Farm Life in Early America

This program, held at the Franklin O. Arthur House, affords a glimpse of Long Island farm life in the 18th and 19th centuries. Hands-on activities include: wool carding, spinning and weaving; flax preparation using flax-brake, scutching boards and hetchels; and towrope making. Children may examine artifacts, Colonial toys and costumes and, weather permitting, may see other parts of the farm.

An 18th Century Innkeeper’s Day

Students visit the Epenetus Smith Tavern a stagecoach stop and scene of much activity during the Revolutionary War. Taking the role of innkeeper, each child will create a tavern sign using stencils. Children will write letters with quill pens, make candles and holders, learn the art of making silhouettes, and enjoy games and entertainments of the time.

19th Century Long Island: Changing Times

Students enter the world of Victorian America at the Judge J. Lawrence Smith Homestead and learn about inventions, customs, and amusements of the period.  Inventions discussed may include the railroad, telegraph, camera, paper web, and cotton gin. Toys and optical devices of the era show how 19th century children entertained themselves. Students will make, bind, and print a journal; use the camera obscura; make a small brick; and fashion a wooden toy.