Weekend Plans

Enjoy the fall garden beauty and lots of activities at Old Economy Village's Erntedankfest Harvest Festival this weekend (photo via Old Economy's Facebook page)

Up Next

Today, September 22

• Curiosity Kids (in-person); 11:30 am-12:30 pm; The State Museum of PA
• Explore the use of LINE in art: what it is, different types of line, and how artists use it in their artwork. Create your own piece of line artwork to take home. For kids in grades K to 2 and included in regular admission. Space is limited, so sign up at the front desk when you arrive (Curiosity Kids info).

• Learn at Lunchtime (virtual); 12:15-12:45 pm; The State Museum of PA
• Join Amy Hammond, Fine Arts Curator and "Art of the State" Project Director, as she explores representations of seeds in art using pieces in the "Art of the State 2023" exhibit. Program is free, but you must register to receive the Zoom link (Learn at Lunchtime info and registration).

Saturday, September 23

• Fall Nature Walk (in-person); 10-11 am; Bushy Run Battlefield
• Learn about historical and modern uses of the wide variety of plant life found at Bushy Run. Wear sturdy shoes (such as hiking boots) and dress for the weather. Tickets are $5 (free for members), available at the door (Fall Nature Walk info).

• CANCELED due to weather: Still Life Paint and Sip for All Skill Levels (in-person); 10 am-1 pm; Pennsbury Manor
• Bring your favorite beverage and paint along step by step as we create our own 17th-century inspired still life. Materials provided. Cost is $35, $30 for members. Email c-kerscott@pa.gov to reserve your spot (Pennsbury Paint and Sip info).

• Erntedankfest Harvest Festival (in-person); Saturday and Sunday, 10 am-4 pm; Old Economy Village
• This event celebrates the fall harvest and many of the tasks done to prepare for winter. Artisans will be cooking, baking and demonstrating many different crafts and skills. Music, food and activities for the whole family make this a great fall tradition. Event takes place 10 am to 4 pm both days. Regular admission charged (Erntedankfest Harvest Festival info).

• Revolutionary Speaker Series (in-person); Saturday, Sept. 23, Noon-2 pm; Brandywine Battlefield Park
• Andrew Outten, historical programs manager for the Society of the Cincinnati in Washington, DC, will present "'From a Plan Drawn on the Spot': William Faden and the Battle of Brandywine," exploring one of the most influential British mapmakers of the late 18th century. Tickets are available in advance through Eventbrite (Sept. 23 Rev Speaker Series tickets).

Sunday, September 24

• Beer Brewing and Garden Highlights (in-person); 1-4 pm; Pennsbury Manor
• Explore and experience the sights, sounds, and smells of the recipes and plants that fed early residents of Pennsbury. Included in regular admission (Beer Brewing & Garden Highlights info).

Thursday, September 28

• Owls of Pennsylvania (in-person); 11:30 am-12:30 pm; The State Museum of PA
• Pennsylvania owls range in size from the large great horned owl to the small Eastern screech owl. Learn more about the owls that inhabit our state and dissect an owl pellet to find out what they eat. Included in regular admission (Owls of PA program info).

Advance Tickets or Registrations

• Garden Railways Tour (in-person); Sunday, Oct. 1, 1-5 pm; Railroad Museum of PA
• Tickets are on sale now for the 16th annual tour of garden railways located at five sites in Lancaster and York Counties. Cost is $10 for ages 6 and up. Tickets available via Eventbrite or at the Whistle Stop Shop at the museum.

• Sensory Hours (in-person); Tuesday, Oct. 3, 3-5 pm, and Tuesday, Oct. 17, 9-11 am ; Railroad Museum of PA
• Light, sound, and crowd levels will be lower, and there will be some quiet spots in the galleries to take a break. Several historic trains will be open with staff on hand to answer questions. At 3:30 pm on Oct. 3, there will be a Story Time with the Educator aimed at kids age 2 to 5. Advance tickets required (tickets for Oct. 3 Sensory Hours and tickets for Oct. 17 Sensory Hours).

• Frosty Mugs of Thunder (in-person); Saturday, Oct. 7, 2-6 pm; Somerset Historical Center
• Kick off autumn with a beer, wine, and spirits fest. Live music and local food, as well. Must be 21 years of age or older to attend; ticket holders must show photo ID at the entrance (Frosty Mugs of Thunder info and tickets).

• Battle of Germantown (virtual); Tuesday, Oct. 10, 7-8 pm; Cornwall Iron Furnace
• Historian and educator Michael Harris will present a program on the Battle of Germantown during the American Revolution. The program is free, but you must register to receive the Zoom link (Battle of Germantown lecture info).

• Lunch & Learn (in-person); Wednesday, Oct. 11, 10 am-1 pm; Graeme Park
• Sue Johnston will present a program on courtship and marriage in early America, exploring differences between different economic classes and the status of children born outside of marriage, abandoned, or orphaned. Program includes continental breakfast and lunch buffet. Tours of the Keith House will be available after lunch (Lunch & Learn info and tickets).

• Pithole Lantern Tours (in-person); Saturday, Oct. 14, 6:30-9:30 pm; Historic Pithole City
• Visitors will walk the former streets of the legendary oil boomtown, meeting some of Pithole's most famous historical figures along the way. Tours depart the visitor center every 10 minutes from 6:30 pm to 9:30 pm and last approximately 90 minutes. Advance tickets only (Pithole Lantern Tour tickets).

• Cemetery Tours (in-person); Saturday, Oct. 14, 7-8 pm, and Sunday, Oct. 15, 2-3 pm; Joseph Priestley House
• This event takes place at Riverview Cemetery in Northumberland with tours starting every 15 minutes. Meet 10 characters representing individuals in the cemetery who will guide you through the graveyard. Tickets are $10 for adults, $5 for ages 12 and under (accompanied by an adult). Call 570-473-9474 for tickets (Priestley House events calendar).

• Workshops in Archaeology 2023 (in-person); Saturday, Oct. 28, 9 am-5 pm; The State Museum of PA
• This year's theme is Discovering the Past: The Sciences of Archaeology. Sessions will feature experts in Geographic Information Systems (GIS), C14 dating, GPR survey, geoarchaeology, and more. Please join us as we explore how these specialized analyses are conducted and how the results enhance our understanding of the environmental and human past. Early registration by Oct. 20 is $25; discounts available. Registration at the door is $35 (no discounts). Bagged lunches, available for $8.50, must be ordered by Oct. 20 (Workshops in Archaeology info and registration).

Still Feels Like Summer

A calm view of the 1830s Farmstead at Somerset Historical Center before the excitement of this weekend's Mountain Craft Days event (photo via SHC Facebook page)

Up Next

Friday, September 8

• Mountain Craft Days (in-person); Friday, Saturday, and Sunday, 10 am-5 pm; Somerset Historical Center
• Traditional crafts, country food, music, and children's activities in a beautiful woodland setting. Events run 10 am-5 pm each day. General admission, $9; children 6 to 17, $5 (Mountain Craft Days info).

• Curiosity Kids (in-person); 11:30 am-12:30 pm; The State Museum of PA
• Join us in Nature Lab to learn about density - can you discover what will sink and what will float? For kids in grades K to 2 and included in regular admission. Space is limited, so sign up at the front desk when you arrive (Curiosity Kids info).

Saturday, September 9

• Fall Gas Up (in-person); 9 am-3 pm; Drake Well Museum & Park
• Drake Well hosts the Pioneer Steam and Gas Engine Society with displays of antique engines, farm and oil field equipment, cars, trucks, and models. Included in regular admission (Fall Gas Up program info).

• Railroad Heritage Day (in-person); 10 am-4 pm; Railroad Museum of PA
• A Marklin/LEGO® train display and coloring table for kids will be on hand, as well as three special Museum tours for this event: “Down By The Station,” “Pennsylvania Railroad Board Rooms” and “The Solari Board.” Included in the regular Museum admission (Railroad Heritage Day info).

• Garden Tour (in-person); 11 am-Noon; Old Economy Village
• Explore how the Harmonists shaped the land around Old Economy to combine aspects of medieval cloistered gardens, Germanic traditions, and American flora. Learn about George Rapp’s use of biblical imagery and discover its hidden features. Included in regular admission (Garden Tour info).

• Paws in the Park (in-person); 11 am-4 pm; Bushy Run Battlefield
• This free event features dog-friendly activities, crafts, vendors, and local animal adoption/rescue opportunities (Paws in the Park info).

• Film Screening (in-person); 1-3 pm; PA Lumber Museum
• Join us for a screening of the new feature-length documentary NEPADOC, followed by a Q&A with the filmmaker David Heineman of Bloomsburg University. Included in regular admission (NEPADOC film screening info).

• 13th Annual Crush&Brew (in-person); 5-8 pm; Old Economy Village
• Old Economy hosts this Ambridge Historic District event that features wine and beer tastings, food trucks, tours of the Harmonist Wine Cellar, and live music. Ticket includes a $10 food voucher and admission to after parties at several local businesses. Tickets are $35 in advance, $40 at the door.

Sunday, September 10

• Anniversary of the Battle of Lake Erie (virtual); 11:45 am-Noon; Erie Maritime Museum
• This event commemorates the 210th anniversary of the Battle of Lake Erie, where an American squadron of Erie-built ships defeated the entire British Lake Erie fleet at Put-in-Bay, Ohio. The ceremony will be live-streamed on the Erie Maritime Museum's Facebook page (Battle of Lake Erie Livestream info).

• Living History Sunday (in-person); Noon-4 pm; Conrad Weiser Homestead
• Come meet a soldier from the German Regiment, a unit commanded at times by Gen. Peter Muhlenberg. Also there will be open hearth cooking, a leathersmith and learn about the importance of trade goods in the 18th century. Admission is free (Conrad Weiser Homestead website).

• Gallery Walk and Art of the State Exhibit Opening (in-person); Noon-4:30 pm; The State Museum of PA
• Admission is free today in honor of Harrisburg's annual Gallery Walk. A limited number of timed tickets for Curiosity Connection will be available at the front desk; regular fees apply for the Planetarium. Art of the State 2023 exhibit opens at noon, and the Awards Ceremony will start at 1:30 pm (Gallery Walk and Art of the State info).

• Living History Theater (in-person); 1-4 pm; Pennsbury Manor
• The Living History Players will dramatize a story from Pennsbury's past. Included in regular admission (Living History Theater info).

• The 1777 Philadelphia Campaign (in-person); 2-3 pm; Daniel Boone Homestead
• Join historian and author Michael Harris as he explores the history of the 1777 Philadelphia Campaign. British commander William Howe believed capturing the colonial capital of Philadelphia in 1777 would end the American Revolution. Brandywine, Paoli, Germantown, Fort Mercer, Fort Mifflin, and Whitemarsh all saw fighting during the campaign. Beginning in northern New Jersey, the campaign did not end until George Washington's army entered Valley Forge in December. Lecture takes place at the Wayside Lodge; admission is $2 per person suggested donation (Am Rev Lecture info).

Monday, September 11

• Remembrance Day (in-person); 6-7 pm; Brandywine Battlefield Park
• This event commemorates the 246th anniversary of the Battle of Brandywine. There will be several speakers and music by bagpiper Mark O'Donnell (Remembrance Day info).

Wednesday, September 13

• One-Room Schoolhouse (in-person); 11:30 am-12:30 pm; The State Museum of PA
• Travel back in time to attend a one room schoolhouse. Explore the lessons and materials used in the early 1900s. Included in regular admission (Schoolhouse program info).

• Stargazing: Tonight's Sky (in-person); 2-3 pm; The State Museum of PA
• Join the Planetarium Director for a live chat exploring what you can see in the sky tonight. Learn about the basic motions of the sky, visible constellations and planets, and any special celestial events that are coming up in the next month (Stargazing program info).

Friday, September 15

• Story Time with the Educator (in-person); 10:30-11:30 am; Railroad Museum of PA
• Designed for children ages 2 through preK and led by a Museum educator, Story Time features a reading of a specially selected children’s book and a hands-on activity, craft, song or poem. September's book is A Lucky Dog: Owney, U.S. Rail Mascot by Dirk Wales with illustrations by Diane Kenna. Included in regular admission (Railroad Story Time info).

Advance Tickets or Registrations

• Lagers & Lumberjacks (in-person); Saturday, Sept. 16, 4-7 pm; PA Lumber Museum
• Semi-professional competitors will take on six timbersport events. Logyard Brewing will have samples and local food trucks will have tasty eats. Even try your hand at axe throwing. You must be 21 years of age or older to attend this event. Tickets are $12 in advance ($8 for designated driver) and $15 at the door ($10 for designated driver). Member discounts available (Lagers & Lumberjacks info and tickets). Pre-sale tickets available through Friday afternoon, then you'll need to purchase at the door.

• Sensory Hours (in-person); Tuesday, Sept. 19, 9-11 am, and Tuesday, Oct. 3, 3-5 pm; Railroad Museum of PA
• Light, sound, and crowd levels will be lower, and there will be some quiet spots in the galleries to take a break. Several historic trains will be open with staff on hand to answer questions. At 3:30 pm on Oct. 3, there will be a Story Time with the Educator aimed at kids age 2 to 5. Advance tickets required (tickets for Sept. 19 Sensory Hours and tickets for Oct. 3 Sensory Hours).

• Learn at Lunchtime (virtual); Friday, Sept. 22, 12:15-12:45 pm; The State Museum of PA
• Join Amy Hammond, Fine Arts Curator and "Art of the State" Project Director at The State Museum of Pennsylvania, as she discusses the "Art of the State 2023" exhibit. Program is free, but you must register to receive the Zoom link (Learn at Lunchtime info and registration).

• Revolutionary Speaker Series (in-person); Saturday, Sept. 23, Noon-2 pm; Brandywine Battlefield Park
• Andrew Outten, historical programs manager for the Society of the Cincinnati in Washington, DC, will present "'From a Plan Drawn on the Spot': William Faden and the Battle of Brandywine," exploring one of the most influential British mapmakers of the late 18th century. Tickets are available in advance through Eventbrite (Sept. 23 Rev Speaker Series tickets).

• Garden Railways Tour (in-person); Sunday, Oct. 1, 1-5 pm; Railroad Museum of PA
• Tickets are on sale now for the 16th annual tour of garden railways located at five sites in Lancaster and York Counties. Cost is $10 for ages 6 and up. Tickets available via Eventbrite or at the Whistle Stop Shop at the museum.

• Battle of Germantown (virtual); Tuesday, Oct. 10, 7-8 pm; Cornwall Iron Furnace
• Historian and educator Michael Harris will present a program on the Battle of Germantown during the American Revolution. The program is free, but you must register to receive the Zoom link (Battle of Germantown lecture info).

• Lunch & Learn (in-person); Wednesday, Oct. 11, 10 am-1 pm; Graeme Park
• Sue Johnston will present a program on courtship and marriage in early America, exploring differences between different economic classes and the status of children born outside of marriage, abandoned, or orphaned. Program includes continental breakfast and lunch buffet. Tours of the Keith House will be available after lunch (Lunch & Learn info and tickets).

• Pithole Lantern Tours (in-person); Saturday, Oct. 14, 6:30-9:30 pm; Historic Pithole City
• Visitors will walk the former streets of the legendary oil boomtown, meeting some of Pithole's most famous historical figures along the way. Tours depart the visitor center every 10 minutes from 6:30 pm to 9:30 pm and last approximately 90 minutes. Advance tickets only (Pithole Lantern Tour tickets).

• Cemetery Tours (in-person); Saturday, Oct. 14, 7-8 pm, and Sunday, Oct. 15, 2-3 pm; Joseph Priestley House
• This event takes place at Riverview Cemetery in Northumberland with tours starting every 15 minutes. Meet 10 characters representing individuals in the cemetery who will guide you through the graveyard. Tickets are $10 for adults, $5 for ages 12 and under (accompanied by an adult). Call 570-473-9474 for tickets (Priestley House events calendar).

• Workshops in Archaeology 2023 (in-person); Saturday, Oct. 28, 9 am-5 pm; The State Museum of PA
• This year's theme is Discovering the Past: The Sciences of Archaeology. Sessions will feature experts in Geographic Information Systems (GIS), C14 dating, GPR survey, geoarchaeology, and more. Please join us as we explore how these specialized analyses are conducted and how the results enhance our understanding of the environmental and human past. Early registration by Oct. 20 is $25; discounts available. Registration at the door is $35 (no discounts). Bagged lunches, available for $8.50, must be ordered by Oct. 20 (Workshops in Archaeology info and registration).

Merry and Bright!

Landis Valley Village & Farm Museum's annual bonfire takes place tonight

Up Next

Today, December 9

• Learn at Lunchtime (virtual); 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).

• Candlelight Tours (in-person); Friday and Saturday, 3-6 pm; Pennsbury Manor
• Candlelight tours of the Manor House will be offered at 3, 4, and 5 pm. Regular admission charged. Reservations are encouraged but not required. Also offered Friday and Saturday, Dec. 16 and 17 (Candlelight Tour info).

• Holiday Bonfire (in-person); 6-8 pm; Landis Valley Village & Farm Museum
• This annual event features a festive bonfire, music, refreshments, and good cheer. The event is free; please bring a non-perishable food item for the Lancaster County Food Hub (Holiday Bonfire info).

Saturday, December 10

• Adult and Children's Holiday Workshops (in-person); 10 am-Noon; Pennsbury Manor
• Separate workshops for adults and children (age 5-12) will run simultaneously. Adults will learn to make several types of ornaments (materials included in $35 workshop fee). Children will decorate gingerbread cookies, create a gnome ornament, and enjoy storytime with Father Christmas (pay what you wish - $10 donation suggested). Call 215/946-0400 to reserve for either or both (Pennsbury workshop info).

• Home for the Holidays (in-person); 10 am-4 pm; Railroad Museum of PA
• Enjoy the museum's exhibits and historic trains along with festive decorations, Yuletide music, Santa, and costumed interpreters. Shop for gifts in the Whistle Stop Shop and sample cookies and hot chocolate in the lobby (while supplies last). Artist-in-residence Nadine Charlsen will be at the museum Saturday and Sunday. Included in regular admission (Home for the Holidays info).

• Holidays at Hope Lodge & Colonial Tavern (in-person); 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).

• Santa in the Shay (in-person); Noon-3 pm; PA Lumber Museum
• Santa will be in the cab of the historic Shay locomotive to listen to holiday requests and pose for pictures. In the museum program room, make your photo into an ornament, enjoy cookies and cocoa, and shop the holiday bazaar. Tickets are $5 for adults, $3 for youth; members get in free (Santa in the Shay info).

• A Homestead Holiday (in-person); Noon-4 pm; Daniel Boone Homestead
• Learn how the families who lived at the Homestead celebrated Christmas in the 18th and early 19th centuries. Young visitors can enjoy a visit and photo with Santa. The Homestead Carolers will be singing throughout the historic area (Homestead Holiday info).

Monday, December 12

• SOLD OUT Christmas at the Cloister (in-person); Monday and Tuesday, 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. As of Wednesday, there were tickets still available for 8 pm performances both nights; no tickets sold at the door (Christmas at the Cloister tickets).

Wednesday, December 14

• Homeschool Program (in-person); 10-11:30 am; The State Museum of PA
• This month's program is about Wetlands in PA and will use two of the museum's exhibits as learning stations. Cost is $10 per person ($3 for members); at least one paying adult must accompany each family group (Homeschool program info and registration).

• Ornament Workshop (virtual); 6:30-8 pm
• This virtual workshop will teach you how to make two different ornaments using festive paper and fabric. $10 fee includes materials; you can pick them up at the Visitor Center (Virtual Ornament Workshop info).

Thursday, December 15

• Curiosity Kids (in-person); 11:30 am-12:30 pm; The State Museum of PA
• Join us as we discover the holiday traditions that were celebrated during the 1970s and 1980s. Play with toys and games of the era and create your own retro holiday ornament. 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).

Friday, December 16

• Late Nite with the Belsnickle! (in-person); 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).

Advance Tickets or Registrations

• Meet Belsnickel (in-person); Saturday, Dec. 17, Noon-2 pm; Old Economy Village
• Belsnickel is a PA Dutch tradition, sort a grumpy version of Santa Claus. Children will go on a scavenger hunt, make a craft, have a snack, and find out if they're on Belsnickel's naughty or nice list. Come and go as you please during the two-hour program. Admission is free, but registration is required (OEV Belsnickel registration).

• 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 (LVM Family Belsnickle event).

• Lantern Tours (in-person); Tuesday, Dec. 27, thru Friday, Dec. 30, 6-8 pm; Ephrata Cloister
• This theatrical style program is led by the Student Historians, local high school students who take on the roles of people from history as the story unfolds in selected historic buildings. This year visitors will join Mrs. Fahnestock as she plans the wedding of an Ephrata Sister and a young man working for the Brothers. This light-hearted look at the past will provide enjoyment for the entire family. Advance tickets are required: $12 for adults, $9 for ages 6-17 (Lantern Tours info and tickets).

• Winter Day Camp (in-person); Wednesday, Dec. 28, and Thursday, Dec. 29, 9 am-Noon; Landis Valley Village & Farm Museum
• Campers age 5 to 11 will explore Christmas and winter themes through old and new children's books and related activities. Sign up for both days or just one. Registration closes Tuesday, Dec. 20 (Winter Day Camp info & registration).

Holiday Traditions on the Trails of History

You can enjoy this train layout (courtesy of Brian's Model Trains) and other festive activities at Cornwall Iron Furnace this Saturday (photo via CIF Facebook page)

We're moving into the heart of holiday programming now, my friends. Some programs require advance tickets, so please be sure to read the listings carefully if you're planning to attend. Operating schedules at some sites are changing for the winter as of this week, so it's always a good idea to check ahead before visiting. I hope you'll find something on the Trails of History to help you celebrate the season in meaningful ways for you.

Up Next

Today, 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).

Saturday, December 3

• Christmas Open House (in-person); 9 am-4 pm; Cornwall Iron Furnace
• Enjoy guided tours of the Furnace, shop for unique gifts, look at holiday decorations, and partake of seasonal light refreshments. You may even have your photo taken with Santa in a historic setting. Included in regular admission (Cornwall Open House info).

• Christmas at Eckley (in-person); Saturday and Sunday, 10 am-4 pm; Eckley Miners' Village
• Holiday activities, music, food and craft vendors, and basket raffle will run from 10 am to 4 pm on Saturday and Sunday. Admission is $7 or $6 if you bring an unexpired, non-perishable food item to donate (Eckley Christmas info).

• Home for the Holidays (in-person); 10 am-4 pm; Railroad Museum of PA
• Enjoy the museum's exhibits and historic trains along with festive decorations, Yuletide music, Santa, and costumed interpreters. Shop for gifts in the Whistle Stop Shop and sample cookies and hot chocolate in the lobby (while supplies last). Artist-in-residence Nadine Charlsen will be at the museum Saturday and Sunday. Included in regular admission (Home for the Holidays info).

• Holiday Mansion Tours (in-person); 11 am-8 pm; Hope Lodge
• Guided tours will be offered at 11:30, 1, 2:30, 4, and 7 (by candlelight). After your tour, enjoy cookies and hot chocolate and browse the museum store. Tickets: $8 for adults; $5 for ages 6-17 and 65+; free for members and children age 5 and younger (Hope Lodge tour tickets).

• Christmas at the Village (in-person); Saturday, 2-9 pm, Sunday, 2-7 pm; Old Economy Village
• Walk along a candlelit cobblestone street and visit the historic buildings with interpreters eager to show off wares from the 19th century. Find unique handmade items for sale by vendors and enjoy music by local choirs. Children’s crafts and activities along with Belsnickel will be found in the Granary. Event runs 2-9 pm on Saturday, 2-7 pm on Sunday. The Visitor Center will be closed, so admission fees will be collected at the Village entrance. Food will be available for purchase, and there will be other activities in the surrounding historic district (Christmas at the Village info).

Sunday, December 4

• Christmas Open House (in-person); Noon-4 pm; Conrad Weiser Homestead
• Enjoy self-guided tours of the site on the last open day of 2022. Books will be 10% off in the museum store, the perfect place to shop for the history lovers in your life (Weiser Open House info).

• Artists Conversations Gallery Tour (in-person); 2-3 pm; The State Museum of PA
• Fine arts curator Amy Hammond will be joined by selected artists for a tour of the 2022 "Art of the State" exhibition. Included in regular admission (Art of the State Gallery Tour).

• Ethnic Traditions (in-person); 5:30-8:30 pm; Somerset Historical Center*
• Learn about the diverse cultural backgrounds of Somerset County residents. This year's event features food and other traditions of India, Sweden, and Chile. Dinner is $25 per person ($135 for a table of 6). *Event takes place at Friedens Lutheran Church (Ethnic Traditions dinner tickets and info).

Wednesday, December 7

• Explore! (in-person); 11:30 am-12:30 pm; The State Museum of PA
• Explore the history and science of candle making. Create two different types of candles to enjoy as the nights get longer. For grades 3-5 and included in regular admission. Space is limited, so please sign up at the Ground Floor Info Desk when you arrive (Explore! info).

• Pearl Harbor Remembrance Day Tribute (in-person); 12:45-1:30 pm; PA Military Museum
• The tribute ceremony is held beneath the guns of the battleship USS PENNSYLVANIA, which was a witness to the Imperial Japanese Navy's attack on the US Pacific Fleet at Hawai'i. Guided tours and light refreshments available in the museum theater following the ceremony (Pearl Harbor Tribute info). While you're at the museum, be sure to see the USS Pennsylvania Ships Orders from Dec. 7, 1941, currently on temporary display.

Thursday, December 8

• Family Gallery Tour: Paleontology (in-person); 11:30 am-12:30 pm; The State Museum of PA
• Join Museum Educators to get hands-on with fossils of the plants and animals that roamed Earth during the Carboniferous Period to the present including dinosaurs and mastodons. Included in regular admission (Paleontology tour info).

Friday, December 9

• Learn at Lunchtime (virtual); 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).

• Candlelight Tours (in-person); Friday and Saturday, 3-6 pm; Pennsbury
• Candlelight tours of the Manor House will be offered at 3, 4, and 5 pm. Regular admission charged. Reservations are encouraged but not required. Also offered Friday and Saturday, Dec. 16 and 17 (Candlelight Tour info).

• Holiday Bonfire (in-person); 6-8 pm; Landis Valley Village & Farm Museum
• This annual event features a festive bonfire, music, refreshments, and good cheer. The event is free; please bring a non-perishable food item for the Lancaster County Food Hub (Holiday Bonfire info).

Advance Tickets or Registrations

• Adult and Children's Holiday Workshops (in-person); Saturday, Dec. 10, 10 am-Noon; Pennsbury Manor
• Separate workshops for adults and children (age 5-12) will run simultaneously. Adults will learn to make several types of ornaments (materials included in $35 workshop fee). Children will decorate gingerbread cookies, create a gnome ornament, and enjoy storytime with Father Christmas (pay what you wish - $10 donation suggested). Call 215/946-0400 to reserve for either or both (Pennsbury workshop info).

• 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 (tickets are selling out) and advance tickets are required (Christmas at the Cloister tickets). UPDATE 12/5/22: tickets are sold out for all but the 8 pm performance on 12/12. UPDATE: 12/6/22 - additional tickets have been added for 8 pm Dec. 12 and both performances on Dec. 13.

• Ornament Workshop (virtual); Wednesday, Dec. 14, 6:30-8 pm
• This virtual workshop will teach you how to make two different ornaments using festive paper and fabric. $10 fee includes materials; you can pick them up at the Visitor Center or they can be mailed to you for an additional $2 fee. Registration deadline is Dec. 5 if you need materials mailed (Virtual Ornament Workshop info).

• 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).

• Meet Belsnickel (in-person); Saturday, Dec. 17, Noon-2 pm; Old Economy Village
• Belsnickel is a PA Dutch tradition, sort a grumpy version of Santa Claus. Children will go on a scavenger hunt, make a craft, have a snack, and find out if they're on Belsnickel's naughty or nice list. Come and go as you please during the two-hour program. Admission is free, but registration is required (OEV Belsnickel registration).

• 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 (LVM Family Belsnickle event).

• Lantern Tours (in-person); Tuesday, Dec. 27, thru Friday, Dec. 30, 6-8 pm; Ephrata Cloister
• This theatrical style program is led by the Student Historians, local high school students who take on the roles of people from history as the story unfolds in selected historic buildings. This year visitors will join Mrs. Fahnestock as she plans the wedding of an Ephrata Sister and a young man working for the Brothers. This light-hearted look at the past will provide enjoyment for the entire family. Advance tickets are required: $12 for adults, $9 for ages 6-17 (Lantern Tours info and tickets).

A Busy Weekend on the Trails of History

Oilfield equipment on the grounds at Drake Well Museum & Park (as seen at the Spring Gas Up via Facebook)

This weekend is a particularly busy one on the Trails of History, with events large and not-so-large. I hope you'll find just the right thing to suit your tastes from art to industrial history to a remembrance of Sept. 11 (last year we marked the 20th anniversary with a post about the day).

Up Next*

*Please note that calendar info is subject to change; we try to keep this up to date, but it's always best to check.

Today, September 9

• Mountain Craft Days (in-person); today through Sunday, 10 am-5 pm; Somerset Historical Center
• More than 125 craft booths and a dozen outdoor performance venues (not to mention food vendors) dot the grounds of the SHC for three days. Free on-site parking (or free shuttle if weather messes with the fields). Tickets are $9 for age 18 and up, $5 for age 6-17 (Mountain Craft Days info).

• Learn at Lunchtime (virtual); 12:15-12:45 pm; The State Museum of PA
• Join us as we talk to Jeremy Banfield, Elk Biologist from the Pennsylvania Game Commission, to learn more about history of the elk reintroduction and the management of Pennsylvania’s current elk population. The program is free, but you must register to receive the link (Learn at Lunchtime info and registration).

Saturday, September 10

• Annual Fall Gas Up (in-person); 9 am-3 pm; Drake Well Museum & Park
• Members of the Pioneer Steam and Gas Engine Society will be on-site with their display of operating and stationary gas engines made in PA. The museum's Olin gas engine and pumping wells will be in operation, along with the Bessemer engine. The program will also feature oilfield tractors of various vintages. Included in regular admission. In addition, the Hydetown Fire Department's Ladies Auxiliary will have a food booth (Fall Gas Up info).

• Antique Pontiac Car Visit (in-person); 10 am-3 pm; Ephrata Cloister
• The Pontiac Early Times chapter will display cars dating between 1926 and 1954 in the museum's upper parking lot. There is no charge to view the cars. Regular admission rates apply to tour the historic buildings and grounds (Pontiac Car Visit info).

• Railroad Heritage Day (in-person); 10 am-4 pm; Railroad Museum of PA
• Presentations and displays focused on the Pennsylvania Railroad will take place today. Today and tomorrow Artist-in-residence Frank Crowe will be on hand as well. Included in regular admission (Heritage Day and Artist-in-residence info).

• Paws in the Park (in-person); 11 am-3 pm; Bushy Run Battlefield
• This event celebrates dogs and their humans with a series of activity stations spread out around the grounds. The event is free, but pre-registration is requested (Paws in the Park info and registration).

• Women in the Lumber Industry (in-person); 1-2 pm; PA Lumber Museum
• Researcher Hilary Folwell Jebitsch will explore the important roles women have held in the lumber industry and provide in-depth information on the lives of some remarkable women (Women's history program info).

• 12th Annual Crush & Brew (in-person); 5-9 pm; Old Economy Village
• Wine & beer from local breweries, home brews, and more, as well as food trucks and live music. Event is presented in cooperation with the Ambridge Historic District. Tickets are $30, which includes tasting glass, a food voucher, and admission to the off-site afterparty (Crush & Brew info and tickets).

Sunday, September 11

• Living History Theatre (in-person); Noon-4 pm; Pennsbury Manor
• "Pennsylvania's Southern Border" explores the contentious relationship between the Penns and the Calverts over where Pennsylvania ends and Maryland begins. Join William Penn and members of his inner circle as they discuss how to deal with Lord Baltimore. Presented at 12:15, 1:45, and 3:15. Included in regular admission (Living History Theatre info).

• Living History Sunday (in-person); Noon-4 pm; Conrad Weiser Homestead
• Spend some time in the 18th century and enjoy the exhibits and grounds. Admission is free (Living History Sunday info).

• Art of the State Awards Ceremony & Reception (in-person); 1:30-3 pm; The State Museum of PA
• This year's juried exhibit features works by 92 Pennsylvania artists (see PHMC Flickr slide show). The exhibit opens to the public at noon and will continue during regular hours through January 15, 2023. Admission is on Sept. 11 as part of Harrisburg's annual Gallery Walk (Art of the State info).

• Remembrance Day (in-person); 6-7 pm; Brandywine Battlefield Park
• Join us for the annual remembrance of the Battle of Brandywine (Sept. 11, 1777) and the events of Sept. 11, 2001. Admission is free (Remembrance Day info).

Wednesday, September 14

• Sensory Friendly Visit (in-person); 10 am-3 pm; PA Military Museum
• Background effects in the gallery will be turned off and the orientation film's volume will be reduced (captions always enabled). Standard admission rates apply. Please sign up for a timeslot in advance; you can pay when you arrive (visit PMM website and select Sept. 14 to reserve a timeslot).

• Colonial Games & Puzzles (in-person); 11:30 am-12:30 pm; The State Museum of PA
• Discover and play with toys, games, and puzzles from colonial Pennsylvania. Test your skills with a bilbo catcher, Jacob's ladder, or a hoop-and-stick. Included in regular admission (Colonial Games info).

Thursday, September 15

• Curiosity Kids (in-person); 11:30 am-12:30 pm; The State Museum of PA
• Visit the Art of the State exhibit with the museum educators and learn how artists use line in their work. Try out your drawing skills to create your own art. For kids in grades K-2 and included in regular admission. Space is limited, so please sign up at the Ground Floor desk when you arrive (Curiosity Kids info).

Friday, September 16

• Taurus Star Party (in-person); 8-10 pm; Bushy Run Battlefield
• Learn about 18th-century astronomy and celestial folklore. The program includes identifying constellations, using a star map, and (weather permitting) using telescopes to look at the night sky. Pre-registration is required (Star Party registration).

Advance Tickets or Registrations

• Smithsonian Magazine Museum Day; Sat., Sept. 17, hours vary; several Trails of History sites participating
• Download a ticket good for two admissions to a participating site - you can only choose one museum for Museum Day free tickets
• Ephrata Cloister
• PA Lumber Museum
• Railroad Museum of PA

• Colonial Tavern Night (in-person); Sat., Sept. 17, 6-9 pm; Hope Lodge
• An evening of local brews from Round Guys Brewery, food, music, and history to support the site and its programs. General admission is $60 per person; must be 21 or older to attend. Advance tickets are required (Eventbrite site for Tavern Night tickets).

• Sensory Friendly Visit (in-person); Sun., Sept. 18, 10 am-noon; PA Military Museum
• Background effects in the gallery will be turned off and the orientation film's volume will be reduced (captions always enabled). Standard admission rates apply. Please sign up for a timeslot in advance; you can pay when you arrive (visit PMM website and select your date and time).

• Sensory Hours (in-person); Tuesday, Sept. 20, 3-5 pm; Railroad Museum of PA
• Reduced noise, light, and attendance plus quiet spaces when you want a break. Staff will be on hand to answer questions about several of the historic trains open for visitors. Advance tickets required (Sensory Hours Sept. 20 tickets).

• Fall Nature Walk (in-person); Sat., Sept. 24, 10 am-noon; Bushy Run Battlefield
• Learn about the plants and animals of western PA on this naturalist-guided walk. Pre-registration is required, but you can pay for your tickets at the door (Nature Walk info and registration).

• Wine & Paint Night (in-person); Sat., Oct. 1, 5-7 pm; Brandywine Battlefield Park
• General admission tickets include wine sampling and hors d'oeuvres (designated driver tickets available). Ten people can purchase tickets for a private art lesson. Others are welcome to bring their canvasses and paints and set up on the grounds to paint in the evening light. Advance tickets only; must be at least 21 to attend (Paint Night info and tickets).

• Pithole Lantern Tours (in-person); Sat., Oct. 1, 6:30-9:30 pm; Historic Pithole City
• Nighttime tours against the backdrop of the remaining elements of this historic oil boomtown. There are some steep hills and rugged terrain, so please dress accordingly. Advance tickets are required and may be purchased online or at the Museum Store at Drake Well Museum & Park (Lantern Tour online tickets).

Labor Day Weekend

A rainbow in the sky above Conrad Weiser Homestead (photo David Sonnen via CWH Facebook page)

I hope your summer has been what you hoped it would be. Although it will still be "officially" summer until September 22, and although Daylight Saving Time runs into November, Labor Day always feels like a bookend to me. The days feel shorter - that is, mornings are darker - and it just seems like summer is done. (It's of course all much more complicated than that, as The State Museum explained earlier this week.)

There's still plenty to do on the Trails of History, whatever season it is or feels like. A word about Labor Day, September 5. Fort Pitt Museum and Pennsylvania Lumber Museum are open, but the other Trails of History sites will be closed. As you probably know, some sites are surrounded by parks and have dawn-to-dusk hours, so if you're looking for places to enjoy the outdoors, be sure to check us out.

Up Next*

*Please note that calendar info is subject to change; we try to keep this up to date, but it's always best to check.

Friday, September 2

• StoryTime (in-person); 10:30-11:30 am; The State Museum of PA
• Read Because of an Acorn by Lola and Adam Schaefer and make an acorn art project. For kids age 2 to Pre-K and included in regular admission. Sign up at the Ground Floor Info Desk when you arrive (SMOP StoryTime info).

Saturday, September 3

• Community Yard Sale (in-person); 9 am-4 pm; PA Lumber Museum
• Vendors will be set up near the museum entrance along U.S. Route 6 (Yard Sale info).

• Lafayette's Birthday (in-person); 12:30-1 pm; Brandywine Battlefield Park
• Come wish a happy birthday to the Marquis de Lafayette. Site is open 10 am-4 pm with a short celebration at 12:30. Included in regular admission (Lafayette's Birthday info).

Sunday, September 4

• Historic Trades (in-person); 1-4 pm; Pennsbury Manor
• Our historic trades demonstrators will be eager to talk as they showcase their skills. Don't miss the "Dreams of Freedom" quilt exhibit in the Crozier House. Included in regular admission (Historic Trades info).

Tuesday, September 6

• Sensory Hours (in-person); 9-11 am; Railroad Museum of PA
• Light and noise levels will be reduced, attendance will be lower, and there will be some quiet spaces in the galleries when you want a break. Several of the historic trains will be open with staff on hand to answer questions. Advance tickets required (Sensory Hours Sept. 6 tickets).

Wednesday, September 7

• Explore! (in-person); 11:30 am-12:30 pm; The State Museum of PA
• Learn about the history of amusement parks in PA and our state's role in many innovations, including the first roller coaster. For kids in grades 3-5 and included in regular admission. Space is limited, so please sign up at the Ground Floor Info Desk when you arrive (Explore! info).

Thursday, September 8

• PA Geography with the Giant Map (in-person); 11:30 am-12:30 pm; The State Museum of PA
• Test your geography skills walking across PA on the giant map. Included in regular admission (Giant Map info).

• Virtual Ephrata Academy; 7-8 pm; Ephrata Cloister
• This month's Virtual Academy features the real Ephrata Academy and education in the Ephrata community. The program is free, but you must register to receive the link (Virtual Ephrata Academy info and registration).

Friday, September 9

• Mountain Craft Days (in-person); today through Sunday, 10 am-5 pm; Somerset Historical Center
• More than 125 craft booths and a dozen outdoor performance venues (not to mention food vendors) dot the grounds of the SHC for three days. Free on-site parking (or free shuttle if weather messes with the fields). Tickets are $9 for age 18 and up, $5 for age 6-17 (Mountain Craft Days info).

• Learn at Lunchtime (virtual); 12:15-12:45 pm; The State Museum of PA
• Join us as we talk to Jeremy Banfield, Elk Biologist from the Pennsylvania Game Commission, to learn more about history of the elk reintroduction and the management of Pennsylvania’s current elk population. The program is free, but you must register to receive the link (Learn at Lunchtime info and registration).

Advance Tickets or Registrations

• 12th Annual Crush & Brew (in-person); Sat., Sept. 10, 5-9 pm; Old Economy Village
• Wine & beer from local breweries, home brews, and more, as well as food trucks and live music. Event is presented in cooperation with the Ambridge Historic District. Tickets are $30, which includes tasting glass, a food voucher, and admission to the off-site afterparty (Crush & Brew info and tickets).

• Sensory Friendly Visit; Wed., Sept. 14, 10 am-3 pm, and Sun., Sept. 18, 10 am-noon; PA Military Museum
• Background effects in the gallery will be turned off and the orientation film's volume will be reduced (captions always enabled). Standard admission rates apply. Please sign up for a timeslot in advance; you can pay when you arrive (visit PMM website and select your date and time).

• Smithsonian Magazine Museum Day; Sat., Sept. 17, hours vary; several Trails of History sites participating
• Download a ticket good for two admissions to a participating site - you can only choose one museum for Museum Day free tickets
• Ephrata Cloister
• PA Lumber Museum
• Railroad Museum of PA

• Colonial Tavern Night (in-person); Sat., Sept. 17, 6-9 pm; Hope Lodge
• An evening of local brews from Round Guys Brewery, food, music, and history to support the site and its programs. General admission is $60 per person; must be 21 or older to attend. Advance tickets are required (Eventbrite site for Tavern Night tickets).

• Sensory Hours (in-person); Tuesday, Sept. 20, 3-5 pm; Railroad Museum of PA
• Reduced noise, light, and attendance plus quiet spaces when you want a break. Staff will be on hand to answer questions about several of the historic trains open for visitors. Advance tickets required (Sensory Hours Sept. 20 tickets).

• Fall Nature Walk (in-person); Sat., Sept. 24, 10 am-noon; Bushy Run Battlefield
• Learn about the plants and animals of western PA on this naturalist-guided walk. Pre-registration is required, but you can pay for your tickets at the door (Nature Walk info and registration).

• Wine & Paint Night (in-person); Sat., Oct. 1, 5-7 pm; Brandywine Battlefield Park
• General admission tickets include wine sampling and hors d'oeuvres (designated driver tickets available). Ten people can purchase tickets for a private art lesson. Others are welcome to bring their canvasses and paints and set up on the grounds to paint in the evening light. Advance tickets only; must be at least 21 to attend (Paint Night info and tickets).

• Pithole Lantern Tours (in-person); Sat., Oct. 1, 6:30-9:30 pm; Historic Pithole City
• Nighttime tours against the backdrop of the remaining elements of this historic oil boomtown. There are some steep hills and rugged terrain, so please dress accordingly. Advance tickets are required and may be purchased online or at the Museum Store at Drake Well Museum & Park (Lantern Tour online tickets).

Potpourri

Columbine in the garden at the Log Farm (photo via Landis Valley Village & Farm Museum Facebook page)

It' a little bit of this and a little bit of that this week. Stay cool out there.

Landis Valley Village & Farm Museum (pictured above) has posted a bunch of new craft classes on their Facebook page, ranging from needlecrafts to woodworking and pottery. If you're looking to try some new skills or build existing ones, this is a great place to start (LVM Facebook page).

Photo via Conrad Weiser Homestead Facebook page

Conrad Weiser Homestead is assisting the Myerstown Community Library by serving as a drop-off spot for gently used books (no encyclopedias, please) for their Fall book sale. If you live in the Womelsdorf area or are planning to visit the site, you can drop off a box (marked for the library) during regular operating hours, Wednesdays and Saturdays, 10 am-4 pm, and Sundays, noon-4 pm, through the end of August. CWH also shared that Lynn Otto, a long-time volunteer and board member, appeared on "PA Dutch Live," a YouTube show hosted by Douglas Madenford, to talk about the French & Indian War and the Weiser Homestead.

"Taste of Taxation" merch (photo via PA Military Museum Facebook page)

Last weekend, the PA Military Museum hosted "Taste of Taxation," a program featuring history presentations about whiskey distilling in Pennsylvania and the 1794 Whiskey Rebellion in southwestern PA. The museum partnered with Big Spring Spirits in Bellefonte, who provided attendees with a whiskey tasting and produced specially labeled bottles of their small batch rye whiskey for sale (more event photos on PMM's Facebook page).

Photo via Drake Well Museum & Park Facebook page

A new outdoor story map at Drake Well Museum and Park helps visitors learn more about the exhibits on the grounds, including a wide range of oilfield equipment. Check it out the next time you're in northwestern PA.

Photo via Ephrata Cloister Facebook page

Ephrata Cloister's Museum Store is looking for volunteers to make Moravian paper stars to replenish their supply. They'll provide the materials, you provide the folding. A helpful person shared a tutorial in a comment on the store's Facebook post, but I prefer this tutorial that Pennsbury Manor posted back in December of 2020 as part of "Holly Nights at Home." I found it a bit easier to follow.

Up Next*

*Please note that calendar info is subject to change; we try to keep this up to date, but it's always best to check.

Saturday, July 23

• Laquin: Behind the Photos (in-person); 1-2 pm; PA Lumber Museum
• Matthew Carl, president of LeRoy Heritage Museum and executive director of the Bradford Counth Historical Society, will bring the lumber town of Laquin to live using over 100 images from the past and present (Laquin lecture info).

Sunday, July 24

• Beer Brewing and Garden Highlights (in-person); 1-4 pm; Pennsbury Manor
• Explore the recipes and plants that helped feed Pennsbury's early residents. Included in regular admission (Garden Highlights info).

• Summer Concert Series (in-person); 2-4 pm; Old Economy Village
• UPDATE Betty Douglas will perform a concert with other jazz musicians in the Feast Hall. Concert is free; a $5 donation is suggested. Please bring chairs for seating (Concert Series info).

Tuesday, July 26

• Garden Workshop Series (in-person); 10-11 am; Pennsbury Manor
• Join Pennsbury's gardener to learn about 17th-century and modern gardening skills - today's topic is Water. The workshops are open to visitors age 12 and older; cost is $20 per session. Registration is required; call 215/946-0400 to reserve your spot (7/26 Garden Workshop info).

Wednesday, July 27

• Annual History Camp (in-person); 7/27-29, 9 am-noon; Joseph Priestley House
• Camp activities focus on the life of Dr. Joseph Priestley. Fee is $10 per day. Contact the Friends of Joseph Priestley House at jphopsmanager@gmail.com to register (Priestley History Camp info).

• Family Gallery Tour: Mammal Hall (in-person); 11:30 am-12:30 pm; The State Museum of PA
• Using hands-on objects, museum educators will help families explore the Mammal Hall dioramas together. Included in regular admission (Gallery Tour info).

Thursday, July 28

• Discovery Days Camp (in-person); 9 am-4 pm; Drake Well Museum & Park
• Today is the final day of camp and students will explore the lumber industry in the Titusville area. Cost is $20, if you didn't register for previous camp days this month (Discovery Days info and registration).

• Storytime in the Garden (in-person); 10-11 am; Pennsbury Manor
• Enjoy a story with the gardener, then explore the grounds. Suggested for ages 4-8, but all are welcome. Cost is $3, which is a grounds pass; there is an additional fee to tour the Manor House (Pennsbury Storytime info).

• Curiosity Kids (in-person); 11:30 am-12:30 pm; The State Museum of PA
• Explore the General Store exhibit and learn how people used to shop and what they bought. For kids in grades K-2 and included in regular admission. Space is limited; please sign up at the Ground Floor Info Desk when you arrive (Curiosity Kids info).

Advance Tickets or Registrations

• Garden Workshop Series (in-person); continuing Tues., Aug. 2-23, 10-11 am; Pennsbury Manor
• Join Pennsbury's gardener to learn about 17th-century and modern gardening skills - a new topic each week. The workshops are open to visitors age 12 and older; cost is $20 per session. Registration is required; call 215/946-0400 to reserve your spot (Garden workshop dates and topics).

• Summer Movie Night (in-person); Fri., Aug. 5, 6-9:30 pm (approx); Railroad Museum of PA
• Watch Night at the Museum (rated PG) and enjoy popcorn and ice cream. Advance tickets are $10 each for ages 3+, $15 at the door. Tickets include museum admission from 6 pm until the movie starts outside on the lawn at dusk. Please bring your own lawn seating (Movie Night info and tickets).

• Virtual Museum Spotlight; Tues., Aug. 9, 5-6 pm; Somerset Historical Center
• Make a virtual visit to Somerset Historical Center and learn all the site has to offer. The program is free as part of the Heinz Center Affiliates Program; please register to receive the Zoom link (Virtual Museum Spotlight info and registration).

• The Battle of Brandywine (virtual); Tues., Aug. 9, 7-8 pm; Cornwall Iron Furnace
• Historian and educator Michael C. Harris will draw on his research and experience to present a program on this important Revolutionary War battle. Cornwall site administrator Mike Emery will moderate a short discussion. The program is free; please register to receive the Zoom link (Cornwall lecture info and registration).

• Sensory Friendly Visit (in-person); Wed., Aug. 10, 10 am-3 pm, and Sun., Aug. 14, 10 am-noon; PA Military Museum
• Background effects in the galleries will be turned off and the volume on the orienation video will be reduced (captions enabled). Standard admission rates apply. Please reserve your timeslot, you can pay when you arrive (go to PMM online booking calendar and select your preferred date).

• Exploring the Armor (in-person); Sat., Aug. 13, 2-4 pm; PA Military Museum
• Take a guided tour of the tracked vehicles on the museum grounds. Tickets are $15. Space is limited and reservations are required; as of earlier this week there were 5 slots available (Armored tour tickets).

• Drake Well Marathon and Half (in-person and virtual); Sun., August 14; 7 am-?, Drake Well Museum & Park
• This race is a Boston Marathon qualifier, and there are in-person and virtual options. Online registration ends August 8 (Registration info for all categories).

The PA Trails of History, August 9-22

The full August program page lists events through the end of the month. This week's post gets you through August 22.

There's still time to get your tickets for the Blast! food and beverage event on August 16 at Cornwall Iron Furnace - see below for info (photo via Facebook)

Bushy Run Battlefield
Aug. 10: Games Day—Bushy Run will have a variety of historical miniature war-games ranging from fights between groups of tough foot-sloggers to aerial combat over the skies of the Pacific. If you are an experienced war-gamer and want to bring a game to run at the event, please email facilitator@bushyrunbattlefield.com. If you would just like to play in one of the games, all you have to do is show up. Included in regular admission. Food and drink will be available for purchase. 9 am-4:30 pm.

Cornwall Iron Furnace
Aug. 13: Lecture—James A. Lewars will present "The Kauffman Farm of Oley" (additional info on topic and speaker). Part of the Friends of Cornwall Iron Furnace lecture series, the program takes place in the auditorium of Freeman Community Center at Cornwall Manor. 7 pm.
UPDATE 8/15: EVENT IS SOLD OUT - NO TICKETS AT THE DOOR Aug. 16: Blast!—this event features local breweries and wineries (more info on Facebook event page or this LebTown post), music by jazz keyboardist Wayne Fox, and catering by Hess Barbecue (pulled pork sandwiches, marinated chicken, sides, and dessert). You must be at least 18 years old to attend and 21 to sample alcoholic beverages. Advance tickets are $40; designated driver and under 21, $25. On the day of the event, tickets are $45 ($30 for DDs and under 21). Advance tickets may be purchased at the furnace or by calling 717/272-9711 to charge by phone. 6-9 pm.

Daniel Boone Homestead
Aug. 14, 21: Sawmill Operation Days—subject to staff availability, there will be demonstrations of the site’s water-powered sawmill at 11 am and 2 pm.
Aug. 17: Braided Wool Rug Workshop—learn to make a round braided rug. Materials are included in the cost ($40), and the instructor will have tools for participant use (and to purchase if you want to take them home). More info on the Facebook event page. You must be at least 18 years old to participate and registration is required; call the site at 610/582-4900. 10 am-4 pm.

Drake Well Museum
Aug. 10-11, 17-18: Historic Pithole Open—the visitor center will be open, so enjoy the orientation film and the excellent diorama that shows the town in its heyday. Admission charged. 10 am-4 pm.

One of the rolling carts to be found in the galleries at the Erie Maritime Museum

Erie Maritime Museum and U.S. Brig Niagara
Thursday-Saturday through Aug. 31: Experience History – Rolling Cart Series—the new rolling cart program presents maritime-themed activities for visitors or all ages. Find out what’s in a sailor’s seabag, learn about the busy life of a lighthouse keeper, build your own warship and more! Included with Museum admission. Stay tuned to Erie Maritime Museum’s social media accounts (such as Facebook) for more information and weekly schedules.
Aug. 22-25: Tall Ships® Erie—this is a huge event with 10+ ships, sailing excursions (most of these are sold out), entertainment, and more. Find details on the website or the Facebook event page. Schedule varies by day.

Fort Pitt Museum
Please visit the Fort Pitt Museum website for information on this month's programs and events.

Graeme Park
Aug. 18: Living History Sunday—costumed interpreters will be on hand to talk about life at Graeme Park (info on the website). There will be a special focus on 18th-century clothing and what it reflects about the wearer's status. Living history program is free; admission is charged to tour the Keith House. Noon-3 pm.

Hope Lodge
Aug. 11, 18: Site open—enjoy the grounds and take a guided tour of the mansion. Admission charged. 1-4 pm (tours at 1:00 and 2:30 pm).

Basic Hand-Sewing Skills (Aug. 10) is one of several workshops coming up at Landis Valley Village & Farm Museum

Landis Valley Village & Farm Museum
Aug. 10, 17: Workshops—Landis Valley offers a variety of craft workshops for adults throughout the year. See the list and find out how to register on the website. Costs and times vary.

Old Economy Village
Aug. 9: Exhibit Opening and Reception—in 1832, one-third of the members of the Harmony Society living at Oekonomie left to follow a new leader. This new exhibit, Out of Harmony: Secession from the Harmony Society, takes a look at the seceders and the impact of their leaving on the group they left behind (more info on the website). The exhibit will be on view through Dec. 31. To register for the opening reception, contact Chloe Thomas at c-chltoma@pa.gov or 724/266-4500 x104. 7-9 pm.
Aug. 11: Picnic in the Garden—bring a picnic and a blanket and enjoy the beautiful gardens. There will be some tents, tables, and chairs available. Included in regular admission (Buy One-Get One if you bring a picnic basket), so please start at the Visitor Center (more info on Facebook event page). Noon-5 pm.
Aug. 17: Beer Brewing Class, Part 1—brewer Zack Ruskin will teach you how to make beer from scratch, using only water, barley, and wheat. (Part 2 on Aug. 31 will be when you come back to taste the beer you made.) Class size is limited, so please register by August 10 (info on the website). 10 am-4 pm.

Pennsbury Manor
Aug. 11, 18: Special programming—8/11, Living History Theater: "The Runaway Servant"; 8/18, Open Hearth Cooking: "Cook's Choice". Included in regular admission. 1-4 pm.

Pennsylvania Lumber Museum
Aug. 17: All about BATS!—the Pennsylvania Game Commission will present this family-friendly program. Included in regular admission (or membership). 1-2 pm.

Pennsylvania Military Museum
Aug. 10: Lecture—Rick Bigelow will present "American Caesar: MacArthur as Viceroy of Japan, 1945-1951," discussing General Douglas MacArthur's role in post-WWII planning for peace in the Pacific. Included in regular admission. 2 pm.

HO scale steam locomotive at the Railroad Museum of Pennsylvania

Railroad Museum of Pennsylvania
Aug. 17-18: Model Railroading Days—model train layouts from numerous railroading clubs will join the museum's layouts for a weekend of family fun and learning. Included in regular admission. 9 am-5 pm.

State Museum of Pennsylvania
Please visit the Planetarium webpage for a full schedule of shows.
Aug. 14, 15, 21, 22: Nature Lab and Curiosity Kids programs—a variety of presenters will share their expertise in Nature Lab and lead younger visitors on an exploration of the museum (program details are on the events calendar). Included in regular admission. 11:30 am.
Aug. 9, 16: Summer Fridays—general admission is "pay as you wish" on Fridays, 9 am to 5 pm. Curiosity Connection will have free timed tickets available. Art docents will be on hand in the "Art of the State" exhibit from 11 am to 1 pm. Regular fees apply for planetarium shows. From 12:15 to 12:45 pm, a variety of Learn at Lunchtime programs will be offered (check website for specifics).
Aug. 16: 3rd in the Burg—the "Great Summer Switch" is on the program. Susquehanna Art Museum director of education Tina Sell will lead a tour of the State Museum's Art of the State exhibit at 6 pm. Visitors can then travel up the street to the Susquehanna Art Museum, where PHMC Commissioner and artist Ophelia Chambliss will lead a group through Picasso: A Life in Print at 7:30. Admission is free. The State Museum will be open 5:30-7:30 pm.

Washington Crossing Historic Park
Please visit the Washington Crossing website for information on programs and events.