Harpeth Conservancy’s River Swing Celebrates 20 Years of Fundraising

After a morning of scattered showers and dubious forecasting, River Swing 2023 arrived, blessed with perfect fall temperatures, a light breeze and eager crowds. An astonishing number of supporters flocked to Christian Currey’s River Circle Farm for a sold-out 20th anniversary event. Some sported muddy boots after their walk to the tent, but everyone looked terrific in their “river chic” attire. 

The evening’s specialty cocktail of Gentleman Jack, mint, and tamarind, orange and lime juices was named “Mudbug Juice” in honor of the freshwater crawfish that resides in most of Tennessee’s waterways. With cocktails and hors d’oeuvres in hand, patrons watched the sun set from the outdoor lounge. As darkness settled on the field, everyone made their way to the elegant tables under the tent for a buffet dinner from Martin’s Bar-B-Que Joint.

Once the clattering of forks subsided, Harpeth Conservancy’s CEO Grace Stranch took the stage to warmly welcome guests, as did the organization’s president, Dorie Bolze. Both women praised the generosity of attendees and sponsors, and Dorie added, “We are the river. United, we are the solution.”

Guests missed River Swing regular John Hiatt, who is recovering from injuries after he fell while hiking last month. But Moon Taxi put on a phenomenal show, and the dance floor was immediately crowded. The curly-haired guitar prodigy Grace Bowers made a cameo, and The Sweet Lillies serenaded the Late Party patronage well into the night.

Tennessee’s waterways provide drinking water, recreation and vital transportation to more than 3 million people, and Harpeth Conservancy’s River Swing has been hooting, jamming and swinging to protect Tennessee’s rivers for 20 years. The annual event has since raised over $2 million in support of Harpeth Conservancy’s mission: “to restore and protect clean water and healthy ecosystems for rivers in Tennessee ... through scientific expertise and collaborative relationships.”

Cheers to 20 years, Harpeth Conservancy, and here’s to many more!