Volunteers of the Year 2023

This past Saturday, April 15, we held our first in-person PHMC Volunteer of the Year awards ceremony since 2019 (see group photo above). We honored volunteers for service in 2022. Although the weather was quite rainy in Harrisburg, the assembled group at The State Museum of Pennsylvania was cheerful, vibrant, and good-humored. It was truly a pleasure to bring people together to say thank you for the hours of time and the tremendous amounts of talent that our volunteers contribute, working alongside our dedicated staff to care for collections, present programs, lead tours and school groups, help maintain and beautify our grounds, and much more.

The Outstanding Service Award was presented in memoriam to Nancy Hetrick (1944-2022) on behalf of the Pennsylvania Lumber Museum and the PA Lumber Museum Associates (PALMA). Nancy was a long-time volunteer at the Lumber Museum who helped create many new programs over the past 10 years or so, actively supported the annual Bark Peelers' Festival, and served as Board Secretary and editor for the PALMA newsletter (read the Outstanding Service Award citation). Nancy's husband and fellow volunteer, Roger, accepted the award in her memory.

This year's Volunteer of the Year honorees were (click on the names to see an individual photo and read about the honoree's service):

• Anthracite Heritage Museum - Chester Kulesa
• Brandywine Battlefield Park - Mario Lerario
• Bushy Run Battlefield - Jim Comunale
• Conrad Weiser Homestead - Lynn Otto
• Cornwall Iron Furnace - Dan Snyder
• Daniel Boone Homestead
• Drake Well Museum & Park - Faith Mealy and Amber Hannold
• Eckley Miners' Village - Matthew Gaydos
• Ephrata Cloister - Douglas Gehr
• Erie Maritime Museum & U.S. Brig Niagara - Gayle Chojnacki
• Graeme Park - Kevin Horan
• Hope Lodge - Phil Williams
• Joseph Priestley House - Mike McWilliams
• Landis Valley Village & Farm Museum - Linda Schock
• Old Economy Village - Joyce Patterson
• Pennsbury Manor - Douglas Lehnen
• Pennsylvania Lumber Museum - Janifer and John Halter
• Pennsylvania Military Museum - Simon Cressman
• Railroad Museum of Pennsylvania - Stephen Jacobs
• Somerset Historical Center - Ron Hillegas
• The State Museum of Pennsylvania - Alice Herncane

Up Next

Today, April 21

• Learn at Lunchtime (virtual); 12:15-12:45 pm; The State Museum of PA
• Emily Boyd, small game mammal biologist for the Pennsylvania Game Commission, will talk about the three Pennsylvania rabbit and hare species and the ongoing research to improve management and promote the continued presence of all lagomorph species for future generations of Pennsylvanians. Program is free, but you must register to receive the link (April 21 Learn at Lunchtime registration).

Saturday, April 22

• Common Threads Fiber Symposium (in-person); 9 am-4 pm; Somerset Historical Center
• Cosponsored by Somerset Historical Center and Laurel Arts, this event offers an opportunity for regional fiber artists to share their skills and knowledge with each other as well as the public. Fiber artists will be set up throughout the museum, demonstrating specific techniques, providing hands-on activities to participants, and selling or talking about their hand-made products. Admission is $5 (Fiber Symposium info).

• Earth Day (in-person); 10 am-3 pm; Brandywine Battlefield Park
• From seeing our Living History interpreters to interacting with the Delaware Nature and Science Museum animals and employees, visitors will get to experience a fun-filled Earth Day (Brandywine Earth Day program info).

• Spring Antique Show and Sawmill Run (in-person); Saturday & Sunday, 10 am-4 pm; PA Lumber Museum
• There will be antiques and collectibles vendors and historic trades demonstrations, including the museum's birch still (plus cooking demos 11 am-1 pm). On Saturday only, the steam-powered circular sawmill will be operating (plus Earth Day craft activities 2-4 pm). Admission is $8. There will be food and drink for purchase (Spring Antique Show info).

• StoryTime (in-person); 10:30-11:30 am; The State Museum of PA
• Listen to a reading of Spring After Spring by Stephanie Roth and explore the story of Rachel Carson, create a spring drawing, and look for signs of spring in the galleries. For ages 2 to Pre-K and included in regular admission. Sign up at the Ground Floor Info Desk (StoryTime info).

• Celebrate Earth Day: Plant a Tree (in-person); 1:30-2:30 pm; The State Museum of PA
• Learn more about the trees in Pennsylvania and how they make our lives better. Then take a seedling home to plant. Supplies are limited, so register at the Ground Floor Info Desk when you arrive to receive a seedling. Included in regular admission (State Museum Earth Day info).

Sunday, April 23

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

Wednesday, April 26

• Lunch & Learn (in-person); 10 am-2 pm; Graeme Park
• Author C.J. McGroarty will discuss her novel, Clara in a Time of War, which is set on a Chester County farm in 1777. The program also includes continental breakfast, buffet lunch, and tours of the Keith House. Tickets are $35 (Lunch & Learn program info and tickets - sales end April 21).

• Stargazing: Tonight's Sky (in-person); 2-3 pm; The State Museum of PA
• Chat with the Planetarium director to learn about what you can see in tonight's sky, the basic motions of the sky, visible constellations and planets, and any special celestial events coming up in the next month. Regular admission and planetarium ticket required (Stargazing program info).

• New Exhibit Reception (in-person); 6:30-7:30 pm; Erie Maritime Museum
• Join us as we unveil our newest exhibit, Snipe to…Black Ice – featuring a 1900-built ice boat that sailed Presque Isle Bay for over one hundred years. Enjoy light refreshments and a chance to talk with the men who were the last to sail this ice boat (and who donated it to the museum). Event is free (Exhibit reception info).

Thursday, April 27

• Wheels Go Round (in-person); 11:30 am-12:30 pm; The State Museum of PA
• Travel through the Second Floor of the museum to discover how many objects have wheels. Create your own vehicle using different parts and pieces. Included in regular admission (Wheels Go Round program info).

Advance Tickets or Registrations

• Behind the Scenes with the Heirloom Seed Project (in-person); Saturday, Apr. 29, 9 am and 1 pm; Landis Valley Village & Farm Museum
• Heirloom Seed Project staff and volunteers will offer a glimpse into preparations for the annual Herb & Garden Faire and lead a tour of gardens on the site. Two tour times: 9 am or 1 pm. The tour is two hours of walking around the museum grounds, rain or shine; please dress for the weather with comfortable footwear. Tickets are $40, $35 for members (Heirloom Seed Project tour tickets).

• Art in the Garden (in-person); Saturday, Apr. 29, 10 am-1 pm; Pennsbury Manor
• Take a tour of Pennsbury's gardens and grounds, then settle into your favorite spot and paint. All skill levels welcome; materials provided. Cost is $35, $30 for members. Registration required (Pennsbury Manor contact info).

• Salon Social (Tea) (in-person: Saturday, Apr. 29, 1-3 pm; Anthracite Heritage Museum
• Join us for afternoon tea featuring Victorian and Edwardian fashions, tea sandwiches, desserts, coffee and tea. Make reservations by calling 570/963-4804 or emailing ahmuseum@verizon.net. Tickets are $25 and the deadline to reserve is April 23 (call 570/963-4804 or email ahmuseum@verizon.net).

• Sensory Hours (in-person); Tuesday, May 2, 3-5 pm; Railroad Museum of PA
• Light, sound, and crowd levels will be lower, and there will be some quiet spaces in the galleries to take a break. Several historic trains will be open with staff on hand to answer questions. Advance tickets required (May 2 Sensory Hours tickets).

• Herb & Garden Faire (in-person); Friday and Saturday, May 12-13, 9 am-5 pm; Landis Valley Village & Farm Museum
• The Faire, featuring plants from Landis Valley Museum’s Heirloom Seed Project, will also offer heirlooms, natives, and other hard-to-find varieties to purchase from vendors spread out over the historic village area of the site. The 2023 Herb & Garden Faire is the 35th year of this high-profile regional event. Food and drink will be available onsite. Tickets are available at the door or in advance online (Herb & Garden Faire online tickets).

• Mother's Day Breakfast and Cake Walk (in-person); Sunday, March 14, 10 am-Noon; Graeme Park
• Treat Mom to a Mother’s Day breakfast in the large event tent at Graeme Park! After your meal, enjoy a tour of the Keith House or participate in our cake walk (separate $10 ticket to be sold on site) to win a cake to take home with you. Tickets must be purchased in advance (tickets for Mother's Day breakfast).

Summer Camp Programs (camps are in-person unless marked otherwise)

• Brandywine Battlefield Park (Brandywine camp info)
• Live the Battle Week (grades 3-4), June 27-30, 9 am-2 pm
• Step Into the Past Week (grades 3-4), July 11-14, 9 am-2 pm
• Live the Battle Week (grades 5-6), July 18-21, 9 am-2 pm
• Step Into the Past Week (grades 5-6), July 25-28, 9 am-2 pm

• Bushy Run Battlefield (Bushy Run camp info)
• Colonial Life (grades 1-5), June 19-21, 10 am-3 pm

• Drake Well Museum & Park (Drake Well camp info)
• Discovery Days Camp (ages 8-12), July 6, 13, 20 & 27, 9 am-4 pm

• Landis Valley Village & Farm Museum (LVVFM camp info)
• A Child's Life in the Civil War (ages 5-11), July 18-21, 9 am-12:30 pm

• Pennsbury Manor (Pennsbury camp info)
• Colonial Camp Week (ages 6-8), July 17-21, 9 am-4 pm

• Railroad Museum of PA (RMP camp info)
• Barons & Builders Summer Day Camp (ages 9-10), July 11-14
• SOLD OUT Barons & Builders Summer Day Camp (ages 11-12), July 25-28

On and Off the Trails Again

Please visit the August programs page to find info about events on the Trails of History.

There is no discernible theme to this week's post (shocking), so don't try to find one. On the other hand - if you do try, and you do find one, feel free to let me know in the comments! Otherwise, enjoy the stroll and enjoy the weekend.

Last week, Joseph Priestley House hosted their annual Oxygen Day event commemorating Dr. Priestley's scientific work on the isolation of the gas we call oxygen (he called it "dephlogysticated air"). In addition, the Friends of Joseph Priestley House invited descendants of Joseph and Mary Priestley to visit, providing behind the scenes tour of the home and Priestley-related sights in and around Northumberland (read more on the JPH website). Reporter Suzanne Goldklang of WNEP-TV covered the event and spoke with some of the descendants, including a teenage boy whose family recently discovered their connection to the Priestley family. (If the embedded video below does not play, you can find it on WNEP's website.)

Graeme Park shared this photo of Erin Agnew and participants in hearth cooking class on Sunday, Aug. 6 (via Facebook)

The first of four hearth cooking classes, "Let Food Be Thy Medicine," was offered at Graeme Park this past Sunday (to see other photos visit Graeme Park's Facebook page). It's not too late to sign up for the remaining three (discounts offered for members and for multiple classes). Online registration is available.

Col. Henry Bouquet (right) talks with colonials (photo Bushy Run Battlefield)

Bushy Run Battlefield commemorated the Battle of Bushy Run (Aug. 5-6, 1763) last weekend with their annual two-day reenactment. So that visitors can get the full scope of the history in one day, they always reenact the action of August 5 on Saturday morning and August 6 in the afternoon (then repeat on Sunday). An epic effort by Bushy Run board, staff, and volunteers along with all the reenactors who take part presenting British, colonial, and Native American forces. Museum facilitator Colleen Madore shared some photos with me (one of them is above) and there are more photos and video on Bushy Run's Facebook page.

This year's participants in Boot Camp for Kids, PA Military Museum (via Facebook)

Last weekend was also the annual Boot Camp for Kids event at the Pennsylvania Military Museum, which provides boys and girls ages 8 to 13 with a taste of military training, teamwork, and rations, under the instruction of staff and volunteers with prior military experience. More photos are available on PMM's Facebook page. (I'm not sure I shared a link to images from last month's VIETNAM Revisited living history program, which you can also find on Facebook.)

First step in linen production: pull up the flax plants (via Landis Valley Facebook page) 

Landis Valley Village and Farm Museum shared some photos of Heirloom Seed Project staff and volunteers pulling and bundling flax plants that are now ready to be turned into linen at Colonial Williamsburg (close ups of the bundles on FB).

If you get a chance, catch "2017 Eclipse Across America" at the State Museum Planetarium between now and August 20 for a good overview of how eclipses work and what to expect from the one coming up on Aug. 21. If you haven't already gotten eclipse viewing glasses from a reputable dealer, you may have to improvise (here in PA, we'll get a 75-80% partial eclipse, which requires eye protection the entire duration).

A few links from off the trails...

• 5 Times Kids Corrected Museums, via Mental Floss
• National Archives has a new digital catalog of "famous faces in the military" featuring military records and photos of "people of exceptional prominence"
• My favorite indie bookstore shared Open Culture's post (from last year) about the Univ. of Florida's Baldwin Library of Historical Children's Literature, now available digitized and free to read online
• and finally, Wednesday was #InternationalCatDay, and @MuseumWeek compiled some of the best tweets from museums and archives

Treats for History Lovers

As we're right on the cusp of the old month and the new, you'll find the October program listings and the November program listings on the side bar. Don't forget to turn your clocks back by 2 am Sunday, Nov. 1, for the end of Daylight Savings Time. "How quaint," I hear you say, "to have clocks that must be reset manually."

Depending on where you live in Pennsylvania (if you live in Pennsylvania), you may have trick-or-treaters at your door tonight or tomorrow. Or maybe they were on your doorstep last night and you're already elbow deep in the leftover candy (why is it soooo hard to get the quantities right?). This week's post features some items that came across my screen in the past couple of weeks. None of them is directly related to a specific Trails of History site, so I haven't quite known how to share them here. But it occurred to me that they should still be of interest to Trailheads readers, most of whom I assume to be, like me, history geeks true aficionados of high-quality historical goods. So here are a few calorie-free treats to start your weekend.

I have a handful of Facebook friends who are heavily into the textile arts (knitting and quilting, in particular), so I've seen several references to London's Victoria & Albert Museum and a collection of 1940s knitting patterns they recently posted on their website. With PHMC plans beginning to form for 100th-anniversary and 75th-anniversary commemorations of U.S. entry into WWI and WWII, it made me wonder if anyone out there knows of similar patterns produced for American knitters (if you do, please leave a note in the comments). The British versions include the usual mix of sweaters and hats, but there are also specialized pieces adapted for men and women in uniform.

Knitted balaclava, WWII-era

This also put me in mind of an unfinished pair of WWII-era hand-knit socks in the collection of the PA Military Museum. One sock was completed and the second was in process when the war ended, so the knitter, Ruth Davis, simply put them aside. I have always found them to be a powerful symbol of "the homefront," as well as a sense of a defined end to the war effort that has not been part of my experience in the late 20th or early 21st century. You can see a great photo of the socks on display at the PMM last Memorial Day weekend, posted by blogger "Domer in DC" (to save some of you having to look it up, a "domer" is someone who went to the Univ. of Notre Dame).

On a related note, Yale University has recently organized and made available a collection of 170,000 photographs created between 1935 and 1945 by the U.S. Farm Security Administration and Office of War Information (FSA-OWI). The photos are housed at the Library of Congress, but Yale's "Photogrammar" project is making them more searchable (and is in process of linking photos by photographer, location, date, etc.). There are quite a few photos for Pennsylvania, including many showing homefront activities (such as scrap drives) and farming in Lancaster County before and during WWII. If you visit the Photogrammer website, I suggest you set aside some time, because you may be there awhile. UPDATE 11/6/15: It has been brought to my attention that there are some glitches with the Pennsylvania images where the county info is incorrect (for example, images from Bryn Mawr, Delaware County, are marked as being from Washington County and some images from Washington County are included with Cumberland County. So just be aware and double check if you're using these for anything other than entertainment. On the other hand, while looking at the Cumberland County photos, I found one from the U.S. Army medical field school in 1943 with a man wearing a knitted scarf, so that connected the dots of this post very nicely.

A recent link in my newsfeed (but I can't remember who shared it), led to the website of the U.S. Geological Survey (USGS), which has been making topographical maps available for free download. They just finished a 2nd cycle of maps in September and most of the 50 states have at least some maps available (Alaska is in process). But this might be just the thing for the map lover in your life (or for yourself, of course).

Finally, there was a news item last week that should warm the heart of just about anyone involved with museums, whether you work at a museum or like to visit them (or both). NPR reported on a study by psychologists at Univ. of Oklahoma and Yale Univ. that compared how children and adults responded to different types of stories. At the risk of greatly oversimplifying the findings (you can read a fuller summary on NPR's website), researchers found that children in the study showed a greater preference for stories that were "real" and "factual" than for those that were "make-believe" or "fantasy," and adults showed some preferences for the latter. They theorized that there is a perceived difference between stories young children hear from older children or adults ("experts") and those they tell themselves or each other (in make-believe or play settings). Stories from experts help them learn new things about their world while stories with themselves or peers are about processing what they already know. I think this reinforces what lots of history museum folks know, which is that even young children respond enthusiastically to learning about the past and experiencing real places. In my unscientific opinion, I think it means we should be aware of the authenticity of programs and interpretation for children as well as adults and maybe look for opportunities to let adults engage in some make-believe. Hmmm, like dressing up for Halloween?

Textile Adventures Part Deux

This week's guest blogger is Rachel Yerger, curator in the Bureau of Historic Sites and Museums. Rachel was hired as part of the PHMC's Collections Advancement Project and is supporting numerous inventory, collections care, and exhibit projects at sites on the Trails of History. I'd like to thank Rachel for the text and photos and for keeping the saga going. (If you're looking for things to do this weekend, please check out the February program listings.)

You may recall a blog post from a few weeks ago by my colleague Lauren Jaeger. In case you missed it, Lauren recounted our adventures in freezing and vacuuming textiles for the Lumber Museum ("Freezing History," Jan. 9, 2015). Well the excitement didn’t stop with the vacuuming! In "Textile Adventures Part Deux" we will take a look into the world of housing textiles. The nice thing about housing textiles is that many professional practices can easily be done at home with your own family’s heirlooms. (The Missouri Historical Society has list of basics for at-home care and storage of textiles.)

There are many factors to take into consideration in storing textiles. The first question you need to ask is, “Is this clean?” (As we learned from Lauren’s “Freezing History” post, the Lumber Museum textiles have been freshly vacuumed.) Next, determine what supplies you need to store your textiles effectively (check out this brief supply guide from Museum Textile Services). The two easiest ways to store textiles are to lay them flat or to roll them. You can also hang clothing/costumes on a padded hanger, but that can be tricky and is dependent on the type/condition of the textile. (The National Park Service has guidelines for storing clothing and costumes.) Regardless of which method you choose, the rule of thumb is: fold/crease as little as possible. Folding heavy or delicate fabrics can often be damaging, especially when they are stored for long periods of time. So for some textiles, such as heavy quilts or rugs, the safest bet would be rolling. The best way to roll a textile at home is to use a cardboard tube lined with uncoated polyester film sheets (such as Mylar® type D).

(Above and below) An example of a rolled textile from the State Museum of Pennsylvania. This is a linen shawl with sequins and a gold leaf paisley pattern c. 1820s.

The textiles we froze and vacuumed from the Lumber Museum were mostly clothing and blankets, all made from an assortment of materials. There was everything from wool CCC uniforms to a silk pillowcase, leather mittens to cotton long underwear. For our purposes we felt that flat storage, by way of acid-free textile boxes, was the best method for the Lumber Museum’s textiles. Luckily, we were able to reuse some of our original acid-free boxes (which were frozen and cleaned) in addition to new acid-free textile boxes we had in stock. When we were packing the acid-free boxes it was important to remember to keep heavier textiles, such as a wool jacket, on the bottom of the boxes, and lighter textiles, like a cotton shirt, on the top.

Unfortunately, while rehousing some of our Lumber Museum textiles, folding could not be avoided. In situations like this, where slight folding is unavoidable, it is important to pad the folds with acid-free tissue or washed unbleached muslin. By padding the folds, the pressure on that area of the textile is decreased. If you are folding a blanket try using an accordion fold that avoids any preexisting fold lines. It is also important to remember to refold the textile every so often so pressure isn’t on the same spot for years on end.

The final step in storing textiles, or any collection, is labeling the outside of the box. Though simple, and almost obvious, it’s amazing how important this step is. Once you are finished packing or rolling, be sure to label the box or tag the roll with a catalog number (if there is one) and object name. It is also helpful to do this on multiple sides—that way the chance of putting it back without the label facing out is slimmer. This helps avoid confusion in the future and protects the object from any unnecessary movement or unpacking.

Our storage and rehousing journey did not end with labeling. The ultimate challenge came when a few textiles, like the pair of tall plow boots boxed in the image below, would not fit into any of the boxes we had in stock.

A tall and narrow box for Plow Boots.  We made it so the front can open for easier access to the boots.

Fortunately, we had a few large pieces of acid-free board that we could use to make additional boxes and a few trays. The trays were made for fragile items, like the felt pennants seen below, to provide the objects with extra support and protection. The benefit of making boxes and trays (aside from saving money) is that you can customize the box/tray to fit the object’s dimensions.

Trays (flip tops will be added for additional protection)

Thus started what Lauren and I began affectionately calling "arts and crafts time." I must say, I learned something about myself during "arts and crafts"-- I would be the world’s worst engineer! It’s hard for me to build something from scratch without being able to physically see how the parts are going to come together. But after the careful application of the "measure twice, cut once" rule, the boxes and trays we made fit the objects and allowed us to move and store them in a functional manner.

Making boxes and trays takes time, but I found it to be quite rewarding. If you are short on funds and have the time for some "arts and crafts," box-making is the way to go. If you aren’t sure of where to start, I highly suggest checking out STASH (Storage Techniques for Art, Science and History), a collaborative storage solutions website built by collections professionals that provides the user with methods of storage for all types of collections.

Whole Lotta Shearin’ Goin’ On

This year marks the 100th anniversary of Mother's Day, or so I read on the interwebs. Happy Mother's Day, mom!

AND AN UPDATE, thanks to Karen Galle of PHMC's Historical Marker Program: "Founded by Anna Jarvis of Philadelphia. First officially observed in 1908, it honored motherhood & family life at a time of rising feminist activism. An early supporter was John Wanamaker, whose store stood opposite. Mother's Day was given federal recognition, 1914."

For those of us who don’t live on farms or work at museums with farm animal programs, spring means, well, whatever it means. Flowers. Rain. Mowing the grass for the first time in a while. Allergies. Overdosing on Peeps or Reese’s peanut butter eggs. As I’ve watched my Facebook news feed the last couple of weeks, however, sheep shearing is definitely “trending.” (And yes, I know that my putting it in quotes means I’m hopelessly unhip. Big surprise.) If you’re reading this early enough, you might still make it to Washington Crossing Historic Park to see their program (see listings below).

BEFORE (via Daniel Boone Homestead Facebook page)

By the end of the day, it looks like most of the sheep on the PA Trails of History will have had their summer haircuts and supplied the spinners and weavers with fleece to turn into wool thread and cloth. You can find online photos of programs at Daniel Boone Homestead and Pennsbury Manor (stills and video courtesy of the Bucks County Courier Times).

AFTER

Events this weekend and next week (full list for May):

Bushy Run Battlefield
May 10: Annual Spring Tea—learn about the 18th-century history of tea in the colonies and play children’s games at this family-friendly event. Cost is $18/adult (age 13+), $12/child (age 6-12); includes tea, hot chocolate, sandwiches, and pastries. Reservation deadline was May 7, so be sure to call ahead: 724/972-7396.

Cornwall Iron Furnace
May 13: Friends Lecture Series—“Charcoal Making” will be speaker Rick Brouse’s topic for the evening. During his presentation, Brouse will describe not only how charcoal was made but will also briefly talk about the year-long process, from cutting down the trees to feeding the charcoal into the furnace. Friends Lectures are held in Freeman Auditorium at Cornwall Manor, across the road from the furnace site. Admission is free (donations are welcome). 7 pm.

Ephrata Cloister
May 11: Mothers Day Tea—enjoy afternoon tea and conversation with mothers from Ephrata’s past. Cost is $10 for a mother/daughter pair, $3 for each additional child. 1-3 pm.
May 14: Storytime—Preschoolers with an accompanying adult can enjoy a story and an activity as they learn about life at Ephrata. Cost is $6 for one adult and child (age 3-5), $3 for each additional child (includes regular admission to the site); free to Family Level Members of Ephrata Cloister Associates. 10-11 am.
May 16: Community Days—students learn about life in 18th-century Ephrata through 15-minute presentations at a range of educational stations around the site (and move at their own pace from station to station). Reservations are strongly encouraged (call 717/733-6600); admission is $6 for students, with one adult admitted free with every 10 students (additional adults with a group pay $9). 9:30 am-1 pm.

Landis Valley Village & Farm Museum
May 9-10: 27th Annual Herb & Garden Faire—so many plants, plus lectures by gardening experts, garden furniture, herbal products and baked goods, and lots of great food by local groups and caterers. Admission is $10 (children 5 and under free). 9 am-5 pm.

Old Economy Village
Opened May 8: A Style of Their Own: Clothing and Textiles of the Harmony Society—a new exhibit in the visitor center featuring textiles produced in Harmonist factories and clothing worn by members of the Harmony Society, including founder George Rapp (his cap and coat were part of the PA's Top 10 Endangered Artifacts initiative). Included in regular admission. 10 am-5 pm.
May 10: 19th-century Trade and Craft Demonstrations—The Fabric of Their Lives: Textiles. Included in regular admission. 10 am-5 pm.

Pennsbury Manor
May 11: Living History Theater—“Women’s Monthly Meeting” explores women’s roles in the community and the issues they discussed. Included in regular admission. 1-4 pm.

Railroad Museum of Pennsylvania
May 10-11: National Train Days—activities for all ages will be offered to celebrate the role of railroads in American life. Included in museum admission. Saturday, 9 am-5 pm; Sunday, Noon-5 pm.

Somerset Historical Center
May 16: The Sound of Silents—enjoy a presentation about silent movies featuring the work of film pioneer Edwin Stanton Porter (born in Fayette County, one-time resident of and buried in Somerset). As part of this fundraising event, there will be a pre-show reception and exhibit of movie memorabilia. Cost is $50 ($25 if you wish to attend the cinema presentation only). Held at Mountain Playhouse. Call 814/445-6077 for tickets. 7-9 pm.

State Museum of Pennsylvania
May 16: 3rd in the Burg—opening of new exhibit, “A Fondness for Birds: Pennsylvania’s Alexander Wilson,” featuring work that pre-dated John James Audubon by a decade. This is the inaugural show for the museum's new third Floor changing exhibit gallery. Admission is free for 3rd in the Burg. 5:30-7:30 pm.

Washington Crossing Historic Park
May 9: Sheep Shearing—the sheep will be relieved of their winter coats, and there will be demos of how the fleece is turned into clothing (spoiler alert – it takes a lot of work). Thompson-Neely House. Admission is $8 per person, ages 5 and older. 10 am-2 pm.

Looking Forward to November?

If you’re still looking for something to do this weekend (besides stocking up on bread, milk, and toilet paper before the apocalyptic storm being predicted as I post this), you can find the October program preview here to refresh your memory. I’ve included a few items below that didn’t make it into the earlier list, but the bulk of it belongs to November. Most sites will be closed for Veterans Day on Nov. 11 and also on Nov. 12 (either because they’re normally closed on Mondays or because of an adjusted holiday schedule). All sites will be closed on Thanksgiving, but some will be open the following day. I’ve indicated below which sites are open, but it’s always best to check ahead to make absolutely sure, as plans can change.

Anthracite Heritage Museum
Oct. 28: Remember Johnny Mitchell Day—this annual event commemorates the United Mine Workers President who led the anthracite strike of 1902. This year’s program includes historic film footage of anthracite mining along with commentary by Atty. F. Charles Petrillo and Dr. Philip Mosley. (More info on Facebook here.) 2 pm.

Brandywine Battlefield
Nov. 24: Patriot’s Day—British and Continental troops, civilian reenactors, sutlers, and much more at this annual event commemorating the Battle of Brandywine and its significance to the American Revolution. There will be a special Saturday edition of Battlefield Movies, featuring The Patriot. 9 am-4 pm (movie at 1 pm).
Nov. 25: Battlefield Movies—April Morning, a 1988 Hallmark Hall of Fame production about the Battle of Lexington and Concord, based on the 1961 novel by Howard Fast. 1 pm.

Conrad Weiser Homestead
Nov. 4: Open noon-4 pm.
Nov. 17: Candlelight Tours—this annual program features living history, 18th-century music, and a chance to see the site by night. 6-8:30 pm.

Cornwall Iron Furnace
Nov. 13: Friends Lecture Series—“Architecture of the Cornwall Area,” with speaker Bryan Van Sweden of PHMC’s Bureau for Historic Preservation. Van Sweden’s lecture will include a demonstration of “reading” clues in the architecture of old buildings. Lectures are held in the auditorium of Freeman Hall at Cornwall Manor retirement community. 7 pm.

Daniel Boone Homestead
Nov. 3: Daniel Boone Birthday Celebration—“meet” Daniel Boone, in the person of historian and interpreter Scott New from Fort Boonesborough, Kentucky. There will be lots of activities going on (go here for details). The Friends of DBH are holding a fundraising dinner that evening (deadline for reservations is Oct. 27 so call now). 10 am-4 pm; Scott New will present his Boone program at 11 am and 2 pm; dinner is at 7 pm.
Nov. 11: Fall Lecture Series—today’s program is presented by the Daniel Boone Spinner’s Guild; check the website for details. 2 pm.
Nov. 18: Fall Lecture Series—Les Rohrback from the Berks County Association for Graveyard Preservation is the guest speaker. 2 pm.

Eckley Miners’ Village
Ongoing: Fall Foliage Photo Contest—pay a one-time fee of $5 for access to the site and enter your best autumn photo. Deadline is Dec. 3 (go here for info and entry form).
Nov. 11: Fall Lecture—presented by the Greater Hazleton Area Polonaise Society, celebrating Polish American heritage. 2-4 pm. PROGRAM WILL BE RESCHEDULED FOR SPRING 2013.

Ephrata Cloister
Nov. 1 and 8: Tickets for Christmas at the Cloister—dates for the program are Dec. 10 and 11, but tickets go on sale in November. Members of Ephrata Cloister Associates can purchase tickets in the museum store or postmark their mail order starting Nov. 1. The general public can begin purchasing (in person or by mail) on Nov. 8. Go here for details.

Erie Maritime Museum and Flagship Niagara
Nov. 3: Cover Day—the Niagara crew will begin making the ship ready for the winter. Visit the museum website for more info as the day gets closer.
Nov. 18: Lecture—noted Battle of Lake Erie scholar Gerry Altoff will be the featured speaker in Hirt Auditorium at the Museum. Altoff, who retired as Chief Ranger and Historian at Perry’s Victory and International Peace Monument (NPS) in 2004, has written extensively about the War of 1812 on Lake Erie and speaks before a wide range of groups (the day before this lecture he’ll be speaking at a conference on Shipwrecks and Scuba (additional bio here)—have I mentioned how much I love Google?). 2 pm.

Fort Pitt Museum
Nov. 11, 12, 23: Open 10 am-5 pm.

Graeme Park
Nov. 3: Paranormal Investigations—the program will explore various spaces on the site; registration fee ($50) includes snacks and beverage service). Call 215/915-9453 for more info or reservations. 6:30 pm-1 am.
Nov. 24: A Soldier’s Christmas—see how soldiers have celebrated the holidays on the battlefront of different eras. Free admission; food and crafts available for sale (more info here). 3-8 pm.

Hope Lodge
Nov. 3-4: Whitemarsh Encampment Re-enactment—this long-standing event commemorates the Nov. 2-Dec. 11, 1777, encampment of Gen. George Washington and the Continental Army in the Whitemarsh Hills. Go here for program details and to download a discount coupon. 10 am-4 pm.

Joseph Priestley House
Nov. 4: Heritage Day—costumed interpreters will be stationed in the house as you tour, Dr. Priestley will demonstrate chemical principles, and there will be games for children. 1-4 pm (chemistry demos at 1:30 and 2:30).
Nov. 11: Open 1-4 pm.

Landis Valley Village and Farm Museum
Nov. 3-4: Weathervane Holiday Open House—shop for locally handmade art, crafts and heirloom-quality gifts and enjoy holiday decorations in the museum store. 9 am-5 pm.
Nov. 4: The Legacy of the Long Rifle—in conjunction with the museum’s Lancaster Long Rifle exhibit, this program presents several speakers on different aspects of the rifle’s history. “Daniel Boone” (Scott New, see program listings for Daniel Boone Homestead above) will talk about the Lancaster Long Rifle’s spread westward; John Kolar (one of the guest curators of the exhibit) will talk about the accuracy of the Pennsylvania Rifle; and Dr. Scott Stephenson will talk about the Pennsylvania Rifle in the American Revolution. For more info go here. Noon-5 pm.
Nov. 8: Hands-on History Days—experience seasonal chores, a one-room schoolhouse, hands-on crafts, and wagon rides. $10 per person (ages 5 and under are free). 10 am-3 pm.

Old Economy Village
Nov. 10: Trades Workshops—this year, choose between learning to make a lantern like the ones used during evening programs on the grounds or learning to spin and knit. Go here for details. 10 am-4 pm.
Nov. 23: Open 10 am-5 pm.
Nov. 25: Annual Christmas Dinner—enjoy a lantern-lit evening in the historic Feast Hall and help support the educational programs of Old Economy Village. More details are here. Deadline for reservations is Nov. 18.

Pennsbury Manor
Nov. 18: Open Hearth Cooking—the cooks will be exploring German food traditions (William Penn invited residents of the Palatinate to settle in Pennsylvania) and comparing them to English traditions of the period. 1-4 pm.

Pennsylvania Military Museum
Nov. 7: Friends Lecture Series, "Operation New Dawn - Civilian/Military Cooperation in Iraq, 2010-2011"—retired Foreign Service Officer Martin Quinn will discuss the changeover from military to civilian management of State Department responsibilities during his service in Iraq. 7:30 pm.
Nov. 10: Kids Day - Dress Up and Discover!!—Kids of all ages get to try on field gear and head gear from the museum education collection. Photo ops abound with three backdrops in the museum theatre. Visit the education stations in the galleries for more fun discoveries throughout the day. Half-price admission for ages 3 to 13; a donation is requested for the Dress-Up station. Parents must remain on-site while their kids participate in the activities. 10 am-3 pm.
Nov. 11: Open noon-4 pm.
Nov. 13: Central PA Civil War Roundtable Lecture, "The Battle of Shiloh, Tennessee"—speaker Matthew Atkinson discusses the bloodiest contest (April 6-7, 1862) in American history up to that time, in which Union Generals Grant and Buell beat back the surprise attack of Confederate forces led by Generals Albert Johnston and P.G.T. Beauregard. 7:30 pm.
Nov. 23: Open 10 am-4 pm.

Railroad Museum of Pennsylvania
Nov. 3-4: 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 ticket) lets you enjoy big band music, refreshments, and swing, swing, swing. Go here for program details and schedule. Sat., 9 am-5 pm; Sun., noon-5 pm.
Nov. 11: Open noon-5 pm.
Nov. 23: Open 9 am-5 pm.

State Museum of Pennsylvania
Nov. 2-Feb. 13: Pennsylvania Watercolor Society exhibit—The State Museum is hosting PAWCS’s 33rd Annual International Juried Exhibition, with 120 watercolors selected from some 600 entries. Opening reception Nov. 4, 2-4 pm.
Nov. 3: “Contact, Conflict, and Colonization: The Archaeology of Penn’s Woods”—this is a day-long workshop exploring European colonization from 1550-1783. Go here for more details. 8:30 am-6 pm.
Nov. 16: Hidden Treasures Scavenger Hunt—it’s 3rd in the Burg and grown-ups get to explore the museum at this “friend-raiser/fundraiser.” Adult beverages, heavy hors d’oeuvres, and music by Back Alley Blues. For details go here. 6-9 pm.

Washington Crossing Historic Park
Nov. 11: Open 10 am-4 pm.
Nov. 23: Open 10 am-4 pm.

August on Tap

Summer is forging ahead and so are the Trails of History sites. Find one near you and enjoy!

Anthracite Heritage Museum
Aug. 5: Lithuanian Heritage Day—exhibits, lectures, and musical performances will explore the Lithuanian heritage of the anthracite coal region. Lithuania's ambassador to the U.S. will be among those on hand to enjoy the day. Included in museum admission. Check here for program details. Noon-5 pm

Brandywine Battlefield
Aug. 26: Battlefield Movie Series—Free Sunday afternoon movies and snacks. 1776 is this month’s film. 1 pm

Bushy Run Battlefield
Aug. 4-5: 249th Anniversary of Battle of Bushy Run—this highly popular two-day event features battle reenactments, sutlers, crafts, and historical presentations. 10 am-4 pm

Conrad Weiser Homestead
Aug. 5: 18th-century Interpretive Sunday—learn about life in Berks County in the mid-18th century and hear a Native American perspective on the French and Indian War. Noon-4 pm; historic guided tours hourly noon-3 pm.

Cornwall Iron Furnace
Aug. 3: Cornwall Blast—a new fundraising event featuring local wineries and breweries, plus music by the Wayne Fox Trio. Wine and beer tastings for those 21 and over, plus other refreshments suitable for younger visitors and those who prefer their beer rooty instead of hoppy. Tickets are limited and must be purchased in advance; call 717/272-9711 to check on availability. 7-9 pm
Aug. 14: “Pennsylvania Long Rifles”—Staff from Landis Valley Village and Farm Museum will talk about the development of the distinctive American form known as the Lancaster or Pennsylvania long rifle. (As we may have mentioned here once or twice, Landis Valley currently has an exhibit of rifles and firearms that continues through Dec. 31.) Part of the Friends of Cornwall Iron Furnace lecture series, the program takes place in Freeman Hall auditorium at Cornwall Manor. 7 pm

Daniel Boone Homestead
Aug. 5, 12, 19, 26: Interpretive Sundays—spend Sunday afternoons in August learning about gardening and food preservation (8/5); turning flax and fleece into linen and wool (8/12); gunsmithing (8/19); and camp cooking (8/26). Included in museum admission. Noon-4 pm

Drake Well Museum
Aug. 4: Historic Pithole Open for Tours-Guides will be available today at the remains of one of the oil region's famous boomtowns. Admission is $5 for adults, $3 for children (ages 3-11); free for Friends of Drake Well. Go here for more info or here for doowop song about Pithole (thanks to PA Trails of History for the share). 9 am-3 pm
Aug. 25: Blacksmith Demonstrations—this monthly event brings local blacksmiths to the site to show how it’s done. 10 am-2 pm
Aug. 26: Drake Day and Exhibit Grand Opening—celebrate the first successful well drilled for oil and explore our brand new exhibit, “There’s a Drop of Gas and Oil in Your Life Every Day.” (Photos of the exhibit work in progress are here.) Local musicians, the Venango Brigade, will perform (you can hear samples of their Civil War-era music here). Noon-5 pm

Eckley Miners’ Village
Aug. 18-19: Living History and Civil War Weekend—living history demonstrations, military encampments, and reenactments throughout the village. Ethnic food concessions and a Victorian tea are also on the menu. Regular admission rates apply. 10 am-5 pm

Ephrata Cloister
Aug. 5: Ice Cream Social—enjoy an evening of ice cream (pick your own sundae toppings) and music (vocalist Dean Sensenig) in a beautiful setting. Tickets are $3 and can be purchased at the door or in advance at the Museum Store. 4-6 pm
Aug. 18: Family Day—discover life in Ephrata during the 1700s and the roles that family members played in their households through hands-on activities around this historic site. Admission is $10 for adults, $9 for seniors, $7 for students (age 6-17) and $5 for children (age 3-5). Ephrata Cloister Associates and PA Heritage Society members get in free. 10 am-3 pm

Fort Pitt Museum
Aug. 11: Saturdays at the Fort—this month the focus is on how the 18th-century residents of Fort Pitt fed themselves. Special demonstrations include hunting, fishing, and gardening. 10 am-5 pm

Graeme Park
Aug. 26: Yellow Fever Living History Program—Philadelphia experienced a dramatic yellow fever epidemic in 1793. Graeme Park, like other country estates, became a haven removed from the city’s contagions. This program explores the impact of the epidemic on Elizabeth Graeme Fergusson and her circle of family and friends. Noon-3:30 pm

Joseph Priestley House
Aug. 5: Oxygen Day—in honor of Dr. Priestley’s best known (though certainly not his only) scientific contribution, this program features costumed docents throughout the house, chemistry demonstrations, and a presentation by staff from the respiratory care department at Geisinger Medical Center in Danville. Free admission. 1-4 pm; chem. demos at 1:30 and 3 pm.

Landis Valley Village and Farm Museum
Aug. 7: Hands-On History Day—experience chores, games, and crafts from the past, take a wagon ride, learn your lessons in the one-room schoolhouse, and more. This program will also be offered Oct. 4 and 25, Nov. 8. Cost is $10 per person; children 5 and younger are free. 10 am-3 pm
Aug. 11: Storytelling Day—a full day of storytelling around the site, plus hands-on workshops and craft demonstrations. Go here for the day’s schedule. Regular admission rates apply. 10 am-4 pm
Aug. 25: Weathervane Art Show—Landis Valley’s museum store will host an array of artisans selling their wares and demonstrating their crafts, plus there will be music by the Ragtime Willi Band and, of course, food. Go here for a list of some of the artisans (the flyer says “30 artisans” but the list has grown to 50 as of late July). Admission to the art show is free; but why not buy a ticket to the site and make a day of it? 9 am-4 pm

Old Economy Village
Aug. 18: Living History Day and Gertrude Rapp’s Birthday—a full day of activities, with crafts demonstrations (including silk making in honor of the birthday girl), ginger cookies, ice cream and musical entertainment. Included in museum admission, so please start your day at the Visitor Center to purchase tickets. 10 am-5 pm
Aug. 24: Survivor in Concert—Remember “Eye of the Tiger?” “Is This Love?” “The Search is Over?” The ‘80s band Survivor will perform in the historic gardens (lawn chair and blanket seating only), with opening act Bishop Clay (a local band). Go here for details and info on tickets. Gate opens at 6 pm; Bishop Clay hits the stage at 7:30 pm, Survivor at 8:30 pm.

Pennsbury Manor
Aug. 5: Historic Trades—the blacksmith and the joyner will demonstrate their skills. 1-4 pm
Aug. 12: Living History Theater—“The Germantown Protest of 1688” explores the first documented protest against slavery in America, which took place at the Germantown meetinghouse of the Society of Friends. 1-4 pm
Aug. 19: Open Hearth Cooking—the cooks will be demonstrating Dutch foodways traditions in the kitchen. 1-4 pm
Aug. 26: Garden Highlights—the gardeners will be working in the kitchen garden. 1-4 pm

Pennsylvania Civil War 150 Road Show
Through Aug. 4: Schuylkill County Fair—hosted by the Schuylkill County Historical Society, Pottsville
Aug. 12-18: Fulton County Fair, McConnellsburg
Aug. 21-25: Perry County Fair, Newport
Aug. 28-Sept. 3: The Great Allentown Fair

Pennsylvania Military Museum
Aug. 1: “Harry Truman: The Most Successful (WWII) and Least Successful (Korean War) Commander-in-Chief”—Greg Ferro will talk about “Give ‘em Hell” Harry Truman, the only U.S. president to lead the country through two wars. Ferro, a retired State College High School history teacher, continues to teach and lecture on historical topics. Part of the Friends of PMM speaker series. 7:30 pm
Aug. 4-5, 11-12, 18-19, 25-26: T-shirt Tours—wear an Armed Services themed t-shirt to the Museum any weekend in August and receive a 1 pm guided tour for $4.
Aug. 5, 12, 19: “Gone West: The History of the 28th Division Shrine”—take a guided walking tour of the 28th Division Shrine, followed by a historical presentation and vintage film footage in the museum’s orientation theater. Donation requested. 5:15 pm
Aug. 7: “24 Hours at Manassas Junction: Second Manassas Campaign”—speaker Mark Trbovich will explore the campaign waged by Gen. Robert E. Lee’s Army of Northern Virginia against Maj. Gen. John Pope’s Army of Virginia. August 2012 marks the 150th anniversary of the Battle of Second Manassas. (As a Union general, Pope would probably have referred to it as the second Battle of Bull Run.) Presented by the Central PA Civil War Roundtable. 7 pm

Railroad Museum of Pennsylvania
Aug. 10-11: Hogwarts Express Parties—elements of the popular Harry Potter books come to life among the museum’s railcars and street scenes. The program is recommended for ages 8 and up (attendees must be accompanied by a parent or adult guardian). Space is limited; registrations are accepted by mail or in person, and all those attending over age 3 also subject to museum admission fees. Go here for details and a registration form. 11 am, 1 pm

State Museum of Pennsylvania
Aug. 3, 10, 17, 24, 31: Learn at Lunchtime—the museum offers free admission mid-day every Friday, along with docent tours of select exhibits. 11 am-1:30 pm; docent tours at 12:15 and 1 pm
Aug. 4-5, 11-12, 18-19, 25-26: IdeaZone—explore the topic of "Food in PA from Field to Table," with hands-on activities in the museum’s interactive learning space. Included in museum admission. 12:30-3:30 pm
Aug. 17: 3rd in the Burg—this month’s program features an Artist Conversation in the “Art of the State” exhibit and a reception. Free. 6-8 pm

Washington Crossing Historic Park
Aug. 4: The American Travelling Morrice—this group, comprised of musicians and morris dancers from all over who come together once a year to tour a different part of the country, will visit Washington Crossing as part of their 37th annual tour. Morris dancing is an English country tradition that dates back centuries. WCHP performance is at noon.

It Started with a Snowsuit

Thanks to Carrie Blough for the photos.

There’s still time to check out a new changing exhibit at the Somerset Historical Center. “Treasury of Handwork: Somerset County Textile Arts” explores 250 years of needlework, including crocheting, knitting, quilting, and embroidery. The exhibit is organized by the Historical and Genealogical Society of Somerset County, which, due to state budget reductions, has recently taken a greatly expanded role in the daily operations of the Center (on top of their long-standing commitment to programs and exhibits).

So, what does a snowsuit have to do with this? It was the donation of a c. 1930 hand-knit and hand-crocheted snowsuit with hat that inspired curator Carrie Blough to research and develop the exhibit. “It was done so beautifully and yet it was still utilitarian. I wanted a chance to display this type of work,” Blough told the Pittsburgh Tribune-Review for an article in late January.

The exhibit features items selected from a large collection of County pieces to represent different aspects of textile arts, as well as different periods of history, spanning a range from the 1780s to the 1930s.

“Treasury of Handwork,” which closes April 25, will be followed by “Woven Wonders: Somerset County Coverlets,” scheduled to run from June 19 through October 12. Several textile-related workshops are also planned for 2010; check out the calendar of events for more details.