When I saw that Patti’s challenge to us this week was History, I knew just where to look in my photo files — Old World Wisconsin. I was a historical interpreter for this 480-acre living history museum for three seasons. I interpreted 19th century life in Wisconsin dressed as an Irish immigrant, a German immigrant, and a church organist in a settler’s Village.
Photo credit: Steve Wiencek
photo credit: Kim Schultz
Photo credit: Steve Wiencek
Photo credit: John Meyer
Photo credit: Carol Toepke
Photo credit: Jay Filter
When I was allowed to bring my 21st century camera on site, what I wanted to capture was the simplicity of that life and its harmony with nature.
The ideas of “progress” and “technology” were quite different in the day. I used to ask school children if they saw any technology being used, and they always said, “No.” What I quickly pointed out was that there was plenty of technology, just a different kind – mechanical or hand tools instead of electronic ones.
scillagrace 
Oh, yes, such a great event and photos. You two look gorgeous and just right!
We had such a great time working there together! A pity it only pays minimum wage; there were people who worked there for decades as a labor of love.
What a lovely job! And you look great in those outfits! The best thing is when history helps us manage today’s life.
We stand on the shoulders of our ancestors every day. So much to be grateful for. Thanks for the compliment, but I’m glad I don’t wear a corset and bustle every day. It felt so great to get out of those costumes at the end of the day!
Oh, I can feel that…I have tried such clothes…and nowadays I happily wear jeans every day and dressing up is not that fun anymore…
Beautiful photos of you in these dresses. To know U.S. military sent a division to the museum to learn how to use 19th century farm equipment… is quite a moving story.
A wonderful post for this week’s history challenge.
Thanks, Amy! I am indebted to co-workers and visitors for the photos of me. That one of me in the church was the Best of Show winner of our annual photo contest. The photographer, Jay Filter, gave me permission to post it on my blog.
Oh wow, that’s fabulous. What a great way to enjoy living history!
There was so much to see and do every day. I especially liked having farm animals around, too. Maybe I’ll feature them in another challenge response…
That’s interesting; history not as a record of the past but a repository of knowledge to be used whenever needed.
Absolutely! I think that’s how our brains work.
A splendid selection of images for this challenge, Scilla! I love your dresses and you have captured something of what life must have been like in earlier times beautifully! I’m looking forward to visiting Old World Wisconsin again. Such an interesting place!
Thanks, Sue! Enjoy your next visit and tell the staff I say ‘Hi!’