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If idle hands are the devil's
workshop, women of past centuries had no fear for their mortal
souls. During their routine daily chores of childcare,
gardening, cloth production, and 8-10 hours of cooking, they
perfected their needle arts. This included sewing, tatting,
knitting, crocheting, beading, cross stitch, embroidery, and
needle point candlewicking. While these skills produced
utilitarian goods, many beautiful items were produced as well.
The Johnston Farm & Indian
Agency is featuring the needle arts for its next special
exhibit. Showcased is the work of Doris Gordon Davis, who prior
to hear death in 2006, volunteered at the Johnston Farm
demonstrating her stitching skill. She was adept at all types of
needlework, and knowledgeable about samplers and their history.
She made trips to Williamsburg, Virginia and England to study
various needle arts.
Also on display are works from
The Tapestry Angel, Piqua's own needlework shop located at 516
Spring Street, as well as work by Johnston Farm staff and
volunteers. On loan from the Piqua Public Library and Museum is
a Piqua Coverlet.
While at the Johnston home learn
how the rest of the family lived, engage in some craft
activities of your own from the Johnston era, and take in the
Historic Indian and Canal Museum to gain insight imto the lives
of some of the first people to call Ohio home. Be sure to allow
time in your day for a relaxing ride on the replica canal boat
General Harrison of Piqua and relive the time when the world
moved at the end of a towrope at four miles per hour.
The Johnston Farm & Indian
Agency is located just off SR 66, three miles north of Piqua at
9845 North Hardin Road. For additional information about events
and activities visit us at www.johnstonfarmohio.com
or call 937-773-2522.
Summer hours for the Johnston
Farm & Indian Agency are Thursday and Friday 10:00 AM - 5:00
PM and Saturday and Sunday Noon - 5:00 PM
Admission: $8.00/adults,
$4.00/children 6-12, and free to Johnston Farm Friends Council,
Ohio Historical Society members, and chlidren 5 and younger. AAA
and Senior discounts are also honored. |
