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Sarah Frey - Communications Assistant
Glorious Fourth is a busy time of year for Conner Prairie. We are quickly shifting gears from
Civil War Days to
Civil War Journey to celebrating our nation’s birthday! You know what else happens on the 4th of July? A lot of people go camping, to the lake – an extended weekend makes for a great mini-vacation.
Turns out this occasion opened a door for me. I was able to work in Prairietown as the host.
I arrived Saturday morning, stashed all my stuff (including my iPhone!) in my cubicle, picked up a radio and ear piece (very official) and reported for duty. My specific job for the day: wander around Prairietown and Civil War Journey to make sure everyone was doing ok, all questions were answered and no one looked lost. My unforeseen job for the day: learn a ton from Mitchell, the carpenter, Militia, and interpreters and pull around a wagon full of ice and lemonade.
Spending the day being the only girl around the Militia can prove to be pretty interesting. What really stands out in my memory is walking towards Prairietown Crossroads, and seeing two pigs roasting over a fire. At first I was definitely taken back but after being around it for 3-4 hours, I was used to it and when it came time to go home, I wanted to stay for dinner!
My partner for the day, Mitchell, was a bounty of information. He has been at Conner Prairie for many years. It was so interesting to see him interact with the guests and how they really engaged in conversation with him. A big HUZZAH to him because it was hot and he managed to patiently answer ALL my questions and still take care of guests.
Does it sound like I enjoyed myself a little more than I should have while working outside in the heat, bugs, pigs cooking over a fire, and the rowdy Militia? …I did.