Settlers in the frontier village of New Salem had to be resourceful back in the 1830s. They grew their own food, made their own furniture, wove their own cloth and much more, as visitors will see June 18 during the Summer Frolic at Lincoln’s New Salem State Historic Site.
The pioneer settlement will be bustling from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. with volunteers performing the work of daily life during the period that Abraham Lincoln called New Salem home.
Interpreters in period clothing will welcome guests and demonstrate crafts like blacksmithing, quilting and natural dying. Watch a “sheep to shawl” demonstration where a wool fleece will be spun and woven into a garment.
The site is also celebrating World Wide Knit in Public Day by inviting knitters of all skill levels and ages to knit alongside interpreters throughout the village. Knitters are encouraged to bring their own seating. More information about World Wide Knit in Public Day can be found at www.wwkipday.com.
The Museum Store and Railsplitter Gift Shop will be open during the event. The stores are operated by the New Salem Lincoln League. OMGosh! Bistro in the Park will also be open.
Lincoln’s New Salem State Historic Site is located two miles south of Petersburg and 20 miles northwest of Springfield on Route 97. Tours are free, although a donation of $4 for adults, $2 for children or $10 per family is suggested.
The site is operated by the Illinois Historic Preservation Agency. IHPA protects the state’s historic resources, which contribute to education, culture and the economy. Its sites include ancient burial mounds, forts and buildings erected by settlers, and homes connected to famous Illinoisans.