A Living History Field Trip: Barberville Pioneer Settlement

We love history field trips. 

Today, we visited the Barberville Pioneer Settlement. I've wanted to go here for a few years, but never got around to it. When one of my homeschool groups planned this one, I couldn't refuse. After all, I now live 10 minutes away from it. I've got no excuses.

We took two of their tours: The Pioneer Program and the Lassie Cake Program.

It was a long, hot day. I was concerned with how well Lorelai would or wouldn't do in the heat, but we managed to keep her body and moods at an acceptably cool level. 

This field trip was one of the best educational field trips we've ever taken. I think each of us learned something from it. 

Hands-On History Lessons

The first tour was two-hours long and taught us about pioneer life. What were the types of jobs people had? What tools were used in daily life?

We were first taken to the farm where the children could pet the animals. We then went to a house where we learned to make butter and toured the house to note differences between a 19th century home and our own homes. 

Following that, we went to a workshop to try out 19th century tools. We visited a blacksmith to see how the tools were made. 

We visited this cute little country store where we bought some souvenirs, including the pink hat which Lorelai wore for the remainder of the day. (That girl loves her hats!)

We learned candlemaking, spinning and rug weaving. Nearly all of the segments offered a hands-on activity for the children. 

19th Century Life for Children

The second tour was the Lassie Cake tour. During this tour, we learned what life for children was like. What were their daily activities and chores? What things did their parents teach them as a matter of daily living?

First, we went to the kitchen house where the kids made a cake. 

We learned about bees, honey and beekeeping.

In the afternoon, it was time to feed the animals on the farm.

Alexis spent some time drawing. That is, after all, what she does. 

Lorelai somehow landed herself in the stocks!

And that was our super-fun visit to the 19th century. 

Your Turn
What has been your favorite field trip this year?


Get homeschool posts like this in your email inbox!

Happy Homeschooling!