Maidstone Museum, 1812 Encampment, May 28-30, 2010
This was our first year as a group attending the Maidstone Museum event, and we had a lovely time. Heather (Rainbow Weaver), Chris (Strides), Lynn (Dark Pool), Dale (Big Fish), Jim (Whitewolf), Jordon (Two Hawks), Doug Robinson (Shamus, the story teller) and David Morris (Tecumseh and Jean-Baptiste Dumont) were present.
Friday, the 29th of May, was their first Education Day, and approximately 85 attentive and enthusiatic children came through. The children and their teachers were fascinated by David's presentation as Tecumseh, and sat in the 30 degree, high-humidity sunshine in rapt attention!
Saturday and Sunday were each packed with two battles and many interactive displays. The guests kept coming even though the heat was sometimes overwhelming. The organizers had prepared a lovely lunch both days with many baked goods for sale as well. Some of the displays included the Kentuckians' (Frank and Nathan) display of children's games and rope making, the Provincial Marines' cannon, a Voyager / North Canoe, and a fur collection. Our group also had three of our wigwams plus a teepee there.
Rainbow Weaver demonstrated and taught finger weaving. Dark Pool demonstrated fine crafts such as porcupine quill work and beading. Two Hawk demonstrated de-fleshing and de-hairing of a deer hide. Strides, Big Fish and Whitewolf demonstrated hand-to-hand and shooting techniques during and prior to the battles. Shamus narrated the battles, and was also telling some great stories.
On Saturday, David portayed Jean-Baptiste dumont, a Voyager from the 1812 time-period, explaining about the furs and the stories of a Voyager's life. Some members of the 4H Club youth group also did a great job expounding about the life of a Voyageur. On Sunday, David portayed Tecumseh, and everyone was probably thankful that the performance took place in the air-conditioned building next to the Museum! All of the presentations were very well attended.
The Essex Free Press was there and several photos posted here were taken by Andy Comber of the Free Press. As well, the following link has the story written by Andy.
http://essexfreepress.ca/node/1770
Better than chocolate?
