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Old Bristol Historical Society (OBHS) is hosting the Pemaquid Mill Fiber Fair on Saturday, September 13th, from 10 am to 4 pm at its campus at 2089 Bristol Road in Pemaquid. “Local artisans will be showing off their skills and keeping the area’s historic fiber traditions alive in the present day,” said Julia Lane, chairperson of the fair. Admission is free to the all-ages event which will also include hands-on exhibits, a petting zoo and live music.
“It will be a celebration of the Mill and its history as a fiber mill,” continued Lane. “While the Mill is now best known as a former sawmill, things were different in the 19 th century. You’ll notice in photographs from back then, the landscapes are denuded of foliage because the peninsula was full of sheep. Their wool was then carded and fulled at the Mill.” As the Pemaquid River flowed through and powered the Mill, machines called carders prepared the wool fiber so that it could be spun. Then the fulling process stressed the wool fibers to make them warmer and more durable, making the fabric suitable for applications like military uniforms and blankets.
Peninsula craftspeople will be on hand giving personal demonstrations. Helen Costello will bring sheep for kids to meet and pet. Phyllis Leck will weave wool on her own loom. Pam Child will show how to use a spinning wheel, drop spindles and carding combs. Jody McKenzie Harris will explain the artistry of the dyeing process. All the artists will also have their personally handcrafted items for sale. The popular Oyster Creek Fiddlers under the direction of Kaity Newell will entertain visitors with live performances throughout the day.
The Pemaquid Mill Fiber Fair is another example of how OBHS is realizing its mission to share the Bristol region’s rich history and prehistory for present and future generations. For more information, visit their website at oldbristolhistoricalsociety.org or follow them on Facebook or Instagram.
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Event Venue & Nearby Stays
2089 Bristol Road, Pemaquid, ME, United States, Maine 04558, 2089 Bristol Rd, Pemaquid, ME 04558-4002, United States, Bristol
