A few weeks ago, we reached out to the fabulous 19th-century living history site, the Genesee Country Village & Museum, and what has resulted are some inspiring visits to each other's locations.
Last Friday, I spent part of the day at this marvelous historic village,
as they were in full preparation for their Agricultural Fair. The veggies at the Horticulture Tent were impressive.
I started with the Visitor Map of the extensive grounds (very helpful!) and began at the Pioneer Settlement (1780s - 1830s), stopping in at the 1822 Schoolhouse, complete with the teacher giving a lesson to a visiting family.
I couldn't resist taking photos of some of the wonderful animals, seemingly right at home and happy at the Pioneer Farmstead.
I also stopped in on a blacksmith and a woodworker and then popped in to see one of the site interpreters dyeing yarn in a pumpkin using pokeberry juice. What a great idea! I had an opportunity to have quite the chat with her about the dyeing process and about the home itself- very informative and educational.
I had to move on, and walked down the beautiful streets to the Antebellum Village (1830s - 1860s). One of the staff was doing a baking demonstration and explaining how to approximate temperatures by how many seconds you could hold your hand in the baking space (not in the fire itself!).
There were many other wonderful buildings including a wheelwright shop, a printing office, the village mercantile, an inn, shoemaker, tinsmith, tailor and much more. Also George Eastman's boyhood home, built c. 1840 and moved from Waterville, NY.
The Turn of the Century (1870s-1920s) was a big jump in both house and dress style. Have a peek.
The clouds were coming fast, and I didn't want to miss the new Civil War Encampment, with the hot air balloon "Intrepid."
Unfortunately, it was too windy to go up in the balloon, but seeing it up close certainly was impressive.I crossed the Great Meadow, and concluded my visit with the newly renovated and absolutely stunning John L. Wehle Gallery. It was a fantastic, and unexpected, bonus. With paintings, sculptures, and original clothing (no reproductions), it is well worth spending time viewing the offerings.
Thank you to the folks at GCVM, especially Christine Rovet and Robin Lott. You have so much to offer your visitors. We look forward to the possibility of working together with you in the near future. Stay tuned!
