Time Travelers

As Florida ever expanding population grows, so does rampant development and urban sprawl. The strip malls, quick marts, gas stations, and Walgreen’s on every corner obliterate the beauty that is the Sunshine state.

Now that November is here, the weather has become cool, in the 70’s. We chose to attend the annual Pioneer Festival that is held in Barberville this past Sunday. The Fall Country Jamboree, as it is now called (sponsored by National City, of course) takes place at the Pioneer Settlement for the Creative Arts. This organization was established to expose and involve us in the arts of the past. The settlement grew around the Central School building and many more building have been added including a turpentine still, covered bridge and bridge keeper’s house, post office, railroad depot, and many more. In addition to the many buildings there is a working orange grove, vegetable gardens, and livestock. It’s very impressive.

The weather was great, a cool day for a change. Since I had not eaten breakfast, I couldn’t resist the smell of the BBQ and so started the day with pork, beans and slaw.

We toured the buildings and were fascinated by all the displays and implements, all of which we were able to touch. Several rooms in the high school house large floor looms and many spinning wheels.

 

One of the demonstrators was weaving rugs using plastic grocery bags. Her loom was warped with fishing line. You can see the Wal-Mart blue in the pattern.

Heading out through the farm area to the old log cabin and found more spinners. Watching a spinning wheel in action always fascinates me. These ladies drew quite an audience, especially the woman plucking the angora right off the rabbit. I cast admiring glances at a rack of hands pun and asked if it was for sale. She was a little hesitant to name a price. I assured her that I could stand the shock. After all I am a knitter and showed her my socks. She laughed and asked if I belonged to Ravelry. Imagine, she recognized my socks.

Elayn is a very talented spinner and belongs to a group that demonstrates spinning techniques in the central Florida area. We had a wonderful visit and I was privileged to purchase the skein at the special Ravelry price. The yarn is a delicate 400 yards of beautifully spun silk in all shades of teal and green, lacy, and looking for just the right pattern to be knit into a scarf. The experience added a special touch to my day. There are Ravelers everywhere.

It soothed me to see so many people  interested in conserving the past through historic preservation, the value land stewardship, and the keeping the home arts alive. Take time to visit your local arts center where you live. How's that for a public service announcement!