Living History: April 2004

A Stitch in Time: New York City

“A woman who does not know how to sew is as deficient in her education as a man who cannot write,” advised Eliza Farrar in the 1830s publication The Young Lady’s Friend. Through April 18, The New-York Historical Society exhibit Home Sewn: Three Centuries of Stitching History will examine the role domestic sewing has played in the lives of New York women. Organized into six thematic sections — Sewing ABCs, Outfitting Family and Home, The Fabric of Life, Identity and Expression, The Sewing Circle and Stitching a Living — the exhibit explores the craft’s evolution through such technological advancements as the invention of the sewing machine and cultural trends such as ready-to-wear clothing. Home Sewn features handmade clothing, quilts and household linens; sewing manuals; pattern books; and historical tools. Admission is $8 for adults and $5 for students and seniors. Call (212) 873-3400 or visit <www.nyhistory.org> for details.

Life on the Alabama: Monroeville, Ala.

Experience 18th-century Monroe County March 18-20 at Alabama River Heritage Days, a living history festival presented by the Alabama River Museum at Claiborne Lock and Dam. Re-enactors will set up camp and portray the lives of Creek Indians, frontier militiamen and European traders who settled along the river. Listen to period music as they demonstrate pottery making, hide tanning and other early crafts. Present-day traveling traders will sell American Indian handicrafts and artifact reproductions. Admission is $5 for adults and $3 for children under 12. For more information, call (251) 575-7433.

 

Step behind the gates of Virginia’s finest country estates, townhouses, oceanfront villas, James River plantations and Victorian farmhouses during the statewide Historic Garden Week in Virginia, April 17-25. The Garden Club of Virginia will open the homes and gardens of Robert E. Lee, George Washington, Meriwether Lewis and other notable Virginians. These homes date from the mid-17th century to the early 21st century. Tours include five to six local houses and gardens, and benefit the restoration of historic gardens throughout the state. Ticket prices range from $10 to $30 per event. For a schedule of tour dates, call (804) 644-7776 or visit <www.vagardenweek.org>.

Peak Performance: Picacho, Ariz.