By Mandy Underwood
munderwood@thepaperofwabash.com
Students, parents and teachers arrived to O.J. Neighbours on Thursday, Oct. 17, for the 31st annual Pioneer Re-enactment.
The re-enactment took place in the David F. Sodervick Outdoor Education Center, where OJN students demonstrated what life was like in the 1800’s for Native Americans and pioneers.
The event was free to the public, but donations were accepted to help with the costs for next year’s re-enactment.
Kindergarten students demonstrated pioneer songs and dances, first graders reenacted pioneer games, the second-grade classes reenacted Native American dances and blessings, third graders talked about Native American life in various tribes during the settlement period, and fourth graders presented about pioneer life.
All students and staff and even some parents were dressed in traditional clothing from the 1800’s to give the night a true feel of life back then.
There were many different demonstrations such as candle making, hunting, trapping, butter churning, sewing, and working.
Fourth graders Kaitlyn Brewer and Leah Sluss demonstrated how to make butter by churning.
“It takes a long time to get it into butter,” said Leah.
“We got to learn how in class and made some to let people try tonight.”
The girls demonstrated and then offered samples to anyone who wanted to try.
All teachers and staff were helping the kids during their demonstration.
Fourth grade teacher, Brody Cook stood with fourth grader Mackey Sorg as he presented what a blacksmith did in the 1800’s.
“He did a great job,” he said after they finished their presentation.
Students and staff appreciated the good turnout and participation from guests to make this years re-enactment a success.