A Re-enactors Only Event
By: Debbie L. Jones
With Pictures by Ken Giorlando

On a chilly weekend in September, approximately twenty re-enactors gathered for a private event in Dorr, MI. Held at the Grand Valley Cap N Baller Gun Club, and hosted by our own Mrs. Sandy Root, participants experienced a weekend full of fun and friendship while adding to their knowledge of mid-19th century life.

We made the best of the colder temperatures. Many of us brought extra blankets, and along with fire pits, a couple of people had wood stoves, so those of us without were able to warm up nicely when needed. This naturally led to lots of socializing, and it was great to get to know several people I had never spent much time with, as well as meet new friends.

The weekend was full of opportunities to learn. On Saturday morning, many participated in a Woods Walk, with questions and challenges concerning life in rural Michigan during the Civil War. Put together by Sandy, with myself and Angela Morgan acting as additional guides, great fun was had by the participants, with plenty of good-natured competition. Our own 24th MI team- comprised of Sheri Giffin, Samantha Joseph, and Guy Purdue- came in third place. There were prizes for everyone, donated by some of the other participants.

Mayanne Greketis gave a presentation on the history and types of pockets for women’s clothing, and participants received patterns that they could use for their own outfits. There was also a presentation given by Ken Giorlando and Larissa Fleishman on farm life and how the types of farm activities changed throughout the year. Both presentations were highly informative, and the presenters were engaging and fun.

Mayanne Greketis gave a presentation on the history and types of pockets for women’s clothing (photo courtesy of of Ken Giorlando)

Ken Giorlando and Larissa Fleishman present about farm life (photo courtesy of Ken Giorlando)

On Sunday, we had a Coffee Hour at the Root’s very cozy residence. Sandy had prepared several period drinks, including hot chocolate, various teas, coffee, and hot cider (my personal favorite!). This was followed by a church service, led by our own Rev. Purdue. The service was short, with a couple of hymns, a sermon, and prayers, but well done. Everyone gathered afterwards for a community picnic.

Throughout the weekend, Susan Hanson sold woolen items from her suttlery. Her warm mittens, hats, and scarves came in very handy! Linda Smith also had items for sale. Mr. Beech, a well-known wet plate photographer, was available for tintypes all weekend. He generously offered to have people pay by donation, with all proceeds going back to the event. There was also a re-enactor Garage Sale, where anyone could bring items they were looking to sell, and everyone had a good time perusing what was available.

Shopping at Susan Hanson’s suttlery (photo courtesy of Ken Giorlando)

Of course, the “after hours” parties were as much fun as they always are, with much laughter and catching up after so many months of being deprived of these moments.

Though the site was a bit of a challenge to get to in the dark (I personally had to be rescued when I missed the signs multiple times), the setting itself was beautiful, and perfect for this smaller gathering. There was plenty of room for more, however, and all agreed that it would be nice to see the event grow and continue for many years to come. Should it return next year, I would highly recommend participation in this fun weekend.

24th members (L to R): Rev. Guy Purdue, Ms. Debbie Jones, Mrs. Sheri Giffin, and Mrs. Samantha Joseph