In October we went to a local event that I want to share about with y’all. In the South, Civil War Era Reenactments are a common event. We have never really participated in the reenactments but we were blessed to participate in a recent 1860’s era Ice Cream Social Ball. Now most of you know me and know we would not be participating in any type of dance that was not pleasing to the Lord. I am just not a fan of social dancing. But I am a fan of history and social grace and Southern Hospitality as long as it is kept clean. Well let me tell you this was all that and more. Held at a local churchyard, and very historically correct, this event was lots of fun. Most if not nearly all the attendees are from local homeschooling families that we have been blessed by getting to know. It was opened with prayer and a scripture and the focus was on modesty and honor. As you can tell from the pictures there were many, many families involved and guess what? Since they were homeschoolers, there was interaction amongst all ages. 10 yr olds were involved, parents were involved, even grandparents were involved! That is my favorite part of homeschool socialization, our children learn how to communicate outside their age groups. Wow, what a concept. Our dresses were of course made by April at jumpinbloomers.com
Of course I did my homework ahead of time by studying the proper etiquette and even learning why the males wear gloves. There is a local Girls school that teaches 1860’s social graces that had a bit of information for me but this resource is where I got my best information. It is a professionally produced DVD made by a local homeschool family that I have come to know and respect. The DVD teaches the dances like the Virginia Reel and has some history and etiquette lessons and even teaches about how a young lady communicates with a fan. I had seen a reference in a movie once about the use of a fan but wondered if it was just all fiction, so I absolutely LOVED this true lesson! It was so much fun. I have always been a fan of US History, and especially the local Southern stuff so this was wonderful in my book. When I mentioned it on facebook I had so many friends say they wanted to learn about it that I figured I would write a bit to share. I believe you can order the DVD right from the link here below, be sure to tell him I sent ya!
It is always interesting to learn more about the bygone days and about the everyday life of our ancestors. Of all the historical arts that I have researched, one of my favorites is the old time dancing dating back to the eighteenth century up through the Civil War. With so much pointless amusement out there, the old dances are a wonderful way to have good old fashioned fun! Recently, I completed an instructional documentary that combines the beauty of the Civil War/Victorian era dances with my love for history. This 30 minute film covers 6 period dances complete with step-by-step instructions, dance excerpts, and historical information on etiquette and customs of the day. For pictures of the production process and screen shots of the finished product, visit the following link or check out my website at www.repairingthebreachmedia.wordpress.com
disclaimer – I was not paid for this post and as always ALL my opinions are my own 
I love all the Civil War period costumes!