January 2025

We were blessed to have a December full of time with loved ones and we hope you had the same. As a company we were blessed to have a wonderful Cyber Monday, and appreciate each of you who made us part of your holiday season. Our staff did an amazing job keeping up with customer service, shipping products quickly and accurately.

January is a time to reflect on the previous year and look on to the next with hope and renewed vigor. This month is one of hope while we make plans and goals both personally and professionally. Whether it be the addition of new products, the implementation of new systems, or simply cleaning out the old and bringing in the new, there is a lot to look forward to. This year we have challenged ourselves to make it a year of positive discourse. If you are wondering what that means, stick around, you’re about to find out!

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The Game is Afoot

In December we took a short trip to George Washington’s Mount Vernon to share period games with those attending the Winter Illumination. The view of the fireworks over the mansion was nothing short of spectacular. Of equal excitement was the chance to share true period games with people of all ages. Earlier this year we released the Royal Game of the Goose, a period paper board tavern game. At Mount Vernon we unveiled the Game of the Owl. This is a different style of paper board tavern game that utilized three dice to decide if the player “put” or “take” coins from the pot.

Both games are reproductions brought back to life under the critical eye of Casey. From the artwork and verbiage, to the gameplay itself, each factor is carefully scrutinized and compared with the original boards. These very simple games are easy to play and can accommodate any number of players.

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The Resolutions of Jonathan Edwards

As we reflect and introspect, we think about the things we could have done differently or ways we could have improved in aspects of our lives. At the age of 19, in 1722, Jonathan Edwards started compiling a list of 70 resolutions to live a godlier life. That year he comprised the first 21 resolutions on the list, with the rest following in 1723.  If you are struggling to make your own resolutions, here are just a few that, we believe, Edwards would not mind you borrowing:

7. Resolved, never to do any thing which I should be afraid to do, if it were the last hour of my life.

14. Resolved, never to do any thing out of revenge.

21. Resolved, never to do any thing which, if I should see in another, I should count a just occasion to despise him for, or to think any way the more meanly of him.

58. Resolved, not only to refrain from an air of dislike, fretfulness, and anger in conversation, but to exhibit an air of love, cheerfulness and benignity.

Jonathan Edwards is one of the best known Christian leaders of the 18^th century, leading revivals in both England and in the colonies. Edwards was a key leader in the New England Great Awakening in 1740, and delivered his most widely known sermon, “Sinners in the Hands of an Angry God,” in 1741. He also spent time on missions with the Native people in Massachusetts and would later become the president of Princeton University before his death in 1758.

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From The Vernacular

Winter projects still abound though the holidays are behind us. Maybe you’re working on some new clothes. According to the Dictionarium Anglo Britannicum 1775, by Nathan Bailey, you might fall under one of these definitions:

Sea’mster OR Sea’mstress

A person who sews or makes up Linen Garments

Though Samuel Johnson’s Dictionary of the English Language, both the 1768 and 1792 versions, only give us one version of the title:

Se’amstress

A woman whose trade is to sew.

At Samson Historical, we are dedicated to preserving and honoring the authenticity of 18th-century culture. As part of this commitment, we are updating the terminology used in our catalog and website to better reflect the language of the time. While some modern terms may be familiar, they do not always align with the most common or historically accurate vocabulary of the 18th century. 

For instance, what we often refer to as “scarves” today were more commonly called “handkerchiefs” in the 18th century. Similarly, “wallets” were known as “pocketbooks.” These changes may seem subtle, but they reflect our dedication to historical accuracy and the stories behind these items.

These changes go beyond words—they’re about creating a deeper connection to the past. Language is a vital part of history, offering a glimpse into the way people thought and lived. By using terms that would have been familiar to individuals in the 18th century, modern enthusiasts better understand the context and purpose of the items we offer.

Whether you’re a historical reenactor, collector, or simply someone who appreciates history, we hope these updates enhance your experience. Every product in our collection has a story, and with these adjustments, we’re ensuring that the language we use reflects those stories accurately. Together, we’re keeping history alive, one carefully chosen word at a time.

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Shop with Us

Linton Trade Fair

While a smaller show in terms of size, the upcoming Linton Trade Fair holds a special place for us. This show is the first and most welcome opportunity to get out and see friends during the long winters. As the icing on the cake (or the whipped cream on the homemade persimmon pudding on their menu) the club who puts on the show is comprised of some of the nicest, most Midwest hospitable, people you will ever meet. If you are in the realm of Linton, Indiana, make a day trip over to the show and experience it for yourself. We suggest you get there early to get to the persimmon pudding before Abbie does.

January 25 & 26

Saturday 9 a.m.- 5 p.m.
Sunday 9 a.m.-3 p.m.

Roy Clark Community Building
Linton City Park
Linton, Indiana

Adults $4
15 and under Free

In Store

You are always welcome to visit us at our store front in person. If distance and time are a problem, all of our products are available via our online storefront. Give us a call with any questions, and we look forward to seeing you!

Samson Historical
119 N Meridian Street
Lebanon, IN 46052

Monday – Friday
10 a.m. – 5 p.m.