Artisans display talents at Oktoberfest today

Visitors may be inspired by the artisan demonstrations at the Oliver House Oktoberfest, but they will also have the chance to try their hand at some of the crafts, walk away with a start on next year's garden, have a portrait done or learn about history -- and even consider becoming part of it.

The first Jackson Heritage Association Oktoberfest will be from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. today at the Oliver House, 224 E. Adams St., Jackson.

A quilt "in the frame" will be available for visitors who wish to take a stab at quilting, and quilter Cathi Stoverink will be there to help and answer questions.

Cape Girardeau County Master Gardeners have been drying flowers from the Oliver House Museum's new heirloom garden this season and packaging them for visitors. Marie's Garden, named for Marie Oliver, Missouri's Betsy Ross, was a new Master Gardener project this year, and the group will sell hollyhocks, zinnia, feverfew, Mexican sunflower, moss roses, cypress vine and bee balm plants.

The Drawing Group, including artists Carol Horst, Charles Enderle, Thomas Shaner and Craig Thomas, will take turns at the easel all day, creating portraits.

Woodcarvers Dave and Sharon Ledure will demonstrate carving and explain the use of equipment and supplies.

Leatherworkers, a blacksmith and a lace tatter will also display and demonstrate their crafts.

Photo contest

The featured display at the museum is a collection of photo postcards created by Frank Medley from 1905 to 1912 including scenes of early Jackson, depicting dirt roads, buggies and the courthouse.

The display is meant to inspire entries for the Jackson Heritage Association "Postcards to the Future" contest, accepting entries from Oct. 1 to Jan. 29. The contest's aim is to create a current "snapshot" of the area. Area residents are invited to submit 4-by-6-inch prints, one per category. Categories are human interest, parks and nature, neighborhoods, business and industry, agriculture, schools ad churches, sports and special events. Photographers of the first-place entry in each age bracket (under 18 and 18 and over) will receive a $50 savings bond, from First Missouri State Bank. Entry forms and contest rules are available at the Oliver House Museum, the Jackson Chamber of Commerce and the Cape County Archive Center. For more information, call Cathi Stoverink at 243-4667.

The Oliver House Museum will be open at no charge, with donations accepted. Food will be available.

cpagano@semissourian.com

335-6611, extension 133