As everyone knows, the ability to have light is a needed feature in our homes, but it wasn't always as easy as snapping on a switch, candles were needed. Homeowners had to gather the materials in order to make their own candles, which were used as their main source of light. Here at Ross Farm we use beef tallow and beeswax to create our candles. While taking part in a hands-on group preparing candles, students will receive information as to why these two ingredients are used. Were they readily available 150 years ago, or did the settlers have to buy these produces?
The children will have the opportunity to make two different types of candles, which include the moulded candle and the dipped candle. The ingredients must be first cut into small pieces, taking care to add the proper amounts. As the tallow is melting on the stove, preparations are being made to ready the moulds, by fastening a wick in the center. When the tallow is melted into a smooth liquid it is poured into the mould. When the liquid is cooled into its solid form again, all candles can be removed. This may take several hours. Interpreters have prepared moulds on hand to show the finish product as the candles are removed from the moulds.
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Ross Farm Museum; Nova Scotia's Living Museum of Agriculture offers an exciting hand-on program where children have the opportunity to perform many different tasks, which involve many of the daily chores, on a 19th century farm. Children will learn practical things, from days gone by, so they can distinguish the relationship between themselves and the early setters. By using hand tools, wood fired stoves, or a coal fired forge, students can create their own images of life before modern conveniences, powered by electricity. The experience produced will be a very enjoyable one with memories lasting a life time.
For Further Information
Toll Free: 1-877-689-2210
Fax: 902-689-2264
feenerem@gov.ns.ca