PIONEER DAYS

This year Robert was asked to attend Pioneer Days in Zolfo Springs.  He was asked to do this not only because of his incredible artistic talent (which he has a ton of), BUT mainly because he is a proud member of a dying breed in Florida.  A true Florida “Cracker” that knows how to truly make authentic buckskin whips.  There aren’t many of his kind left in the state anymore, and it is something that makes him even more awesome and special! 

Robert setting up his deer hide & display.

Showcasing his many talents.

A snippet of his art work!

 

We all had a great time in Zolfo this year.  It was WONDERFUL getting to visit with old friends (yes, I mean you Mrs. Hyde) and meet so many people.  Being our kiddos, they loved touring the Cracker Trail Museum and visiting the many booths and displays.  The Blacksmiths shop was a huge hit (mainly because it was freezing and he had a fire going!)  What struck me was the amount of tourists who were interested in this lost art of whip making and the amount of young Floridians who “claim” to be country cowmen and women who weren’t interested in this important part of their history.  This saddens me a lot, if one doesn’t know where they have come from, how can they truly know where they are going?  I would have thought that most of the younger generation would WANT to know about this unique piece of Florida history. 

Robert explaining what makes the Florida Cowboy so unique.

 

 

Robert sold some of his artwork while we were there.  We did make a little profit until…….the kiddos and Robert spotted the Indian Fry Bread vendor!  OH MY at the choices of fry breads!!!!  Yep, I think that one stand ate up all our profits while we tried the different flavored fry bread.  Out of the ones we tried (strawberry, regular, blueberry, and apple) I think the blueberry and apple were the family favorites!

Apple topped with cinnamon sugar!  YUMMY!!

 

All in all it was a great (cold!) day and one that we learned a lot from.  Be on the lookout for great things from Robert with his art work, leather crafting, and whip making very soon.  I see technology helping us in the very near future!