GREENCASTLE – Hear ye! Hear ye! A colonial holiday celebration awaited visitors at the Conococheague Institute. On Saturday, Dec 13, from 10 a.m.-4 p.m., the historical site hosted “1775: A Colonial Christmas” event on the 30-acre farmstead which featured period costumes, historically accurate events and tasty treats.
The first stop on the farm was to the reception tent where visitors could drop their name into the tin for hourly raffles. For those looking for last minute gift ideas, on several tables there were options of games, books, clothing and stationery. Another highlight was the fresh-baked gingerbread cookies to sample.
Speaking of gingerbread cookies, the next stop would be to the kiln where the fire was getting just right for baking fresh gingerbread. Visitors would have a chance to not just see and learn about the prepping and baking process but would also have a chance to participate.
In the historical log cabin, which featured period piece furniture and artifacts, there were two volunteers from the institute making rice pancakes (which were delicious I might add) and preparing to bake apple pies. The whole scene was a glimpse into the window of the past. The smell of burning wood and freshly baked pastries filled the air.
Also featured was the making of cider ale in a copper pot, which was helpful in fighting off the cold. Samples were available for the brew, and the tasty beverage was excellent for keeping the body warm on the cold winter day.
The visiting kids took great delight in the goat petting and feeding and the visit of the Franklin County “Book Buggy,” which is a popular attraction at local events.
Matthew Wedd, executive director of the Institute, said the event was more than just a celebration of the holiday, but also an opportunity to offer the next generation a glimpse of what life was like during colonial times.
The volunteers and staff at the Institute shared Wedd’s passion for preserving history and educating visitors in a fun and entertaining way by offering them the opportunity to not just see history from “behind the rope” but to interact and develop skills and a passion for history.
After a fun day of gingerbread making, cider sampling, wreath making, goat petting and the smell of burning wood, visitors could stop by two food trucks that were awaiting them on their way back to the parking area. There was kettle corn for those looking for a sweet treat and delicious options from “Grill Billy’s Smoke Wagon.”
The Conococheague Institute has events several times a year and is open all year long from dawn to duck for visitors to hike the trails and explore the grounds. There is historic programming on Saturdays from 10 a.m.-4 p.m. and on Sundays (from Memorial Day to Labor Day) at the same times. The Institute also offers programs for schools, public tours and special workshops by appointment only. For more information, readers may visit www.cimlg.org.
