K. Walters at the Sign of the Gray Horse: Fort Frederick Market and Fair

Sunday, May 12, 2024

Fort Frederick Market and Fair - 24-28 April 2024

I'm finally able to write about the market fair after getting settled back in from back to back shows - the first being the Fort Frederick Market and Fair in Big Pool, Maryland and the second Revolutionary War weekend at George Washington's Mount Vernon. We saw rain for both days at Mount Vernon, and the tent is finally dried and put away.

I am blessed to be a sutler at both of these events, have great friends that come in to help me, and truly appreciate all of the people who came by to shop, see me and the ladies, and tell me how much they love the memes I post on my Facebook page! LOL

A great view of one side of the shop. I am working on new displays, and trying to go a bit more vertical. It is hard to do in a tent in the configuration of how I want it set up!

The market fair this year had about 92 different sutlers in addition to the campers, and blanket traders. There used to be so many more, and I am praying that it builds up again to pre-COVID sutler participation. It is always fun looking at what everyone is selling, and deciding on what you may need or want to purchase. A great reason to sell at and shop in person is to see the product first hand, and purchase things you didn't know you needed! Market Fair is a must do for those who participate in 18th century costuming, living history, and reenacting - or if you want to decorate your home with some wonderful handmade items.

Krista, Kerry, and I in front the shop - the awning clearly not ready for the Saturday rain - but does keep the sun off of the cases which can heat up the metal.

I wanted to share a few photos of the shop, and the ladies with you as usual. The event went very well, with rain only on Saturday. I purchased a new add on awning off the front of the shop (as you can see in the above photo) so that rain didn't come inside as it did last year. I have a waterproof floor cloth inside the shop so that I do not get a lot of moisture from the ground particularly in the morning. Many thanks to Tent Smiths for coming over and measuring for me last year, and providing a great piece.

This is a four day event, so you will see us in a variety of clothing!

Above - A style watch chain that I make and offer in the shop - this one customized for me, and with my #3 watch. I will be working on making watches again this year. The little teapot charm, coin, keys, and seals are also available in my Etsy shop!