I recently traveled to Missouri and had a delightful time at A Revolutionary Weekend In Saint Genevieve. This 250th anniversary event celebrated the forgotten battle of Fort San Carlos.
I became familiar with Sainte Geneviève when I began watching Early American and Frontier Patriot on YouTube. Ron and Justine Rayfield are the hosts. They focus on late 18th/early 19th century history, open hearth cooking and so much more.
All the most interesting historical figures were in attendance at this fabulous event.
Bernardo de Gálvez, Spanish Governor of Louisiana, the Marquis de Lafayette, and Thomas Jefferson, who talked my darling daughter into participating in a treasonous act: signing the Declaration of Independence. Jefferson was portrayed by Ryan Williams.
It was also such an honor to meet Benjamin Franklin as well as General and Lady Washington.
Rebels and Soldiers
These gentlemen had traveled all the way from Tucson, Arizona.
It was so interesting to tour all the different military encampments.
French colonial trapping and the fur trade was a major source of commerce in the 18th century.
Colonial Market Fair
There were so many wonderful sutlers. Weavers, spinners, blacksmiths and several other creatives were displaying their crafts.
This gentleman was also part of Clan Gunn.
Sassafras Creek Originals
In the afternoon we headed over to Sassafras Creek Originals.
The shop specializes in Colonial era and primitive decor.
The charming shopkeeper, Kandye Mahurin, has a fun YouTube channel, Cabin Crafts and Simple Living.
Refreshments
In the encampment area dear Ron Rayfield was offering shrub to anyone who wanted to try it.
In the Colonial period shrub was made by mixing a vinegar syrup with spirits, as well as still or carbonated water. The drinking vinegar was often infused with fruit juice, herbs and/or spices. I liked it and will soon be making a batch.
We had afternoon tea at the Quintessential Rivertown Spice & Tea.
The menu featured Colonial era sweets and savories.
Our lovely teatime friends included the enchanting Ashley.
Our Wonderful Hosts
It was truly such a delight to meet Justine Rayfield. She is such a kind and talented person.
Ronald Rayfield was quite the dandy in his cheetah suit.
Leopard, cheetah, and even zebra suits were quite en vogue during the 18th century.
18th Century Shepherdess
Darling daughter, Lou, wanted to attend dressed as an 18th century patchworked shepherdess.
The 18th century featured plenty of patchwork, such as this lovely jacket.
You often can find patchwork linings. Such as this jacket at The Met.
As well as charming little pockets.
Lou’s jacket was created from a turn of the century quilt top that was badly stained and in desperate need of repair.
Her polka dot petticoat was fashioned following the instructions in the American Duchess 18th Century Dressmaking Book.
The straw bergère hat came from Burnley and Trowbridge. I trimmed it with leftover pinked silk and vintage blooms in a patriotic color palette.
The red silk ribbon came from Timely Tresses.
I finally had a chance to get a few historically inspired photos of my 1776 Italian gown.
You can find all the pattern details in this post.
Because the day included a bit of rain I wore the back of my gown in a Retroussée style. The French term simply means “pulled up”.
You can find more details and inspiration about my 18th century cake hat in this post.
Thank you Ron and Justine Rayfield and the wonderful townspeople of Sainte Geneviève for a truly lovely weekend!
This Week’s Video
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Always a rebel,
Laura
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