And So It Goes

My favorite Museum Selfie Day photo (me and my long lost twin, Hannah Penn)

Ever since the first Trailheads post on August 1, 2009, it has been my good fortune to work on this blog, writing posts and editing guest posts that help shed light on the activities and people of the Pennsylvania Trails of History. Trailheads debuted just before we endured a period of severe budget and staffing cuts. Our remaining staff and volunteers persevered and continued to provide service to visitors, working to rebuild and reimagine programs, tours, and daily operations. In March 2020, Trails of History sites closed for over a year (although we had no idea it would be that long when the pandemic first hit). During that time, while some of us adjusted to telework, site staff made sure that buildings, grounds, and collections were secure and maintained. Virtual programs arose out of sheer creativity and determination to continue serving our visitors. Sites reached lots of new audiences in the process. And continue to do so in person and virtually.

As I bid farewell to my PHMC colleagues and friends and adjust to life as a retired person (a young retired person - ahem), I will be watching and cheering everyone on as they embrace whatever lies ahead. The weekly Trailheads blog will be on hiatus for a while. But please be sure to check out the PHMC Online Events Calendar and follow your favorite sites on social media to keep up with all the wonderful stuff that's happening on the Trails of History. Thank you for reading. Especially you, mom.

On a more practical note, most Trails of History sites are closed today, Nov. 10, in observance of Veterans Day and will be open tomorrow. But just to be sure, please check ahead with specific sites before you head out for a visit.

Up Next

Friday, November 10

• Soldier's Art and Presentation Honoring Cpl. Thomas Mosley (in-person); 11:30 am-2 pm; The State Museum of PA
• From 11:30 am to 1:30 pm, explore pieces of art created by Pennsylvania soldiers at the time of war. Examine their mediums, inspirations and techniques. Create your own etched work and thank-a-soldier card. Included in regular admission. At 1:30 there will be a presentation honoring Dauphin County native Corporal Thomas Mosley (1924-2016), one of the pioneer Montford Point Marines (Nov. 10 Soldier's Art program info).

• Stargazing: Tonight's Sky (in-person); 3-3:45 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. Regular admission and Planetarium fees apply (Nov. 10 Stargazing program info).

Saturday, November 11

• Soldier's Art (in-person); 10 am-Noon and 1-3 pm; The State Museum of PA
• Explore pieces of art created by Pennsylvania soldiers at the time of war. Examine their mediums, inspirations and techniques. Create your own etched work and thank-a-soldier card. Included in regular admission (Nov. 11 Soldier's Art program info).

• Veterans Day (in-person); 10 am-3 pm; PA Military Museum
• The museum will offer free admission for veterans and their families today (PMM Veterans Day info).

• Harvest Fest and Flag Retirement Ceremony (in-person); 11 am-3 pm; Brandywine Battlefield Park
• Enjoy cooking, carpentry, cloth dyeing, blacksmithing, bobbin lace, flax demos, and games. Meat House Market Food Truck will be on site. At 3 pm, the site hosts Chadds Ford Township Residents Association's flag retirement ceremony (Harvest Fest event info).

• NEPADOC film screening (in-person); 2-4 pm; Anthracite Heritage Museum
• The museum will host a screening of NEPADOC, David Heineman's documentary about the intersections of environment, industry, and identity in northeastern Pennsylvania (NEPA) over the past 300 years. Suggested donation of $2 or free with museum admission (Documentary film screening info).

• Stargazing: Tonight's Sky (in-person); 3-3:45 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. Regular admission and Planetarium fees apply (Nov. 11 Stargazing program info).

• The War to End All Wars - the Movie (in-person); 6:30-8 pm; Erie Maritime Museum
• The museum is one of 120 museums worldwide selected to host a free screening of The War to End All Wars, part pf the #HistoryRocks project of Swedish rock band, Sabaton. The screening will take place in O.H. Hirt Auditorium, which adjoins the museum entrance (Erie Maritime Museum movie screening info).

Sunday, November 12

• Coffee or Tea with Louisa May Alcott (in-person); 10:30 am and 1:30 pm seatings; Graeme Park
• It's 1868 and Louisa May Alcott, who was born not far from Graeme Park, returns to the area as part of a speaking tour in support of her most successful book to date, Little Women: or Meg, Jo, Beth and Amy. She'll read from her various works, talk about her life and artistic influences, and welcome feedback on her upcoming sequel. After the presentation, enjoy coffee and pastries (10:30 event) or tea and sweets (1:30 event). Advance tickets are required (Louisa May Alcott event tickets).

• Eighteenth-Century Medicine (in-person); 2-3 pm; Daniel Boone Homestead
• Paul Trainor will present an enlightening lecture and show-and-tell on colonial medicine and the traveling apothecary. He will also discuss the important role of the military surgeon during the colonial and early American periods. Suggested donation of $2 per person. Lecture will take place in the DeTurk Education Center, near the Daniel Boone Rd. entrance to the site (18th-century medicine program info).

• Stargazing: Tonight's Sky (in-person); 3-3:45 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. Regular admission and Planetarium fees apply (Nov. 12 Stargazing program info).

Tuesday, November 14

• Bound by the Furnace: Iron Slavery in Early National Pennsylvania (virtual); 7-8 pm; Cornwall Iron Furnace
• Historian Cory Young will present a program based on his research about the use of enslaved labor in the iron industry. The program is free, but you must register to receive the Zoom link (Cornwall Iron Furnace lecture registration).

Wednesday, November 15

• Archaeology, Geology, Paleontology...what's the difference? (in-person); 11:30 am-12:30 pm; The State Museum of PA
• Join us as we explore the sciences of archaeology, geology, and paleontology. Discover how each are different and how they often work together. Match artifacts, fossils, and rocks into the different scientific categories. Included in regular admission (Science program info).

• The Harmonist Connection: Redware Potter (virtual); 7-8 pm; Old Economy Village
• Author Michael Strezewski will present a virtual program based on his new book, Christoph Weber, Redware Potter of the Harmony Society. Working from 1808 to 1853, Weber made a variety of household wares such as pitchers, storage jars, jugs, plates, and mugs. His pottery was distributed among the Society’s members and sold to their neighbors. Offered in conjunction with Historic Harmony and Historic New Harmony, the program is free, but you must register to receive the Zoom link (Harmonist Connection info and registration).

Friday, November 17

• 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. Included in regular admission (Nov. 17 Story Time with the Educator info).

• Curiosity Kids (in-person); 11:30 am-12:30 pm; The State Museum of PA
• Join us in Nature Lab to learn about Memory and Logic. What are each of these things and how do they play a part in our daily lives? Put your memory and logic skills to the test by participating in a series of mind-challenging games. For grades K to 2 and included in regular admission. Space is limited; pick up a ticket at the front desk when you arrive (Curiosity Kids program info).

• Learn at Lunchtime (virtual); 12:15-12:45 pm; The State Museum of PA
• Sarah Goodman, museum educator at Drake Well Museum & Park, will present "The History of Drake Well and the PA Petroleum Industry." This virtual program is free, but you must register to receive the link (Nov. 17 Learn at Lunchtime registration).

• Star Watch (in-person); 7:45-11:15 pm; Daniel Boone Homestead
• Berks Astronomy will be on hand with telescopes to help visitors observe an array of celestial objects, including stars and planets. Dress warmly and bring a red light flashlight, which doesn't interfere with stargazing (Star Watch program info).

Advance Tickets or Registrations

• POSTPONED Colonial Cocktail Hour (in-person); Saturday, Nov. 18, 3-6 pm; Bushy Run Battlefield
• This year's theme is the history of pirates in the North American colonies. Pirate attire is encouraged, but please omit cutlasses and other weaponry. $25 ticket includes drinks and appetizers. Must be 21 or older to purchase tickets (Colonial Cocktail Hour info and tickets).

• Autumn Arts Workshop (in-person); Saturday, Nov. 18, 10 am-1 pm; Pennsbury Manor
• You will begin with a half hour tour of the 6 historical portraits located in the Manor House. Then, a trained artist will teach you the skills of portrait drawing and allow you to create your own work using a live model as a reference. This workshop is intended for all skill levels. Cost is $35 ($30 for members) and includes art supplies; call 215/946-0400 or email c-kerscott@pa.gov to reserve your spot (Arts Workshop info).

• Sensory Hours (in-person); Tuesday, Nov. 21, 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. Advance tickets required (tickets for Nov. 21 Sensory Hours).

• Wreaths & Greens Workshop (in-person); Saturday, Nov. 25, 10 am-Noon and 1-3 pm; Pennsbury Manor
• Make a fragrant evergreen wreath to take home. Please bring your own clippers. Offered 10 am-Noon and 1-3 pm. Space is limited (Wreaths & Greens workshop info).

• Candlelight Open House (in-person); Saturday, Nov. 25, 5-8:30 pm; Ephrata Cloister
• Tour the historic buildings by candlelight and visit with local craftspeople as they share their stories and wares. The Ephrata Cloister Chorus will perform throughout the evening in the 1741 Saal, with guest musicians. Hot dogs, hot chocolate, and hot coffee will be available for purchase in the parking lot. Tickets are $8/person ages 5 and up! Tickets available at the door or online (Ephrata Candlelight Open House info and tickets).

• The Polar Express Movie Night (in-person); Saturday, Dec. 2, 6-8:15 pm; Railroad Museum of PA
• Get your tickets today to watch the new classic holiday film The Polar Express™ (Rated G) on a large screen among the historic trains in the museum's climate-controlled main exhibit hall. Tickets are $10 each for ages 3 and older; admission includes the movie, a container of popcorn, and hot chocolate. Doors open at 6 and the movie starts at 6:30; running time is 1 hour and 40 minutes (RMP Movie Night tickets).

• Ethnic Traditions (in-person); Sunday, Dec. 3, 5:30-8:30 pm; Somerset Historical Center
• Each year, the Somerset Historical Center brings together local families from diverse cultural backgrounds for a tasting and discussion of their food, music, and traditions. This year the dinner features dishes from Indian, Swedish, and Chilean cuisine. Dinner is held at Friedens Lutheran Church (Ethnic Traditions dinner info).

• Holly Nights (in-person); Thursday and Friday, Dec. 7-8, 6-9 pm; Pennsbury Manor
• A feast for the senses, this program offers crackling fires, hot-mulled cider, dancing shadows, and the merry sounds of carolers strolling the grounds. Step back into the glow of candles and lanterns, the bustle of colonial craftspeople, and the good cheer of noels and wassailing songs. Event runs Thursday and Friday nights, 6 to 9 pm. Advance ticket purchases are highly encouraged (Holly Nights tickets).

• Christmas at the Cloister (in-person); Monday and Tuesday, Dec. 11 and 12, 6:30 & 8 pm; Ephrata Cloister
• Held in the original 1741 Saal or Meetinghouse, the “lessons and carols” style program combines the Christmas story with seasonal music and familiar carols for the congregation. The program features the talents of the Ephrata Cloister Chorus under the direction of Mark Herr, with guest musicians Randy Kochel and Amanda Wells on hammer dulcimer and guitar. Advance tickets are required (Christmas at the Cloister info and tickets).

• Learn at Lunchtime (virtual); Friday, Dec. 15, 12:15-12:45 pm; The State Museum of PA
• Adam Ianno, geochemist with the PA Geological Survey, will present "The Ice Volcanoes of Erie," exploring these delicate ice and sediment features that resemble volcanoes and sand dunes. The virtual program is free, but you must register to receive the link (Dec. 15 Learn at Lunchtime registration).

• Belsnickle Programs (in-person); Saturday, Dec. 16, 1-3 pm and 7-9 pm; Landis Valley Village & Farm Museum
• The afternoon program is for all ages and features light refreshments, holiday crafts, touring the site, and meeting Belsnickle. The evening program is for ages 21 and older only and adds adult beverages to the list. Both programs involve being outdoors and indoors, so dress for the weather. Reservations required (tickets for The Belsnickle Experience, 1-3 pm and tickets for Late Night with the Belsnickle, 7-9 pm)

• Lantern Tours (in-person); Wednesday, Dec. 27, through Saturday, Dec. 30, 6-8 pm; Ephrata Cloister
• Themed theatrical tours led byf Ephrata Cloister's Student Historians. Tours leave the Visitor Center every 30 minutes starting at 6 pm; last tour departs at 8. Tickets go on sale Dec. 1 (Lantern Tour tickets and info).

Seasonal Changes

Fall has progessed in the northern tier to the point where the leaves are almost gone (photo via PA Lumber Museum Facebook page)

Now that it's November, we will start to see some schedule changes at sites on the Trails of History, especially those with outdoor exhibits. Some sites will start scaling back their open days this month, with others paring back starting in December or January. As I always say, it's a good idea to check site schedules before heading over for a visit to make sure they plan to be open when you want to be there. It's also worth noting that weather and holidays can interfere with schedules as well. A heads-up about next week: most Trails of History sites (except for Fort Pitt Museum and Erie Maritime Museum, last I checked) will be closed on Friday, November 10, in observance of Veterans Day. All will be open on Saturday, November 11, on their normal Saturday schedules.

Photo courtesy of Pennsylvania State Historic Preservation Office (SHPO)

On a different note, the State Historic Preservation Office (PA SHPO) needs your help! The current statewide historic preservation plan expires at the end of 2024. You can be a part of the new plan (2024-2034) by taking PA SHPO's short survey (link to PA SHPO survey). The results of the survey will help identify issues and create a shared vision for the future of preservation in Pennsylvania. The next phase of the statewide planning process, public outreach, will begin in early 2024. For more information, visit SHPO's website.

Up Next

Today, November 3

• Storytime (in-person); 10:30-11:30 am; The State Museum of PA
• Come to the First Floor Activity Room for a reading of The Dot by Peter H. Reynolds, followed by a chance to learn more about the use of the dot in artwork and to use dots to create your own art. Designed for ages 3 to 5 and included in regular admission. Space is limited (State Museum Storytime info).

• History Storytime (in-person); 11 am-Noon; Daniel Boone Homestead
• The first Friday of each month will feature a different history topic, with a related craft activity. Designed for preschool and kindergarten ages (Boone Homestead Storytime info).

Saturday, November 4

• 1777 Whitemarsh Encampment (in-person); 10 am-4 pm; Hope Lodge
• This event commemorates the time from November 2 to December 11, 1777, when General George Washington and the Continental Army were encamped in the Whitemarsh Hills. Continental and British soldier re-enactors and living history events. Tickets available in advance or at the door (Whitemarsh Encampment info and tickets).

• Trains & Troops (in-person); Saturday, 10 am-4 pm, and Sunday, Noon-4 pm (1940s Swing Dance, Saturday, 7-10 pm); Railroad Museum of PA
• Military and civilian reenactors; displays of uniforms, vehicles and railroad equipment; and salutes to veterans and active-duty personnel. Plus the museum's regular exhibits, hands-on activities, and world-class collection of locomotives, railcars, and other artifacts. Included in regular admission. Separate ticket for 1940s Swing Dance Saturday night; advance purchase is recommended (Railroad Museum Swing Dance tickets).

• Explore PA Industry with the Giant Map (in-person); 1-3 pm; The State Museum of PA
• Travel across the Giant Map of Pennsylvania to discover the industries that shaped our state. Included in regular admission (Giant Map program info).

Sunday, November 5

• Fall Lecture (in-person); 2-3 pm; Conrad Weiser Homestead
• Lynn Otto will present "From Philadelphia to Duquesne," exploring the Forbes Campaign in 1758. The site will be open from noon to 4 pm (Fall Lecture info).

Tuesday, November 7

• Sensory Hours (in-person); 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, there will be a Story Time with the Educator aimed at kids age 2 to 5. Advance tickets required (tickets for Nov. 7 Sensory Hours).

Wednesday, November 8

• Stargazing: Tonight's Sky (in-person); 2-2:45 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. Regular admission and Planetarium fees apply (Nov. 8 Stargazing program info).

Friday, November 10

• Soldier's Art and Presentation Honoring Cpl. Thomas Mosley (in-person); 11 am-Noon and 2-3 pm; The State Museum of PA
• Explore pieces of art created by Pennsylvania soldiers at the time of war. Examine their mediums, inspirations and techniques. Create your own etched work and thank-a-soldier card. Included in regular admission. At 1:30 there will be a presentation honoring Dauphin County native Corporal Thomas Mosley (1924-2016), one of the pioneer Montford Point Marines (Nov. 10 Soldier's Art program info).

• Stargazing: Tonight's Sky (in-person); 3-3:45 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. Regular admission and Planetarium fees apply (Nov. 10 Stargazing program info).

Advance Tickets or Registrations

• Coffee or Tea with Louisa May Alcott (in-person); Sunday, Nov. 12, 10:30 am and 1:30 pm; Graeme Park
• It's 1868 and Louisa May Alcott, who was born not far from Graeme Park, returns to the area as part of a speaking tour in support of her most successful book to date, Little Women: or Meg, Jo, Beth and Amy. She'll read from her various works, talk about her life and artistic influences, and welcome feedback on her upcoming sequel. After the presentation, enjoy coffee and pastries (10:30 event) or tea and sweets (1:30 event). Advance tickets are required (Louisa May Alcott event tickets).

• Bound by the Furnace: Iron Slavery in Early National Pennsylvania (virtual); Tuesday, Nov. 14, 7-8 pm; Cornwall Iron Furnace
• Historian Cory Young will present a program based on his research about the use of enslaved labor in the iron industry. The program is free, but you must register to receive the Zoom link (Cornwall Iron Furnace lecture registration).

• Learn at Lunchtime (virtual); Friday, Nov. 17, 12:15-12:45 pm; The State Museum of PA
• Sarah Goodman, museum educator at Drake Well Museum & Park, will present "The History of Drake Well and the PA Petroleum Industry." This virtual program is free, but you must register to receive the link (Learn at Lunchtime registration).

• Sensory Hours (in-person); Tuesday, Nov. 21, 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. Advance tickets required (tickets for Nov. 21 Sensory Hours).

• Wreaths & Greens Workshop (in-person); Saturday, Nov. 25, 10 am-Noon and 1-3 pm; Pennsbury Manor
• Make a fragrant evergreen wreath to take home. Please bring your own clippers. Offered 10 am-Noon and 1-3 pm. Space is limited (Wreaths & Greens workshop info).

• Ethnic Traditions (in-person); Sunday, Dec. 3, 5:30-8:30 pm; Somerset Historical Center
• Each year, the Somerset Historical Center brings together local families from diverse cultural backgrounds for a tasting and discussion of their food, music, and traditions. This year the dinner features dishes from Indian, Swedish, and Chilean cuisine. Dinner is held at Friedens Lutheran Church (Ethnic Traditions dinner info).

• Christmas at the Cloister (in-person); Monday and Tuesday, Dec. 11 and 12, 6:30 & 8 pm; Ephrata Cloister
• Held in the original 1741 Saal or Meetinghouse, the “lessons and carols” style program combines the Christmas story with seasonal music and familiar carols for the congregation. The program features the talents of the Ephrata Cloister Chorus under the direction of Mark Herr, with guest musicians Randy Kochel and Amanda Wells on hammer dulcimer and guitar. Advance tickets are required and go on sale Nov. 8 (Christmas at the Cloister info and tickets).

Veterans Day 2022

Publishing a little early this week due to Veterans Day. Many Trails of History sites will be closed Friday (11/11) for the holiday, but Brandywine Battlefield Park, Erie Maritime Museum, Fort Pitt Museum, Graeme Park, Pennsylvania Military Museum, Railroad Museum of Pennsylvania, and The State Museum of Pennsylvania will be open. Please see below for special activities taking place at Erie Maritime, PA Military Museum, and The State Museum. Although closed Friday, Drake Well Museum & Park and Old Economy Village will offer free admission for veterans on Saturday and Sunday.

Up Next

Friday, November 11

• Veterans Day (in-person); 10 am-3 pm; PA Military Museum
• Join the Pennsylvania Military Museum as we celebrate Veteran’s Day in partnership with the Red Cross’s “Holidays for Heroes” card writing campaign. Stop by the Museum on Veteran’s Day to make a card or drop cards off during our Museum Hours through November 20th (PMM Veterans Day info).

• Bells of Peace: 104th Anniversary of the End of WWI (in-person & virtual); 11-11:30 am; Erie Maritime Museum
• The museum will take part in this national remembrance by ringing the bell of the USS Michigan/Wolverine. Visitors will hear it live, others can watch the livestream on EMM's Facebook page (Bells of Peace info).

• Veterans Day Program (in-person); 11 am-Noon; The State Museum of PA
• Throughout history soldiers have created artwork as ways of remembrances, coping with boredom, and even a form of therapy. Bob Hill, curator of military history, will share examples from the collections, including a Revolutionary War powder horn, World War I trench art, and more. Visitors will have a chance to create their own carved artwork and make a thank you card for a soldier or veteran. Included in regular admission (SMOP Veterans Day info).

Saturday, November 12

• Harvest Fest Colonial Day (in-person); 11 am-3 pm; Brandywine Battlefield Park
• Join us for our first Harvest Fest Colonial day with living history reenactors, games, and more. Enjoy the harvest season with a visit to our fabulous living history cook. Regular admission charged (Harvest Fest info).

Tuesday, November 15

• Sensory Hours (in-person); 9-11 am; Railroad Museum of PA
• Lighting, noise and crowd levels will be lowered, and there will be some quiet spaces in the galleries for when you need a break. Several of the historic trains will be open, with staff on hand to answer questions. Advance reservations are required (11/15 Sensory Hours tickets).

Wednesday, November 16

• Explore! (in-person); 11:30 am-12:30 pm; The State Museum of PA
• Explore the different types of coal and how they were formed. Discover how this natural resource has been mined and how that has affected the history of Pennsylvania’s economy. For grades 3-5 and included in regular admission (Explore! info).

Thursday, November 17

• Curiosity Kids (in-person); 11:30 am-12:30 pm; The State Museum of PA
• Visit the Art of the State exhibit to learn about 2-dimensional shapes, what they are and how artists use them in their work. Create your own artwork using shapes. For grades K-2 and included in regular admission (Curiosity Kids info).

Advance Tickets or Registrations

• From Seneca to Seneca-Cayuga (in-person); Saturday, Nov. 19, 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).

• Colonial Cocktail Hour (in-person); Saturday, Nov. 19, 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).

• 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. Cost is $10 per child, in addition to regular admission (Dec. 3 info and tickets OR Dec. 10 info and 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).

November Awaits

Visit the Railroad Museum's Trains & Troops event this weekend and learn more about this ca. 1966 MUTT jeep on loan from the PA Military Museum (photo & info via RMP Facebook page)

I'll post this info again next week, but to help with planning, please note that most Trails of History sites will be closed on November 11 for Veterans Day. Brandywine Battlefield Park, Fort Pitt Museum, Graeme Park, Railroad Museum of Pennsylvania, and Somerset Historical Center will be open on their regular Friday schedules. In addition, as noted below, Erie Maritime Museum, Pennsylvania Military Museum, and The State Museum of Pennsylvania will have special programming that day. In the meantime, several sites have military history programs this weekend and during the week. Don't forget to set your clocks back an hour Sunday morning.

Up Next

Today, November 4

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

• Art of the State Exhibition Tour (in-person); 12:15-12:45 pm; The State Museum of PA
• Enjoy a lunchtime tour of this year's juried art exhibition, featuring works by 92 finalists selected from 1,850 entries. First Lady Frances Wolf and PHMC Commissioner Ophelia Chambliss will lead this casual tour. Included in regular admission (AOS Tour info).

• Learn at Lunchtime (virtual); 12:15-12:45 pm; The State Museum of PA
• Join Mary Jo Casalena, PA Game Commission, to learn about the eastern wild turkey found throughout Pennsylvania's forests and more than a few backyards. The program is free, but you must register to receive the link (Learn at Lunchtime info and registration).

Saturday, November 5

• 1777 Whitemarsh Encampment (in-person); 10 am-4 pm; Hope Lodge
• Lots of military and civilian reenactment activities, open hearth cooking, beer brewing, music, book signings and more. Purchase tickets at the door or buy them ahead online (Whitemarsh Encampment info and tickets).

• Trains & Troops (in-person); Saturday 10 am-4 pm, Sunday Noon-4 pm; Railroad Museum of PA
• Learn about the relationship between the U.S. military and the railroads. Included in regular admission (Trains & Troops info).

• Commemorating WWII and Cold War in Berlin (in-person); 2-3 pm; PA Military Museum
• David Blackburn, site administrator at Landis Valley Village & Farm Museum, will present "Commemorating WWII and the Cold War in Berlin: Commemorating the Past to Inform the Present." Monuments and memorials placed throughout the city are highly visible and ever-present. These sites and structures commemorate the genocide, destruction, and loss of life that defined Berlin throughout the mid to late 20th Century. The lecture is free (donations welcome) and takes place in the site theater (Berlin lecture info).

• 1940s Swing Dance (in-person); 7-10 pm; Railroad Museum of PA
• The Moonlighters big band will play live among the historic trains. Dress in vintage 1940s attire, military uniform, or modern party clothes. Light refreshments will be served. Advance tickets available online and highly recommended; a limited number of tickets will be sold at the door (Swing Dance tickets).

Sunday, November 6

• Guided Tours (in-person); Noon-4 pm; Conrad Weiser Homestead
• Enjoy the park and historic buildings and browse the museum store for books and locally made redware pottery (CWH info).

• Wild Teas & Jellies (in-person); 2-3 pm; PA Lumber Museum
• Brian Budjanec from Kettle Creek State Park will teach you how to harvest and make tasty treats using wild ingredients straight from the forest. Delicious samples will be available to try. Suitable for all ages and included in regular admission (Wild Teas & Jellies info).

Tuesday, November 8

• Cornwall Goes to War (virtual); 7-8 pm; Cornwall Iron Furnace
• In honor of Veterans Day, Michael Weber will present an overview the ways Cornwall helped defend the United States during the Seven Years War, Revolutionary War, Whiskey Rebellion, Civil War, World Wars I and II, and the Korean War. Site administrator Mike Emery will moderate a brief discussion. The program is free, but you must register to receive the link (Cornwall lecture info and registration).

Wednesday, November 9

• Homeschool Program (in-person); 10-11:30 am; The State Museum of PA
• Learn about woven coverlets and other textiles and the techniques and creativity that go into making them. Compare historic coverlets with woven artworks in this year's Art of the State exhibit. Cost is $10 per person ($3 for members), and advance registration is required (Homeschool Program info and registration).

Thursday, November 10

• Curiosity Kids (in-person); 11:30 am-12:30 pm; The State Museum of PA
• Learn about communication and how people have used different innovations to help them share ideas and thoughts with others. Create a secret message using the same techniques George Washington used at Valley Forge. 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).

• Movie Night (in-person); 6-8:30 pm; Railroad Museum of PA
• Enjoy a screening of The Polar Express (Rated G) amid the historic trains in Rolling Stock Hall. Tickets are $10 for ages 3 and up and include popcorn and hot chocolate. Doors open at 6 pm, movie starts at 6:30. Tickets available online via Eventbrite; some tickets available at the door (Movie Night info and tickets).

• Virtual Ephrata Academy (virtual); 7-8 pm; Ephrata Cloister
• Foodways historian and demonstrator Susan Plaisted will present "Preserving the Harvest," offering a look at colonial food preservation practices including drying, potting, and the broad definition of "pickle." The program is free, but you must register to receive the link (Ephrata Academy info and registration).

Friday, November 11

• Veterans Day (in-person); 10 am-3 pm; PA Military Museum
• Join the Pennsylvania Military Museum as we celebrate Veteran’s Day in partnership with the Red Cross’s “Holidays for Heroes” card writing campaign. Stop by the Museum on Veteran’s Day to make a card or drop cards off during our Museum Hours through November 20th (PMM Veterans Day info).

• Bells of Peace: 104th Anniversary of the End of WWI (in-person & virtual); 11-11:30 am; Erie Maritime Museum
• The museum will take part in this national remembrance by ringing the bell of the USS Michigan/Wolverine. Visitors will hear it live, others can watch the livestream on EMM's Facebook page (Bells of Peace info).

• Veterans Day Program (in-person); 11 am-Noon; The State Museum of PA
• Throughout history soldiers have created artwork as ways of remembrances, coping with boredom, and even a form of therapy. Bob Hill, curator of military history, will share examples from the collections, including a Revolutionary War powder horn, World War I trench art, and more. Visitors will have a chance to create their own carved artwork and make a thank you card for a soldier or veteran. Included in regular admission (SMOP Veterans Day info).

Advance Tickets or Registrations

• Sensory Hours (in-person); Tuesday, Nov. 15, 9-11 am; Railroad Museum of PA
• Lighting, noise and crowd levels will be lowered, and there will be some quiet spaces in the galleries for when you need a break. Several of the historic trains will be open, with staff on hand to answer questions. Advance reservations are required (11/15 Sensory Hours tickets).

• From Seneca to Seneca-Cayuga (in-person); Saturday, Nov. 19, 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).

• Colonial Cocktail Hour (in-person); Saturday, Nov. 19, 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).

• 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).

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

• 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).

Change of Seasons?

Please be sure to check the PHMC Events Calendar for information on upcoming programs (in-person and virtual). I've included highlights for the coming week 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.

Fall is still here in this photo of the Webber cabin at the PA Lumber Museum (photo via PLM Facebook page)

But it looks like winter is trying to nose in ahead of schedule at Drake Well Museum & Park (photo via DWM Facebook page)

   

Whatever season it is where you are this weekend, I hope you have a chance to check out some of the programming we have going on the Trails of History. A couple of notes about schedules. As I mentioned last week (I think), some sites have already adjusted their hours for the winter, and others will be doing so in the weeks ahead. So please be sure to double check. Most Trails of History sites will be closed on Thursday, Nov. 11, for Veterans Day. Bushy Run Battlefield, Fort Pitt Museum, Pennsylvania Military Museum, Railroad Museum of Pennsylvania, and Somerset Historical Center will be open regular hours that day.

Reenactors from multiple military conflicts will be at the Railroad Museum this weekend (photo via RMP Facebook page)

The Week Ahead

Today, Nov. 5

• StoryTime (in-person): this month's book is Every Autumn Comes the Bear by Jim Arnosky; The State Museum of PA; 10:30-11:30 am; for kids age 2 to Pre-K and included in regular admission (StoryTime info)
• Learn at Lunchtime (virtual): several artists whose work is featured in the 2021 Art of the State exhibition will talk about their journeys with physical challenges; The State Museum of PA; 12:15-12:45 pm (Learn at Lunchtime info and Zoom registration)

Saturday, Nov. 6

• 1777 Whitemarsh Encampment (in-person): a wide range of activities including music, open-hearth cooking, military drills; Hope Lodge; 10 am-4 pm; tickets are $10 (Whitemarsh info and tickets)
• Trains & Troops (in-person): learn about the role of railroads during wartime overseas and on the home front; Railroad Museum of PA; 10 am-4 pm Saturday, noon-4 pm Sunday; included in regular admission (Trains & Troops info)
• Civil War Days (in-person): the Village will be filled with townspeople, cavalry and other soldiers, surgeons, and others with a role to play; Landis Valley Village & Farm Museum; 11 am-4 pm Saturday and Sunday; Adults $12, seniors $10, ages 6-11 $8 (Civil War Days info)

Sunday, Nov. 7

• Living History Sunday and Fall Park Walk (in-person): enjoy a late fall day with history and nature; Conrad Weiser Homestead; noon-4 pm, guided walk at 2 (Weiser program info)
• Daniel Boone, the Homestead, and the French & Indian War (in-person): Paul Trainor will present a program in the Wayside Lodge exploring the impact of the French & Indian War in Berks County; Daniel Boone Homestead; 2-3 pm; suggested donation $5 (Boone program info)

Tuesday, Nov. 9

• Rexmont to High Bridge: A History of Lebanon's Water Supply (virtual): local historian and science educator Mike Trump will explore the evolution of Lebanon County's water supply from the late 19th century to today; Cornwall Iron Furnace; 7-8 pm (lecture info and Zoom registration)

Wednesday, Nov. 10

• Veterans Service Officer Day (in-person): representatives from organizations that serve military veterans will be on hand to provide help; Pennsylvania Military Museum; stop by the museum between 9 am and 4 pm or make an appointment by contacting Stephanie Imboden at 877/720-8387 or stephanie@pa-legion.com (Svc Officer Day details)
• Explore! (in-person): learn about wild dogs in PA (like coyotes and foxes) and how they're related to the dogs in our homes; The State Museum of PA; 11:30 am-12:30 pm; for kids in grades 3-5 and included in regular admission (Explore! info)

Thursday, Nov. 11

• Virtual Ephrata Academy (virtual): Zachary Long, volunteer coordinator at Pennsbury Manor, will talk about traditional clear toy candy and show some of his collection of candy molds; Ephrata Cloister; 7-8 pm (Academy info and Zoom registration)

On Sale Now

• Wreaths & Greens Workshops: Pennsbury Manor will offer this workshop twice on Saturday, Nov. 27, 10 am-noon and 1-3 pm. Make a festive wreath to take home and learn some tips for caring for evergreens in your yard. Cost is $35 ($31.50 for members) and pre-registration is required (Wreath workshop details).
• 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: Somerset Historical Center will partner with local families for a program on diverse cultural traditions, food, and music on Dec. 5, 5:30-8:30 pm, cost is $20 per person (updates on program/menu and tickets)
• 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 to the general public on Monday, Nov. 8 (Christmas at the Cloister info).

What November Brings

Please visit the PHMC Events Calendar for info on upcoming programs on the Trails of History (mostly virtual). Check out the Trailheads Rec Room pages to the right of your screen for online offerings available whenever you need them.

Voting machine used in Lebanon County, 1950s-60s (via State Museum of PA Facebook page)

As I write this on Thursday afternoon, votes are still being counted and the outcome of the Presidential election is not yet clear. So let's just set that aside and think about some of the other things going on this month. Any objections? I didn't think so. (But please join me in thanking all the poll workers, voters, and vote counters who did their part for democracy this week.)

Wednesday, November 11, is Veterans Day, a time to honor all who have served in the U.S. Armed Forces. As you probably know, the Pennsylvania Military Museum's mission is to honor and tell the stories of Pennsylvanians who have served, so be sure to visit their Facebook page or their blog to learn more about the objects and related stories from their collections, covering all periods of American colonial and national history. The other sites on the Military History Trail and the State Museum of Pennsylvania relate the stories of specific conflicts and military service, as well. Commonwealth of PA resources for veterans and active duty military are available on the web.

November is Native American Heritage Month. If you want to learn more about Native American history and heritage, the National Museum of the American Indian has all kinds of online resources, including a section on Thanksgiving that presents indigenous perspectives on the holiday. There's also a Facebook page devoted to Native American Heritage Month and you can learn more about land acknowledgments at native-land.ca.

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Ephrata Cloister is participating in #Museum30, sharing a post each day to illustrate a variety of themes and topics. If you aren't already following them, find them on Facebook, Twitter, or Instagram. 

  

The deadline to nominate a state historical marker is December 1. For information and guidelines on submitting a nomination, visit the State Historic Preservation Office marker page, where you'll also find a recording of a recent webinar that provided tips for success.

Upcoming Events

• You may have heard that the 2021 Pennsylvania Farm Show will be mostly virtual this year (and if you hadn't heard, I'm so sorry to be the one to break the news). Fear not, milkshake and fried mushroom lovers (at least if you're in the Harrisburg area or are willing to travel). November 13-15 is the PA Farm Show Fall Food Fest, which will take place outdoors at the PA Farm Show Complex from 11 am to 6 pm each day.
• On Nov. 18 from noon to 1:30 pm, the Pennsylvania State Archives will host another of its Community History Dialog webinars, this one focused on caring for artifacts and objects. The webinar is designed for folks who are working to preserve their community history, but the information will be useful for those caring for family history as well. Rachel Yerger, Bureau of Historic Sites and Museums curator, and Dodie Robbins, collections manager at the Railroad Museum of Pennsylvania, will be the presenters. The webinar is free and is offered via Zoom; you must register to get the link. To learn more about the Community History Dialog series, find a list of resources, or watch recordings of previous programs, visit the Archives webpage.

Pennsylvania Heritage Foundation Membership Offer

Last week’s post covers Trails of History events through November 14, including schedules for Veterans Day on Nov. 11. The November program page takes you to the end of the month.

This week’s post comes from Mary Hull, manager of the Pennsylvania Heritage Foundation.

The Pennsylvania Heritage Foundation and The State Museum of Pennsylvania are excited to offer a Buy One Get One Free membership offer starting November 1, 2019 and going through Monday, December 31, 2019! This is your opportunity to visit all the great Pennsylvania Trails of History sites you read about in “Trailheads.” Renew, rejoin, or join and gift a free membership (of equal or lesser value) to a friend, family member, or co-worker. Memberships included in this offer are Heritage, Individual, and Family. Please note, free membership valid only for individuals or families who have never held a membership with PHF or The State Museum previously.

Membership grants you the following benefits:

A Heritage-level membership ($35) brings the Pennsylvania Heritage magazine to your door four (4) times a year! This popularly styled, liberally illustrated, award-winning magazine covers Pennsylvania history, while also highlighting the collections of the Pennsylvania Historical and Museum Commission written by curators and archivists of PHMC. (There’s also a monthly Trailheads column.)

An Individual-level membership ($55) includes the following benefits:

• General admission to all 24 Trails of History sites and museums for a full year, so you can take advantage of the exciting activities in all seasons
• A full-year subscription to the award-winning Pennsylvania Heritage magazine (4 issues)
• Membership in Time Travelers, a reciprocal membership program of over 300 nationally participating museums with a variety of benefits, including free or discounted museum admission and gift shop discounts
• State Museum Affiliate members (only) also receive reciprocal membership benefits from the Association of Science and Technology Centers (ASTC)
• A personalized membership card
• Special member events throughout the year.

A Family-level membership ($75) includes the same benefits as an Individual-level membership, but it applies to two (2) adults and all children and grandchildren under the age of 18.

You can take advantage of this limited-time offer

• Online – click the link www.paheritage.org
• By phone – call 866/823-6539 (toll free)
• In person – visit The State Museum Store (300 North Street, Harrisburg).

More information is available on the Pennsylvania Heritage Foundation website or by calling the office at 866/823-6539. Join over 2,500 members who know how exciting history is on the Pennsylvania Trails of History!

On the Trails of History, November 1-14

The November program page is up and running if you're planning ahead. Sites scheduled to be open on Nov. 11 for Veterans Day are noted below.

Don't forget to turn your clocks (the ones that still have to be changed by hand) back one hour no later than 2 am on Nov. 3, as Daylight Saving Time comes to an end for this year.

Conrad Weiser Homestead's Fall Lecture takes place Sunday, Nov. 3 - details below (photo via Facebook)

Bushy Run Battlefield
Nov. 14: Historic Sewing Workshop Series—class will focus on basics of hand sewing from a historical perspective. A one-hour formal presentation will be followed by an “open studio” session where participants can work on their own projects at their own pace (more info on the Facebook event page). Last class in the series will be Dec. 12. Contact Bushy Run for registration details and other info. 6-8 pm.

Conrad Weiser Homestead
Nov. 3: Fall Lecture—Michael Showalter, museum educator at Ephrata Cloister, will present C"We have submitted without reluctance: Ephrata Cloister and the Revolutionary War," exploring the winter of 1777-78 and Ephrata’s role as a hospital for sick and wounded soldiers. 2 pm.

Cornwall Iron Furnace
Nov. 12: Friends Lecture Series—this is the last lecture for 2019. Chris Witmer, secretary of the Historic Barn and Farm Foundation of Pennsylvania, will present "Pennsylvania Dutch Barns" (more info on the website). Lectures are held in the auditorium of Freeman Hall Community Center at Cornwall Manor, across the road from the furnace site (map and directions). Lecture is free, donations are accepted. 7 pm.

Daniel Boone Homestead
Nov. 2: Boone Birthday Program—celebrate Daniel Boone's birthday and learn about his family. First-person interpreters will be on hand from 1 to 3 pm, with cake and ice cream at 2 pm. Included in regular admission.

Ephrata Cloister
Nov. 8: Tickets for Christmas at the Cloister—as of today, the general public can purchase tickets ($7 per person) for this limited-seating event (scheduled for Dec. 9 and 10). Details are on the website.
Nov. 11: Veterans Day—site will be open noon-5 pm.

Erie Maritime Museum & U.S. Brig Niagara
Nov. 14: Lecture—author Jim Kennard will present “Shipwrecks of Lake Ontario,” based on his 30-year career investigating shipwrecks (he’ll highlight the story of the sloop Washington, an Erie-built commercial vessel that sank in a storm in 1803). The program is free, but reservations are requested (see Facebook event page for details on how to sign up). 5:30-6:30 pm.

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

Hope Lodge
Nov. 2: Whitemarsh Encampment Reenactment—this long-standing event commemorates the Nov. 2-Dec. 11, 1777, encampment of Gen. George Washington and the Continental Army in the Whitemarsh Hills. Check the Facebook event page for details. Admission charged. 10 am-4 pm.

Joseph Priestley House
Nov. 3: Heritage Day—costumed docents will be stationed in the house as you tour, Dr. Priestley will demonstrate chemical principles, and there will be games for children. Admission is free; pick up tickets for the chemistry demos at the visitor center when you arrive or reserve ahead by calling 570/473-9474. 1-4 pm (chemistry demos at 1:30 and 2:30).

Landis Valley Village and Farm Museum
Throughout the month: Fall Workshops—check the website for course descriptions and registration info.

Old Economy Village
Saturdays in November: Saturday Spotlight Programs—something different every week. Nov. 2 – 19th-Century Foodways: Bread Baking and Cooking; Nov. 9 – The Fabric of Their Lives: Textiles; Nov. 16 - The Art of Blacksmithing. Included in regular admission, so please begin at the Visitor Center. 10 am-5 pm..

Pennsbury Manor
Nov. 2: Monthly Book Club—this month’s book is America’s First Daughter, by Stephanie Dray and Laura Kamoie, which explores the life of Martha Patsy Jefferson Randolph (more info on the website). 10 – 11 am.
Nov. 10: Cooking Demonstration—join the cooks as they revel in the extravagant use of sugar and spices, using 17th-century confectionary recipes. Included in regular admission. 1-4 pm.

Pennsylvania Lumber Museum
Nov. 1: Stream Stewardship Workshop—held in conjunction with the Potter County Conservation District. Learn about current and upcoming projects (more info on Facebook event page. 10 am-1:30 pm.
Nov. 16: Walk and Talk—get a sneak preview of the new orientation video for the Webber Cabin and accompany Jim Hyland (from Tioga State Forest) on a short walk from the visitor center to the cabin for a behind-the-scenes tour of the museum’s newest exhibit building (more info on the Facebook event page). Included in regular admission. 1 pm.

Pennsylvania Military Museum
Nov. 3: Lecture program—Sgt. 1st Class (US Army, ret.) Gerry Mansell will present "The Tomb of the Unknown and the Sentinels Who Stand Guard." 2-3 pm.
Nov. 9: Pictures with Santa—kids of all ages get to pose with Santa. Regular admission rates apply for youth; parents and guardians are free. 10 am-3 pm.
Nov. 11: Veterans Day—the museum is open noon-5 pm. Admission is free for veterans and their families.
Nov. 17: Lecture—museum educator and former Navy Petty Officer Joe Horvath will present "This was NO Love Boat," based on his experiences aboard the SARATOGA during its 1984 Mediterranean cruise as part of the 6th Fleet (details on the website). 2-3 pm.

Railroad Museum of Pennsylvania
Nov. 2-3: Trains & Troops—this annual program salutes our armed forces and explores the role of the military in railroad history (and vice versa). A Swing Dance Saturday night (separate or combo ticket) lets you enjoy big band music, refreshments, and swing, swing, swing. Program details. Sat., 9 am-5 pm; Sun., noon-5 pm.

State Museum of Pennsylvania
Please visit the Planetarium page for a full schedule of shows.
Nov. 1: StoryTime—this month's program (for kids ages 3-5) takes place in the Archaeology Gallery, featuring Nancy Van Laan’s Rainbow Crow, a retelling of a traditional Lenape legend. Included in regular admission. 10:30-11:30 am.
Nov. 7: Build It!—this "Curiosity Kids" program will explore building with everyday objects (details on the museum website). Included in regular admission, but space is limited so be sure to sign up when you purchase your tickets. 11:30 am.
Nov. 8: Learn at Lunchtime—join Bob Hill, curator of military and industrial history, to learn about the World War II experiences of Major Robert Gaynor, whose uniform is currently on exhibit. Included in regular admission. 12:15-12:45 pm..
Nov. 9: Workshops in Archaeology—this year’s program is an examination of western Pennsylvania’s Monongahela Indians. Early bird registration ends Nov. 1. Registration details and parking information are on the museum website. 9 am-6 pm.

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

Veterans Day 2018

Schedules for November 11, Veterans Day, are listed below. For info on other events, please see the November program page or last week's post, which listed Trails of History events for Nov. 2-15.

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

Post updated 11/9/2018, 8:40 am and 1:00 pm.

Handwritten on back of photo: "Yellow Smoke Chenille Rocket - official signal for ending war for 28th Division - 11 am 11/11/18. Gen. Hay touched off rocket. Sweeney, Hagerling [?] & Dawson [?] in background." (PA State Archives, MG-156 Edward Martin Papers (Box 1, Vol 1, Folder 1)

This year marks the 100th anniversary of the end of fighting in World War I. The armistice that went into effect at 11 am on Nov. 11, 1918, is celebrated as the end of the war, with Armistice Day becoming a national holiday in many countries in 1919. In the U.S., Armistice Day became Veterans Day in 1954, a day to honor all veterans of military service. Because of this year's centennial, many Veterans Day activities will be focused on the armistice and the World War I era (see below for Trails of History activities). The United States World War One Centennial Commission is encouraging individuals and organizations across the country to participate in the Bells of Peace initiative, tolling bells at 11 am local time on Sunday, Nov. 11. They've even developed a smartphone app that people can use to participate virtually (more info on the centennial commission website).

A couple of recent posts related to the Trails of History seem relevant here.

A recent article from the U.S. Army War College highlights Gen. Edward Sigerfoos of the 28th Division during World War I; a memorial to Sigerfoos can be found on the grounds of the Pennsylvania Military Museum. The Pennsylvania Military Museum has added some new items to its exhibit galleries temporarily:


And the Somerset Historical Center received a donation of a county resident's World War I Purple Heart:

Veterans Day, November 11

Brandywine Battlefield Park
Site open noon-4 pm.

Conrad Weiser Homestead
Site open noon-4 pm, with an Armistice Service at 2 pm (see Facebook event page for details).

Daniel Boone Homestead
Site open noon-4 pm; Paul Trainor will present "Soldiers in the French and Indian War" at 2 pm. Suggested donation of $2 per person for talk. Regular admission applies to visit the historic area.

Ephrata Cloister
Site open noon-5 pm. (Ephrata Cloister will be closed on Monday, Nov. 12.)

Erie Maritime Museum and U.S. Brig Niagara
UPDATE: The museum is closed, but some staff and volunteers will be participating in DCNR's Veterans Appreciation Day at the U.S. Coast Guard station on Presque Isle State Park. At 11 am, they will participate in the Bells of Peace initiative using a small bell from the USS Wolverine (see info here).

Graeme Park
Site open noon-4 pm.

Joseph Priestley House
Site open 1-4 pm.

Landis Valley Village and Farm Museum
Site open noon-5 pm.

Pennsylvania Military Museum
Museum open noon-5 pm. Admission is free for veterans and their families. At 2 pm, as part of the Friends' Lecture Series, Robert Franks will present "Welcome Home, Bro," based on his experiences as an Airborne Infantry Platoon Leader with the First Cavalry Division, serving in Vietnam in 1966 and 1967 (details on the website).

Railroad Museum of Pennsylvania
Museum open noon-5 pm.

State Museum of Pennsylvania
At 11 am, the museum's Liberty Bell replica (outdoors on the North St. side) will be rung as part of the Bells of Peace initiative. At noon, the museum will open a new exhibit, Dressed for Service: Pennsylvanians in the Great War, featuring uniforms from World War I.