2026 Heritage Day: Arts, Crafts, and Artifacts
Local crafters and artisans are invited to demonstrate their skills!
The Historical Society of Decatur County is hosting a Heritage Day with the theme of “Arts, Crafts, and Artifacts” on Saturday October 3, 2026. This event will be held at the Historical Society of Decatur County’s Museum from 1pm-5pm. Event attendees will have the opportunity to meet local crafters and learn the historical significance and modern applications of various crafts which will be demonstrated in a hands-on setting. The HSDC is interested in showcasing traditional handicrafts such as textiles (sewing, quilting, weaving, knitting, crocheting, embroidery), woodworking and carving, pottery and ceramics, as well as items of plant and animal origins (woven baskets, rush/cane seats, broom making, tallow dip candles, balms, soaps, lotions, and leather working.)
Since this is a modern event, artisan participants are not expected to be in period costume or have historical knowledge of your craft’s past. You will be demonstrating the modern equivalent of the craft to event attendees. But if you wish to bring/impart any historical knowledge that you may know or choose to dress in a costume, that would only enhance the event! Part of the goal of the HSDC is to draw parallels between our modern society and the continued relevance of our community’s historical beginnings. There are many lessons that can be learned from our local history that are still very relevant today.
Crafters who are involved in creating items that are donated to various organizations are welcome to bring information about the organization and its mission to help our surrounding community. Please note this is not a merchandise display or a for-profit vendor event. Our Heritage Day is meant to be a way to demonstrate your unique handicraft skill so that the public can more readily appreciate your craft and its ongoing significance in today’s society. Feel free to display and give out business cards or information about your business if you make an income from your craft, but we ask that no sales take place during the actual event.
If you are interested in participating in this event, please contact the HSDC’s Executive Director Carrie Shumaker by email at dechissoc@etczone.com by September 15, 2026. In the email, please include your contact information, what type of craft you would like to demonstrate, and the organization to which you donate items and/or your business name. We will reach out to you with more information as it becomes available.
We look forward to your participation in this fun event!