Well, actually it was a day at Greenfield Village in Dearborn, Michigan. I was invited to attend this event with members of the Columbia Society and the Liberty Rifles Civilians. I know, Michigan is an awfully long way to go from Pennsylvania for a one-day event. I hadn’t dressed out for a real event, like more of us, for two years; I needed a fix. I had never visited Greenfield Village and was eager to do so.
I arrived in Detroit on Friday, early afternoon with one big suitcase with period stuff, one smaller carryon for modern clothes, and a hat box for bonnets. Thank goodness for Southwest and free checked bags.
We met up Saturday morning. There were six of us, which made for a nice group. Our first stop was at the Firestone farm and farmhouse, which was built in 1828 and then updated in 1882.
Another building we visited was the Logan County Courthouse in which Abraham Lincoln practiced law. It was moved from Illinois to Greenfield Village in 1929.
We also visited the Weaving shop; they had Jacquard cards on display.
The Eagle Tavern was not open yet, so we had lunch at A Taste of History. Once we finished lunch, we roamed around the village taking in the sites and having our pictures taken by complete strangers. We received many compliments on our dress and I must say we did look good.
We were able to take a train ride. The train was very crowded; however, the conductor sat us all in the VIP bench. It was a nice relaxing ride around the park.
After the train ride we wondered over to have frozen custard. Oh my, it was delicious. We also want to all ride the Omnibus. We were all able to get on. The horses were Stephen and Foster.
Our squeezing in put me in mind of this painting.
But my companions had a period cartoon more in mind.
After this little adventure, we visited the Detroit Central Market building just opened at the Village. The building was constructed in 1860 and opened in 1861. It is a great space for all sorts of activities.
I had a wonderful time, even with my mobility issues. I made new friends and had a great time visiting. I plan to return; it is such a wonderful site to be in 1860s dress and just wander. I look forward to playing dress up again with my newfound friends at this wonderful location.
Categories: Civil War