Fun at Heritage Hill

JASNA WI members gathered for the Box Hill Picnic in Green Bay, WI

On August 5, 2023, a small group of heat hearty Janeites gathered for the Box Hill Picnic at Heritage Hill, in Green Bay. The Northwoods was warm that day, but the members in attendance did not let that stop them. A bring your own lunch was followed by a potluck dessert with Regency era favorites. A round of The Parlor Game commenced, with questions answered by various lines from Jane Austen’s Pride and Prejudice. All but one player (who shall remain nameless) won at least one point. Unlucky at cards, unlucky at love? You be the judge.

Attendees experienced several interesting displays at the park, including artisans making their own cloth and string, weddings at the chapel and on the grounds, and a drummer’s demonstration. Drums were the only way to announce certain things in the military pre-Civil War, when Green Bay really was the Wild West. We all learned something that day, even if it was only that drama is a stronger suit than comedy in Jane Austen for some. While the group was small, and Regency costumes forbidden due to the park’s nature, everyone had a great time.