Waste Not, Want Not

Explore the ways 19th-century Americans reused materials long before modern sustainability and upcycling efforts began. Experience a demonstration of how dry-rotted cotton clothing was used to create rag paper for newspapers, books, and writing paper.

 

While Harpers Ferry's historic trades transitioned from human-powered tools to water-powered machinery production, Americans knew the importance of saving or repurposing raw materials for industry. 

 

Industrial progress also impacted the workers. Would their skills and abilities be recycled into new products and industries as well? Rangers and volunteers will examine themes of innovation, labor unrest, enslavement, and the human consequences of industrial progress.

 

This program is supported by the Harpers Ferry Park Association.