It wasn’t easy living in the 1800’s.  During the Battle of Caulk’s Field Re-enactment crafts people demonstrated how everyday items were made in the 1800’s.  Kathy demonstrated caning.  Caning is the craft of creating seats and backs to chairs using reeds.

Kathy uses cattail reeds she has gathered, these are the stalks on the left, for the seats.  She dries the reeds which are hanging from the line.  Then, makes them pliable by wrapping them in water-soaked cloth before she uses them in her work, this is the bundle on the ground.  Kathy also weaves baskets from reeds and other materials.

Jeff from Black Forest ArtWorks demonstrated the craft of blacksmithing.   Blacksmiths made tools, gates, cooking utensils, weapons, and anything needed out of wrought iron or steel.  The blacksmith uses heat, hammers and tools to bend and forge the creations.

Creating items for everyday use took time and skill in the 1800’s and everyday items were appreciated.  It was a fun and interesting day at the re-enactment, but I’m glad I live now instead of back then.

Happy Creating,

Dee