What is Barter Day? Barter Day is an opportunity for students to practice skills that were important in early colonial life when money was in short supply. Instead of paying for things, they usually traded. For example, if I were a carpenter and you were a farmer, I would say “I would fix your house if you give me some jalapeno peppers!”

We talked to Mr. Keohane to learn more about Barter Day. Barter Day, in our school, started 10-15 years ago, and it is still going! Food items are unfortunately not allowed, including condiments unless permitted by your teacher. Services are allowed, however your teacher has to approve it and any services related to homework is not usually allowed. Some people buy things while other people made homemade items. It’s recommended to spend less than $20. Some of the weirdest and coolest things people have brought in are homemade candles, wood work, arts & crafts, and slime. In our classroom people brought in the best things ever. Some of the things people brought in homemade hats, spinners, hot sauce.

We think Barter Day is a great way for kids to learn about the economy in the 17th and 18th centuries in Colonial America. It was interesting to negotiate a trade,and arrive what both parties agreed to what’s a fair trade. We all had fun trading for items from our classmates.

Reported by Walker and Noah