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School Daze




A 19th century school marm at Barrie Day School, May 2006.

Sharing our love of history with students of all ages is one of RTL's most treasured functions. For obvious reasons not all of our portrayals are suitable to the classroom, nor are some portrayals suitable for younger children. All of our presentations include unusual facts such as the derivation of common terms and customs whose origins have been lost.

Depending on the age of the students, we typically cover the following topics:

  • Vocabulary -- We cover the origins of words and phrases such as
    dollars and bucks
    lock, stock and barrel
    upper and lower case letters
    sabotage
    be there with bells on
    getting stumped
    paint the town red
    up to scratch
    mind your Ps and Qs

  • Science -- In the 19th century much of what was called science was agricultural. In the 1870s archeology was developing as an exciting new way to view the past, freed from Biblical restrictions. The Civil War forced advancements in medicine and astronomers turned their telescopes to view the heavens. Famous scientists such as Pasteur and Bell were in search of one thing when they discovered something else.

  • Geography -- Countries have come and gone and come back again over the last 150 years. We used maps from period atlases to show how the political world has reshaped itself.

  • Health and Hygiene -- For older students we cover the many myths and misconceptions about the human body and sexuality.





The Little Dames School

Although a common feature in 19th century America, the specific training of young ladies (12 years and up) in the womanly arts has been long abandoned -- until now. For those living in the Washington, D. C. metro area, RTL personnel in Silver Spring, MD will teach small groups of young ladies sewing, spinning, embroidery, as well as women's history from ancient through modern times.

Sessions and prices are yet to be determined and will be based on interest and availability. If you have questions please contact Ellen Wilds at 301-565-2359.




Copyright © 2006 Ellen Wilds and Barbara Jewell, all rights reserved.