Colonial times came alive this weekend as celebrations marking the 250th observation of the burning of the British schooner Gaspee kicked off with Museum Weekend. Activities included a party at the Pawtuxet Rangers Armory Friday night and stories and demonstrations Saturday and Sunday at the Aspray Boathouse, the armory and Pawtuxet Park. Joining in the activities Saturday were the Daughters and Children of the American Revolution including Kristy Head looking on as her son Henry demonstrates a hoop game and Rachel and Molly Fairbank watch. Nearby the Rangers take a moment to describe how to load a canon for firing for the curious. Next on the Gaspee calendar is a proclamation ceremony and the historic village walking tour starting at noon May 21. (Cranston Herald photos)