Some lucky knaves and damsels were transported back to medieval times at the Paul J. Yakabuski Community Centre on July 23 when they participated in a Madawaska Valley Public Library summer program. Siege Weapons and Shield Formations sessions were presented by Matt and Andrea Lawrence of Knights in the Classroom. MV Public Library CEO Karen Filipkowski said,
It was a fun, engaging program for the families who participated.
In Siege Weapons (above) the children were introduced to a catapult. They learned how it would have been constructed during medieval times, as well as how and why a catapult was used. The children were then asked to build a wall using boxes to represent castle walls and the catapult was put to the test. The participants were encouraged to think about the design of the wall to try to keep the catapult projectile from knocking it down. Filipkowski said, “Truly, they had more fun seeing the wall knocked over.”
Matt and Andrea also talked about swords, their component parts, the design, and the purpose behind the design. They demonstrated some fencing moves to illustrate how the parts of the sword were designed to protect a skilled soldier. (photo above)
Shield Formations gave the children an introduction to shields. They learned how shields were made, handled and used, and the various formations that soldiers used in medieval times. The children were given shields and each formation was put to the test by their parents who were armed with sponge balls. Click BELOW for a brief video of the children defending against attackers.
The Madawaska Valley Public Library was able to present the Knights in the Classroom program thanks to a contribution of $250 from the Combermere Martial Arts Club, provision of space at the PJYC by the Township of Madawaska Valley, and by a donation.
Photos and video submitted
