Registration open for Storrowton 'Summer Days'

Date: 5/16/2013

WEST SPRINGFIELD – The early registration discount for Storrowton Village's Early American Summer Days ends June 7. This five-day educational adventure will run is offered twice from Aug. 5 to 9 and Aug. 12 to 16 at a cost of $130 if paid (postmarked) by the deadline.

This program merges learning and fun to bring history to life for children ages 7 to 12. Reservations are being accepted. Registrations made between June 8 and July 19 will be charged $150.

Early American Summer Days offers children a hands-on approach to learning about life in 19th century New England. Historic Storrowton Village provides the opportunity for children to "try on" a lifestyle from the past. Activities include interactive games, crafts and activities to reflect the life of youngsters in the old days. Nineteenth century clothing is provided for each child to immerse them in the realistic experience.

A typical day consists of a variety of old-fashioned fun, with new activities for each of the five days. Children will act as apprentices at the blacksmith's forge, write on slates with quill pens in an authentic one-room schoolhouse and sing and dance to live music of the 19th century.

In the kitchen, children learn firsthand how everyday foods are made. They join in on the cooking by milling corn into meal, learning to milk a cow or goat and churning the fresh milk into homemade butter and cheese.

Kids tap into their creativity and make one-of-a-kind crafts to bring home, such as a woven basket and hand dipped candles. Lessons on carding and spinning wool and how to weave cloth from fiber teach children how clothing used to be made.

Outside, children will compete in sack races and hoop rolling, visit the historic homes, workshops and gardens of the Village, and hear Early American lore and storytelling by a 19th century character.

The adventure ends with a chance for children to share their experiences with family and peers. On the last day, parents are welcome to watch their children perform a skit onstage, admire their artistic creations and newly learned skills, and take a guided tour of historic Storrowton Village.

An experienced and knowledgeable staff is on hand to guide participants through educational, interactive, and fun activities designed to delight and challenge children.

To register a child for the program, or for more information, contact Storrowton Village Museum at 205-5051. A downloadable brochure and registration form for Early American Summer Days is also available online at www.TheBigE.com/sv.

Storrowton Village Museum presents hands-on school programs and guided tours of its historic buildings.