Living History Program at Jerusalem Mill Village
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The Crafts and Skills
Living History Interpreters demonstrate various practical aspects of 18th century life on Sunday afternoons from 1 to 4 p.m. Any time you see a candle in the window, the door open or smoke rising from the chimney of the Cooper/Gunsmith shop, stop in and experience of bit of history.
When our interpreters work at their crafts, you can watch while they produce useful articles from natural materials with the same kinds of tools craftsmen used in the 18th century.
When the season is right, watch deer hide being prepared for use in garments and bags. See Leather bags and accessories made of deer, elk, or antelope hides being stitched by hand, or see the color linen shirts can become when they are doused in a pot of walnut or indigo dye.
Perhaps our scrimshaw artist will be carving intricate designs on cow horns he has filed and made suitable for carrying powder or salt, or for use as drinking cups.
When the ladies are sewing, they will be delighted to show you how to hand stitch a seam or a hem, or create fine embroidery, or how to decorate a hat in the latest fashion.
If the weather is fine enough for working outdoors, the woodworkers will discuss any number of matters involving the construction of tables, chairs, windows, and any other item of wood necessary for the household.
Should you visit while the gunmaker is on scene, he will show you the mysteries of carving and finishing the stocks, along with the steps in assembling the barrel and locks.
And, finally, should you happen to stop by during a break from the day's work, perhaps you can learn to play Flip the Planks, or Hazard.
While you visit, pay mind to the future along with the past! As always, the Friends of Jerusalem Mill gratefully accepts donations, volunteer help, and ideas to make our Living History programs more engaging and useful.
