Come to Noble Square, located in downtown Fish Creek, and take a step back in time. On June 21st, beginning at 10:00am, the Arachne Spinners Guild of Door County will set up for a “Living History Event.” The spinners will demonstrate in the Gazebo, spinning fibers into thread and showing how a sock knitting machine works. This event is perfect for all ages to experience these unique activities, from spinning to knitting and more.

The Door County Spinners Guild will showcase the fascinating process of transforming animal fiber into yarn and the several types of finished products. Watch the traditional spinning wheels in action and explore the terminology of combing, crimping, whorl, worsted, and woolen spinning. They will show how animal fleeces can be transformed into roving and twisted into fiber strands or yarn. There is a wealth of knowledge to absorb, including the intricate skill involved and the time required.

The Spinners will also demonstrate how to use a circular sock machine, offering a unique opportunity to learn about this historical process. The sock machine, a tubular knitting device from 1878, produced rib knitting, creating welts or cuffs on socks. During World War I, the need for a vast number of socks increased, and the Red Cross launched a civilian campaign to help with the shortage. The cold, wet conditions of the war led to trench foot and eventually gangrene. The Red Cross offered knitting machines to homes as a way for families to help in the war effort, and yarn retailers turned over all supplies to the Red Cross. Over 150,000 machines were cranking out socks in households nationwide. One of these sock machines is on display at the Alexander Noble House Museum.

This fascinating and educational event is a must-see for fiber enthusiasts and anyone curious about the workings of a sock machine. We hope to see you on Saturday, June 21st, in beautiful Noble Square for our third “Living History Event”.