Thursday, May 15, 2008 HOME | CONTACT US | SUPPORT US | VOLUNTEER
    Preservation Education Colonel Stephenson  



Events of 2008
In The News

A variety of programs and events will be showcased in and around the restored home: seminars; experimental programs dealing with the arts and crafts of the day; discussions dealing with the political and social issues of the day; presentations dealing with major figures (i.e. Ninian Edwards, Benjamin Stephenson, Edward Coles); musical events; and cooking demonstrations.

Events of 2008

 
January 5 & 19, 10 a.m.-3 p.m. – Man’s Shirt 1790-1830 ($35 per person)
Seamstress, Dottie Vaughn will instruct participants in the hand sewing techniques needed to construct an authentic man’s shirt. This two day workshop features basic shirt construction and hand sewing techniques, along with a brief discussion of sewing theory used during the early 19th century. The workshop fee includes linen fabric, thread, needles, beeswax and a size appropriate Kannik’s Korner Man’s Shirt 1790-1830 pattern.  Limited to six participants. Registration required.
 
February 8 & 9, 6-9p.m. – Valentine Dinners ($75 per person)
Come experience the romance of a 19th century dinner, complete with live music.  Eat food made from historic recipes and imagine yourself there with the Stephenson’s.   Guest will be treated to a sumptuous six course dinner and authentically dress serving staff. Seating is limited. Reservations required.  The House will be closed during both days to prepare for the evening event.
 
April 12, 9 a.m.-1 p.m., – Braided Hot Mat Workshop ($25 per person)
Making a ten inch wool braided trivet or hot mat is a quick "taste" of making a larger braided object, such as a chair pad or a rug.  In this workshop you will learn the technique of starting a mat, which is slightly different for the round and oval shapes. Students will also be instructed in the braiding method, as well as the lacing and the tapering techniques needed to complete the project. Limited to ten participants. Registration is required.
 
June 9, 10, 11 - Pioneer Day Camp ($35 per person)
Learn about the life of an Illinois Territory pioneer during this hands-on history day camp. Campers will participate in various activities common place in the daily lives of early residents of Illinois. Open to children grades 3rd – 5th. A morning session (9 a.m. – 12p.m.) or afternoon session (1-4 p.m.) is offered.  Limited to 10 participants per session. Registration required.
 
July 12, 19, 26, 9a.m. -12p.m – Traditional Floor cloth ($ 45 per person)
Learn the traditional method of creating a historical floor cloth.  Floor cloths have been used for centuries in homes as a practical and useful decoration. Participants will learn how to stretch and prep the canvas, create the design, paint the cloth, and seal the final product.  Limited to five students. Registration required.
 
July 26, 1-2p.m. – Story time at the Stephenson House (free)
Gather under the old shade tree to listen to stories of adventure and fun. During the months of July through October guest storytellers will entertain visiting children with stories of the past, fantastical worlds and distant cultures. Children must be accompanied by an adult.
 
August 30, 1-2 p.m. – Story time at the Stephenson House (free)
Gather under the old shade tree to listen to stories of adventure and fun. During the months of July through October guest storytellers will entertain visiting children with stories of the past, fantastical worlds and distant cultures. Children must be accompanied by an adult.
 
September (Date to be announced,) 10 a.m. – 50/50 Auction (free)
Check your attics and basements for antiques, memorabilia and collectibles, and then bring them to the seventh annual 50/50 auction. Proceeds are split 50/50 with the house or you may chose to donate the entire sale. The auction features a large assortment of quality items. House tours will not be available during this event but the museum gift shop will be open.
 
September 27, 1-2p.m. – Story time at the Stephenson House (free)
Gather under the old shade tree to listen to stories of adventure and fun. During the months of July through October guest storytellers will entertain visiting children with stories of the past, fantastical worlds and distant cultures. Children must be accompanied by an adult.
 
October18, 1-2 p.m. – Story time at the Stephenson House (free)
Gather under the old shade tree to listen to stories of adventure and fun. During the months of July through October guest storytellers will entertain visiting children with stories of the past, fantastical worlds and distant cultures. Children must be accompanied by an adult.
 
December 6, 11a.m.-3p.m. – Father Christmas (general admission fee)
Get into the Christmas spirit and bring the family to see Father Christmas while he is in visiting the Stephenson’s to celebrate Saint Nicholas Day.  Listen to his tales of the Holidays, and watch out for his brother, Rupert.  If you have been bad, Rupert might make an appearance to put coal in your stocking!  Tour the home and enjoy the unique Christmas finery in each room.
      

 


© 2007 The Friends of the Benjamin Stephenson House