Friday, July 29, 2011

Barn Dancing!

Our family LOVES history! We have completely fallen in love with the Pioneer era. One of the best field trips we have taken as a family is to Champoeg State Park! Oh but wouldn't it be fun to go with a group of homeschooling friends? Every summer they offer dancing lessons for dances from the 1800's.

© LG 2011
 See this beautiful, rustic barn? It looks so quiet and unassuming, doesn't it?
But inside you are transported back to another time in history. A time
when family, friends, neighbors and strangers would get together for 
the sheer mutual enjoyment of.... barn dancing!




© LG 2011
 The gentleman in the check shirt and blue jeans 
is the caller and instructor. He's wonderful to learn from!
That's his darling wife next to him! They're a neat pair!

© LG 2011
 Check out these gorgeous dresses!
One day I'll be brave enough to sew some.

© LG 2011
Learning "Ducks in a Circle."

© LG 2011
 The band is fantastic! You really should see how 
some of these traditional instruments were made out 
of things commonly "hanging around the farm."

© LG 2011
There are even some instruments for guests to use
so they can get in on the music action if they aren't up to dancing!

© LG 2011
Ah, the "Virginia Reel!" 
Ladies, now there is no longer the need to simply
watch movies like "Pride and Prejudice" and dream
about dancing the "Virginia Reel." You can actually
learn it and live the dream! (Especially if you dress in period clothing!)

Cost: Dance lessons are FREE! There is a $5 day use fee if you don't have a State Parks permit already.
Important: Stroller and wheelchair friendly.
Restrooms: Kept clean and there is a baby changing table in the Ladie's restroom.
Extra: For nature lovers, there are tons of Blue Bird nests so you can enjoy the bird families.
Offered: During the Summer
Ages: There aren't any restrictions, though ages four and up are best unless you have your younger one in a carrier. :)

Friends of Historic Chapmoeg's website: http://www.champoeg.org/








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