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Anyone who has been stymied by a button popping off at the last minute can learn how to reattach it rather than change the whole outfit at hands-on workshops demonstrating basic home sewing techniques at the Newcomer House Porch Program on Saturday, July 19, 2025 at 11:30 a.m. and 2:30 p.m.

Public historian Molly Elspas, an interpreter at Frederick, Maryland's Rose Hill Manor, will teach participants about basic home sewing skills that Mrs. Newcomer and her children (likely only the girls) would have used to make and mend clothing, decorate table linens, and otherwise lengthen the usable life of their textiles.

An original "sample book" from the Rose Hill Manor's collection will be on display as participants learn to master simple stitching techniques creating their own take-home samples.

The free workshops are open to adults and children with suitable dexterity to handle sharp needles and follow instructions. All necessary materials will be provided. Registration is not required, but is encouraged. To register, please contact Rachel Nichols at rachel@heartofthecivilwar.org or call (240) 308-1740.

The Newcomer House is the only home dwelling on the Antietam National Battlefield that is regularly open to the public. It serves as an exhibit and visitor center for the Heart of the Civil War Heritage Area. Knowledgeable volunteer docents are available to share information about the Newcomer House and offer assistance to visitors to the three-county Heart of the Civil War Heritage Area.

The Newcomer House is located at 18422 Shepherdstown Pike in Keedysville, MD. The house is open 10 a.m.-4 p.m. weekends in April, May, October and November and Tuesday-Sunday, June through September. For more information, contact Newcomer House Manager Rachel Nichols at rachel@heartofthecivilwar.org or (240) 308-1740.