The Bidwell Artisan Fair
On Saturday June 27th the Bidwell House Museum is excited to present the Bidwell Artisan Fair. During this free community event, visitors to the Museum will have the opportunities to see numerous craftspeople creating items as varied as spoons, lace, chairs and paper. Many of the artisans will be using historical techniques and creating beautiful items in ways similar to New England craftspeople hundreds of years ago. In addition to craft demonstrations, visitors will also be able to see Revolutionary War reenactors demonstrating a “camp kitchen” and hear music from Shinbone Alley. There will also be a scavenger hunt for kids and snacks for purchase.
Artisan Demonstrations will include:
Andrew Jack makes and teaches the construction of Windsor chairs using a blend of contemporary and traditional techniques. . Working with green wood and hand tools allows his handmade chairs and woodenware to appear and feel “light” and “delicate” yet maintain the strength of a tree.
Jill Hawkins from the New England Lace Group will demonstrate the historic craft of bobbin lacemaking, which originated in the 16th century. Learn how lace is made by hand and try it yourself!
Chris Templin will demonstrate the age old skill of blacksmithing and also show some of his metal work.
Nancy Donovan will show you the fine art of paper quilling
Camp Kitchen with Tommy Tringale Be sure to visit the recreated camp kitchen and see how Continental Army soldiers during the American Revolution cooked their meals and what personal belongings they carried while on campaign during the conflict with England. This demonstration is weather dependent and will not happen if rain is forecast.
In addition to these demos, we are also excited to welcome Shinbone Alley to the stage for the afternoon. Alex Harvey is an old-world folklorist who performs street ballads and songs of the sea in a project he calls Shinbone Alley. At his performances listeners learn to celebrate the haunting intercultural exchange of 18th and 19th century maritime music – whose ingredients travelled from the furthest corners of the globe to be remade and stitched anew by sailors of every shade and shape at port and at sea.
Additional activities may be added before the event, so check back here for the most up to date information.
Pre-registration is not required for this event, but if you do plan to attend, getting a free ticket does help us to know how much food and drink to have on hand.
This program is supported in part by grants from Lee Bank along with the Monterey, Otis, Sheffield and Tyringham Cultural Councils, local agencies which are supported by the Mass Cultural Council, a state agency.
