Life's Blessings

"The most precious gift we can offer others is our presence. When mindfulness embraces those we love, they will bloom like flowers." (Thich Nhat Hanh)

Ft. Daniel 2nd Annual Frontier Faire

This past weekend the Fort Daniel Foundation in conjunction with the Gwinnett Archaeological Research Society, a chapter of the Society for Georgia Archaeology, celebrated their 2nd Annual Frontier Faire at the Ft. Daniel site situated on Hog Mountain. The Faire was a two-day event and consisted of demonstrations of life in the late 1790's and early 1800's as well as an active dig. Please click on the Fort Daniel Foundation link and learn more about the efforts underway to save this historic site, former home of two forts.

Channel 11 News came out on Saturday and you can view the text of the interview here. Make sure you play the video!

At the welcoming table, you could sign in (on real parchment) and get a brief explanation of the day's events as well as an invitation to join!
This Faire is in conjunction with Georgia's Archaeology month, the theme this year, "Making the Past Come to Life!"
Since Ft. Daniel has an active dig, a museum was erected to display the artifacts already discovered
Plus information on the timeline and history of the site
Demonstrations were key throughout the day and enjoyed by all!
A traveling merchant explained his wares and how they were used as well as where common phrases of today originated (i.e., pieces of eight, going off half cocked)
A blacksmith demonstration

Reproductions of nails made during the Colonial time period
Bricks were produced at the site available for purchase by attendees
A brick form and some molded red clay
The kiln
The kiln fired up!

The finished product
Tools used during the Colonial period



Several people came dressed in historical garb. Below is our merchant...The merchant carried his wares in a chest similar to this one
And displayed them very nicely...

A measuring device to weigh the silver
A block of tea
The opposite side

The merchant's weapon to protect himself

A cover for his shoes

Canteen
His compass so he can make his way through the wilderness

The General preparing for the day's hard work protecting the fort and disciplining the troops
Our blacksmith

Note the fox fur hanging on the merchant's belt (his right side). This was in honor of the "Swamp Fox" (General Francis Marion, 1732-1795) from the American RevolutionA Colonial woman (and yes, cars were removed from the property before the public arrived)

Taking a break from a hard day's work!

The Girl Scouts came as well. Note the pocket hanging from their leader's waist. As a true educator, she brought children's clothes and toys of the time period so they could have real-life experiences.

Games that children could play with and they did!

Clothes with which children could dress up and experience Colonial times
Dr. James D'Angelo, RPA, the Ft. Daniel site president and archaeologist poses with one of the field crew.
Dedicated field crew members
Shoveling is hard work!
As is sifting
Several pits have been dug on the property, identifying the former foundation and posts of the forts



There were so many people who volunteered to help make this event a success. Their goal is to preserve our heritage and educate the public and I am honored to have spent two days with them.

To my friends in blogland, I encourage you to research your local historical sites, organizations or foundations and get involved. It is definitely a worthwhile pursuit, not to mention lots of fun!