It's Beginning to Look A Lot Like...

Snow falling at Drake Well Museum & Park earlier this week (photo via DWM Facebook page)

If you're looking ahead to next week, please note that all Trails of History sites will be closed on Thursday, November 24, and most will be closed on Friday, November 25. Fort Pitt Museum, Railroad Museum of Pennsylvania, and The State Museum of Pennsylvania will be open on Friday on their regular schedules. On Saturday and Sunday, many of our sites will participate in Small Business Saturday and Museum Store Sunday, offering discounts or other special deals in their museum stores. We'll have more info on that in a post next Wednesday or you can check the PHMC website or your favorite site's social media.

This weekend, there are multiple options for programs, in addition to a regular site visit. Some sites have moved to reduced winter schedules already, so always check ahead before heading out. I hope you get a chance to explore without too much turkey-related preparation stress.

Up Next

Saturday, November 19

• Holiday on the Homefront (in-person); Saturday and Sunday, 10 am-3 pm; PA Military Museum
• Experience a 1940s Pennsylvania Christmas and learn about how soldiers and their families found holiday cheer during World War II. Santa will be on hand for photos (advance registration required), and there will be crafts and music. Regular admission charged for youth; accompanying adults are free. Activities run 10 am-3 pm each day (info and Santa photo registration).

• From Seneca to Seneca-Cayuga (in-person); 10 am-5 pm; Fort Pitt Museum
• This one-day conference will welcome speakers from federally recognized tribes as they explore the past, present, and future of the Iroquoian peoples who found a second homeland in the Ohio Country. The museum's new exhibit, "Guyasuta: The Life and Legend of a Seneca Chief," will also be open for participants to explore (Seneca symposium info and registration).

• StoryTime (in-person); 10:30-11:30 am; The State Museum of PA
• Read ART by Patrick McDonnell and create your own artwork to display at home. For ages 2 to Pre-K and included in regular admission (StoryTime info).

• Pennsylvania Elk: 100 Years of Conservation (in-person); 1-2 pm; PA Lumber Museum
• Jeremy Banfield, elk biologist with the PA Game Commission, will provide an engaging overview of the Commonwealth's elk management program (PA Elk program info).

• Candlelight Tours (in-person); 5:30-8 pm; Conrad Weiser Homestead
• Visit the buildings by candlelight, see living history demonstrations, and enjoy some 18th-century music. Several of the living history scenarios take place outdoors, so please dress for the weather (Candlelight Tours info).

• Colonial Cocktail Hour (in-person); 7-10 pm; Bushy Run Battlefield
• Explore the history of England's 18th-century "Gin Craze" and taste test some cocktails of the period 1720-1765 along with some hors d'oeuvres. Must be at least 21 years old to attend. Tickets are $25 and are available online (Cocktail Hour info and tickets).

Sunday, November 20

• Open Hearth Cooking Demonstration (in-person); 1-4 pm; Pennsbury Manor
• The cooks will revel in the extravagant use of sugar and spices to impress the Penns' guests. Included in regular admission (open hearth cooking info).

Wednesday, November 23

• Family Friendly Tour: Transportation (in-person); 11:30 am-12:30 pm; The State Museum of PA
• This family friendly tour looks at transportation changes throughout Pennsylvania’s history. Join Museum Educators to learn about the vehicles that have helped move us across our state. Included in regular admission (Family Tour info).

Advance Tickets or Registrations

• Candlelight Open House (in-person); Saturday, Nov. 26, 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).

• Holly Nights (in-person); Thursday and Friday, Dec. 1 and 2, 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).

• 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; ticket sales end Nov. 28. 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).

• Ethnic Traditions (in-person); 5:30-8:30 pm; Somerset Historical Center
• Learn about ethnic traditions of people living in Somerset County through food and music. This year's program will feature traditions of India, Sweden, and Chile. Tickets are $25, with several multi-ticket options available. Event takes place at Friedens Lutheran Church (SHC contact info for tickets).

• 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).

New Exhibits on the Trails of History

As summer winds down on the Trails of History, several new exhibits have recently opened or are currently in the works. Curators, historians, craftspeople, and partner organizations have developed these exhibits to share a variety of stories about Pennsylvania and U.S. history, using images, art, and other objects. Some are on temporary display, others will be available long-term.

Just prior to Juneteenth, The State Museum of Pennsylvania opened A Place for All, which explores three stories of racial integration efforts in the Philadelphia area and Pittsburgh. Drawing on research by PHMC historian Eric Ledell Smith (1949-2008), Museum staff combined three stories into a single exhibit and tied them together with additional context. The result provides powerful insights into the Civil Rights Movement in Pennsylvania and features some of the key participants in fighting for racial equality. The exhibit is open during regular hours and included in general admission; it is expected to remain on view for the foreseeable future.

Fort Pitt Museum recently launched a new exhibit, Guyasuta: The Life and Legend of a Seneca Chief. Visitors will learn about the American Indian leader’s allyship with George Washington just before the French and Indian War began and see the bronze maquette for Jim West's “Points of View” sculpture that overlooks Pittsburgh from its perch on Mt. Washington. The exhibit is included in regular admission.

Last weekend, Pennsbury Manor welcomed a new traveling quilt exhibit celebrating the life and contributions of American hero Harriet Tubman. Dreams of Freedom: The Threads That Hold Us Together was organized by the Sankofa Artisans Guild (SAG) and includes quilts submitted by artists and crafters from around the country. The quilts depict scenes and themes honoring Tubman's life and legacy. Included in regular admission, the exhibit will be available for viewing in the Crozier House Friday through Sunday, noon to 4 pm, through November.

Photo via Drake Well Facebook page

Work continues on the restoration of a replica Densmore Tank Car at Drake Well Museum and Park. Created in 1959 to celebrate the centennial of Edwin Drake's successful oil well, the car was an important part of the Museum's oil transportation exhibits. By the 1990s, however, it was in poor condition and needed significant work. Over the past year or more, staff and volunteers have rebuilt the car's platform and built a new, coopered wooden oil tank (see above). Drake Well posted some images on Facebook in February and earlier this week. Once the restoration work is complete, the Densmore Tank Car will resume its role helping to teach visitors about the history of getting oil from the well to the refinery. You can read more about Densmore Tank Cars in this 1985 article in Pennsylvania Heritage magazine.

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, August 13

• Exploring the Armor (in-person); 2-4 pm; PA Military Museum
• Take a guided tour of the tracked vehicles on the museum grounds. According to info at the link, all non-member tickets are sold out, but it's probably worth checking just in case (Armored tour tickets).

• Extended Evening Hours (in-person); 4-7 pm; Ephrata Cloister
• Enjoy a late-in-the-day visit. Guided tours at 4, 5, and 6; self-guided tours also an option. Regular admission rates apply, and the Museum Store will be open (Ephrata Cloister info).

Sunday, August 14

• Sensory Friendly Visit (in-person); 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 Aug. 14).

• Living History Theatre (in-person); noon-4 pm; Pennsbury Manor
• Yellow Fever has struck William Penn's colony, and it is a terrifying and mysterious threat. Learn about the precautions taken by Pennsbury's residents and others in the area. Presented at 12:15, 1:45, and 3:15. Included in regular admission (Living History Theatre info).

• Second Sunday Beer Garden (in-person); 1-5 pm; Hope Lodge
• Round Guys Brewing Company will be pouring beer under the tent. Guided tours of the Mansion will be available (as they are most Sundays through October) at 1 and 2:30 (Hope Lodge info).

Tuesday, August 16

• 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 Mustard & Ketchup. The workshop is open to visitors age 12 and older; cost is $20. Registration is required; call 215/946-0400 to reserve your spot (Aug. 16 Garden workshop info).

• Virtual Museum Spotlight; 5-6 pm; Old Economy Village
• This virtual visit to Old Economy will show you the wide variety of things to see and do. The program is part of the Heinz Center Affiliate Program Experience Kits initiative. Please register to receive the link (OEV Museum Spotlight registration).

• Music on the Lawn (in-person); 7-? pm; Joseph Priestley House
• Tonight's event features "9 Degrees of Syncopation," which recreates the jazz music of Django Reinhardt. Please bring lawn chairs for seating. In case of inclement weather, the concert will move to Unitarian Universalist Congregation, 265 Point Township Dr. in Northumberland (Music on the Lawn info).

Wednesday, August 17

• Explore! (in-person); 11:30 am-12:30 pm; The State Museum of PA
• Learn about the science of ornithology, the study of birds. For kids in grades 3-5 and included in regular admission. Space is limited; please sign up at the Ground Floor Info Desk when you arrive (Explore! info).

• PHMC Virtual Collections Showcase; 7-8 pm
• This month's theme is "Fine and Folk Art." Panelists from five Trails of History sites will present objects, and then the audience votes on their favorite. The program is free; please register to receive the Zoom link (Virtual Showcase registration).

Thursday, August 18

• 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 to 8, but all are welcome. Cost is $3, which is a grounds pass; additional fee charged to tour the Manor House (Pennsbury Storytime info).

• Family Gallery Tour: Transportation (in-person); 11:30 am-12:30 pm; The State Museum of PA
• Museum educators will be on hand to help visitors explore PA's transportation history. Included in regular admission (Gallery Tour info).

• Virtual Talk: Drake Well Museum (virtual); 7-8 pm EDT
• The Oil Museum of Canada will offer a virtual visit to Drake Well Museum & Park with museum educator Sarah Goodman. The program is free, but you'll need to register to get the link (Drake Well at Oil Museum of Canada info and tickets).

Friday, August 19

• Learn at Lunchtime (virtual); 12:15-12:45 pm; The State Museum of PA
• Chris Kemmerer from the PA Dept. of Conservation and Natural Resources will present a virtual program about PA's state parks. The program is free; please register to receive the link (Learn at Lunchtime info and registration).

Advance Tickets or Registrations

• Garden Workshop Series (in-person); final workshop, Tues., Aug. 23, 10-11 am; Pennsbury Manor
• Join Pennsbury's gardener to learn about 17th-century and modern gardening skills - the topic is Seed Saving. 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 (Aug. 23 Garden workshop info).

• Sensory Hours (in-person); Tues., Aug. 23, 3-5 pm; Railroad Museum of PA
• Light, noise, and crowd levels will be reduced, and there will be some quiet spaces if you need a break from the activity. A few of the historic trains will be open, with staff on hand to answer questions. Advance tickets required (Aug. 23 Sensory Hours tickets).

• Tall Ships Erie (in-person); Thurs., Aug. 25, to Sun., Aug. 28; Erie Maritime Museum & U.S. Brig Niagara
• Festivities start Aug. 25 at 4 pm with the Parade of Sails, a free event featuring tall ships from around the Great Lakes. Ticketed activities continue 10 am to 6 pm Aug. 26-28 and are based along the waterfront (Tall Ships Erie info and tickets).

• 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).

• Harvest, Death & Renewal: Late October Traditions of the PA Germans (in-person); Fri., Oct. 21, 6:30 and 8:30; Landis Valley Village & Farm Museum
• This program explores funeral and burial customs, powwowing, healing and hexes. It is recommended for adults and older teens. The event involves two hours of walking around a cemetery and the Museum grounds, so please dress for the weather (including your shoes) and bring a flashlight. Tickets are $28 per person and must be purchased in advance (Harvest, Death & Renewal event info and tickets).

Summer in Bloom

Tansy growing outside the summer kitchen at Graeme Park (photo via GP Facebook page)

The gardens and grounds at our Trails of History sites are brimming with flowers, veggies, and greenery. Many also have shade, so if you're looking for ways to keep cool this weekend, why not visit? Not to mention that there's always at least one air-conditioned building. I hope your weekend is full of fun and interesting things. Don't forget to hydrate!

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, August 5

• StoryTime (in-person); 10:30-11:30 am; The State Museum of PA
• Wear your best tea party hat or helmet to read Molly Idle's Tea Rex. For kids in grades K-2 and included in regular admission. Sign up at the Ground Floor Info Desk when you arrive (SMOP StoryTime info).

• Sawmill demo (in-person); 11 am and 2 pm; Daniel Boone Homestead
• Weather permitting, staff at Daniel Boone Homestead will demonstrate the water-powered Bertolet Sawmill, which was moved to the Homestead from its original Berks County site in 1972 (DBH info and a short video preview of what the mill looks and sounds like in operation).

• First Fridays (in-person); 5:30-8:30 pm; Somerset Historical Center
• Enjoy a relaxing evening with live music and food for purchase from local vendors. Some covered seating is provided but feel free to bring your lawn chairs and blankets. Admission is free with parking fee of $5 (First Fridays info).

• Summer Movie Night (in-person); 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).

Saturday, August 6

• Battle of Bushy Run Anniversary (in-person); Saturday and Sunday, 9 am-5 pm; Bushy Run Battlefield
• Learn about the two-day battle between Native American warriors and British soldiers during Pontiac's War, as well as life on the frontier for European settlers and Native peoples (Battle of Bushy Run event info).

• A Tour into the Past Day (in-person); 10 am-4 pm; Brandywine Battlefield Park
• There will be a blacksmith, carpenter, colonial dancers, and other presenters to enliven your visit (BBP event info).

• Friends Lecture Series (in-person); 2-3:30 pm; PA Military Museum
• Meg and Dan Smith will discuss life in the Navy band, including training, duty stations, travel and special events. Lecture is free (donations welcome); seating is first come, first served (PMM lecture info).

Sunday, August 7

• Living History Sunday (in-person); noon-4 pm; Conrad Weiser Homestead
• Living history demonstrations include Native American culture by Darius Puff and 18th-century shoemaking. Guided tours will be available (CWH info).

• Garden Party/Oxygen Day (in-person); noon-4 pm; Joseph Priestley House
• The Garden Party starts at noon with music, children's activities, light refreshments. From 1 to 4 pm, the house will be open for self-guided tours with docents on hand to answer questions. Dr. Priestley will conduct chemistry demos at 1:30 and 2:30 (stop by the Visitor Center to pick up your free tickets). Both events are free (Garden/Oxygen event info).

• Ice Cream Social (in-person); 1-4 pm; Ephrata Cloister
• Enjoy an ice cream sundae and visit the historic buildings. $10 ticket includes ice cream and access to the grounds; members get in free but pay $5 for ice cream (Ice Cream Social info).

• Historic Trades (in-person); 1-4 pm; Pennsbury Manor
• Historic trades demonstrators will be eager to talk to visitors as they showcase their skills. Included in regular admission (Historic Trades info).

• Summer Concert Series (in-person); 2-4 pm; Old Economy Village
• Miss Freddye's Homecookin' Band will bring acoustic blues to the garden, with some gospel, classic rock, and a hint of country and bluegrass. The event will move indoors if the weather's bad. Concert is free ($5 donation suggested). Please bring blankets and lawn chairs for seating (Concert Series info).

Tuesday, August 9

• Sensory Hours (in-person); 9-11 am; Railroad Museum of PA
• Light, noise, and crowd levels will be reduced, and there will be some quiet spaces if you need a break from the activity. A few of the historic trains will be open, with staff on hand to answer questions. Advance tickets required (Aug. 9 Sensory Hours tickets).

• 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 flower arrangements. The workshop is open to visitors age 12 and older; cost is $20. Registration is required; call 215/946-0400 to reserve your spot (Garden workshop info for 8/9).

• Virtual Museum Spotlight; 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 (SHC Virtual Museum Spotlight info and registration).

• The Battle of Brandywine (virtual); 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).

Wednesday, August 10

• Sensory Friendly Visit (in-person); 10 am-3 pm; 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 August 10).

• Family Gallery Tour: Mammal Hall (in-person); 11:30 am-12:30 pm; The State Museum of PA
• Museum educators will use hands-on objects to help visitors learn about the Mammal Hall dioramas. Included in regular admission (Gallery Tour info).

Thursday, August 11

• 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 to 8, but all are welcome. Cost is $3, which is a grounds pass; additional fee to tour the Manor House (PMM Storytime info).

• Curiosity Kids (in-person); 11:30 am-12:30 pm; The State Museum of PA
• Learn about memory and logic and try your skills at a variety of puzzles and games. For kids in grades K-2 and included in regular admission. Space is limited; sign up at the Ground Floor Info Desk when you arrive (Curiosity Kids info).

• Ephrata Virtual Academy; 7-8 pm; Ephrata Cloister
• Historian Noah Lewis will present a virtual program on African Americans in the Revolution, based on his extensive research on and portrayal of Edward "Ned" Hector, who served at the Battle of Brandywine in 1777. Hector was among thousands of African Americans who served during the American Revolution. The program is free; please sign up to receive the Zoom link (Ephrata Virtual Academy registration).

Advance Tickets or Registrations

• 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).

• Garden Workshop Series (in-person); continuing Tues., Aug. 16-23, 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).

• Sensory Friendly Visit (in-person); 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 Aug. 14).

• Virtual Museum Spotlight; Tues., Aug. 16, 5-6 pm; Old Economy Village
• This virtual visit to Old Economy will show you the wide variety of things to see and do. The program is part of the Heinz Center Affiliate Program Experience Kits initiative. Please register to receive the link (OEV Museum Spotlight registration).

• PHMC Virtual Collections Showcase; Wed., Aug. 17, 7-8 pm
• This month's theme is "Fine and Folk Art." Panelists from five Trails of History sites will present objects, and then the audience votes on their favorite. The program is free; please register to receive the Zoom link (Virtual Showcase registration).

• Virtual Talk: Drake Well Museum (virtual); Thurs., Aug. 18, 7-8 pm EDT
• The Oil Museum of Canada will offer a virtual visit to Drake Well Museum & Park with museum educator Sarah Goodman. The program is free, but you'll need to register to get the link (Drake Well at Oil Museum of Canada info and tickets).

• Sensory Hours (in-person); Tues., Aug. 23, 3-5 pm; Railroad Museum of PA
• Light, noise, and crowd levels will be reduced, and there will be some quiet spaces if you need a break from the activity. A few of the historic trains will be open, with staff on hand to answer questions. Advance tickets required (Aug. 23 Sensory Hours tickets).

Welcome to June!

Photo via Old Economy Village Facebook page

There's a lot coming up in the weeks ahead. I hope you have a great weekend!

Today, June 3

• StoryTime (in-person), 10:30-11:30 am, The State Museum of PA
• Read Kite Day: A Bear and Mole Story by Will Hillenbrand and make your own windsock to learn about the power of the wind. Included in regular admission (StoryTime info).

• First Fridays (in-person), 5:30-8:30 pm, Somerset Historical Center
• Enjoy a relaxing evening with live music and food for purchase from local food trucks. Some covered seating is provided, but feel free to bring lawn chairs and blankets. Parking fee is $5 per car (First Fridays info).

Saturday, June 4

• PLEASE NOTE: Daniel Boone Homestead will be closed Saturday and Sunday. The grounds will be open as posted.

• Armies Through the Ages (in-person), 9 am-5 pm, Bushy Run Battlefield
• Military reenactors from the medieval period through World War II will share what it was like to be a soldier in a range of time periods (Armies Thru the Ages info).

• Ales & Petals/Cars & Motorcycles of England Car Show, 10 am-4 pm, Hope Lodge
• Family fun includes food (for purchase), classic British cars and motorcycles, and live music. Those age 21+ with photo ID can also enjoy craft beer from Round Guys Brewing (for purchase). Admission for age 13 and up is $10 per person; tickets available in advance (Event info and tickets).

Sunday, June 5

• Colonial Craft and Demonstration Day (in-person), 11 am-4 pm, Conrad Weiser Homestead
• 18th-century crafts and living history will be showcased today. At 2 pm, a program on Forest Diplomacy will illuminate interactions between colonists and Native Americans. The event is free; donations welcome (CWH Events page).

• Historic Trades (in-person), 1-4 pm, Pennsbury Manor
• Historic trades demonstrators will be eager to talk with visitors as they exhibit their skills. Included in regular admission (Historic Trades info).

Tuesday, June 7

• Agnes and the Demise of the Cornwall Iron Mines (virtual), 7-8 pm, Cornwall Iron Furnace
• Mike Weber will talk about the history of the Cornwall Iron Mines, leading up to the damage from Tropical Storm Agnes that eventually caused the mines to close in 1973. The program is free; please register to receive the link (Cornwall Iron Mines info and registration).

Wednesday, June 8

• Archives Without Tears (AWOT) Key Concepts (virtual), 10 am-noon, PA State Archives
• Watch any or all of the AWOT modules on YouTube, including the new "Introduction to Born-Digital Records" module, and then join a panel of archivists who will answer questions and offer practical solutions (register for June 8 live chat).

• Sensory-Friendly Visit (in-person), 10 am-3 pm, PA Military Museum
• Background sound effects in the galleries will be turned off and the volume on the orientation video will be lowered (captions always enabled). Please register in advance for a timeslot; standard admission fees apply (Sensory Friendly Visit registration).

• Ambler Symphony Concert (in-person), 7-8 pm, Hope Lodge
• Bring your chairs, blankets, and picnics for an evening of music on the lawn. Admission charged. Rain date is June 15 (Concert info).

Thursday, June 9

• PHMC Virtual Collections Showcase, 7-8 pm
• This month's theme is "sets of artifacts." Panelists from five Trails of History sites will present objects from their collections, then the audience will vote on their favorite. The program is free; please register to receive the Zoom link (Showcase registration).

• Fabric and Fiber in PA's Forests (virtual), 7-8 pm, PA Lumber Museum
• Museum staff Josh Roth and Josh Fox will highlight fabric and clothing items in the collection, along with selected images from the photographic archive. The program is free and offered in partnership with the Galeton Worldwide Knitting in Public knitters and fiber artists (Fabric and Fiber info and registration).

• Ephrata Virtual Academy, 7-8 pm, Ephrata Cloister
• Author Michael C. Harris will discuss his book, Germantown: A Military History of the Battle for Philadelphia, October 4, 1777. The program is free; please register to receive the link (Virtual Academy registration).

Friday, June 10

• Learn at Lunchtime (virtual), 12:15-12:45 pm, The State Museum of PA
• State Museum director Beth Hager will present a behind-the-scenes look at the new exhibition A Place for All: Three Stories of Integration in Pennsylvania, opening June 17. The program is free; please register to receive the Zoom link (Learn at Lunchtime registration).

Advance Tickets or Registrations

• Log Birling Clinic (in-person), Saturday, June 11, 1-3 pm, PA Lumber Museum
• Join museum staff to learn how to stay on top of a rolling log while your opponent falls off. Registration is required (Clinic info and registration).

• Sensory Hours (in-person), Tuesday, June 14, 9-11 am, Railroad Museum of PA
• Light, noise, and crowd levels will be reduced, and there will be some quiet spaces around the galleries. Several historic trains will be open, with staff to answer questions. Advance tickets required (Sensory Hours tickets).

• Colonial Cocktail Hour, Saturday, June 18, 7-10 pm, Bushy Run Battlefield
• Explore England's "gin craze," 1720-1765, with tastings and hors d'oeuvres. Cost is $25 per person (Cocktail Hour info and tickets).

• Sensory Friendly Visit, Sunday, June 19, 10 am-noon, PA Military Museum
• Background sound effects in the galleries will be turned off and the volume on the orientation video will be lowered (captions always enabled). Please register in advance for a timeslot; standard admission fees apply (Sensory Friendly Visit registration).

• Historical & Archival Records Care Grants webinar (virtual), Tues., June 21, 10 am, PA State Archives
• Staff will provide an overview of the grant program, define eligibility, and offer suggestions for competitive applications. Offered via Zoom: register for June 21.

• Brews & Bites, Saturday, June 25, 4-8 pm, Pennsbury Manor
• This event features breweries from the Bucks County Ales Trail along with live music, food trucks, 17th-century brewing demonstrations, lawn games, and more on the banks of the Delaware River. General admission is $40 (includes beer tastings); designated driver tickets are $25 (Brews & Bites tickets).

• Drake Well Marathon and Half (in-person and virtual), Sunday, 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).

Summer Camps on the Trails of History (in-person and virtual)

• Bushy Run Battlefield
• Summer History Day Camp; Ages 6-11; June 20-22

• Drake Well Museum & Park
• Discovery Days Camp; Ages 8-12; July 7, 14, 21, & 28

• Joseph Priestley House (updated info)
• Intermediate History Camp; Grades 6-8; June 20-22
• Annual History Camp; Grades 1-5; July 27-29

• Pennsbury Manor
• Colonial Camp; Ages 6-8; July 11-15
• Time Travelers Camp; Ages 9-12; July 18-22

• Pennsylvania Lumber Museum
• History Camp; Ages 10-18; August 6-7

• Railroad Museum of PA
• Behind the Scenes of Railroading Virtual Summer Camp; Ages 9-12; June 28-30
• Barons & Builders Day Camp; Ages 9-10; July 12-15
• Barons & Builders Day Camp; Ages 11-12; July 26-29
• A Moveable Feast Virtual Summer Camp; Ages 9-12; Aug. 2-4

Thanksgiving Awaits

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.

Conrad Weiser Homestead's Candlelight Tours take place tomorrow (see info below)

The next Trailheads post won't be until next Friday, so I'll take this opportunity to wish you all a safe and healthy Thanksgiving. I hope that you have found many things to be thankful for this year and that you will have the chance to share time with family and friends. I am thankful for my husband and all of my family and am grateful that we have weathered the pandemic fairly well so far, although many of the young adult generation battled Covid cases in 2020 and 2021. I am grateful, as always, for the work that my colleagues here at PHMC are doing to share the rich and complicated history of Pennsylvania with the public and to explore ways to improve everyone's access to that history. The flexibility, creativity, and perseverance of our staff and volunteers are a source of inspiration for me. I say "thank you" to them and to all of you for reading Trailheads.

All Pennsylvania Trails of History sites and museums will be closed on Nov. 25 for Thanksgiving. Most will also be closed on Friday, Nov. 26; Bushy Run Battlefield, Fort Pitt Museum, and the Railroad Museum of Pennsylvania will be open that day. Everyone else will resume their current operating hours on Saturday, Nov. 27; please see the list below for some special programs as well. When you're making plans to the holiday weekend, please remember your favorite Trails of History sites on Small Business Saturday and Museum Store Sunday.

If you're interested in new approaches to the traditional Thanksgiving narrative, Native Knowledge 360 (a program of the National Museum of the American Indian) has a broad range of educational resources, such as Rethinking Thanksgiving Celebrations, which features Wampanoag perspectives on their ancestors' dealings with the Pilgrims in coastal Massachusetts.

As I was thinking about some menu ideas (but it turns out I'm just making apple pie this year), I remembered that our first PHMC Virtual Collections Showcase last December featured holiday foods. You can watch the program (and other past showcases) on PHMC's YouTube channel (December 2020 Collections Showcase) and see a compilation of recipes from the show on Trailheads (recipe page). Just like on the Cooking Channel! You'll also find an interesting post about heritage turkeys on the Assn. for Living History, Farm and Agricultural Museums blog (read about heritage turkeys).

The Week (or so) Ahead

Today, November 19

• Learn at Lunchtime (virtual): Thomas Keller from the PA Game Commission will talk about wild dogs of PA; The State Museum of PA; 12:15-12:45 pm (Learn at Lunchtime info and Zoom registration)

Saturday, November 20

• Candlelight Tours (in-person): visit the year 1755 with guided tours, Native American storyteller Darius Puff, and musician Catherine Hollen; Conrad Weiser Homestead; 5:30-8 pm (Candlelight Tours info)

Sunday, November 21

• Historic Foodways Demonstration (in-person): visit the kitchen to see what the cooks are working on; Pennsbury Manor; 1-4 pm; included in regular admission (Foodways info)

Wednesday, November 24

• Explore! (in-person): visit the Art of the State exhibition and learn how artists use line in their work; The State Museum of PA; 11:30 am-12:30 pm; for kids in grades 3-5 and included in regular admission (Explore! info)

Saturday, November 27

• Wreaths & Greens Workshops (in-person): make a festive wreath to take home and learn some tips for caring for evergreens in your yard; Pennsbury Manor; 10 am-noon or 1-3 pm; cost is $35 ($31.50 for members) and pre-registration is required (Pennsbury's website has more info)
• Christmas in the Colonies (in-person): learn about different traditions as you tour the Keith House and watch the Tapestry Historic Dance Ensemble; Graeme Park; 3-5 pm (tours start every 30 minutes from 3:30 to 5); tickets are $10 for ages 13 and up, $7 for members and ages 6-12 (Graeme Park website for more info)
• Candlelight Open House (in-person): enjoy an evening of art, spinning, and music; Ephrata Cloister; 5-8:30 pm; tickets are $7 for age 3 and up, available at the door or in advance via Ticketleap (Ephrata Open House tickets online)

Sunday, November 28

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

On Sale Now (as of 11/17; some programs will sell out)

• Holly Nights: experience Pennsbury Manor by candlelight Dec. 2 and 3 from 6 to 9 pm; tickets must be purchased in advance by Dec. 1 (Holly Nights info and tickets).
• Gingerbread Cookie Kits: Railroad Museum of PA is accepting orders for train-shaped gingerbread cookies. Choose 12 cookies per box (plain) or 6 cookies per box with vanilla icing bag and sprinkles for $20. Orders must be picked up at the museum on either Dec. 4 (10 am-3 pm), Dec. 10 (4-6 pm), or Dec. 11 (10 am-3 pm). Deadline for orders is Nov. 29 (RMP cookie flyer for details).
• Christmas with the Conductor: kids ages 3 and older will get to board one of the Railroad Museum of PA's historic railroad cars to hear a classic holiday story. Other activities are also part of the program. The program is offered Dec. 4 and Dec. 11 with three storytimes each day. The $10 program fee is in addition to museum admission. Deadline for registrations is Nov. 29, but space is limited and this program usually sells out quickly (Christmas with Conductor info and tickets).
• 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).