Bring the whole family for a day of demonstrations and hands-on activities. With its roots in Living History Day, come to learn about the many skills the free and enslaved people practiced throughout the Lowcountry’s long, rich history. Interpreters and volunteers will demonstrate skills including:
Cashmere Combing – get to know our Cashmere goats, Bert and Ernie, as they get brushed and groomed to extract the fine cashmere fibers.
Indigo and Natural Dye – take home a small indigo-dyed fabric that you designed and dyed while learning about indigos’ contribution to South Carolina before the Revolutionary War.
Colonial Cooking – Learn about and witness cooking techniques and recipes from Colonial America.
Canvas Work – Witness the art of sailmaking and participate in a hands-on stitching lesson.
Quilt Making – Explore the historical significance of quilt making and storytelling in African-descendant communities and make your contribution to the community quilt with a Master Art Quilter, Cookie Washington.
ASE – a drop-in educational program about the Historic Origins of Southern Celebratory Fare.
Farrier Demos – Watch and learn about the trimming of horses’ feet and the cooperation between farriers and blacksmiths for shoeing them. 11am – 1pm
Archaeology – Hands-on archaeology demonstration and miniature dig that discusses pieces found at Middleton Place, what they are, and what we can learn from archaeological work.
Candle Making – Try your hand at candle-making and discuss the labor and materials that went into making one’s source of light before electricity.
Colonial Games – try to roll a hoop, walk on stilts, or other 18th and 19th century games.
Brick making – experience the art of making bricks by hand.
Gullah Crafts – Ty Collins will discuss the foodways and crafts of Gullah and Indigenous people with a hands-on activity.
Artisans – Our blacksmith, potter, cooper, and spinner will hold artisan demonstrations.
This special event is included in general admission and is free for members. On November 16th, children 13 and under receive free general admission!
