2004 Year in Review

Heritage Canyon has special event during Grand Excursion

The Early American Crafters, the volunteer support group for the Canyon, are planning to make history come to life on Sunday June 27th during the Grand Excursion Celebration.

The Crafters have presented history at the Canyon for many years but they want to present something a bit different for this event. They have been doing research on the life and times of 1854, the date of the original Grand Excursion through the area, and will be using their knowledge and historic skills to give visitors a chance to experience that period first hand.

The Early American Crafters and others will be dressed in period clothing and attempting to stay in first person impression throughout the entire day, giving visitors a feeling that they have actually stepped back in time to June 27th 1854. This date was a Tuesday and villagers will be going about their daily tasks. The black smith will be working at his smithy and the general store will be open with small gifts and items for sale. The dressmaker will be in her shop and you will be able to learn about the clothes of the period. You might stop for lemonade at the Ice-cream Parlor or buy a pickle at the store. Do you have a toothache or need a haircut? You might find the barber/dentist in if you are lucky. Visit the Doctor in his office if he’s not out on a call or stop into the small village Church for a moment of peace. Villagers will be working in their gardens, shopping, cooking meals, cleaning, weaving or spinning and generally doing whatever task presents itself on that day. There is also much excitement in the village as a wanted man, a scoundrel and vagabond, has been spotted in the area and there is no telling what he might do.

When you visit the village on that day, you will be treated as if you are also living in 1854 and have come to the village on that date. Some fun and interesting conversations might ensue because of that premise. After all, you will be dressed in “strange’ clothing and perhaps asking “rather strange” questions. The villagers may have some strange questions for you as well. History has never been more fun or fascinating. Please take time out of your busy day to join in the fun with the Early American Crafters as they bring Heritage Canyon to life in a unique and remarkable way. Donations are requested to help maintain the Canyon but the fun and memories will be well worth the small amount. For more information please call 815-589-2838.

by  Editor, theCity1.com
May 19, 2004