Marilyn Freeman demonstrates handsewing techniques.
CULLMAN – A growing number of people these days are taking an interest in traditional crafts, and not arts-and-crafts-show crafts. These folks are looking for the crafts that will allow them to build their own buildings, grow their own food, and enjoy a comfortable degree of independence. Some are survivalist “preppers,” getting ready for what they see as an uncertain future; others simply enjoy the satisfaction of hands-on experiences and tangible results in a world increasingly full of screens. Still others are history buffs, wanting real world experiences to help them step back into the good old days.
For all these folks, the Peinhardt Homesteaders have something to offer: opportunities for fellowship and networking with like-minded folks, and instruction in practical skills for survival and self-sufficiency.
Homesteader Shannon McBride explained, “We’re hoping to get people who are into homesteading, simple living, old stuff, that kind of thing. We get together once a month and learn new skills, share trials and tribulations and all that kind of stuff- learn from each other. A lot of people that are online learning about homesteading stuff are following people that are in California or up north, and some of the information isn’t as accurate as it could be for down here. We’re trying to help people do things better.”
At March’s meeting, homesteaders Jo-Amrah Dillingham and Marilyn Freeman led a class on handsewing that included show-and-tell with traditional tools and materials, along with demonstrations of buttonholes and common clothing repairs. The format was hands-on and interactive, with participants encouraged to share their own knowledge and experiences with the group.
Dillingham gave examples of how traditional women’s fiber arts crossed over into other areas of daily farm life, “We look at them now as fiber arts, because we wouldn’t think about suturing somebody; but a hundred years ago even, you were taken care of on the homestead. A simple wound you got sutured at the house, so knowing how to do a whip stitch or something of that sort was a life skill you better know.”
Each month’s two-hour meeting will include a practical how-to program and time for folks to chat, talk shop and generally fellowship with folks who share their interests. On the drawing board for next month is a presentation on homestead medicine.
“We’re trying to draw our community together,” said Dillingham, “trying to bring in our history- the past, the present and the future. We’re trying to support not only Peinhardt Farms and the phenomenal work that they do, but our community as a whole; and bring folks in, and provide them with resources and connections, just to make it a stronger community.”
The Peinhardt Homesteaders meet at 2 p.m. on the third Sunday of each month, at Peinhardt Farm, 1711 Tally Ho St. NW (U.S. Highway 278 at I-65 exit 308). Special events may require a fee, but monthly meetings are free. For more information visit http://qrne.ws/homesteaders.
Upcoming: Medical Care for Homesteading & Hard Times
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