Some of the most popular movies and television shows in recent memory take a look back at events of the past. Father Brown, Downton Abbey, Foyle's War, of course Call The Midwife, and many others. However, I've been blessed enough to have heard some of the stories of American history from family who lived them first hand. While we face a different sort of holiday season this year, it is made richer by the fact that people are thinking about giving differently than they may have done in the past. In this particular blog series I will to look back at the past patterns, fashions, ideas, and societal expectations with an eye toward looking at our present to find comparable patterns to use right now. (See the parent blog Tabitha's Mountain Rhapsody Family Artists for more Vintage blog posts) From what I remember of the chats I had with the elder members of our family gifting during the holiday was pretty simple. Gifts of food and treats of candy along with necessities. Handmade items were the norm not something to be mocked. People shared what they had (whether wealthy or poor) because rationing during World War II taught them to conserve and share. Some of the original upcycle/recycle ideas came about during this time in history in many countries not just America. The arts and crafts played a huge role in the holiday celebrations. Handmade was a way to share love with family, friends and neighbors. Everyone got involved! From the youngest to the oldest. Generally this had the effect of bonding members of a household and members of the community. From recycling a sweater to make a baby bonnet and coat or creating salt dough Holiday ornaments, handmade was truly appreciated and honored. Here are a few introductory links to give an historic perspective to Christmas during WWII www.nationalww2museum.org/students-teachers/student-resources/research-starters/america-goes-war-take-closer-look www.nww2m.com/2016/12/home-front-friday-the-gifts-that-keep-on-giving/ Here's a fantastic pinterest page www.pinterest.com/sarahsundin/christmas-in-world-war-ii/ A Fireside Chat by President Franklin Roosevelt archive.org/details/14December241943FiresideChat27OnTheTehranAndCairoConferencesFDR I know that some won't be interested in the historical pieces of this series. However, please stick around for the patterns and the hat tips to the indie designers and companies that make our craft supplies. Thank you for taking a moment to read this introduction! Photo credit: Tim Mossholder https://unsplash.com/@timmossholder
2 Comments
Jill Schaefer
11/23/2020 08:11:55 pm
I look forward to the next installment.
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Lyn Wilson
11/24/2020 03:02:03 pm
Thanks! Hoping people enjoy this series.
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