes:
- $500 Grand Prize – Sponsored by GP Federal Credit Union
- $250 Second Prize – Sponsored by Pro Roof GA
- $100 Third Prize – Sponsored by Summerville Main Street
Duck adoptions are still available—grab yours now up until 30 minutes prior to race time for a chance to win and support local Summerville Main Street programs!
Jeep Cruise-In – Quack & Cruise!
Jeep lovers, don’t miss the Jeep Cruise-In along East Washington Street! A dedicated section will be set aside for Jeep parking, and participating drivers will receive a limited-edition event duck, courtesy of GP Federal Credit Union (while supplies last). It’s the perfect way to enjoy the day in style with your fellow Jeep enthusiasts.
All Aboard for the Double Steam Engine Arrival
Train lovers, get your cameras ready! Around 1:00 p.m., witness the majestic arrival of the Tennessee Valley Railroad Museum’s double steam engine passenger train as it rolls into Summerville from Chattanooga, Tennessee. Don’t miss the incredible sight of the locomotives being turned on the historic Summerville Turntable—a true treat for rail fans of all ages.
For full details on train excursions, visit tvrail.com.
