Suggested Projects for Home and Classroom
Suggested Projects Slideshow
There are many ways to bring history and OpSail 2012 Virginia alive at home or in the classroom. Considering using one of the following projects and make sure to contact us (AdamsJ@festevents.org) with pictures and stories of the event!:
Our Flag Was Still There Art Competition
“Our Flag Was Still There” has been adopted as the national theme for the Bicentennial Commemoration of the War of 1812. Host an art competition for students using the national theme. Categories could include photography, painting, sketches, sculpture, etc. and be divided by age brackets, all with the theme – “Our Flag Was Still There”. Top entries from each category could be displayed in an exhibit in the spring/summer of 2012.
Lobscouse, Spotted Dog and Figgy Dowdy: Menus from the War of 1812
Create and cook menus from the War of 1812 period and present meals to a panel of judges. The exercise would consist of researching, cooking and serving a period menu.
Useful Links:
Youtube Video from the USS Constitution on Feeding Ship Crews in 1812 and Today
Bicentennial Field Day
School creates a War of 1812 Field Day for students, faculty and families. Period games and competitions of sailor skills will be part of the activities. Students would learn games from the early nineteenth century as part of their curriculum.
Bicentennial Essay Writing Competition
High school students engage in an essay writing competition on War of 1812 themes. Essays to be judged by a panel of local historians and professors. Winning essays to be submitted to national magazines or online.
War of 1812 Bicentennial Concert
Bands, orchestras, and choirs perform a War of 1812 themed concert. Performances could include the Star-Spangled Banner and other patriotic 19th century American songs.
Model Boat Day
Hold a model sailboat regatta in the spring of 2012. Participants will be able to make and sail simple model boats and more complex models following workshops.
