August 2-5, 2022
Early American Summer Days combines 19th century history with 21st century fun! Designed for ages 7-12, all sessions give children who have completed grades 1-5 a glimpse into the museum’s historical spaces and an opportunity to do themed activities and craft projects.
Homestead on the Farm - August 2, 9:30am - 3:30pm
Discover 19th century life on the homestead, dressing in 19th century clothing and living a day in the life of a 19th century family. Get a taste of how Johnny Cakes were made over the hearth fire, visit the Blacksmith shop, learn how to churn butter and weave baskets, and meet livestock and other animals that would have lived on the family farm with you.
Archaeology - August 3, 9:30am – 3:30pm
Using the scientific method, students will
“dig” into the field of archeology through a series of hands-on activities and
historical information. This session will include an exploration of tools, paleontology, and more. Participants will make their own archeology journal and
complete a field dig to learn about 19th century archeology and how the
practice has evolved today.
Toys & Games - August 4, 9:30am - 12:30pm
Kids living on a farm during the 19th century did a lot of hard work but they also made time to play games like town ball and marbles. Have fun like they would have and make early New England-inspired toys to take home, like marble tracks and marshmallow catapults.
Nature & Art - Aug 4, 12:30pm - 3:30pm Celebrate earth, nature and the change of seasons. Visit the Village gardens and plant-a-seed activity to take home, make coil pottery, and end the afternoon with a shaved ice treat with pure New England Maple syrup.
19th Century Stage - August 5, 9:30am - 3:30pm
Love to put on a show? This full-day program helps kids become 19th century entertainers. Dress in costume, attend acting and puppetry workshops, make musical instruments, sing songs and dance, and end the day with a short performance for family and friends.