OCALA, FL (352today.com) – Fort King National Historic Landmark hosted Pioneer Women’s History Days on Friday and Saturday, March 20-21 from 10 a.m.-3 p.m. Guests could walk around the grounds and experience historical displays that may have been seen from pioneer women to celebrate and remember the contributions of women in history.

The main section of the event took place under the traditional chickee where new and recurring volunteers dressed in historical clothing from the period. Women performed live demonstrations for guests, showcasing some of the methods that would be used for crafting specified items during the time. These demonstrations included a food demonstration with butter making, bag making, using a cotton gin and making ice cream. Rather than live demonstrations, other volunteers showcased items and explained how they were made. These included soaps, candles and toys.

Walking toward the fort, there was a small wood carving station where guests could watch volunteer, Richie Thompson, carve and craft wooden stilts while learning how he makes them. Inside the fort was an activity area where kids played tug of war, threw frisbees and more. Inside one of the towers, families could have their photos taken and digitally altered by Kay Johnson to look like a 19th century photograph. This new feature to Fort King events allows guests to choose a historical outfit from a table of clothes prior to getting their photo taken inside the tower for Johnson to edit.

Inside Fort King’s Archeology Resource Center near the fort, a small museum of artifacts and educational information were on display for guests to see. Further toward the back of the building, a small tea party was being hosted. A table with small pastries displayed on decorative dishes was available for guests to enjoy. Nearby was another table with teacups, sugar, honey and more for guests to create customized tea to enjoy.