Saturdays in the 1700s: Winter Life

On Saturday, February 28, the Rhode Island Historical Society’s John Brown House Museum will host a special Saturdays in the 1700s event featuring explorations of historical winter wear, a touching Native American children’s story, and dabbling in embroidery.

At 11am, join us in welcoming Wunneanatsu Lamb-Cason, author of the children’s book Grandmother Moon, who will share this generational tale with young visitors. Grandmother Moon tells the story of a grandmother and grandchild’s relationship through their shared wonder and admiration. The story preserves Indigenous histories and teachings within a modern setting. Wunneanatsu Lamb-Cason is an educator, traditional storyteller, and justice advocate who has been a voice for social and cultural equity for more than twenty years. Recognized for her outstanding contributions to history education, Wunneanatsu was named the 2024 National History Teacher of the Year by the Gilder Lehrman Institute of American History. An enrolled citizen of the Schaghticoke Tribal Nation, she brings lifelong connections to the Indigenous communities throughout Indian Country, deeply rooted in southern New England, where she was born and raised.

Throughout our open hours 10am-4pm: Costumed living historians will discuss and demonstrate the process for quilting a silk petticoat and tailoring a man’s broadcloth coat – two essential garments worn in New England 250 years ago. Quilted clothing was not only a way to keep warm but also a way to showcase artistic talents of a skilled needlewoman. The living historians will also share historical sources such as historic newspapers and images that show how common both of these garments were.

This event is free for RIHS members and $10 for General Admission.

www.rihs.org/event/saturdays-in-the-1700s-winter-life/