“Wooly Day” features hand shearing of Rocky Mount’s flock of Cotswold sheet, wool processing techniques of the 18th century and other spring activities on a frontier farm. The “Garden Arts Festival” will be celebration of all things gardening – from plants to handmade items for the home, garden and gardener, to delicious foods and informative talks and tours.

Wooly Day is an opportunity for visitors to experience the spring activities of the early settlers of Tennessee. Wool processing is featured during this event. Rocky Mount’s flock of sheep will be sheared throughout the day using hand shears. This is a great opportunity for children of all ages to get a close look, and even pet the sheep, feel their wool and learn how it would be made into clothing. Visitors can wash the freshly sheared wool, use wool cards to straighten the fibers, and see how it is spun into yard and woven into cloth.

The Garden Arts Festival will feature engaging speakers sharing their knowledge on a variety of topics of interest to gardening enthusiasts. All talks will be held the Massengill Museum auditorium. Tours will begin in the museum lobby and will last approximately 20 minutes.