Monday, May 12, 2008

History, An Author And A Barn

Not far from my home - about three miles south - is a historic little community. Aurora, Oregon is known for history and antiques. Lots of antiques. Aurora was originally settled by a religious commune, a group of German families who travelled by wagon train from Bethel, Missouri in search of the perfect place to live and do business.First named Aurora Mills, the town now showcases a number of historic homes and buildings.Award-winning and bestselling Oregon author, Jane Kirkpatrick, has recently completed her third novel in her Change and Cherish Historical Series, the story of the founding of Aurora. "A Mending At The Edge" is the final book that tells the story through the eyes and life of Emma Giesy. Jane is one of my favorite authors. Her research is thorough and her stories do not wander far from the truth of the real-life characters and events. Yesterday afternoon she held a booksigning event at the museum in Aurora. After a wonderful Mother's Day dinner - prepared by my sweetheart for my dear little mother and me - I treated my dear mother to a visit to the museum and a chance to see Jane in person. With camera in hand I couldn't wait to capture bits and pieces of what we saw.

The Old Aurora Colony Museum is housed in a building that has served as an oxbarn, a horse barn, a trucking depot, a store and a home. If you want to read about the museum, coming events and more of the history of Aurora, click here.Signs of the past and suggestions of the contents of the building greeted us as we approached the entrance. The sign overhead and a peak at the character and design of the building. . .
And an indication of some of the building's past occupants made us anxious to learn more. Once inside, it was as if we had entered another world. Magically transported back in time. We were reminded of the hardships faced and the stamina required of those who blazed a trail and settled into this area we love and call home. An armoire displaying a lovely garment, a petticoat and a beautiful hat gave a glimpse of the finery that was worn for special occasions.But the truth of everyday real life was displayed a few feet away. The winters were cold and damp. At times harsh winds and snows lasted for weeks at a time. Clothing had to provide warmth for survival . Hand quilted winter petticoats told the story. I was intrigued and amazed by the beauty of these undergarments. Garments no one saw.Well-labelled artifacts and treasures were tastefully displayed. An old German Bible. . . A spinning wheel that is used by the Aurora Colony Spinners. . .Boxes and bottles. . .Old linens and a baby bottle. . .A guitar and cooking utensils. . .A handmade guitar case and an old chair. . .And an old, weathered bell.The story continues out back in the gardens and outbuildings. The woodworking area. . .Next to the Blacksmith shop. . .A cast-iron bell. . .Barrels made by the cooper, stones ready to grind wheat in the nearby mill and a beautiful old window. . .The Carpenter's Shop. . .The Boot and Shoemaker's Shop. . . Laundry equipment ready for washday. . .And "The Necessary".The current displays throughout the main museum building feature the life of Emma Giesy. Her story is told and her pictures are displayed along with many of her belongings. Treasures from a life lived long ago. Perhaps what captured my heart most was the chance to see her calling card peeking from a small envelope inside a glass case with other things of hers. Her life was not easy and much of it was filled with unhappiness and pain. But in the middle of it all there were elements of finery and beauty. She was strong, willful at times, but always lady. The crowds were larger than we expected. There was much we didn't get to see because of long lines for the book signing and tables filled with books for purchase. I have more pictures to share with you. I will share them soon - they are stories in themselves. I didn't have a chance to see everything, to take my time and slowly read the information with each display. My heart longs to do that. Soon I will slip away and visit the museum again on a quiet afternoon when life in the little town near home is moving at a slower pace. There is much to see and learn in this small place in Oregon. Aurora Mills. The place dreamed of so long ago. A dream that became reality.

13 comments:

  1. Adrienne, that was such a lovely post. You made me feel like I was experiencing Aurora myself. I think it is so important that we remember and honor our past and those that blazed the trail ahead for us.

    I'm glad you shared a day which was so special for you.

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  2. Hi Adrienne,
    Wow, loved all of your pictures here! Come on over I'm having a giveaway.
    Hugs,
    Rose

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  3. Adrienne

    Didn't you have a great afternoon taking a step back in time (I think a little different of my hustle and bustle in NYC!!)

    What a great little museum...love places like that! Glad you enjoyed time with your Mom, too!

    :0)
    Tara

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  4. you live so very close to wonderful, interesting, historic little places...you could take a little field trip every day...
    thanks for sharing a little of your special mother's day with us..
    I also love Jane Kirkpatrick...did you get a picture of her signing your book?

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  5. Really enjoyed taking the tour...thank you.
    happy day, bj

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  6. I enjoyed my visit to Aurora. Did you know that aurora means dawn?
    :)
    I only know that because my first piano recital piece was entitled - Aurora - and was chosen by my teacher because of my name.

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  7. You really captured Aurora! It is such a charming little town. Did you stop in at the "South End" antique mall? Sounds like you had a lovely day. Laurie

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  8. Oh, you always take us to the best places. Places right near me that I should be visiting more often! It has been years and years since I have been to Aurora. Such a wonderful place! I remember going on field trips there when I was a kid, even then I loved all the history.

    Happy day Adrienne!
    Melissa

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  9. I know Aurora and I just love it there. We lived for several years in Corvalis, OR. We are back in the Blue Ridge Mountains now and miss OR terribly. Thanks for sharing your gorgeous photos. xoxo

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  10. I fell I was there with you... lovely tour; and very interesting. I'm always intrigue by those little historical towns; so much history, so much past to see, and to learn from.... thanks for sharing...

    Blessings

    cielo

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  11. I loved our virtual trip together---especially those hand-sewn petticoats. Simply beautiful.

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  12. Now that is my kinda place. I love history!

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  13. Thank you for telling me about this post, Adrienne. I read it last night, but my silly computer would not let me comment. You have such a dear husband to cook for you and your mother. I enjoyed the historical tour. The pictures were great, and you worked hard on that post! That baby bottle was something, and the calling card so pretty. I remember my mother used to have them. I guess we don't need them much anymore. I'm glad you had a wonderful day. Oh, and your flowers are very pretty too.

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I am grateful that you stopped by to visit me. Your kind and gracious comments are appreciated and treasured.