Ashley Middleton is a public library professional and Irish dancing teacher fascinated by historic foodways, craft, and domestic organization — as well as the role of dancing as community, the formation of early library systems, and social change.

She is Very Upper Midwestern. Despite living in Illinois with a habit of saying “y’all,” she is an adopted daughter of God’s Chosen Winter People and an official member of the Living History Society of Minnesota.

“Petticoat Swish” is an Irish dance for four people to the 6/8 tune of “Smash the Windows” (Dances of Donegal, ITMA).

Blogs I Follow

• In the Past Lane (Betsy Watkins ní Connolly)
• The Sewing Academy (Elizabeth Stewart Clark)

Favorite Historians & Living History Groups

• The 36th Illinois Infantry, Company B
• The Liberty Rifles
• The Living History Society of Minnesota
• Not Your Momma’s History
• Sons and Daughters of Ham

Favorite Vendors & Patterns

• Corner Clothiers
• Fig Leaf Patterns
• Merrick’s Custom Leather
• The New Blazing Star Press
• Past Patterns
• The Sewing Academy (Elizabeth Stewart Clark)