Superintendent Scott J. Bentley announced that River Raisin National Battlefield Park will be hosting a Women’s History Day & Tea at the River Raisin National Battlefield Park on Saturday, April 20, 2013 from 12pm-4pm. There is no fee for the event and no reservations are required.
It’s Tea Time! Journey back in time 200 years to Frenchtown, relax and enjoy an elegant sit down tea all the while immersing yourself in the culture of the French inhabitants.
Featuring Guest Speakers:
12:00: Mary Ellen Van Wasshenova, Educator, co-author of “Women on the Raisin”
Book signing and talk about the brave women of Frenchtown that stood fast and survived the
War of 1812.
Monroe County Community Players recreate scenes from Frenchtown
2:00: Cheri Maitland, Horticulturist, Master Gardener, Educator
Presents the history of the Native Herbs & Plants of the Frenchtown area, their uses and
importance to the local inhabitants and Native Americans.
OLD WORLD CRAFT DEMONSTRATIONS: 12:00-4:00pm
French Lace and Bobbin Lace Making & Tatting; Weaving; Quilting; Knitting
Find out what a French “Chatellaine” is with Joan Pashaian, River Raisin beading professional,
as she demonstrates the craft and its usefulness.
INTRODUCING: THE RIVER RAISIN & MAJOR MUSKRAT TEA BLENDS
Sara Christianson, Herbalogist, presents teas made from native herbs grown in the Visitor Center
gardens and native to southeast Michigan Territory,1812
Gayle Simmons, Nationally known Clothier of 1795-1812 clothing, will have a display on
women’s period clothing
