The event, which is sponsored by the Office of Academic Affairs and the Division of Social Science, will feature artists Joe Piela and his wife, Carol Ann Ham, who specialize in re-creating Great Britain's Anglo Saxon era (800 - 1100 AD). The production includes a display of Piela's best work, an opportunity to learn iron working techniques, music, and a "living history" demonstration of fighting skills employed by many warriors of this era. The event is open to anyone who would like to attend at no charge.
Piela said these demonstrations give students a chance to get a closer look at the Dark Ages in a way they can't through books or television.
"Students will see a variety of simulated combat and a forging demonstration where a sword will be heated in a real forge and worked with hammer and anvil," Piela said. "Students will actually get to hold a variety of armor and swords that will be passed around for their examination. My wife, Carol Ann, will be a singing a period song. Professor John Dunn will be helping out as well; he's going to be putting on armor and taking part in the fighting demonstrations. We received a great response from the students during last year's demo, and we hope to have an even bigger turnout this year."
Dunn, Assistant Professor of History at ABAC, said a "living history" display provides a great opportunity for students to learn about the past in a novel format under the guidance of experts.
"Although reading is the key to a strong command of history, students gain a mental image of the past by handling precise replicas or by watching someone who works like the craftsmen of 1,000 years ago," Dunn said. "This builds one's 'historical imagination,' which allows for a better comprehension of textual material."
Piela, descended from a family of blacksmiths, is a master of metal arts. His speciality is the authentic reproduction of ancient arms and armors. A full-time businessman since 1990, Piela currently lives near Sylvester, where he operates his business, "The Lonely Mountain Forge." He is an active member of the Society for Creative Anachronism and England's Norse Film and Pageant Society.
Ham is a metal worker with a master's degree in English and Latin from Ohio University. Currently a Student Success Counselor at Darton College, Ham studies the music and literature of the Anglo Saxons.
For additional information on the "living history" display, contact Dunn at (229) 386 - 3259.
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