Bathtub weekend in Berkeley Springs

Hoax or Relic, a display devoted to a rock signed by George Washington, debuts on Saturday, March 17 at 10am when the Museum of the Berkeley Springs opens for the season.

Other activities related to the town's most famous visitor include Saturday morning readings from Washington's writings, a walking tour of town and dollar specials in various shops and businesses. "We want folks to know that George Washington's face still means something in Berkeley Springs," said Jeanne Mozier organizer of the weekend festival.

With two dozen specialty shops within an easy couple blocks, dollar-off specials and dollar items can add up to accumulated treasure by the end of the weekend.

"Many of the shops are using the new George Washington dollar coin to make change as part of the celebration," said Mozier.

"George Washington's Bathtub is the only outdoor monument to presidential bathing in the country and we like to celebrate it by highlighting local history," said Mozier. "This weekend was selected because it is the 259th anniversary of George's first visit to the springs when he was a 16-year-old surveyor's assistant."

Mozier reads from Washington's many writings about Berkeley Springs along with author and newspaper editor, John Douglas at the Museum on Saturday morning. Official activities also include a reception honoring local historian Betty Lou Harmison who was recently named a West Virginia History Hero.

George Washington's Bathtub Celebration collides with St. Patrick's Day inspiring another set of specials and activities. Lot 12 brings the two icons together offering Irish dishes to eat and George Washington Bathtub Gin Martini as a beverage.

For all the details of Washington Bathtub weekend specials check www.berkeleysprings.com, call 1-800-447-8797 or check flyers posted around town.