Music Make a Celebration and Sheep Shearing Day; From Fiber to Frock

A double dose of fun is planned for the last Saturday in April.  Music Makes a Celebration, presented by “Roseville Fair Old Time String Band”, invites you to discover the music that inspired celebration and recreation in 19th century Texas. Tap on the tambourine or take your turn on the dance floor as you are led through the musical steps with our pleasant dance instructor-caller. As one of early Texas’ most occupied Stagecoach Inns, Fanthorp often found itself as the focal point for parties, celebrations, and great Balls. Absorb the music that brought relief to the weary and excitement to young and old alike. Explore the period music performed by skilled musicians on instruments including the fiddle and guitar. Don’t be surprised to feel yourself join in the toe tapping music.

Additionally, we are excited to have the opportunity to present Sheep Shearing Day; From Fiber to Frock.  Fanthorp Inn was home to more than just boarding tradesmen and weary travelers.  A lucrative merchant and innkeeper, Mr. Fanthorp was also a successful agrarian.  His farm raised various field crops like corn, potatoes, oats, peas and cotton, and livestock such as horses, cattle, swine and sheep.  Spring marked the rebirth of any farm and for those that raised sheep March and April meant it was time to remove their fleeces.  In 1850, Henry Fanthorp produced 500 pounds of wool from 200 sheep, one-eleventh of all the wool in Grimes County.  Step into 1850 as we continue this spring shearing ritual and demonstrate the different steps involved in turning a sheep’s fleece into a finished wool product.  Shearing demonstrations will be at 11am and 1pm.  All other activities like wool washing, dying, spinning and weaving will be on-going.

 It’s a unique event the whole family will enjoy and remember.

• Music Makes a Celebration will ongoing from 11:00 AM to 3:00 PM
• Sheep Shearing; From Fiber to Frock will be held from 10:00 AM to 3:00 PM with the shearing demonstrations at 11:00 AM and 1:00 PM. All other activities like wool washing, dying, spinning and weaving will be on-going.

 

• Texas Parks and Wildlife presents Fanthorp Inn to you without admission fees but with a suggested donation of Adults -$4.00 and Students (12 and under) $2.00.
• Fanthorp Inn State Historic Site, 579 South Main Street Anderson, Texas 77830, is located in Grimes County off Highway 90 about 10 miles east of Texas Hwy 6 in Navasota. 
• Please be aware that Stagecoach rides are NOT offered on fourth Saturdays.
• The standard hours/days of operation for the site are from 9:00 AM to 3:30 PM Saturday and Sunday only.
• Please dress appropriately for the season and be prepared for the weather as the event will take place in a period setting with some portions outdoors.
• The first floor is accessible for the mobility impaired. 
• For more information please call 936-878-2214.