The Manitowoc County Historical Society offered an amazing Heritage Maker’s Market. Franciscan Sisters of Christian Charity Sister Marlene Schwaller, Sister Marcolette Madden, Sister Caritas Strodthoff, Sister Anny Mary Hart, Sister Sue Ann Hall, Sister Mariadele Jacobs, Sister Mary Ann Spanjers and Sister Julie Ann Sheahan were thrilled to be able to see the combination of demonstration and creative arts. Grants made this event possible. Funding came from Wisconsin Humanities Council, Travel Wisconsin and the Wisconsin Arts Board. It was also sponsored by Fricke Printing and Shipbuilder’s Credit Union.
Heritage Maker’s Market was a fascinating experience…again. These artisans share skills, crafts, and trades that were essential before mechanization and in a time when things were handmade. It was fascinating to watch how material was dyed in different colors, how iron hooks were fired, hammered and shaped, the making of silver spoons and jewelry, the many steps to turn deer hide into clothing. The preservation and sharing of these historical occupations is at the heart of Manitowoc County Historical Society. Our hearts and minds were challenged to try and imagine how they accomplish all these tasks. I hope to go again next year. – Sister Caritas Strodthoff
Every artisan was “having the time of his/her life” – highly enthused, amazingly skilled, eager to describe features of his/her particular craft, whether it was welding, dyeing cloth, spinning wool, or carving shoes. It showed how hands-on work with the natural resources of the earth enlivens the senses, encourages creativity, and nurtures the soul.
What a delightful learning experience. I never knew, for example, that the Menominee Forest is the BEST managed forest in the country. The cabinet maker said that’s where he gets his white pine pieces. I can hardly wait to attend next year’s event. – Sister Marcolette Madden
[See image gallery at fscc-calledtobe.org]
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