Fanshawe Pioneer Village will turn its attention to 19th-century textile traditions this Saturday, inviting visitors to explore fibre arts, historic techniques and the stories behind Ontario’s textile heritage.
The open-air museum, located in London, will feature textile-themed activities throughout the day, with demonstrations and displays taking place across more than 25 heritage buildings.
A highlight will be a special presentation at 1 p.m. by Deborah Livingston-Lowe of Upper Canada Weaving. She will discuss Komoka weaver John Campbell and his jacquard loom, which recently became part of Fanshawe Pioneer Village’s permanent collection.
Livingston-Lowe is an expert on Campbell’s work. Upper Canada Weaving, founded in 2010, specializes in reproducing 19th-century Ontario textiles while also creating custom contemporary fabrics.
Visitors can also take part in a variety of textile-related activities led by costumed historical interpreters. A “Stuffy Hospital” will offer children and families the opportunity to bring in a stuffed animal for a check-up and minor sewing repairs. There will also be a pop-up display of antique quilts.
Visiting artists and guilds will demonstrate a range of traditional skills, including lacemaking, historical costume design and dyeing using foraged plants.
A workshop on turning flax plants into linen has already sold out following strong interest.
The event will also feature a vendor market offering handmade items including woven baskets, yarn and heirloom toys. Visitors are encouraged to bring cash.
The Denfield General Store will also have locally made products available, along with a vintage fabric sale and limited-edition Village cross-stitch patterns.
The day will wrap up with a hot dog barbecue fundraiser running from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m., or while supplies last. Halal and vegan options will be available. Cash is preferred, although cards will be accepted at the General Store.
Written by: C. Soares
