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.