Write a comment
Indiana University Center for Rural Engagement will help with the rare running of the 1816 wool carding machines at historic Beck’s Mill on Saturday, May 11, 10 am to 4 pm. The mill is located at 4433 South Beck's Mill Road, Salem.
The carding machines are dated to 1816 and considered the oldest in the country...only five are left to current knowledge. The two machines at Beck's Mill are the mill's originals. The carding machines were restored in 2007-2008 at the Lovett Mill in Tennessee.
Experience sheep to shawl demonstrations like sheep shearing, crochet, weaving, spinning and quilting from local volunteers, IU educators and student volunteers.
There will be hands-on classes in drop spinning, natural dyeing and wool felting or try your hand at throwing a tomahawk with Travis Elble.
Janet O’Keefe and Jane Zatonsky with the Washington County Quilt Guild will have beautiful quilts displayed. On the second floor of the mill will be a special, recently donated Beck’s Mill Ladies 1893 quilt.
There will be a Volunteer Memorial dedication 11 a.m. honoring past volunteers
At noon, legendary, Jim Smoak will be playing his banjo.
Resident artist Dusty Baker will demonstrate her art of sketching.
The Washington County Sheep Producers will provide a lamb meal in the parking lot area.
Wool vendors will be selling their beautiful items.
Adult admission is $5 and children age 16 and under are admitted free with a paid adult admission.
The mill is located at 4433 South Beck’s Mill Road in Salem.
A bonus to this event is the John Hay Center in Salem will be open 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. with a display of antique clothing and textiles, and their pioneer loom house will also be open.