Candiss talks about how the wool was transformed into yarn on the spinning wheel and what tasks were given to different members of the family. She also comments on the tedious nature of this work and how it inspired fairy tales like Rumpelstiltskin and Sleeping Beauty.
Content Type: Videos
Sheep to Shawl, Part 3: The Spinning Wheel
In this week’s episode, Candiss Cowan introduces us to the spinning wheel, which was used to turn wool and flax (which became linen) into yarn.
Ridgefield Pandemic Image Gallery
A gallery of photographs taken by Ridgefielders during the first phase of the COVID-19 pandemic.
Sheep to Shawl, Part 2: Hand Carding Wool
In this multi-episode presentation, Candiss Cowan discusses the value of fabric in Colonial America. In the North, clothing was made out of “homespun” wool and the quality of the fabric was based on the breed of sheep.
Sheep to Shawl, Part 1: Processing the Wool
In this multi-episode presentation, Candiss Cowan discusses the value of fabric in Colonial America. In the North, clothing was made out of “homespun” wool and the quality of the fabric was based on the breed of sheep.
Ed Hynes’ Lecture on The Writing of the Star-Spangled Banner
Learn how during the War of 1812, Francis Scott Key and two other Americans were detained on British war ships in Baltimore Harbor while they ferociously bombarded Ft. McHenry. What circumstances conspired to have the captives use the rocket’s red glare and the bombs bursting in air to give them proof through the night that our flag was still there.
Colonial Expressions: Why Do We Say That? Episode 7: Dressed to the Nines
In this video short, Candiss Cowan explains why places in your home are called the “powder room,” the “linen closet,” and the “medicine chest” as well as why the back of your car is referred to as the “trunk.”
Ridgefield and Fairfield County’s Native Populations, Episode Six: The American Revolution
In this episode, Kate tells us about Native involvement in the American Revolution and the impact the war had on Native peoples, particularly in Connecticut.
Colonial Expressions: Why Do We Say That? Episode 6: All Around the House
In this video short, Candiss Cowan explains why places in your home are called the “powder room,” the “linen closet,” and the “medicine chest” as well as why the back of your car is referred to as the “trunk.”
Ridgefield and Fairfield County’s Native Populations, Episode Five: The French and Indian War
Kate Mozier-Tichy, a recent master’s degree recipient in Information and Library Sciences at Southern CT State University, tells us about King Philip’s War (1675-76).