Photo courtesy of R.B. POWELL
R.B. Powell (left) and his wife, Bridget Allen, will perform at the 44th Big Valley Bluegrass Gospel Gathering and Ice Cream Social on Saturday as part of the band Unusual Suspects.

BELLEVILLE — The Big Valley Bluegrass Gospel Gathering and Ice Cream Social has come a long way over its five decades of existence.

That first year, Jesse and Lydia Yoder, of Belleville, hosted the first bluegrass gospel gathering at their home along Front Mountain Road beyond Allensville, just over the county line in Huntingdon County.

This year’s event — the 44th edition of the Big Valley Bluegrass Gospel Gathering and Ice Cream Social — will take place in the air-conditioned and comfortable rain-free sanctuary of Locust Grove Mennonite Church, 3358 West Main St. in Belleville.

Admission to the event, slated for 6 to 9:30 p.m. today, is free. Donations will be accepted. Attendees are also encouraged to bring a homemade dessert to compliment the ice cream.

Two bluegrass bands will play three sets at the gathering, with the J-Tyme Bluegrass Band, of Lancaster County, and the Unusual Suspects String Band, of Lewistown, taking the stage.

J-Tyme is an entertaining and humorous family group and is popular at many venues with the traditional bluegrass acoustic instruments.

The second set is highlighted by the Unusual Suspects String Band, which has a repertoire of modern gospel hits that feature strong vocals and solid rhythms.

The Unusual Suspects have a core of R.B. Powell and his wife, Bridget Allen. The most likely family member supporting them is George Powell, who plays guitar, and impresses listeners with his deep bass voice.

R.B. plays banjo, harmonica and bass violin, while Bridget plays guitar or bass and is the primary vocalist. Their set in the program will feature several gospel sing-alongs.

For the Big Valley Bluegrass Gospel program, the Powells have enlisted Rev. Ela Robertson on cello, Kevin Zook on piano and Reuben Shetler supporting with harmonies. The musicians hail from Mifflin and Centre counties.

The social features ice cream from Hostettler’s Country Market, of Reedsville, complimented by a smorgasbord of homemade desserts. The event is supported by donations.