Storrowton Village to host winter vacation program

Date: 2/7/2011

WEST SPRINGFIELD — Storrowton Village Museum will open its historic buildings and homes to youngsters for "A Day Away in the Past," a popular winter vacation program, Feb. 23 or 24 from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. on the grounds of Eastern States Exposition.

Children ages 7 to 12 will don cloth caps, pullover shirts, dresses and bonnets for the day and experience Early American village life at the historic site. Clothing isn't the only tradition they will experience, as a tour through the village will teach them history, crafts and traditions of yesteryear.

The day begins with a step back in time in the 1834 Meetinghouse, originally located at Salisbury, New Hampshire's Smith's Corner.

This is where the transformation begins as the children dress in period-inspired clothing supplied by Storrowton Village.

The Schoolhouse, originally the North Center School built in 1810 in Whately, Mass., is where slates, chalk, ink wells and quill pens were the tools used to teach youngsters their ABCs.

The potbelly stove warms the charming brick structure and the convenient attached outhouse was not only the envy of other schools, it was the talk of the town.

Potter Mansion was originally built by Capt. John Potter as his family home in 1776 and was located in North Brookfield, Mass. The Gilbert Farmstead was built in West Brookfield, Mass., by Levi Gilbert and his brother, Peletiah.

Today, youngsters in this fascinating program will learn crafts and play games of the period. Crafts include candle dipping, quill pen calligraphy and more as well as indoor games of skill.

All youngsters in the program will have the chance to participate in all activities. At the end of the day, each will return to the 21st century with their creations to show family and friends.

The cost for the one-day program is $35. Registration must be received by Feb. 11.

To register or find out more about this unique historic program, call the Storrowton Village Museum office at 205-5051.