Mary Elizabeth Agnew Allen moved to Batesville in the 1840s. She became friends with many of the early families. She later settled here and married Dr. Allen who moved to Batesville from Missouri. Students will hear about some of her experiences during the early days of Batesville. After the living history presentation students will make and pass around a friendship book similar to the one of Mrs. Allen’s
Emily Weaver was convicted of spying during the Civil War at the age of 17. Scouts will be visited by Ms. Weaver and will hear how her family was divided by the war. Prior to her conviction, Ms. Weaver enjoyed the new society that encampments of soldiers brought to Batesville and attended several parties and balls. One way for young ladies to communicate during these social functions was by use of a fan. In addition to the living history presentation, student will also learn the secret fan code known today as the language of the fan. Afterward, they will make their own fans and practice using the code.
Enter Shawneetown and hear from a woman who has just returned from the wedding of Peter Cornstalk. Students will hear her tell about this unique event in our region’s history. Following the living history presentation, students will discover the importance of talking sticks and will make one of their own to take home.
Pearl Taylor will be on hand to tell about the trials and hardships of the Great Depression and dust bowl. Students will be moved by Mrs. Taylor’s dedication to her family and her positive attitude in spite of terrible circumstances. Some of the “pintos” she refers to in her letters will be available for sample. Students will also taste other depression era staples like cornbread and egg custard
Again, the cost for this program is $5.00 per participant and space is limited to 50 participants each day. Pre-registration is required by September 19, 2011. Call the Museum at 870-793-2121 in order to pre-register.
Old Independence serves a 12-county area: Baxter, Cleburne, Fulton, Independence, Izard, Jackson, Marion, Poinsett, Sharp, Stone, White, and Woodruff. Parts of these present-day counties comprised the original Independence County in 1820s Arkansas territory.
This humanities program is made possible by local support from Independence County and the City of Batesville, as well as by Challenge Grant Endowment funding from the National Endowment of the Humanities. Any views, findings, conclusions or recommendations expressed in this program do not necessarily represent those of the National Endowment for the Humanities.
