2003 Year in Review

Pioneer Camp for Adults

Rain or shine, from Saturday, May 24 to Sunday, May 25, adults (age 18 and older) will participate in a hands-on camping experience at Heritage Canyon, beside the Mississippi River, in Fulton, Illinois. The weekend will focus on life skills of the 1840’s. The goal of the Early American Crafters, sponsors of the event, is to provide experiences that involve men and women in tasks that recreate our pioneer heritage.

 Meals will be prepared by the participants and cooked over open fires and wood stoves, featuring authentic foods and beverages.

 Both men and women will learn to shoot a black powder rifle.

 Men will learn simple blacksmithing, ropemaking, and log cabin construction.

 Women will dip candles, bake bread, quilt, and spin.

 Everyone will learn about community life and historic medicines.

Sleeping arrangements will be dormitory style in Civil War era tents; participants will bring their own bedding and towels. No showers are available, but wash-up stations will be provided. It is required that participants wear recreations of 1840’s period clothing.

Would you like to try historical reenacting for a weekend? Request an information packet from Heritage Canyon, 515 North Fourth Street, Fulton, IL 61252, (815) 589-2838. Contact Beth Eshelman at 1015 Thome Road, Albany, IL 61230, by phone (309) 887-4030, or via email mother@sanasys.com for additional information.

Kids have an opportunity to send their parents to camp! “Pioneer Camp for Adults” would make a memorable Mother’s, or Father’s, Day gift. The cost is $150 per person, and the registration deadline is Thursday, May 1.

by Stephanie A. Vavra, Guest Columnist
February 24, 2003