Colonial America Lesson and Craft: Quill Pen

In what is now the United States, the Colonial period lasted from about 1607 to 1776. During this time the original thirteen colonies were governed by Great Britain. The signing of the Declaration of Independence brought an end to Colonial rule and helped to establish a new nation. Simple craft activities can help reinforce lessons about colonial life and help bring this era to life for elementary students.

During the Colonial era, there were no telephones and no computers, people communicated with friends and family by writing letters. These letter writers often used quill pens constructed from turkey or goose feathers that were dipped into ink. Students can craft a quill pen to experience how people in Colonial times would have written letters. This activity can be used as a language arts curriculum connection so students can practice their letter-writing skills. It is also a good time to examine the Declaration of Independence that was drafted using a quill pen as well as the quill pen signatures at the bottom.

Goose quills can be obtained from craft stores and poultry farms. The quill should be soaked in warm soapy water. Two inches of feathers should be trimmed from the base of the quill. The end of the quill should be cut at an angle and the stalk should be cleaned with a straight pin. Students can use purchased ink, or for more authenticity you can help students to craft their own ink using berries or black walnuts.

Where to have a birthday part for a four year-old in Cortland, New York

by Samantha Walters


Located in the Finger Lakes region in Central New York, Cortland is known is for having great schools as well as many recreational and athletic opportunities and as a result is an attractive area for many young families. Throwing a birthday party in your own home, especially for a 4-year-old, can be stressful and time consuming. Thankfully Cortland and the surrounding areas have some great facilities that will host a memorable birthday party for a young child.

281 Bowl

Located on Route 281 in Cortland, 281 Bowl is a full service bowling alley with birthday party packages available. Your 4 year-old and his or her friends will enjoy getting to have the chance to knock the pins down, and keeping all the guests near the one or two lanes you have reserved will make it easier for you and the other adults to keep an eye on them. Since 4 year-olds can have difficulty with heavy bowling balls and getting them to stay in the lane ask about gutter bumpers as well as special bowling ramps or lightweight bowling balls when making your reservation.

Jo-Ann Fabrics

The Jo-Ann Fabric and Craft store located on Clinton Street in Cortland is more than just a craft supply store, they also offer children's birthday party packages. Jo-Ann provides a party room, all craft supplies, an instructor and party invitations for one inclusive price and is a great idea for creative youngsters. Many 4 year-olds enjoy being able to play with the craft supplies and create their own work of art. The projects double as take-home presents. Best of all, the store will handle all the setup and clean up.

McDonald Sports Complex

The 80,000 square foot J. M. McDonald Sports Complex located on Fairgrounds Drive in Cortland has plenty of indoor space for your child's birthday party. The facility includes an indoor ice rink as well as recreational fields and partners with Bounce Around Party Rentals. For 4 year-olds the large amount of space to run around will help them to burn off their energy before it's time to sit and have cake and open presents.The facility regularly hosts parties and private functions both large and small.

Shipwreck Golf

Shipwreck Golf Amuseument Center is located on Route 13 in Cortland and with its indoor facilities is open year round. Party packages are available that include bouncing time or a round of miniature golf. For an extra fee, both events can be included. Parties last 2 hours with the activity completed first followed by the party festivities. The 2-hour time limit is just right for 4 year-olds and by having activity time first will ensure that they should be able to sit for refreshments and presents. A private party room is included. Reservations and a deposit are required.


Sources and further information:


Cortland County Chamber of Commerce

Party Ideas