Next year, when I finally get to attend the teacher institute at Colonial Williamsburg (postponed due to the COVID-19 issues), I will have the opportunity to step into the locations of 18th century people. On one day of the event, I will cross the threshold into the Benjamin Powell House to contrast ways of life. This will not be a gentry-level household, but more of a middle-class sort of place. Daily Life in a Middling Sort Home Only a history buff would get excited about making beds, setting the table, and dancing in the manner of 18th century folks. |
Stop laughing! That's one of the reasons I enjoy attending institutes like this one: not to learn to dance per se, but to do things I would not normally do, things outside of my regular wheelhouse. Stay tuned to hear how this part turns out.
In the meantime, dancing is only a portion of the items on this day's schedule. There is also a moment of exploration and discovery.
Exploration in the Historic Area
Suggested sites to visit: Weaver, Shoemaker, Geddy Foundry, Milliner, Wigmaker, Bindery, Brickyard, Cabinetmaker, Tin shop & blacksmith, Tailor, Joinery, Everard House.
People & Pockets of the Past Classroom
Examine the daily lives of eighteenth-century Virginians—from gentry and middling sorts to servants and slaves— using a variety of primary sources and artifacts. Discover how these individuals contributed to our continuing American debate.