On Saturday, July 25th, we had the pleasure of participating in the “Voyageur for a Day” special event at the Pierre Bottineau House, Elm Creek Park Reserve, Maple Grove, Minnesota.
Trade Good Display
While waiting for visitors, the wonderful shade produced from the canoe tarpaulins protected four voyageur interpreters from a very hot sun. The Three Rivers Park staff were welcoming and made sure there was plenty of ice water! The large lawn would make a perfect place for children’s games – if one had remembered to bring them. Next year?!
Peeking into Mrs. O’Malley’s Sewing Basket
Visitors peeked into the past by handling the contents of Mrs. O’Malley’s sewing basket. From shell buttons and silk ribbons to a wood-handled mirror and pipe tobacco, each item told a part of the story of life in the 1850’s.
Bartering A Trade
Mrs. O’Malley and Mrs. Bedworth discussed a potential trade. Mrs. O’Malley had brought several fine furs and wished to trade for a blanket. Mrs. Bedworth did not think much of Mrs. O’Malley’s offer. “While these furs are adequate, they are not of the proper type that the company wishes.” The trade goods, protected from the hot sun, laid out to entice passerbys to visit and trade.
Voyageur Meal
Food for a delicious voyageur meal: fresh fruits and jerked meat, sumac for tea, hazelnuts to roast, and dried beans, corn and the ever-important wild rice to prepare. Many a visitor wished they’d brought their plate-and-spoon!