Kristen: Kelly Middle School Speaking Engagement

I have returned dear reader! I am proud to say that I earned an "A" in every one of my classes this semester. The stress-induced ulcer after was no picnic, though now I feel much better. My favorite medicine: wearing 9 layers of clothing in public.

Recently, I had the opportunity to participate in a speaking engagement at Kelly Middle School in Eastpointe, MI. I played the role of an upper middle class woman, complete with my lavender silk dress with Greek key trim and bright pink silk bonnet. This dress is actually my first ball gown I made last year; I went back, changed my mistakes, and turned it into a fancy day dress.

After speaking in front of a classroom for several years and researching this era extensively, the prospect of talking to a crowd does not bother me in the least. In fact, I enjoy the questions.


At times, a few of the students were squirrely. Even after I bared my ankle! To catch their attention, I reminded them that I was pretty. I am so modest...


One of the reasons I love this hobby so much is because it educates others. My family has always supported all educational endeavors, and I enjoyed seeing that spark in the students. I think it is our job as reenactors to educate the public. Even if you hate public speaking, simply sitting at your campsite in an accurate setting speaks for you. It's no wonder that so many reenactors are in some way related to the field of education.

We had such a good time! I am lucky to be a part of such a friendly and helpful group. I was able to spend time with Larissa, who I have previously mentioned as the "donor" of my practice hair jewelry. She brought along her journal from her experiences doing a "hardcore" reenacting campout, and it reminded me of how I used to write at reenactments. While I do enjoy this blog, there is something missing. She called it "in the moment," and I agree. Maybe a tattered leather journal will find its way to Greenfield Village this year...

I had such a lovely time! Thank you for reading, and enjoy the rest of the pictures!

~Kristen

I was supposed to eat bland foods. Eventually I ate pizza...

Showing off ankles became fashionable!

A bit of prettiness from my bonnet

Larissa dressing up a student...his friends thought it was hilarious!

Little Cesar's Pizza, established 1860

The military even drilled for the students!

By this point, I was exhausted, sunburned, and completely content