18th Century Toys and Games

Learn how children entertained themselves in the days before the Wii and PS3! This program offers hands-on workshops with over 100 different toys and games authentic to the 18th century. This package includes demonstration, guided instruction, and time to play on your own! How can I fit into your event? I can do a workshop to teach your group about 18th century toys and games, how to use them and how important they were to the 18th century. I can set up at a likely intersection at your event and engage the public in learning about and trying games and toys from the 18th century. If you have 5 or 100 I can incorporate them into an interactive history lesson they can share with their children and grandchildren.

Open Fire Cooking

This program invites you to experience an 18th century openfire kitchen and all aspects of its operation. Shari takes you through the gathering, preparing, cooking and eating process using only authentic, period utensils, materials, and ingredients. Can you start a fire using flint and steel? Do you know how to make bannock? What is planked fish? Children and adults alike see the similarities and differences in the cooking ways of 250 years ago. Audience participation and adherence to your local regulations reguarding openfire cooked food and the public (for instance, only baked goods can be offered the public to sample at Saratoga Battlefield.). Good for small organized groups (up to 20) as well as strolling visitors.

Clothing and Laundry

"Why do the hats have three corners? What's on your feet? Did you make that? How did they wash their clothes? Can I try it on?" Answers to all these questions and more come with the clothing and laundry program. Shari brings to life the unique fashions of the mid-1700's; formal and functional alike. Carry water, fill the huge brass kettles, lather the soap and wash linens and clothing the 18th century way. Get a partner to wring the items and then hang them on the line before you go try on leggings, a tricorn, or petticoats, bonnets and gowns. Great photo op, mirror included! This is good for groups up to 25.

English Country Dance

This exciting and unique program allows kids of all ages to experience the thrill of community dancing; an energetic and important social event of the day. Shari first carefully teaches the basic steps to many popular country dances of the day,and and then: bring on the music! Shari can provide recorded accompaniment for the dance or work with you to arrange live musicians that add another level of authenticity and fun! Great for ages 4-18, small or large groups.

Immersion Workshops

At your site, a group of students (4-20) are immersed in 18th century life for extended periods of time (3-4 hours/day for 1-5 days) In conjunction with your program, I will engage the group in the activities of a frontier family including lessons about all aspects of daily life; cooking, chores, firebuilding, importance of thrift and thinking ahead, manners and values, sewing, animal husbandry, leisure activities, and making do. Skills too many to mention are explored as part of survival in 18th century in America. Careful planning with you is essential to make this an enriching and unforgettable event.

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