Wheels will be spinning at New London’s Dover Museum Sunday August 21st at 1:30 p.m. when Lois DiPrima and her twin sister arrive in period attire to demonstrate the art of using a spinning wheel. Nearly all pioneer homes contained a spinning wheel as this was how wool from the family’s sheep became yarn for weaving blankets, knitting socks, sweaters, caps, etc. essentials in the home.
Dover Museum’s spinning wheel, called a ‘walking wheel’ came to rural New London in 1836 with the John Lee family from Ohio, to Illinois and then here. Lee built his house, the first 2-story log home in Henry County, for his family of 12 children. This spinning wheel must have received a lot of use! It stayed in the Lee family for five generations and was shipped to us from California along with a chair.
There is no charge for the program but donations are welcome. The museum is handicap accessible and refreshments will be served.