Retail Therapy on the Trails of History

Before we get to the post-Thanksgiving fun, please note that all Trails of History sites will be closed tomorrow, November 24. Only Fort Pitt Museum, Railroad Museum of Pennsylvania, and The State Museum of Pennsylvania will be open on Friday, November 25. All of us here at Trailheads HQ wish you and yours a meaningful and restful holiday filled with family, friends, and good food.

But, come the weekend, we invite you to "shop 'til you drop" and take in some history as well. For Small Business Saturday and Museum Store Sunday, participating Trails of History sites will offer discounts or perks to thank you for shopping on site. Whether you're looking for books, handmade pottery and textiles from local artisans, delicious food items, and much, much more, Trails of History museum stores are a great place to shop. And while we'd love to have you also tour the sites to experience the many and varied stories of Pennsylvania, you don't need an admission ticket to visit our museum stores. How many can you visit in a weekend? Check out the list of participating sites and lace up your skates!

Up Next

Saturday, November 26

• Christmas in the Colonies (in-person); 3-6 pm; Graeme Park
• Christmas in the colonies was celebrated differently, and sometimes not at all, by each ethnic group who settled here, bringing traditions from their homeland. Graeme Park was home to the Scottish Keith and Graeme families, Irish and German servants, enslaved workers, and later the Quaker Penroses. As you tour the rooms of the Keith House, costumed actors will present these different traditions to you – some you will recognize in our modern-day celebrations or maybe you’ll discover something new to incorporate into your own traditions. Part of the tour will also feature the Tapestry Historic Dance Ensemble performing traditional parlor dances, Noah Lewis playing Ned Hector and telling you about the life of a free black soldier, and Santa will be on the grounds for selfies with the kids. Tickets are $12 for age 13+, $8 for age 6-12 and Friends members (Christmas in the Colonies info).

• Candlelight Open House (in-person); 5-8:30 pm; Ephrata Cloister
• Spend a few minutes or hours visiting with local craftsmen as they share their stories and wares. Included in the evening’s event will be Fraktur calligraphy by Emily Smucker-Beidler, and Matt and Elaine Vardjan of Pennsylvania Folk Art Papers showing paper stars and block prints. Additionally, demonstrations will be provided by local spinners and the letterpress will be working in the Printing Office. The whole family can become craftsmen making small treasure boxes just the size for stocking stuffers. The Ephrata Cloister Chorus will be singing a short program at 5:30, 6:30, and 7:30, and the Woodlands Trio will add to the sounds of the evening at 6:00, 7:00 and 8:00. Tickets are $7 for ages 3 and up, available online or at the door (Candlelight Open House info and tickets).

Sunday, November 27

• Sunday Sewing Circle (in-person); Noon-3 pm; Bushy Run Battlefield
• Bring your needlecraft projects and enjoy the company of others while you work. The event is free and open to the public (Sewing Circle info).

Wednesday, November 30

• Family Gallery Tour: Mammal Hall (in-person); 11:30 am-12:30 pm; The State Museum of PA
• This family friendly tour looks at the animals in the Mammal Hall dioramas. Using hands on objects, a museum educator will help you explore more about these animals, their habitats and how adaptations allow these animals to live within Pennsylvania. Included in regular admission (Mammal Hall tour info).

Thursday, December 1

• Curiosity Kids (in-person); 11:30 am-12:30 pm; The State Museum of PA
• Join Museum Educators in Nature Lab as we learn about dinosaurs. Explore what makes a dinosaur different from other pre-historic reptiles and the different types of dinosaurs that existed. Craft your own “I-built-osaurus” dinosaur model to take home. For grades K-2 and included in regular admission. Space is limited, so please sign up at the Ground Floor Info Desk when you arrive (Curiosity Kids info).

• Holly Nights (in-person); Thursday and Friday, 6-9 pm; Pennsbury Manor
• Come and experience the enchantment of Pennsbury Manor by candlelight. There will be music, tours, craft demos, and a visit with Father Christmas. The event runs 6-9 pm both nights. Tickets: Adults, $14; Seniors, $12; Children age 4+, $6. Tickets can be purchased at the door or ahead of time via Eventbrite (Holly Nights ticket link).

Friday, December 2

• StoryTime (in-person); 10:30-11:30 am; The State Museum of PA
• Read Orion and the Dark by Emma Yarlett and create a day/night wheel to explore more about the dark. For ages 2 to Pre-K and included in regular admission. Please sign up at the Ground Floor Info Desk (StoryTime info).

Advance Tickets or Registrations

• Christmas with the Conductor (in-person); Saturday, Dec. 3, and Saturday, Dec. 10, 11 am and 2 pm; Railroad Museum of PA
• Do you love a classic holiday story? The Museum conductor will punch your child’s souvenir train ticket and welcome you on board one of the historic railroad cars for a lively reading. Kids then have more fun decorating their own gingerbread cookie in Jack Frost Station and receive a small bag of special goodies to take home. Two 45-minute sessions, one at 11 am and one at 2 pm. For ages 3 and older; children must be accompanied by a parent or adult guardian. Space is limited and registration is required. Cost is $10 per child, in addition to regular admission (Dec. 3 info and tickets OR Dec. 10 info and tickets).

• SOLD OUT Children's Christmas Party (in-person); Sunday, Dec. 4, 1-4 pm
• A holiday party with games, crafts, entertainment, and a visit from Santa. Geared for ages 5 to 12. Tickets ($5) on sale now (Christmas Party tickets).

• Learn at Lunchtime (virtual); Friday, Dec. 9, 12:15-12:45 pm; The State Museum of PA
• Dr. Houping Liu, forest entomologist with the PA Dept. of Conservation & Natural Resources, will talk about the Eastern hemlock tree and hemlock woolly adelgid management. The program is free, but you must register to receive the link (Learn at Lunchtime info and registration).

• Holidays at Hope Lodge & Colonial Tavern (in-person); Saturday, Dec. 10, 11 am-4 pm; Hope Lodge
• Enjoy a self-guided tour of the mansion with holiday decorations and music by members of the Ambler Symphony Orchestra (noon-2 pm). Tickets are $8 for ages 12 and up, free for members and children younger than 12. Purchase tickets at the door or online via Eventbrite. For an additional charge, visitors age 21+ can also taste seasonal craft beers from Round Guys Brewing Co. (Holidays at Hope Lodge tickets).

• Christmas at the Cloister (in-person); Monday and Tuesday, Dec. 12 and 13, 6:30-8 pm; Ephrata Cloister
• Spend a few moments in quiet reflection with seasonal readings and music in the historic Saal. Two programs each night, one starting at 6:30 and the other at 8:00. Seating is limited and advance tickets are required (Christmas at the Cloister tickets).

• Late Nite with the Belsnickle! (in-person); Friday, Dec. 16, 7-9 pm; Landis Valley Village & Farm Museum
• Holiday-themed crafts, PA Dutch traditions, a visit with Belsnickle, and an adult beverage. Must be at least 21 to attend. Event is rain or shine; dress for the weather, including shoes appropriate for walking the site. Tickets are $40 (Late Nite info and tickets).

• Putz'n and Brutz'n with the Belsnickle! (in-person); Saturday, Dec. 17, 1-3 pm; Landis Valley Vilage & Farm Museum
• This family-friendly event includes a walking tour, making a punched tin ornament, light refreshments, a visit with the Belsnickle, and more. The program will be held rain or shine, so please dress for the weather with appropriate shoes. Tickets are $30 for people age 8 and up, $20 for ages 3-7. Space is limited, and reservations are required (Family Belsnickle event).

What Now?

Please be sure to check the PHMC Events Calendar for information on upcoming programs (in-person and virtual). I've included highlights below. The Trailheads Rec Room pages to the right of your screen offer an array of online content generated by Trails of History sites. Also, if you're looking for a Covid vaccine provider, check out Vaccines.gov and enter your zip code.

Please note that staff and volunteers at Commonwealth of PA worksites, including the PA Trails of History, are wearing masks while indoors. Visitors are encouraged, though not required, to do so as well.

You can tour buildings at Ephrata Cloister by candlelight tomorrow night, Nov. 27 (photo via Ephrata Facebook page)

I hope that you had a pleasant and safe Thanksgiving with plenty of whatever you needed from the occasion. If you are looking for things to do today (Nov. 26), please note that most Trails of History sites are closed. Bushy Run Battlefield, Fort Pitt Museum, and the Railroad Museum of Pennsylvania are open today. Other sites on the trails will resume their normal seasonal hours tomorrow (except the Erie Maritime Museum, which will be closed). As I always say, please be sure to check ahead to be sure the site you want to visit will be open when you plan to be there. I've noted some events below that take place this weekend.

As you probably know Nov. 27 is Small Business Saturday, and Nov. 28 is Museum Store Sunday. Historic sites and museums can always use your support, so please consider visiting and shopping on the Trails of History this weekend. Bushy Run Battlefield is holding a Used Book Sale today through Sunday, and Somerset Historical Center's Christmas Craft Shoppe, featuring handmade items by local vendors, will be open Wednesday to Saturday (starting tomorrow) through December 23. Our other museum stores have loads of themed and seasonal merchandise for your gift-giving needs (no one will tell if you keep them for yourself, either).

Do your interests run more to the spirit of #OptOutside? Many sites have beautiful grounds and/or trails that can provide plenty of fresh air; others are adjacent to or very close to state parks and forests (please note this safety reminder from the Dept. of Conservation and Natural Resources).

If family history (in PA) was a topic of history around your Thanksgiving table, you can follow-up with some research using resources digitized by the Pennsylvania State Archives. From birth and death records indices to military service records and more, plus links to other digital records collections, the Archives is a great place to start your search(Digital Collections page).

The Week Ahead

Saturday, Nov. 27

• Christmas in the Colonies (in-person): explore different traditions as you tour the Keith House and watch the Tapestry Historic Dance Ensemble; Graeme Park; 3-5 pm; tickets are $10 for ages 13 and up, $7 for members and ages 6-12 (Graeme Park info)
• Candlelight Open House (in-person): stroll the grounds, visit with craftspeople, and enjoy music performed by the Ephrata Cloister Chorus; Ephrata Cloister; 5:30-8 pm; tickets are $7 (Open House info)

Sunday, Nov. 28

• Sunday Sewing Circle (in-person): bring your projects and spend time with other stitchers; Bushy Run Battlefield; 1-4 pm (Sewing Circle info)

Monday, Nov. 29

• Deadline to order Gingerbread Cookie Kits for pick-up at the Railroad Museum of PA on Dec. 4, 10, or 11 (Gingerbread Cookie Kit orders)
• Deadline for reservations for Christmas with the Conductor, Dec. 4 and 11 (11 am story time is sold out), Railroad Museum of PA (Christmas with the Conductor tickets via Eventbrite)

Wednesday, Dec. 1

• Explore! (in-person): learn about Pennsylvania owls and their habits; The State Museum of PA; 11:30 am-12:30 pm; for kids in grades 3-5 and included in regular admission (Explore! info)
• Deadline for required advance tickets for Pennsbury Manor's Holly Nights, which takes place Dec. 2 and 3, 6-9 pm (Holly Nights info and tickets)

Thursday, Dec. 2

• Curiosity Kids (in-person): visit the Art of the State exhibition to learn about how artists use color; The State Museum of PA; 11:30 am-12:30 pm; for kids in grades K-2 and included in regular admission (Curiosity Kids info)

On Sale Now (as of 11/24; some programs will sell out)

• Ethnic Traditions: on Dec. 5 from 5:30 to 8:30 pm, Somerset Historical Center will partner with local families for a program on cultural traditions, food, and music of Japan, Italy, and Bangladesh; cost is $20 per person (Ethnic Traditions ticket info)
• Christmas at the Cloister: Ephrata Cloister presents a program of lessons and carols in the historic Meetinghouse on Dec. 13 and 14, with performances at 6:30 and 8 pm each evening. Tickets available online via Ticketleap (Christmas at the Cloister info and tickets).
• Lantern Tours: Dec. 27-30 at Ephrata Cloister learn about the site's history through living history tours and performances; advance tickets required, on sale starting Dec. 1 (Lantern Tour info)
• Winter Day Camp: on Dec. 29 from 9 am to 4:30 pm Landis Valley Village and Farm Museum will present a day camp for kids in grades 5-11; the focus is Christmas Around the World and includes a themed escape room; cost is $60 per camper ($54 for members) (Day Camp info and registration)

What to Do When the Turkey's Gone

Please check the PHMC Events Calendar for info on upcoming events on the Trails of History. The Trailheads Rec Room pages to the right of your screen have examples of online stuff that you can access anytime you like.

Scene from 2017 Candlelight Tours at Conrad Weiser Homestead (photo via Facebook)

Opportunities for Support and Shopping

Black Friday, Small Business Saturday, Museum Store Sunday, Cyber Monday, and Giving Tuesday all lie ahead of us as I write this. (Okay, it's true that every Monday feels like Cyber Monday for those of us working from home.) Everything looks different this year, but these are all opportunities to support your favorite sites. Donations are always welcome, if you can afford it, and memberships provide you (or your "giftees") with direct benefits in return. You can find links to all the Trails of History sites on the PHMC website.

Many of our sites offer online shopping or mail order options for at least some of their museum store inventory. The links below will make it all so easy:

• Anthracite Heritage Museum
• Bushy Run Battlefield
• Eckley Miners' Village

Ephrata Cloister Christmas Card 2020 (photo via Facebook)

• Ephrata Cloister
• Erie Maritime Museum and U.S. Brig Niagara
• Pennsylvania Lumber Museum
• Pennsylvania Military Museum

Gingerbread cookies shaped like locomotives. What's not to like? (photo via Facebook)

• Railroad Museum of Pennsylvania
• Adopt a Train Program
• Gingerbread Cookie Kits
• Whistle Stop Shop Holiday Items
• Somerset Historical Center

Other ways to support Trails of History sites include following them on social media (if you don't already), sharing their posts with your friends and followers or commenting to let sites know you support them, attending a virtual program (most are free or by donation), or watching a recorded program on YouTube or Facebook. Everything helps.

In the Coming Week or So

• Nov. 28 - Ephrata Cloister virtual program, Candlelight Chat, 7 pm (link for Facebook Live event)
• Dec. 1 - deadline to submit nominations for new state historical markers (details on PHMC website)
• Dec. 2 - deadline to register for Bushy Run Battlefield Dec. 12 virtual program, Children's Christmas Party (Facebook event)
• Dec. 3-4 - Pennsbury Manor virtual program, Holly Nights at Home (streaming info available on Facebook). Pennsbury has extended the deadline for ordering a Take-Home Craft Bag to Nov. 27 (for pick-up Nov. 29).
• Dec. 5 - Railroad Museum of PA, Virtual Visit with Santa and Telegram to the North Pole, 10 am-3 pm (details and registration on Facebook)
• Dec. 5 - Erie Maritime Museum and U.S. Brig Niagara virtual program, Christmas Tree Ship Lighting, 5-8 pm (check Facebook for updates)

On the Trails of History, Nov. 15-Dec. 1

This post will take you through the end of November, with just the merest smidgen of December (due to Thanksgiving and its ancillary festivities). The December program page is now available for those that like to plan ahead.

All Trails of History sites will be closed on Thanksgiving Day, Nov. 28. Sites open on the day after Thanksgiving (Nov. 29) are noted below. Winter weather can sometimes play havoc with schedules, so it’s usually best to check with the site you plan to visit if you think there’s a chance of changes (seasonal schedule changes will be in effect at some sites as well).

Learn about the art of blacksmithing at Old Economy Village Nov. 16 (details below)

Brandywine Battlefield Park
Nov. 30: Patriot’s Day—living history demonstrations, musket drills, blacksmith, house tours, and 18th-century medical "experts"--lots of activities for all ages. 10 am-4 pm.

Conrad Weiser Homestead
Nov. 23: Candlelight Tours—this annual program features living history, 18th-century music, and a chance to see the site by night. 5:30-8 pm.
Dec. 1: Christmas Open House—enjoy one last chance to visit the homestead in 2019 (site will be open by appointment only until Charter Day in March). The Visitor Center Bookstore will be open and books will be marked down 10% (more details on the Facebook event page). Admission is free; donations gratefully accepted. Noon-4 pm.

Drake Well Museum and Park
Nov. 30: Something More Saturday—today’s event is “Radio Santa,” inviting kids to speak with the big guy at the North Pole via radio. There will also be holiday craft projects and other family-friendly activities (details on Facebook). Included in regular admission. Site open 9 am-5 pm; special programming, Noon-4 pm.

Ephrata Cloister
Nov. 30: Candlelight Open House—spend a lovely evening exploring the Ephrata Cloister, with music, craftspeople, and more (info on website). Cost is $6 per person (ages 3 and older). 5-8:30 pm.
Dec. 1: Museum Store Sunday—the museum store will offer a shop-wide sale and free gifts with your purchase, which supports the site and its activities. 9 am-5 pm.

Fort Pitt Museum
Please visit the Fort Pitt Museum website for information on holiday schedules and programs.

Graeme Park
Nov. 30: Christmas in the Colonies—candlelight tours of the Keith House, where the Tapestry Dancers and costumed interpreters will illustrate Christmas and other winter holidays as the Graemes might have known them. Refreshments will be served. Tours will start approximately every 20 minutes from 4 to 6:20 pm. Craft vendors will be on hand for Small Business Saturday, from 3-6 pm (details on the website). Cost is $5 per person for tours.
Dec. 1: Museum Store Sunday—skip the mall crowds and support a historic site. Free DIY gift wrap station for purchases made in the museum store on Small Business Saturday (11/30) or Museum Store Sunday. Noon-4 pm.

Landis Valley Village and Farm Museum
Throughout the month: Fall Workshops—check the website for course descriptions and registration info.
Nov. 30-Dec. 1: Museum Store Shop Local Open House and Museum Store Sunday—shop for locally handmade art, crafts and heirloom-quality gifts and enjoy holiday decorations in the museum store. Museum Store events are free; regular rates apply for museum admission. 9 am-5 pm both days (site opens at noon on Sunday).

Old Economy Village
November 16, 23, 30: Saturday Spotlight Programs—something different every week. Nov. 16 - The Art of Blacksmithing; Nov. 23 - Meet the Gardeners; Nov. 30 - 19th-Century Trades and Crafts. Included in regular admission, so please begin at the Visitor Center. 10 am-5 pm..

Pennsylvania Lumber Museum
Nov. 16: Walk and Talk—get a sneak preview of the new orientation video for the Webber Cabin and accompany Jim Hyland (from Tioga State Forest) on a short walk from the visitor center to the cabin for a behind-the-scenes tour of the museum’s newest exhibit building (more info on the Facebook event page). Included in regular admission. 1 pm.

Pennsylvania Military Museum
Nov. 17: Lecture—museum educator and former Navy Petty Officer Joe Horvath will present "This was NO Love Boat," based on his experiences aboard the SARATOGA during its 1984 Mediterranean cruise as part of the 6th Fleet (details on the website). 2-3 pm.
Nov. 23: Kids Day - Dress Up and Discover!!—try on field gear and head gear from the museum education collection. Visit the education stations in the galleries for more discoveries throughout the day. Parents must remain on-site while their kids participate in the activities. Included in regular admission. 10:00 am-3:00 pm.
Dec. 1: Hürtgen: A Visual Journey—writer/director Mark A. Frederick of Brush Mountain Media will discuss the history and inspiration behind his short independent film on this little-known battle between Germans and Americans during World War II. Included in regular admission. 2-3 pm.

Railroad Museum of Pennsylvania
Nov. 29: Day After Thanksgiving—site open 9 am-5 pm.

Somerset Historical Center
Dec. 1: Ethnic Traditions—each year Somerset Historical Center brings together local families from diverse cultural backgrounds to present an evening of food, music, and other traditions. This year’s menu includes foods from Pennsylvania German, Italian, Thai, and Mexican traditions. Cost is $20 for one ticket, $35 for two. Reservations are a must, and space is limited. Info on reserving your spot is on the website. 5:30 pm at Friedens Lutheran Church, Friedens, PA.

State Museum of Pennsylvania
Please visit the Planetarium page for a full schedule of shows.
Nov. 21: Nature Lab—learn about Wild Canines. Included in regular admission. 11:30 am.
Nov. 21-22: Holiday Marketplace and Exhibit Opening—shop the Trails of History with representatives from numerous PHMC sites (details). Takes place in the museum’s Village Square. Hours are Thursday, 10 am to 3 pm, and Friday, 10 am to 7 pm. On Nov. 22, catch the opening of a new exhibit, Picturing a More Perfect Union: Violet Oakley’s Mural Studies for the Pennsylvania Senate Chamber, 1911-1919 from 3 to 7 pm (refreshments starting at 5).
Dec. 1: Museum Store Sunday—the State Museum Store (on the ground floor near the Third Street entrance) will hold a storewide sale today. Noon-4 pm.

Washington Crossing Historic Park
Please visit the Washington Crossing website for details on this month's schedule and programs.

Trails of History Events Dec. 1-13

UPDATE 12/5/2018: Some Trails of History sites are closing early today, Dec. 5, as Gov. Wolf has authorized an early dismissal in honor of the National Day of Mourning for Pres. George H.W. Bush. Please check ahead before visiting. All sites will be back on their regular Thursday schedules tomorrow.

We're rounding the corner into December already. I hope everyone had a pleasant and safe Thanksgiving weekend. If you want to plan ahead beyond Dec. 13, the full December program page is available. In addition to special events, please note that winter seasonal schedules continue to be phased in this month, so be sure to check ahead before visiting.

Santa will visit the PA Lumber Museum on Dec. 8; see below for more info (via Facebook)

Anthracite Heritage Museum
Dec. 1: Exhibit opening—"Anthracite Photographers: Photographers of Anthracite" explores over 140 years of photography in Pennsylvania's hard coal region (read more on Facebook page). An opening reception, sponsored by Misericordia University, will take place at 2 pm (museum admission will be free on 12/1 from 1 pm onward). Museum open 9 am-5 pm.

Bushy Run Battlefield
Dec. 8: Colonial Christmas Party—kids age 4-12 are invited to learn about and make homemade decorations, learn a colonial-era dance, and enjoy a snack. Cost is $5 per child. Advance registration is required: contact Marlene at 724/744-4193 or secretary@bushyrunbattlefield.com. 2-4 pm.

Conrad Weiser Homestead
Dec. 2: Christmas Open House—enjoy one last chance to visit the homestead in 2018 (site will be open by appointment only until Charter Day in March). The Visitor Center Bookstore will be open and books will be marked down 10% (more details on the Facebook event page). Guided tours will be available. Admission is free; donations gratefully accepted. Noon-4 pm.

Cornwall Iron Furnace
Dec. 1: Christmas at Cornwall House Tour—this annual tour lets you explore private homes in the Cornwall/Lebanon/Mount Gretna area (info on this year's homes) while supporting the Friends of Cornwall Iron Furnace. Tickets are $15 in advance at several locations in the community and at the Furnace. Tickets are $20 on the day of the tour and are available only at the Iron Furnace. Your ticket includes a guided tour of the Furnace, which you may redeem during regular operating hours up through Dec. 29, 2017. Light refreshments will be offered throughout the day at the Furnace. 10 am-4 pm.

Daniel Boone Homestead
Dec. 7-8: Christkindlmarket—crafts, wine, candlelight, and shopping (details on the Boone home page). Admission is $7 for ages 12 and up (members pay less). Check website for info on combo ticket ($10) with the "Christmas at Johanna Furnace" event. Tickets available by calling 610/582-4900. DBH event is 4-9 pm both days.

Eckley Miners' Village
Dec. 1-2: Christmas at Eckley—from carolers to cocoa, crafts to St. Nick, you are sure to find something delightful in this old-fashioned Christmas celebration (details on Facebook event page). Admission is $7 per person; bring an unexpired, non-perishable food item and receive $1 off your ticket.

Ephrata Cloister
As of Dec. 1, tickets are on sale for this year's Lantern Tours, scheduled for Dec. 26-29 (more info on website).
Dec. 10-11: Christmas at the Cloister—this popular annual program combines seasonal readings and traditional music performed by the Ephrata Cloister Chorus in the 1741 Meetinghouse (Saal). Performance times are 6:30 and 8 pm each evening. UPDATE 12/3: the 6:30 performance on 12/10 is sold out, but tickets remain for other performances. Tickets are $6 per person and seating is limited. Purchase tickets from the Museum Store by calling 717/733-2592 or order by mail (see website for instructions) You may also want to keep an eye on the Facebook event page for updates on ticket availability and to see a video.

Erie Maritime Museum and Flagship Niagara
Dec. 8: The Christmas Tree Ship—Niagara will be lit up for Christmas, and there will be lots of family activities, a visit with Santa and a live reindeer (due to arrive at 5:45 pm), and the story of The Christmas Tree Ship (more program details on the website). Admission is free. The museum is a Toys for Tots collection site. For $50, you can sponsor a Christmas tree and decorations for a local family (sponsorships are payable online). 5:30-8:30 pm.

Fort Pitt Museum
Please visit the Fort Pitt Museum website for information on programs and schedules.

Graeme Park
Dec. 6: Gingerbread House Workshop—you'll work with a kit and receive instructions and then you'll be free to let your creativity loose (more info on website). Light refreshments will be served. Cost is $15 per person. Space is limited. Prepaid reservations required; contact Beth at beth.maccausland@gmail.com or 215-915-9453. 7-9 pm.

Hope Lodge
Dec. 1: Holidays at Hope Lodge—tour the mansion at your leisure to enjoy the festive decorations and enjoy light refreshments (details on the website). Admission charged, but at a reduced rate for this event. Visitors age 21 and older (with ID) will, for an additional fee, be able to taste seasonal ales from Round Guys Brewing Company in the summer kitchen. 11 am-5 pm.
Dec. 8: Christmas Tours—guided tours of the mansion will be offered at 10 and 11:30 am, 1 and 2:30 pm. Refreshments will be served in the summer kitchen, and the Museum Shop will be open for holiday shopping. Regular admission charged. Site open 10 am-4 pm.

Landis Valley Village and Farm Museum
Dec. 1-2: Country Christmas Village—this year's event has a new twist, exploring Christmas as seen in books and stories by Laura Ingalls Wilder, Louisa May Alcott, O.Henry, and others (more info on the website). What influence did Pennsylvania German traditions have on these classics? Children can learn about the history of Santa Claus and (with parental permission) post a letter to Santa at the Landis Valley Post Office ($1 postage) and receive a reply from the North Pole. Musical entertainment will be provided in the Yellow Barn (different performers each day). The Museum Store will be hosting their annual Artisan Showcase with loads of handcrafted goodies. There is no charge to visit the Museum Store. For everything else, admission is: Age 12-64, $12; age 65+, $10; age 3-11, $8; LVA members and age 2 and under, free. Online ticket purchase available via Brown Paper Tickets. Saturday, 10 am-4 pm; Sunday, noon-4 pm.
Dec. 4 and 8: Days of the Belsnickel—enjoy dinner (12/4) or lunch (12/8) along with holiday shopping, storytellers, dancing, and a visit with the Belsnickel (a PA German tradition). Reservations are required and can be made online, via email, or by phone (lunch details, dinner details).

Old Economy Village
Dec. 1-2: Christmas at the Village—enjoy entertainment by local musicians and shop for a wide array of gifts and food items. Children will find activities just for them and can even visit with mean old Belsnickel (details). Admission charged; please purchase tickets at the Visitor Center, as no tickets will be sold at the Village gate. Saturday, 2-9 pm; Sunday, 2-7 pm. (Note: Ambridge's Christmas in the Historic District will also take place Dec. 1-2 from 10 am to 7 pm, so you may want to do both.)
Dec. 6: Christmas Homeschool Tour—this Christmas-themed program is geared for students in preschool through third grade. Activities (details on the website) include crafts, decorations, and a visit with Belsnickel. Cost is $5 per person. Space is limited, and reservations are required by Dec. 4. Please email David Miller to make reservations. 1-2:30 pm.
Dec. 8: Meet Belsnickel—he's grumpy but you know you want to meet him. Belsnickel (a PA German tradition) will be on hand and receiving visitors. You'll also be able to decorate cookies and enjoy some cold mulled cider. Cost is $5 per person. Reserve your spot by calling 724/266-4500 x113. 11 am-2 pm.
Dec. 8: Deadline to register—two of OEV's regular blacksmithing demonstrators will teach an intermediate blacksmithing class on Dec. 15. Class is free but space is limited and you must register by Dec. 8. Contact David Miller at davmiller@pa.gov. 10 am-1 pm.
Dec. 13: Christmas Dinner—join with other supporters of Old Economy for a festive evening of dining and music in the Feast Hall (details). Reservations are required. Doors open at 6 pm.

Pennsbury Manor
Dec. 6-7: Holly Nights—a special opportunity to see Pennsbury illuminated by candlelight, bonfires, and hearth fires. Enjoy caroling, hot cider, and throwing a green sprig on the Yule log for luck (details on the website). Admission charged (purchase tickets online thru Ticketleap). 6-9 pm both nights.

Pennsylvania Lumber Museum
Dec. 8: Santa in the Shay—St. Nick will forgo his sleigh in favor of a geared locomotive as he listens to children's requests. Take an instant photo and turn it into an ornament, browse unique gifts from local artisans and the museum store, and enjoy hot cocoa (Facebook event page has details). Admission is $5 for adults, $3 for kids. Noon-4pm.

Pennsylvania Military Museum
Throughout the month of December—a Selective Service Registration Card for Mr. S. Claus will be on temporary exhibit during regular operating hours. Wed.-Sat., 10 am-4 pm; Sun., noon-4 pm.
Dec. 7: Pearl Harbor Remembrance Day Tribute—77 years ago on December 7th, the U.S. Pacific Fleet at Hawaii was attacked by aircraft from the Imperial Japanese Navy. America was at war. The tribute is held beneath the guns of the battleship USS Pennsylvania, which was a witness to that attack. Light refreshments will be served in the museum auditorium following the tribute ceremony. 12:45 p.m.

Railroad Museum of Pennsylvania
Dec. 1 and 8: Home for the Holidays—costumed engineers, conductors, ticket agents, and passengers representing the past century bring historic rail travel to life. Kids can visit with Santa or work with a telegrapher to send a Christmas telegram to the North Pole. Holiday music, refreshments (while supplies last), and shopping are part of the day too (lots more details). Included in regular admission (extra charge for Christmas with the Conductor parties, call the museum at 717/687-8628 to check availability). 9 am-5 pm.

State Museum of Pennsylvania
Please visit the planetarium webpage for info on shows and schedules.
Dec. 7: StoryTime—visit the museum's Transportation Gallery and read Little Plane Learns to Write by author/illustrator Stephen Savage. You'll also make a small plane of your own to take home. Included in general admission and intended for children age 3-5 with an adult. 10-11 am.
Dec. 13: Nature Lab—in today's program, "Pre-Historic Deer (Cervids)," learn about the ancestors of today's white-tail deer and Santa's reindeer with curator of paleontology, Dr. Steven Janiski. Included in general admission. 11:30 am-12:30 pm.

Washington Crossing Historic Park
Please visit the WCHP events page for details on the annual crossing reenactments and other events.

On the PA Trails of History, Nov. 16-29

All Trails of History sites will be closed on Thanksgiving Day, Nov. 22; sites open on the day after Thanksgiving (Nov. 23) are noted below. The info is accurate to the best of my knowledge. You may want to check with the site you plan to visit to be sure of their schedule (seasonal schedule changes may be in effect as well).

Please remember the museum stores at historic sites and museums on Small Business Saturday (11/24) and Museum Store Sunday (11/25). Heck, some of them sell online, so you can visit them on Cyber Monday (11/26), too. And don't even get me started on Giving Tuesday (11/27)!

If you're interested in submitting a nomination for a state historical marker, December 1 is the next deadline. Find details here.

Through December 31, the Pennsylvania Heritage Foundation (PHF) and The State Museum of Pennsylvania are excited to offer a "Buy One Get One Free" membership offer. Renew, rejoin, or join, and you can gift a free membership of equal or lesser value to a friend, family member, or co-worker. Memberships included in this offer are Heritage, Individual, and Family (visit PHF website for details or to purchase online). All categories of membership include free regular admission to sites on the Pennsylvania Trails of History. (Please note, the gift membership must be for individuals or families who have never held a membership with PHF or The State Museum previously.)

See Ephrata Cloister by candlelight on Nov. 24, details below (photo from 2017 via Facebook)

Brandywine Battlefield Park
Nov. 24: Patriot’s Day—living history demonstrations, musket drills, blacksmith, house tours, and 18th-century medical "experts"--lots of activities for all ages. 10 am-4 pm.

Bushy Run Battlefield
Nov. 17: Harvest Ball—kids ages 4 to 12 are invited to dance the minuet (we'll teach you), decorate masks and hats to wear, play colonial games, and join in a storytelling session. A light snack will be served. Come in costume if you like, but you don't have to. Cost is $5 per child. Space is limited, and reservations are a must: contact Marlene Sawayda at secretary@bushyrunbattlefield.com to register. 2-4 pm.

Conrad Weiser Homestead
Nov. 17: Candlelight Tours—this annual program features living history, 18th-century music, and a chance to see the site by night. 5:30-8 pm.

Daniel Boone Homestead
Nov. 18: Lecture—Les Stark will present "Hemp in the 18th Century." Suggested donation of $2 per person for talk. 2 pm.
Nov. 23: Day After Thanksgiving—site open 10 am-4 pm.

Drake Well Museum and Park
Nov. 24: Something More Saturday—members of the Venango County ARES/RACES ham radio club will be on hand to help visitors speak with Santa at the North Pole. There will also be holiday craft projects and other family-friendly activities (details on Facebook). Included in regular admission (special group admission: buy 2 full-price adult tickets and get 3 youth tickets free). Site open 9 am-5 pm; special programming, 10 am-3 pm.

Ephrata Cloister
Nov. 16: Extraordinary Give—Ephrata Cloister will once again participate in the Lancaster County Community Foundation's one-day, online giving campaign. Visit their page anytime between 12:00 am and 11:59 pm to donate.
Nov. 24: Candlelight Open House—spend a lovely evening exploring the Ephrata Cloister, with music, craftspeople, and more (info on website). Cost is $6 per person. 5-8:30 pm.

Fort Pitt Museum
Please visit the Fort Pitt Museum website for information on schedules and programs.

Graeme Park
Nov. 18: Colonial Beer Brewing—visit the summer kitchen, where the brewer will be making a batch of house beer and talking about 18th-century beers and brewing (more info). Beer demo is free; admission charged for tours of the Keith House. 11 am-2 pm.
Nov. 24: Christmas in the Colonies—candlelight tours of the Keith House, where the Tapestry Dancers and costumed interpreters will illustrate Christmas and other winter holidays as the Graemes might have known them. Refreshments will be served. Tours will start approximately every 20 minutes from 4 to 6:40 pm (details on the website). Cost is $5 per person, free for members. 4-7 pm.

Landis Valley Village and Farm Museum
Nov. 16: Extraordinary Give—Landis Valley will once again participate in the Lancaster County Community Foundation's one-day, online giving campaign. Visit their page anytime between 12:00 am and 11:59 pm to donate.
Nov. 17, 24: Fall Workshops Continue—check the website for course descriptions and registration info.
Nov. 24-25: Museum Store Shop Local Open House and Museum Store Sunday—shop for locally handmade art, crafts and heirloom-quality gifts and enjoy holiday decorations in the museum store. Museum Store events are free; regular rates apply for museum admission. Sat., 9 am-5 pm; Sun., noon-5 pm.

Old Economy Village
Nov. 17: Honey Bees with BABA—watch the website for updates on this program. 10 am-1 pm.

Pennsbury Manor
Nov. 18: Cooking Demonstration—join the cooks as they revel in the extravagant use of sugar and spices, using 17th-century confectionary recipes. Included in regular admission. 1-4 pm.

Pennsylvania Lumber Museum
Nov. 17: Holiday Craft Faire and Cooking Demo—locally made, hand-crafted, and/or holiday-themed items will be featured by a variety of vendors in the museum program room. Out in the Lumber Camp, they'll be firing up the cook stove around 1 pm for a demonstration of how logging camp cooks met the prodigious caloric needs of woodhicks and barkpeelers. You can visit the craft fair for free; museum admission applies to view the indoor and outdoor exhibits and the cooking demo. Museum open 9 am-5 pm.

Pennsylvania Military Museum
Nov. 17: Kids Day - Dress Up and Discover!!—Kids of all ages get to try on military gear from the museum education collection. Visit the education stations in the galleries for more discoveries throughout the day. Parents must remain on-site while their kids participate in the activities. Included in regular admission. 10:00 am-3:00 pm.

Railroad Museum of Pennsylvania
Nov. 16: Extraordinary Give—the Railroad Museum is participating in the Lancaster County Community Foundation's one-day, online giving campaign. Visit their page (listed as "Friends of the Railroad Museum") anytime between 12:00 am and 11:59 pm to donate.
Nov. 23: Day After Thanksgiving—site open 9 am-5 pm.
Nov. 23: Last Day for Reservations—advance registration is required for the museum's Christmas with the Conductor parties, scheduled for Dec. 1 and 8 (see flyer for details).

State Museum of Pennsylvania
Please visit the Planetarium page for a full schedule of shows.
Nov. 16: Holiday Marketplace, Day 2—shop the Trails of History with representatives from The State Museum of PA, Landis Valley Village and Farm Museum, Ephrata Cloister, Somerset Historical Center, and Daniel Boone Homestead (details). Museum admission will be free for shoppers. Hours on Thursday are 10 am-3 pm. Friday opens at 10 am and runs until 7:30 pm for 3rd in the Burg.

Washington Crossing Historic Park
Please visit the Washington Crossing website for details on this month's schedule and programs.

Gift Ideas for Your History Lovers (or Yourself)

The December program page lists events coming up this weekend and the rest of the month. Next week's post will include info (to the best of my knowledge) on site schedules around Christmas and New Year's. With luck, the January program page will be available next week as well (depends on the elves).

UPDATED 11 AM 12/15 to add Pennsbury ornament info

Luminaries and lighted fences at Daniel Boone Homestead's Christkindlmarket event (via Facebook)

We are in the midst of a multi-holiday season where the exchanging of gifts and the sharing of bounty are part and parcel of the festivities. That can be fraught with expectations, disappointment, resentment, frustration, you name it. Commercialism runs rampant. (As does, apparently, a tendency toward Dickensian language. Just me? Ok.) To combat the seasonal angst, we at Trailheads HQ have pulled together a list of suggestions to make your holiday gift-giving more meaningful, if only because your purchases help to support the programs and operations of the sites on the Trails of History. (I suppose you could also shop at other museums and historic sites, but they can get their own blog.)

A number of sites on the Trails of History are collection points for the U.S. Marine Corps "Toys for Tots" program. I have seen info from Erie Maritime Museum and U.S. Brig Niagara, the Pennsylvania Military Museum, and the Railroad Museum of PA. There may be others (please let me know and I'll add you to this list). New, unwrapped toys will be shared with children in these communities - you can purchase items at the museum stores to donate or purchase elsewhere and bring them in. Collections continue through Dec. 20. (Search the Marine Toys for Tots Foundation website for locations in PA.)

Last weekend's Christmas Tree Ship event at Erie Maritime Museum included Santa, reindeer, and festive lights on the rigging of U.S. Brig Niagara (via Facebook)

If you have a history lover on your gift list (or want to treat yourself), why not a gift membership at your favorite Trails of History site? Or a "buy one, get one" membership deal from the Pennsylvania Heritage Foundation? Or tickets to one of many popular beer and/or wine fests, which often sell out ahead of time?

Tickets to Ephrata Cloister's annual lantern tours would make a great gift.

From State Museum of PA Facebook page

If you're in the Harrisburg area today, the Museum Store at the State Museum is having a pop up sale.

Cornwall Iron Furnace was recently featured in a Lebanon Daily News article about gift ideas at area museums. Your favorite Trails of History site has loads of creative and imaginative items, many of them locally made and one-of-a-kind. You don't have to worry about sizes, either.

Thanks to the work of the Friends of the Joseph Priestley House, a modern edition of Dr. Priestley's 1799 Letters to the Inhabitants of Northumberland and its Neighborhood is now available. The new edition updates spelling, typography, and punctuation for contemporary readers who want to learn more about Joseph Priestley's views on politics and religion (the original was written in response to his critics). Read more about the book and find out where to get it on the Joseph Priestley House website.

And Landis Valley Village and Farm Museum has continued to add photos to its Museum Store Holiday 2017 album on Facebook. Lots of lovely things there.

Just saw this lovely ornament on Pennsbury Manor's Facebook page and had to share!

Wishing you lots of light, warmth, and friendship (and food!), no matter what you're celebrating.

Thanksgiving Week at a Glance

First of all, I'd like to wish everyone a Happy Thanksgiving. I have so much to be thankful for and try to have the good sense never to take any of it for granted. I hope that you and yours are warm, safe, and well fed. And I hope that we all find ways in the coming weeks and months to help people who aren't as fortunate.

Fall garden scene at Pennsbury Manor (via Facebook)

All PA Trails of History sites will be closed tomorrow, Nov. 23, for Thanksgiving Day. If you still want some history, how about participating in The Great Thanksgiving Listen? This is an initiative developed by Story Corps (#TheGreatListen) to help teachers and students conduct oral history interviews with family members, but the app and questions (and the ability to save interviews in the Story Corps Archive) are available to everyone. There's even a printable placemat that might make a great addition to the kids' table. Whether you're recording interviews or not, the placemat provides some conversation starters that can help any gathering along or keep it from going off the rails.

Some sites will be open on Friday, Nov. 24, and I've indicated that in the schedule below. The info is accurate to the best of my knowledge, but as always, it's a good idea to check with specific sites if you're making a special trip to visit them. Friday is also a good day to #OptOutside and visit one of Pennsylvania's many state parks.

Stoneware mugs at Cornwall Iron Furnace Museum Store (via Sunset Hill Stoneware's Facebook page)

That brings us to Saturday, Nov. 25. Trails of History sites will be back to their regular schedules - please note that some sites are now on winter seasonal schedules. As noted above, be sure to check that the site you want to visit will be open when you plan to be there. I've noted special events below. If you want to participate in Small Business Saturday and #shopsmall, remember that our museum stores are great places to buy locally made crafts and art. Not to mention regional and local food specialties or one-of-a-kind gifts.

Redware plates and other traditional items at Ephrata Cloister Museum Store (via Facebook)

If your Saturday is full, why not spend Sunday, Nov. 26, on the Trails of History supporting #MuseumStoreSunday? This is a new program from the Museum Store Association, and many PHMC sites will be taking part (at least informally). Landis Valley Village and Farm Museum has been updating an album on their Facebook page with beautiful stuff from their Museum Store. (I wanted to share, but I couldn't pick just one - please visit the album and the site to see for yourself.) You can read about deals at Landis Valley and the Railroad Museum of PA in this article from LancasterOnline.

On #CyberMonday, Nov. 27, visit the Erie Maritime Museum and U.S. Brig Niagara website to book your 2018 Day Sails (actually that deal is going on Nov. 24 through Nov. 27, but I'm trying to work a theme here). Save $10 per member or non-member ticket and beat the spring rush. Gift cards are also available online.

Day sailors on board U.S. Brig Niagara, 2010 (AKF photo)

Tuesday, Nov. 28, brings an opportunity to follow-up all that holiday eating and shopping with donations to good causes of your choosing. One such cause on the Trails of History is the Pennsylvania Heritage Foundation (PHF) #GivingTuesday project. PHF is the PHMC's support organization and this year has a #GivingTuesday goal of $3,000 to assist school visits to PHMC's sites and museums. PHF will post more specific info on Tuesday, but they'll use their Annual Fund page to receive #GivingTuesday donations. UPDATE: info posted today, Monday, Nov. 27.

It seems to me that we need a hashtag for the Wednesday after Thanksgiving to round out the week, but I haven't found one. #WhateverWednesday to denote our exhaustion and apathy might be a possibility but maybe that's too cynical. C'mon Trailheads nation, let's start a trend - post your suggestions in the comments.

Holiday weekend schedule...

Brandywine Battlefield Park
Nov. 25: Patriot’s Day—living history demonstrations, musket drills, blacksmith, house tours, and 18th-century medical "experts"--lots of activities for all ages. At 2 pm, Dr. Robert Selig will present "The Politics of Arming America: The Vallière 4-lb Cannon at Brandywine," which will help answer questions on how/why this piece came to America during the Revolution and will also discuss its importance in assisting the American cause of liberty. 10 am-4 pm.

Daniel Boone Homestead
Nov. 24: Day After Thanksgiving—site open 10 am-4 pm.

Drake Well Museum and Park
Nov. 25: Something More Saturday—members of the Venango County ARES/RACES ham radio club will be on hand to help visitors speak with Santa at the North Pole. There will also be holiday craft projects using recycled materials and other family-friendly activities (details on Facebook). Included in regular admission (special group admission: buy 2 full-price adult tickets and get 3 youth tickets free). Site open 9 am-5 pm; special programming, 10 am-3 pm.

Ephrata Cloister
Nov. 25: Candlelight Open House—spend a lovely evening exploring the Ephrata Cloister, with music, craftspeople, and more. Cost is $6 per person. 5-8:30 pm.

Fort Pitt Museum
Nov. 24: Day After Thanksgiving—site open 10 am-5 pm.

Graeme Park
Nov. 25: A Continental Christmas—more than 2,000 men of the Continental Army were encamped around Graeme Park from December 1777 through January 1778. Learn about what Christmas was like that year for the soldiers and the residents of Graeme Park. Suggested donation, $2 (free for members). 10 am-3 pm.

Railroad Museum of Pennsylvania
Nov. 24: Day After Thanksgiving—site open 9 am-5 pm.
Nov. 24: Last Day for Reservations—advance registration is required for the museum's Christmas with the Conductor parties, scheduled for Dec. 2 and 9 (see flyer for details).

Washington Crossing Historic Park
Please check the website for details on this weekend's schedule.

On and Off the Trails

Please consult the December program page for details on upcoming events.

So, today's post includes some items from the Trails of History and a couple from off the trails that I thought might be of interest.

Lights adorn the rigging of US Brig Niagara during last week's Christmas Tree Ship event (via Facebook)

Seasonal events continue on the Trails of History (see photo above and check the program page for details). Washington Crossing Historic Park has posted and shared photos from this year's first reenactment of George Washington's crossing of the Delaware River on Christmas night in 1776 (read a first-hand account from a first-time participant). The 174th Infantry Brigade from Ft. Dix (NJ) was there, learning first-hand about The 10 Crucial Days (following the Christmas crossing) and experiencing the crossing and march to Trenton. The Christmas Day reenactment starts on Dec. 25 at noon with a commemorative program, with the boats set to launch around 1 pm (boat crossing is dependent on favorable river conditions, but the program takes place even if the boats can't cross).

If you can't make it to the crossing reenactment but still want to be immersed in the American Revolution and the Early Republic (beyond listening to the cast album of Hamilton again), the National Archives has developed a webpage they call Founders Online. They've gathered 176,000 searchable and annotated documents (thanks to the Founding Fathers Papers project) related to George Washington, Benjamin Franklin, John Adams and family, Thomas Jefferson, Alexander Hamilton, and James Madison. But you'll find many other people in these documents (for example, there are 988 letters written by Abigail Adams and 1,348 received by her). Just what every history geek needs!

UPDATE 12/20/16: WCHP will also be livestreaming the event on Dec. 25 on YouTube, starting at noon.

Still shopping for that hard-to-buy-for history lover? Consider a gift membership, museum store gift card, or admission passes to a site on the PA Trails of History. Or a one-of-a-kind item from one of our museum stores. Or a donation in honor of someone who already has all the stuff they need. That always fits.

Eckley Main Street (photo by Bode Morin)

Thanks to my Google Alerts, I ran across a Dec. 9 editorial from the Wilkes-Barre Times Leader where they were awarding diamonds (good) and coal (not-so-good) to various local organizations. And I quote: "Diamonds to Eckley Miners’ Village and the people who work to keep the historic coal patch town-turned-museum engaging. The village hosts events throughout the year, most recently the annual 'Christmas in Eckley.' Admittedly, it can be an uphill struggle to present crowd-luring options in a town from a far past, but it’s also important. This may be an aging coal area where anthracite plays a shrinking role, but its importance in our history should never be forgotten." Amen to that (and thank you, Times Leader, for recognizing the folks at Eckley.)

On a related note, but off the Trails of History, I also ran into a Kickstarter project raising funds for conservation work on a coal-region mural painted in 1946 by Franz Kline (later known for his black-and-white abstract paintings). Kline was from Lehighton and painted the mural at the local American Legion post, which has now turned it over to the Allentown Art Museum. The video that goes with the Kickstarter campaign is interesting if for no other reason than it shows the museum's conservators removing it from the wall and preparing it for transport.

And one final item for this week. You may be familiar with Comedy Central's "Drunk History" program where comedians (mostly) get drunk and recount a historical event. A cast of regulars and guests then reenact the drunk's telling of the story, word-for-sloppy-word. It sometimes sheds light (however inebriated) on lesser-known aspects of history or facets of well-known stories. It can be very funny--the Harriet Tubman episode has become very popular--or not funny at all if watching people get drunk disturbs or offends you. Anyway, the Indiana Historical Society staff, wanting to try something similar but without the public drunkenness, created "Hot Pepper History." For each segment, the narrator(s) take a bite of a habanero or other fiery pepper and then try to tell a story from Indiana history. They've compiled a highlight segment, which gives you a good idea of the premise, and you can find the full episodes (generally 3-5 minutes long) on YouTube (The Fairbanks Tea Party is worth your time, I think). Who says history can't be fun?

What Are You Thankful For?

Trailheads is a little early this week to get ahead of the holiday.

I am thankful for my husband, my family, my friends, and my colleagues. I am thankful for my health and my home. I am thankful for reminders that I should never take any of these things for granted, because there are so many people who cannot even take their next meal or a safe place to live for granted. I am thankful for all of you who read Trailheads and who support the work of everyone on the PHMC's Trails of History. What are you thankful for?

Thankful for the work of PHMC's Preservation Field Services section - this is the Getz Dry House at Landis Valley Village and Farm Museum, before and after restoration work (photo by Rob Coates)

All of our Trails of History sites will be closed tomorrow, Nov. 24, for Thanksgiving. The following will be open on Friday, Nov. 25:

• Daniel Boone Homestead
• Fort Pitt Museum
• Railroad Museum of Pennsylvania
• Washington Crossing Historic Park

Regular schedules resume on Saturday, Nov. 26, but please be sure to check ahead. Operating schedules change seasonally at a number of sites, so it's always best to be sure the site you want to visit will be open when you plan to be there (list of all sites). And don't forget to remember your favorite site on #GivingTuesday, Nov. 29. (UPDATE: Daniel Boone Homestead sent me a link to the donation page on their website to make it easier.)

Remember to "Shop Small" at Ephrata Cloister and all Trails of History museum stores

I've posted the list of December programs for those of you who like to plan ahead (holiday programming starts on Dec. 1), but there's still stuff to do in November!

Saturday, Nov. 26

• Patriots's Day, Brandywine Battlefield Park, admission charged (details), 10 am-4pm
• Candlelight Open House, Ephrata Cloister, admission charged (details), 5-8:30 pm
• A Continental Christmas, Graeme Park, free admission (details), noon-4pm
• Wreaths & Greens Workshop, Pennsbury Manor, advance registration required (details), 10 am-noon or 1-3 pm

Starting Tuesday, Nov. 29

• Christmastime for Children, Old Economy Village, advance registration required (details)

I will all of you a happy, healthy, and safe Thanksgiving, full of good things. If you'd like to explore your family history while you have everyone gathered, The Smithsonian Center for Folklife and Cultural Heritage has developed a list of questions to help you get started.