.
Here in this pretty world Gallantry took its last bow… Here was the
last ever to be seen of Knights and their Ladies Fair… Look for it only in books, for it is no more than a dream
remembered. A Civilization gone with the wind…

Was it only a dream or did we watch dozens and dozens of hoop skirts twirl around the dance floor for hours yesterday?  Knights and their Ladies fair.  It was the annual Civil War Ball and oh, was it a sight to behold.Asher and Alannah and their friends donned period costumes and learned the Virginia Reel, the waltz, the Military Two Step and more. They promenaded around that hall for hours and were happy as clams.

We have lost a lot by way of gallantry. These teens were instructed in etiquette such as being introduced, dance cards, the need for gloves and never touching your dance partner with nor on bare skin even if that should be an elbow. The nature of these old folk dances meant that everyone circulated all evening.  Most involved a series of steps and then rotation of partners. They danced to excellent live music from a reenactment band. What an unforgettable glimpse into our past. You can read about elections, leaders, and war.  Nothing can compare to setting images into your mind with  music and movement. They will remember researching period appropriate hair styles and manners. They will remember the two young officers arm wresting for the honor of a dance.

We are going to explore the reenactment group as a family and will keep you posted. Meantime, here is a peek at the evening: