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4-H 'Colonial Day' teaches symbolism, importance of flag

Just in time for the Fourth of July, the Franklin County Extension Office and 4-H program threw it back to colonial days. On Tuesday morning, the Franklin County Courthouse hosted 4-H kids for a brief history lesson and a patriotic crafts project.

To start the program, leaders of the program gave the kids a history lesson, detailing how those living in the late 1700s and early 1800s lived day-to-day.

“Back in the colonial days, only the rich people got to take baths, and they only got to take like two baths a year,” 4-H assistant Jennifer Pickens told the group. “And the poor people didn’t take baths at all. If they were lucky, they might get to bathe once a year.”

That information was worthy of some of cringing expressions, but Pickens said interesting facts like that sticks with kids.

The kids also learned about colonial education, fashion and social norms.

After that, the participants received a quick lesson on the American Flag, what it symbolizes and what each color and symbol represent.

“The kids seemed to already know, somewhat, about the flag from their teachers,” Pickens said. “The flag is important because it does stand for our freedom.”

“Our ancestors lived, fought and died for the flag, which sounds pretty crazy, but back in the day that was all they had; to fight for their freedom and their country,” she added.

Following the flag lesson, the kids got to participate in a craft project. Using paint stirrers, glue, and crayons, the group created their own individual American flags.

“I think when you talk to the kids and show them some hands on stuff, it really does stick,” Pickens said. “The kids seemed to really enjoy the project. Any time they get to make something they love it.”

The opportunity to craft something of national importance, and have fun doing it, helps foster patriotism, Pickens said.

“They loved singing the national anthem and holding their flag in the air.”

“When you go to see fireworks on the Fourth of July, bring the flag you made and hold it up high,” Pickens said. “Show off your patriotism.”

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