Woodstock: Dave Sieglinger

Dave Sieglinger, 58, Brookhaven, Building contractor

The concert was already beginning in Bethel, and we heard the first reports over the radio. We decided 'Why not, let's go!' We had to park the car and walk a long way.

There were all kinds of young people, from all-out freaks to regular kids just getting into the scene. There were more than a few substances going around. There was a really good vibe in the air, and no one was bothering anyone else.

When we crested the hill where the amphitheater was located, there were hundreds of thousands of freaks all sitting on the hill, and the party was in full swing. I remember a lot of mud. That only seemed to add to the fun.

We did lose track of our driver and ended up having to hitchhike home after almost three days without sleep.

Even though I went to other festivals later on, it was never the same as it was at Woodstock. It was one tiny moment in time when it all came together. It's too bad it couldn't last. I still think we were on to something good. Some of it has stayed with me my whole life and always will.