The Shadow
CLIFTON FORGE — The Clifton Forge Public Library is currently showcasing a display of “Pioneer Accoutrements.”
For students of history and for the curious, the display includes approximately two dozen items of reproduction gear from the private collection of Michael S. Hayslett, a colonial re-enactor and local historian.
The display collection includes weapons, tools, costume items and personal effects that would have been used by pioneers on the early frontier of 18th-century Virginia.
A Clifton Forge native, Hayslett has given talks at the library on nature themes, but he also pursues living history as a hobby.
When asked about this interest, he said, “My career has focused on natural history, but I also have a keen interest in cultural history, especially prehistoric conditions and the early history of our region here in the Western Highlands of Virginia. I’ve pursued living history and early American re-enacting as a hobby for many years, including ‘buckskinning,’ Civil War re-enacting, and more recently, the colonial frontier period.
“Living history — dressing up in reproduction outfit and gear and participating in re-enactments of historic living and events — is a dynamic and fun way to learn history; it’s also a ‘spectator’ activity for teaching history to others,” he added.
In his spare time, Hayslett sets up a colonial tent and encampment to portray a period merchant or “pedlar.”
He also sells period goods at public events like the annual Heritage Day Festival in downtown Clifton Forge which will be held this year on June 6.
To complement the early history theme of the display, the library will host two programs in January that will also include demonstrations.
Hayslett and partners will present “Pioneer Gear” on Thursday, Jan. 16, and “Indian Implements” on Thursday, Jan. 30.
The first presentation will focus on frontier forts and early history of the Alleghany Highlands region, with several folks demonstrating pioneer dress and equipment for the audience.
The second presentation will focus on Native American Indians of our region, with a demonstration of found artifacts and stone tool-making techniques.
“Pioneer Accouterments” will be on display throughout the month of January.
The Clifton Forge Public Library is located at 535 Church Street.
For information on any library program, call 863-2519.
