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Way back in the not-too-distant past of my school years, I strongly disliked being forced to study history. In my mind, it was all a bunch of useless dates and political garbage that had little, if any, bearing on our lives today. Sure, knowing when our nation was formed was important, and maybe understanding the Constitution a little; but I found the enless studies of pacts and treaties to be mind-numbing.
I don't blame the teachers. They were simply "teaching to the test" to make sure I could recite all the facts that somebody, somewhere decided was most important. This trend continued through college. I actually had a few moments of intense fellowship with one of my professors over the matter. I asked him why there was so much focus on memorizing facts rather than getting to know the people who walked the earth in the past. He suggested that my position was indicative of immaturity*, and that studying political history is the proper way to understand history.
Fast forward a few years...my position could not be more different today. I LOVE studying history! I am far from an expert on any subject, but I know enough to keep me curious. More importantly, I know enough to keep my daughter interested in learning about history!
We recently had the opportunity to attend the 17th Annual Commemorative Reenactment of the 1781 Battle of Petersburg at Battersea. The old homestead site was the location of a Revolutionary War battle. Here is a picture of the homestead, which I understand was occupied until 1980. It is currently owned by the City of Petersburg, Virginia, and there are plans to restore it to its early 19th century appearance, although the house was built in the early 18th century.
One of the first exhibits we were able to see was this beautiful horse. He is a quarter horse, and a fine example of the kind of horses bred in Virginia to support the Colonial troops. This particular horse was quite gentle and enjoyed nuzzling with Princess E.
We toured the American and British Camps of soldiers preparing for battle. In the marketplace, Sutler Village, we visited families, sampled kettle corn, visited with a period doctor, watched a woodcarver and visited with a Windsor chair maker.
In the orangery, Princess E had the opportunity to visit with a proper period gentlelady, who showed her how to partake of tea. She learned, quickly, that holding a handleless teacup is not as easy as it appears, especially when the contents are hot!
Out on the front lawn were a number of activities. Princess E learned about children's pasttimes from the era. She played ring toss and practiced the rolling hoop. We also attended a performance by Signora Bella, who provided family entertainment in the form of Colonial-era Acrobatics.
We had quite the adventure! And, guess what? It was a free event! That makes it even better. We'll be back next year.
*I was rapidly approaching 30 years old at the time, and had gone back to school AFTER establishing my career. I had been married over 10 years at that point, was a homeowner, etc. Hardly indicative of immaturity.
