Wednesday, February 22, 2012

Favor


One of the definitions of favor is unfair partiality.  I like that!  That is what Mr. Muddling and I had last weekend at the Texas Czech Heritage and Cultural Center in La Grange.  We were driving around waiting for noon when the Quilt Museum opened and we chanced upon the Czech Museum there.  It was not even open yet, but as we walked around on the outside looking at the sights - the people inside opened the door and let us in.  We were asked the sign the guest book and given a tour by a member of the Board of Trustees!  Wow!  It was so interesting, and there were lots of textile items there that were just amazing.

They were having the grand opening and dedication of their Music Museum that afternoon, so everything was in readiness for that and we got the benefit!


I was especially impressed by these blue print fabrics.  We were told that it is a batik-like process using hand carved wooden blocks to apply wax.  The fabric is then dyed and later the wax is removed to leave these intricate designs.



Here is a picture of one of the carved blocks.  Can you imagine carving something like that?


One thing they were understandably proud of was this gorgeous crystal chandelier which hangs in the banquet hall.


As you can see, it is a replica of the one hanging in the Prague Castle.

Notice, also, that they had the good taste to include chicken art in their textile array.  There are also restored houses, a store, a twin log barn and a brand new amphitheatre.  Lots to see.

It is such a beautiful place, and we could see the great pride they had in it and in their heritage.  Did my heart good to see people honoring the contributions of those who have gone before.  It's way too easy to forget and to act like we actually deserve all the blessings we enjoy here.  But people fought and struggled and died to obtain those blessings for us.  Good thing to remember.

Hope you enjoyed sharing a bit of our little trip.

Hugs and kisses,

6 comments:

Thimbleanna said...

How interesting! And you're too funny -- "they had the good sense to include chicken art" cracked me up! Looks like you had a wonderful trip!

Karen said...

What a wonderful opportunity. You were in the right place at the right time. The blue and white fabric is amazing. That's incredible detail to get using that process.
Love the chooks!

Eggs In My Pocket said...

I so agree! We have it so differently now days! What a wonderful place to visit!

Brenda Kay Ledford said...

Thanks for sharing your trip with us. Sounds as thought it was a lot of fun. You are so fortunate they let you into the museum early to see the magnificent displays. What a beautiful place. Wow! What a treasure to visit this lovely museum.

Susan said...

What a interesting place! I did not know there was a Czech settlement in Texas. Love the fabric and design in their garments...and the chicken art, too.

Margaret said...

Czech crystal is renowned for its clarity especially in chandeliers, wouldn't like to clean one that size though. Happy to hear you had a lovely weekend away, all the work on show is so beautiful.