Hi there, I spent the summers between my years at university working at Fort George National Historic Site in Niagara-on-the-Lake, Ont. I loved getting all togged up in period clothing (reproduction, of course). I wasn't much of a seamstress back then, but I was fascinated by the different pieces of my "uniform," and I loved trying to figure out how each one was pieced together, and thinking about how long it would have taken to make a skirt or a shirt – or a corset! – in the days when everything had to be hand-sewn. So, imagine my delight when my friend Erika (of the Friends of Fort George) emailed me a notice about an upcoming historical costuming workshop. Scheduled for Saturday, May 30, from 9 a.m. 'til noon, workshop attendees will learn all about the ins and outs of getting dressed back in 1812. [caption id="attachment_51" align="aligncenter" width="212" caption="Red coats – the height of fashion! (Thanks to the Friends of Fort George for the image.)"] [/caption] Here's a bit more detail: "The 'Once More Into The Breeches' costume workshop is a chance to learn about the clothing worn by Niagara townsfolk in the early nineteenth century. The 1812 Bicentennial’s Committee has organized this event...as part of the preparation plans for the celebration of 200 years of peace between Canada and the United States. Sheridan Alder will describe women’s clothing, how it was made and where it was worn, while Peter Twist will cover men’s clothing. In the expectation that many residents will wish to take part in the celebrations, information will also be given on pattern sources and available seamstresses and tailors for the craft-minded and the craft-challenged. A fashion show of costumes will help you choose a suitable outfit. Refreshments will be offered by the Friends of Fort George. Everybody is welcome. Free admission. Please register with Leah Wallace at (905) 468- 3266 and don’t forget to visit the 1812 Bicentennial’s website." [caption id="attachment_52" align="aligncenter" width="178" caption="The Fife & Drum Corps: snazzy dressers. (Thanks to the Friends of Fort George for the image.)"] [/caption] It's sure to be a fascinating morning. And while you're learning about clothes, why not send the rest of your family up to check out the goings-on at Fort George ? (Just make sure that you rejoin them in time to check out the gift shop!) Have a great day!

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