Several families recently joined us at the Log House at Shawnee Prairie Preserve for our Pioneer Nightlights program. This evening was filled with lots of information about how our pioneer ancestors created their own “night lights”. Early settlers used a lot of candles and had to make their own. (During the program participates spent time making beeswax candles.)
In the 18th century only the wealthiest individuals and churches could afford beeswax candles. Most families made their candles from tallow, which was made by rendering animal fat. While tallow candles burn they have a burnt hamberger odor and produce most soot than beeswax.
For more information on upcoming events please continue to follow our programs offered visit our website at www.darkecountyparks.org or sign up to receive our Nature Notes Quartley newsletter.
