Today is a big day for may costumers, it is a day that orders had to be finished, and ready for History to come alive. The Civil War has begun, and for many it isn't about who won or lost, it is about creating living history, for those who work very hard at recreating history, a history many know nothing about. For some it is about Slavery, others it is about States Rights, and for some it is about their families, and the sarcifice their families went thru, for those it is personal.
I am one of the lucky ones, I have been working on our Family History for 25 years and have found just how history comes alive , Theoplius Wiggins left a diary of the horror of the war and what his company went thur at Chickamunga, Lookout Mountain, and Stoney Face, some of the worst Battles of the war on Southern Ground. I have been to each of these places and each one leaves a mark on ones Soul. You don't walk away untouched. As I create day dresses, Ball gowns and 3 uniforms I am reminded of how hard it must have been to hand sew each of these garments. Theo writes to the Ladies who have made their new shirts with much thanks and humble words for their talent , it is a sobering thought. As the war began there was a navie thought it would be over quickly and partys were the order of Southern Society. The ball gowns and the thoughts of "partys" kinda make it diffcult to keep focused as I sewed. Knowing many young men would never return to their loved ones. Theo writes about the men who had no shoes, no socks and how their feet suffered, the lack of blankets and warm clothes, thru some cold nites and days. So today I challenge others costumers to take the time to remember the fallen of the Civil War and look around their shops to see what can be created for those in need today whether you clean out your scraps or your closet , let us give back , many us together can help others. None of us ever want to see a Civil War, as we know the Price is to Great. May History remind each of us "Not to Repeat the Past ".
