The past comes alive through craft projects celebrating Minnesota's history and people. Imagine soldiers on the Civil War battlefield as you assemble a "housewife" sewing kit like those made by wives and mothers. Re-create the drama of a midwestern tornado when you build an automaton that actually spins, and celebrate the invention of water-skiing with a boat and skier that really glide. Step-by-step instructions carefully guide you to make your own marionette, but it's up to you to stage the puppet show. The playful miniature scene of a Day of the Dead nicho offers a way to honor a loved one. A woodland hike will provide the twigs and leaves to make a troll. A walking stick in the tradition of folk artist Maurice Carlton inspires you to create art out of what you can find. These projects and more generate hours of fun, not to mention useful pieces you'll want to share with your family and friends.

Wendy Freshman is a program specialist for family audiences at the Minnesota History Center. Kristin Jansson is a freelance prop and prototype designer and a former costumer with the Children's Theatre Company.