EATON — Over 400 motorcyclists took to area roads for Saturday’s Bridges, Bikes, and Blues, benefiting the Preble County Historical Society. The day began at 9 a.m. with registration and a pancake breakfast, and opened up into a 78-mile scenic tour of the county’s rolling countrysides and historic covered bridges before landing downtown for an open-air party on courthouse plaza.
The final total of funds raised was still being tallied at press time, but treasurer December Harper said that procured sponsorships from community businesses and organizations alone were enough to cover the total expenses for the event. This was a significant move forward after 2015’s event, which was rained out.
The popular daylong celebration returned this year with enthusiasm and blue skies. Vendors lined Courthouse Plaza and bands Flat Out, Bad Men on a Mission featuring Tall Paul Boyd, and Ray Fuller and the Bluesrockers played for the crowd.
“This is a wonderful day,” said Historical Society President Tim Lane. “We thank the community for its support in raising funds for our exhibits, upkeep, and restoration work.”