Colonial Holidays: Make a “Scherenschnitte” Holiday Card in the Time Travelers KidStudio at Greenwich Historical Society

In conjunction with our current exhibition, Greenwich During the Revolutionary War: A Frontier Town on the Front Line, the Time Travelers KidStudio returns through March 2025! Step back in time and learn how kids lived in Greenwich 250 years ago. Every Wednesday and Saturday afternoon will feature a new guided craft or activity inspired by the colonial era. Children up to age 12 are welcome to attend with an accompanying adult. On Saturday, December 21 the KidStudio will offer “scherenschnitte” holiday cards! Have you ever cut a paper snowflake before? Good news, you’ve already practiced “scherenschnitte” (“scissor cuts” in German). “Scherenschnitte” has its origins in 16th century Germany and was eventually brought to the American colonies in during the late 17th century by those immigrating from southern Germany and Switzerland, who largely settled in Pennsylvania. These families would use intricately and beautifully cut papers for legal documents, love letters, and even to decorate their homes. Around Christmas time children would be tasked with creating cut paper decorations to ready their homes for the holidays. Try your hand at this tradition and create a charming holiday card to take home and send to a loved one.