Ready for more useful items from prior times? Try this 10-question quiz.
(more…)Tag: past practices
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The Art of the Pinking Iron: A Historic Object Study
An examination of pinking irons shows us how swings of a mallet can turn strips of cloth into beautiful adornments.
Clothing is important to all of us.
We all are keenly aware that apparel is not merely functional (protects our body), but serves as a vehicle for communicating with the world around us.
What does your clothing say about your social class? What does it say about your awareness of style trends? What “words” does it use to communicate the message?
Perhaps it’s the way the garment is cut, how it hangs on your frame. The condition of the fabric, whether shabby or pristine, can make an impression. Do your clothes create a silhouette that is also favored by influential people? Does it let you blend seamlessly in with the crowd? Can the item be washed over and over and remain in good shape, or does it require costly care and maintenance? How rare and laborious to make are the materials and embellishments?
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Traditional Trades & Professions Quiz – Level 2 (Medium)
Test your knowledge of slightly obscure historical trades and traditional vocations. “Level 2” features terminology which might be familiar to many English speakers, but many questions may stump you. Are you up to the task?
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Traditional Trades & Professions Quiz – Level 1 (Easy)
Test your knowledge of historical trades and traditional jobs. “Level 1” features terminology which should be familiar to many English speakers, but some questions may still prove tricky. See how well you can do.
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Lost Greetings: Postcards from the Past Revisited
Mr. Willoughby was a favorite teacher of mine during high school, and I still count him as a friend in adulthood. A former Army officer and veteran of the Vietnam War turned history teacher, he formed lasting relationships with his students. And, the giant bulletin board hanging at the rear of his classroom attested to his impact. It was covered in postcards sent to him by his current and former pupils, in some places the cards were several layers deep.
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