Can You Dig It?

Get ready to rock — literally! Mark your calendars and pack your rock hammers — the 59th Annual Gilsum Rock Swap and Mineral Show is rolling into town on June 28 and 29, rain or shine! This beloved community tradition is shaping up to be a gem of a weekend, with something exciting for every rockhound, collector and curious visitor. Over 68 dealers and swappers from all over will be offering an incredible array of treasures: dazzling gemstones, shimmering jewelry, fascinating fossils and breathtaking minerals sourced from around the world. Whether you're on the hunt for a rare specimen or simply love sparkly things, you're bound to find something that catches your eye. But this event isn't just about rocks — it's a full weekend experience! Fuel up with hearty community breakfasts and lunches served both days, and don't forget to swing by the Gilsum Public Library's book sale, open throughout the event, where you can browse a variety of titles and support a great cause. Looking for a little hands-on excitement? Try your luck cracking open geodes or get your hands dirty panning for minerals. The Gilsum Rock Swap truly offers something for all ages and interest levels. A highlight of Saturday's schedule is a special presentation by renowned mineral collector Ted Johnson, titled "Mineral Collecting in Greenland." Join Johnson at 1 p.m. in the Community Center Auditorium as he shares stories from his unforgettable polar expedition, where he joined a team of 15 scientists and mineral enthusiasts in the remote landscapes of Greenland. Johnson will showcase a fascinating collection of rare minerals he gathered, including Eudialyte xls, Polylithionite, Narsarsukite, Tugtupite, Villiamite, Sorensenite and more. You'll hear firsthand about the challenges and excitement of collecting in one of the most extreme environments on Earth. With more than six decades of collecting experience, Johnson is a respected name in the mineral world. His passion began in 1960 in Paterson, N.J., and has since taken him to notable mineral-rich regions around the globe, including England, Greece, Russia, Mexico, Australia, Canada and Italy. He's known for his expertise in New England pegmatite minerals and his dedication to exploring historic mining locales like Cornwall, Laurion and Broken Hill. Schedule of Events: Saturday, June 28 8 a.m. to 6 p.m.: Dealer exhibits are open 8 a.m. to noon: Wholesome Foods pancake breakfast 10 a.m., to 2 p.m.: Library book sale 1 p.m.: Featured presentation: "Mineral Collecting in Greenland" by Ted Johnson at the Community Center Auditorium 5 p.m. and 6:15 p.m.: Annual Ham and Bean Dinner at Gilsum Congregational Church — includes homemade baked beans, ham, potato salad, coleslaw and pies. Tickets: $20; $7 for children eight and under. Available all day at the Rock Swap Central information booth or at the church after 4 p.m. 6 p.m.: Dealer exhibits close Sunday, June 29 8 a.m. to 4 p.m.: Dealer exhibits open 8 a.m. to noon: Wholesome Foods breakfast 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.: Library book sale Noon to 2 p.m.: Chicken barbecue Admission is free, and donations are gratefully accepted. All proceeds benefit local youth recreation and community programs. The Gilsum Rock Swap and Mineral Show takes place at the Gilsum Elementary School and Community Center, located at 640 Route 10 in Gilsum. This is an outdoor event held under canopies — so come rain or shine, the show goes on! To learn more, visit GilsumRockSwap on Facebook, check out the official website at www.gilsum.org/rockswap or email gilsumrocks@gmail.com.