New exhibit: Emergency Militia in Pennsylvania during the Gettysburg Campaign

Pennypacker Mills

In commemoration of the 150th Anniversary of the Civil War, a new exhibit will open on Tuesday, May 15th at historic Pennypacker Mills. “Call to Arms! Emergency Militia in Pennsylvania during the Gettysburg Campaign” will focus on the citizen soldiers from Pennsylvania, who were the first forces to defend the Commonwealth from the Confederate invasion in June, 1863.

One of the little told stories of the Civil War is that the Confederate Army was in Pennsylvania living off its riches and destroying railroads and government property for more than two weeks prior to the Battle of Gettysburg.  Since the Union Army was moving slowly northward, Pennsylvania Governor Andrew G. Curtin called upon “emergency men” to defend the state. (more…)

Take a Walk on the Wildside at Wentz Farmstead

Spring is the best time for wild edible greens and the 1.25 mile trail at the Farmstead has plenty. But, which are safe to eat and which are harmful? What is the best way to prepare them for eating? What plants have been used for their medicinal properties? Ruth King, a naturalist in the Parks and Heritage Services Department of Montgomery County, has studied the tasty and beneficial varieties found in this region and will inform participants about the safe and harmful flora and fauna. Meet her at the Visitors’ Center to begin the educational journey. (more…)

Are you the “Most Stylish Mom on the Main Line”?

CALLING ALL CHOCO-HOLICS!

There are few people who don’t like chocolate. From the humble supermarket candy bar to gourmet varieties, chocolate is a treat for young and old alike. Food historian Susan McLellan Plaisted agrees and she will be at the Moland House, located just outside of Montco on 1641 Old York Road in Hartsville, on May 12, 2012 from 1:00 to 3:00 PM for its 200 Years of Chocolate event. At this event, she will discuss the history of chocolate and prepare chocolate recipes from 200 years ago. (more…)

Where to Go in Montco: Your Weekend Guide

With the start of May, Cinco De Mayo, & the Kentucky Derby this weekend, there is no shortage of reasons to celebrate! Check out our guide for Thursday, May 3rd, 2012 – Sunday, May 6th, 2012 below.  We have included some of the best events happening in Montgomery County this weekend.   Also, make sure to check out more  fun things to do on our sortable calendar of events.

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Get Up Close & Personal with Colonial America

How often did people bathe in the eighteenth century? How frequently did they change and wash their clothes? How did childbirth differ from today? These are just some of the intimate questions that visitors have asked throughout the years on their tours at Pottsgrove Manor. These questions — plus many more — have now been answered in a fascinating new exhibit at the site.  “Matters Personal, Details Private: Cleanliness, Hygiene, and Personal Pursuits in the Colonial Home,”sheds light on aspects of colonial life that were not covered in the average history textbook! This exhibit explores how home life, personal effects, health, and hygiene intersected with the sensibilities, emotions, and desires of colonial Americans. (more…)

Family Fun: Bring History to Life at Wentz Farmstead

Create a historically inspired, hand-painted fan on Saturday, May 12th beginning at 10:00am during this hands-on workshop held at the historic Wentz Farmstead located just off of Route 73 in Worcester, which served as headquarters for General George Washington during the fall of 1777.

Space is limited and pre-registration is required before Wednesday, May 2nd. A $10 per person fee is payable upon arrival.

Visitors will view various designs on fans from the second half of the 18th century before beginning work on their own piece. Using water colors and fine-tipped markers, a more modern twist on the historical methods, participants will create a hand-designed piece of art to use during the hot summer months ahead. This program is suitable for those ages 10 and up. (more…)