The Fabrics of Pioneer Life: Tools of the Textile Trade

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MERA has recently published a book, The Fabrics of Pioneer life: Tools of the Textile Trade, detailing the textile tradition of Eastern Ontario. The 32-page catalogue is based on the exhibition Pioneer Textile Production, held at the Rideau Falls Museum in Smiths Falls in the summer/fall of 2006. The black and white and coloured photographs document traditional spinning and weaving equipment used for both flax and wool production, with the text placing the technical details in an historical and social context.

The original exhibition was mounted by the Heritage Schoolhouse Weavers, a group formed in 2002 to research, reproduce and sell heritage textiles inspired by the pioneer weavings. This book documents some of the work that they are producing in the context of the traditional textiles and equipment of the area.

Written by Ellen Good, herself an experienced weaver, it captures the flavour of the settlers’ lives. Photography by David Zimmerly, edited by Heather Sherratt, graphic design by Carol Porteous, administration Ankaret Dean. The book was produced with the grateful assistance of the Ontario Arts Council.

At the book launch, held at the Nature Lover’s Book Store in Lanark on September 23 from 2 to 4pm, there will be a demonstration of spinning and weaving for anyone interested in seeing some of the “tools of the trade”. Information will be available on available classes.