Demo at Hershel H.Beam Elemetary School

April 17th, 2002

Gastonia, NC

Children were knighted by Ld. Jonathan Blackbow, by authority of Her Magesty Queen Moody (Ms. Moody, the teacher who arranged the demo). Later the children circulated stations where musical instruments, books, photos, fiber arts and board games were displayed.
All the children had a hands-on opportunity with everything except the fighing. Lord Jonathan and Lady Fiona demonstrated heavy weapons fighting and Lord Rodger stepped in with Lord Jonathan to demonstrate rapier. Lady Margaret stood as marshall to protect the children from the (virtual) spraying blood and body parts. She also displayed and talked about chain maille as well as assisting Lady Suzanna with the spinning demonstrations.
Lady Suzanna demonstrated her weaving, with a spinning wheel as well as drop spindles, and had many types of woolen yarn on display.
Lady Fiona talked about various types of armor and showed pictures, and Lady Seraphina taught Mancala and Nine Men's Morris to eager children who walked away with small bags of beans (game pieces) and a page with a Morris board printed on it.
Lady Demetria and I displayed the musical instruments that she brought, including a harp, bowed psaltry, a doumbek, and alto, soprano and sopranino recorders.
After the demos we were invited to the media center in the school to enjoy a feast, buffet style, with lovely set tables and goblets of new wine (grape juice). The feast included fruits of the new world (watermelon, kiwi and cantelope), mixed nuts, cheese, bread, raw vegetables, muffins, cake, fried chicken and potato wedges.
Much fun was had by all!

---Ceara

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