About the SSSF
Inaugurated in 2022, the Susquehanna Summer Solstice Fest (SSSF) is a unique celebration of art, community, and advocacy for our local history and regional environment. Although the idea for a festival initially developed in the fall of 2021, there are precedents harkening back to the mid-1970's, when similar festivals at French Azilum took place. Under the sponsorship and support of the Bradford County Regional Arts Council, a resurgence of the arts in the form of such festivals is now possible at our beautiful historic site and in nearby towns.
About French Azilum
Located on a horseshoe bend in the Susquehanna River near present-day Wysox, Pennsylvania, the settlement of French Azilum Historic Site was founded in 1793/4 as a refuge for monarchists fleeing the revolution in France and slave uprisings in the Caribbean. Today, the historic site contains over twenty acres that were part of the original settlement. Although no original structures from the survive, an original foundation has been left exposed for public viewing, and a reconstructed log cabin serves as a small museum. Guided tours of the LaPorte house, the summer home of the son of one of the original settlers, are also available. Over the years, French Azilum has served both as a fascinating historical landmark and a beautiful location for community events, theatre, and outdoor activities.
The 2024 SSSF Steering Committee:
- Brooks Eldredge-Martin
- Dan Fassett
- Brian Keeler
- Jan Lokuta
- Aimee O'Connor
- Lou Pereyra
- Elaine Poost
- Stefan Poost
- Abbie Stevens