2008 Colonial Spinning Bee Sunday May 18 from 1-5 "Old Chelmsford" Garrison House Chelmsford MA

	Spinning Matches were held in early America to encourage the home production of yarn. In the 1760's these events became more political as they were held to protest the importation of British goods, which were now being more heavily taxed. The Colonial Spinning Bee is a spin-in with a theme.   The historic is mixed with the modern to make a fun afternoon. This year we will feature a "Stash Reduction Market".  Bring the fiber you won't be needing and trade or sell it for other spinners stash.  See photos of previous year's event at http://home.earthlink.net/~spinningbee/
	There will be a pot-luck picnic before the event for participants starting around 11:30. This will give us all a chance to enjoy a meal together before the start of the event. Just bring a food item to share to join in.     Why is it called a "bee"? You might think the term comes from being "busy as a bee" but it may stem from the Middle English word bene, which means "a prayer" or "a favor". Specifically a favor that is in response to a request.
	The "Old Chelmsford" Garrison House http://www.garrisonhouse.org/ is located in Chelmsford, Massachusetts and designated as a National Historical Place was built in 1691. The house is furnished with beautiful antique furniture and dishes, clothes, cooking equipment, and many other items which a family would have used in everyday life. On the grounds you will also find a barn, Summer Kitchen, a working blacksmith shop, an herb garden and the Craft House.

Garrison House	Colonial Clothing	2003 Spinning Bee photos

Preparation of flax is discussed by several participants of last years event.

Spectator seeing how spinning is done up close.

To get to the event: From Interstate 495: Take Exit 32 in Westford. Follow signs to Routes 225/110. After leaving ramp stay in left lane and turn left onto route 110 East toward Chelmsford (Littleton Road) at the light. Go 2.2 miles to the intersection of route 110/Littleton Road and Garrison Road. Turn right onto Garrison Road. Go about 400 feet and turn left into the field, where parking is free during events. The address is 105 Garrison Road. From Chelmsford Center: Take Route 110 West. Go about 3 miles and turn left onto Garrison Road.

Judy