TONAWANDA FALLS LYCEUM
REVIEWS: (SITES TO SEE & DO)
INDEX:
1. AMISH/MENNONITE
COMMUNITIES
2. ROSCOE VILLAGE
3. TRUMPET IN THE LAND
4. ECKLEY MINERS' VILLAGE
5. DRAKE WELL MUSEUM
6. SAINT MARIE AMONG
THE IROQUOIS
7. TIOGA VISITORS' CENTER
8. CHAUTAUQUA
9. GANONDAGAN
10. OLD BEDFORD VILLAGE
11. HANFORD MILLS MUSEUM
12. FARMERS MUSEUM
13 SHELBURNE MUSEUM
14. SAUDER VILLAGE
15. ROME, N.Y.
16. LANCASTER, PA.
17. OLD STURBRIDGE VILLAGE
18. SHAKER VILLAGES
19. OHIO
20. LILY DALE, N.Y.
21. SODUS BAY LIGHTHOUSE & MUSEUM
22. FULTON STEAMBOAT INN
23. OLD MILL VILLAGE MUSEUM
24. SCHOENBRUNN VILLAGE
SITE #1
There are LIVING-HISTORY SITES which were never intended to be considered as such. Indeed these places are actually "continuing history sites"! The inhabitants of these communities are merely carrying on the Traditions of their forebears - something they have been doing for hundreds of years and will ideally continue doing until the end of Creation.
These are the Amish-people scattered in hundreds of locations throughout North America. According to a U.S. Census Bureau projection these Traditionalists constitute one of the fastest growing population segments in the U.S.. For years they have been acquiring what might be considered "useless farmland" to practice their fundamentalist form of "Environmental Preservation". The Keys to their success have been adherence to an Agrarian-lifestyle and resistance to Technological Innovation. The modern buzz-phrase "Living Green" is an apt Descriptor of Amish Life and Culture.
Amish Communities have become LIVING-HISTORY SITES through the commercial interests of their "English" neighbors. This term is employed by the Amish to describe persons who do not subscribe to their Beliefs. It is a symbiotic relationship insofar as while these Merchants exploit the Amish life-style as Tourist Attractions, the "exploited peoples" avail themselves of opportunity to market their own Goods and Services. The English thus provide "windows of opportunity" for tight-knit Amish Communities to interact with "the rest of the World" without compromising their own Beliefs and Values.
Since Amish Communities per se are not considered Educational Sites, there is often no attempt made to help visitors understand the "whys" and "wherefores" of their Culture. To this end I have discovered two Sites which do serve to provide such insight.
At Berlin, Ohio, the AMISH & MENNONITE HERITAGE CENTER features a Cyclorama, or circular mural entitled BEHALT which illustrates the history of Anabaptism from its origins to the present. Highlighted here are the roots of Amish, Mennonites and Hutterites - a communal society which still exists in North America. Guided tours of the painted Cyclorama are offered along with audiovisual presentations elsewhere in the Center highlighting local communities.
At Shipshewana, Indiana, the MENNO-HOF MENNONITE-AMISH VISITORS CENTER offers tours of a house and barn erected by Amish and Mennonite groups during the traditional 6-day "barn-raising" feature of their Culture. These tours introduce visitors to Anabaptist Tradition through Audiovisual presentations and historical exhibits. Shipshewana itself is home to one of the largest Amish communities in the World. Not too far away is an 80-acre, 19th Century Amish farm called AMISH ACRES. This is definitely a Tourist Attraction complete with shopping and dining opportunities as well as documentary films and a theater in addition to accommodations for extended visits .
Menno - Hof - Amish/Mennonite Information Center, Shipshewana IN
Behalt/ Amish & Mennonite Heritage Center
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SITE #2
ROSCOE VILLAGE at Coshocton, Ohio, is a LIVING HISTORY SITE which reflects the era in U.S. history when water-transportation was still the chosen means of moving Goods and People throughout the country. Canals were constructed as Links between natural bodies of water such as lakes and rivers. Such was the case in Ohio where centers such as Roscoe were developed to service the needs of boat-operators as they moved Freight and Passengers from East to West and back again.
Exhibits and Demonstrations at Roscoe Village are designed to acquaint Visitors with facets of non-Rural Life. Enterprises exemplified here are "exchange-oriented" in contrast to the usual "production-activities" of Farm and Field. Throughout the Village are workshops where articulate, well-informed Artisan/Entertainers "show & tell" their Crafts. Among these Educational-sites are shops and boutiques where visitors can find refreshments as well as souvenirs.
Terrain is no obstacle here. Visitor Parking is at one end of Main Street while access to what is the sole thoroughfare is through a building featuring stationary Exhibits, Museum, Information facilities and "pit-stops". Exiting this edifice introduces one to a boulevard lined with Tourist-attractions. A leisurely stroll affords opportunity to preview all subsidiary sites to stop, look, listen and learn.
Roscoe Village - Coshocton, Ohio
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SITE #3
The OUTDOOR DRAMA entitled "TRUMPET IN THE LAND" is advertised as "an Historical Drama" though "Social Commentary" especially as a reflection of the European Invasion of North America, is more apt as classification.
The story itself is a commemoration of one of the most heinous crimes perpetrated by Caucasians against Native Americans. Essentially, a large group of "Praying Indians" was slaughtered in one of the most gruesome ways imaginable by "civilized" Euro-Americans.
My initial experience with this Historical Recreation left me wondering why anyone with any sort of Conscience would consider subjecting their Mind a second time to such a horrendous spectacle. Subsequent visitations however have convinced me of Merits beyond the story itself. Such facets as the Non-textbook glimpse of American History, technical effects of the Production and an idyllic setting for spending a summer-evening create a "Bali-Hai" experience.
As with other Paul Green creations, contextually, from a Cultural-perspective, this is "a genuine example" of Living History. Nearby is the SCHOENBRUNN VILLAGE STATE MEMORIAL with its Historical Interpretations and the GNADENHUTTEN MONUMENT-SITE where the Massacre actually occurred.
Paul Green's Trumpet in the Land
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SITE #4
When William Penn was finalizing arrangements for establishing his personal Empire on American soil, he agreed among other provisions to share with the British Monarchy a given percentage of all Gold- and Silver- reserves discovered in the territories defining present-day Pennsylvania. Scholars enjoy citing the fact that while little remuneration to the Crown ever resulted from this particular agreement there were abundant Mineral-resources available but unrecognized by the Benefactors who bestowed upon Pennthis Proprietorship of unimaginable proportions and Natural Resources
Of key importance to the Growth of America was Anthracite Coal. In a relatively small section of North- eastern Pennsylvania is located the major source of this "Black Gold" in the entire World. Throughout the Nineteenth Century immigrants from Eastern Europe as well as from the British Isles flocked to this corner of what became known as "the Keystone State". Unlike the refuges of early Days who came seeking Freedom of Conscience, these new peoples were looking for the means to feed and cloth their families.
The "drawing-card" was passage to America and a place to settle. The cost was back-breaking labor and early death often due to "Black-Lung Disease" from long days underground breathing air saturated with coal-dust.Childrenentered the Labor-pool at an unconscionable age while Women were often widowed and left alone to raise their families without partners. Mine-owners paid wages commensurate with just what was deemed necessary to feed, clothe and shelter mineworkers who were expected to create and nurture a next generation ofemployees while devoting their days to providing fuel for the burgeoning steel-industry. As in Rural America on Farms, Sons were considered essential for providing assistance with sustaining the family; hence, living-arrangements were frequently inadequate for other than mere survival!
The owners of Mining-companies early-on recognized the value of providing housing for their employees in close proximity to the Mines. Such was reason for the emergence of "Patch-towns" such as ECKLEY . Today this community remains as a dwelling-place for persons who still derive their livelihoods from Anthracite-mining. As such, ECKLEY MINERS VILLAGE presents a different "twist" on the Living-History concept. Instead of being "a Recreation" the Village looks much as it did a hundred years ago. The "History"-part comes from an adjacent Museum replete with displays of Nineteenth Century artifacts and textual descriptions of Life as it was for the inhabitants of this community during its halcyon days of the Coal Industry ere Strip-mining replaced the daily descent into Hell experienced by hundreds of "new" Americans.
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SITE #5
The DRAKE WELL MUSEUM at Titusville, Pennsylvania, qualifies as a Living History Site by virtue of an onsite building housing a collection of vehicles associated with the Petroleum Industry. Each Exhibit is accompanied by an Audio-recording featuring the VOICE of an Owner/Operator which relates a personal anecdote concerning the particular machine. The assumption is that these Speakersrepresent verifiable historical personalities. The remainder of this Site tells the story of Colonel Drake, his Oil Well and related phenomenaas well as displaying artifacts of the Oil Fields.
Welcome To The Drake Well Website
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SITE #6
In addition to the larger well-endowed Sites scattered throughout North America there are numerous smaller "backyard" Projects which owe their existence to legions of dedicated Volunteers. As such, these endeavors have limited accessibility. Some are available " by Reservation only" while others are staffed just seasonally and on weekends or special occasions. Of the latter variety, SAINT MARIE AMONG THE IROQUOIS at Liverpool, N.Y. is an outstanding example. The reconstructed Stockade has been designed to resemble a 17th Century attempt by the French in North America to establish a Trading Post among the Onondaga Iroquois. It stands as an adjunct to one of the finest Museums of Central New York State. Access to this Site is through Galleries which serve more than adequately to reflect the cultural context in which Traders and their Jesuit allies from Quebec, Canada, attempted to penetrate the Longhouse Confederation at its central point. Multiple visitations are advisable to fully comprehend the mission undertaken by these rivals of the British for a lucrative North American fur-trade. The Interpreters don appropriate apparel to demonstrate and answer questions about their Crafts while black-robed "Priests" provide narratives to "set the scene".
Sainte Marie among the Iroquois - Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia
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Site #7
Were HENRY DAVID THOREAU to reappear in Northern Pennsylvania seeking a 21st Century version of WALDEN POND to "experience Life at its fullest", he might well select a site overlooking the Borough of TIOGA, PA.. There he would discover that the State known as "Penn's Woods" has already provided for him "a Cabin" thus eliminating any need for borrowing an Axe from his benefactor, RALPH WALDO EMERSON.
This modern version of "a Cabin" is a well-appointed VISITOR'S CENTER equipped to welcome travelers crossing from New York State into Pennsylvania. Within its walls are Restroom-facilities and Travel-information for occasional sojourners. Unique to this Site is a display of Photos and Texts pertaining to the Lumber-industry of Northern Pa..
While THOREAU in his day was alarmed as well as annoyed by the haste with which people raced through his Landscape via Railcar in 19th Century Massachusetts, he would be multidisturbed by the spectacle of "Horseless-carriages" accelerating past the front--door of his modern-day "cabin" though he would find some relief in knowing that the few of these conveyances that do alter direction come not to disturb his serenity but rather to disgorge passengers seeking their own form of "relief' and/or "refreshment" ere resuming their quest for some other destination.
What HENRY would know that his "guests" would likely not be aware of is the pastoral view available from "the other side" of this edifice! Here, overlooking the village of TIOGA, PA. and its neighboring Reservoir is the kind of Vista which Philosophers such as THOREAU seek as Inspiration for their intellectual peregrinations. In anticipation thereof the Designers of this Site provided ample facilities for Meditation. Every Bench is a premium location for Observers wishing to Pause, Reflect and Ponder.
There is no Toll for reveling in this panorama of forested acres separating skyline from lake-surface. The spectacle does afford an air of animation when one espies motor-vehicles wending their way through the village or ponders the nameless inhabitants of dwellings populating said countryside.
Though it is highly unlikely anyone would choose to spend 'two years; two months and two-days" at this location as THOREAU claimed to have done at WALDEN POND, the potential is there for long-term visitations interspersed with forays into nearby communities including TIOGA and MANSFIELD for "victuals". Transportation is an integral consideration insofar as this Center is not within reasonable walking-distance of nearby villages as was WALDEN POND from CONCORD, MA.. Additionally, accessibility is restricted to southbound traffic.
PENNSYLVANIA LUMBER MUSEUM - Bing
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SITE #8
At various locations throughout the U.S. especially during the Summer months, there are opportunities to hear and see Celebrities from "bygone days"! Most recently, Aug. 2009, to be exact, hundreds of folks gathered in and around THE HALL OF PHILOSOPHY at CHAUTAUQUA INSTITUTION in New York State to witness with hoisted umbrellas the august presence of two gentlemen from the 18th Century who discussed their personal contributions to the rhetoric of INDEPENDENCE for England's North American Colonies. The VOICES were those of a pair of REENACTORS from COLONIAL WILLIAMSBURG, Virginia, appearing as JAMES MASON and THOMAS JEFFERSON.
Earlier that same Summer, REENACTORS in Ohio had similarly mounted Platforms throughout the State to reincarnate Historical Personalities as they have for several years. The biggest difference is the absence of umbrellas since these performances are provided by the OHIO HISTORICAL SOCIETY as part of their "TENT CHAUTAUQUA" Revivals. Just as in the halcyon days when CIRCUIT CHAUTAUQUA brought Culture to rural communities throughout the Midwest U.S., these Revivals raise Tents in Rural Communities throughout Ohio.
The NEW HAMPSHIRE HUMANITIES COUNCIL likewise formerly sponsored Summer Programs which saw BROWN CHAUTAUQUA TENTS being raised at Keene and Portsmouth. In addition to Professional Reenactors, these Programs afforded opportunity for Innovative Young People to reprise VOICES FROM HISTORY.
Similar events occur in Midwestern States where the HEARTLANDS CHAUTAUQUA brings Tents and Culture to the Dakotas, Nebraska, Iowa and neighboring States. In the Upper Pennisula Region of Wisconsin, the LAKE SUPERIOR CHAUTAUQUA provides a plethora of Entertainment as well as Lecturers in the Tradition of CIRCUIT CHAUTAUQUA though in this case, the "canvas" remains in place for each entire season!
The Chautauqua Institution - Latest News
Colonial Williamsburg Official Site
The Ohio Humanities Council Ohio Chautauqua
History & Links - New Old Time Chautauqua
HEARTLAND CHAUTAUQUA COMES TO ALTON JUNE 21-25 | Illinois ...
Lake Superior Big Top Chautauqua :: Non-Profit Tent Shows and Theatre
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SITE #9
As of 1779, George Washington became known among the Iroquois of Western New York as "the TOWN-DESTROYER". This appellation resulted from a particular military-campaign he orchestrated as Commander of the Continental Army. The offensive led by Generals James Clinton and John Sullivan was designed to punish the Iroquois for their insurgency against the Colonists seeking Independence from British-rule. The summary effect of this expedition was destruction of Native American homes and food-supplies throughout the Finger Lakes Region of what is now New York State.
Nearly a century earlier, in 1687, a similar fate had befallen the Seneca when an Expedition from Quebec launched an offensive to "break the backs" of the Woodland Peoples who were interfering with France's designs for domination of the North American Fur-trade. In this case a Town populated by approximately 4000 Iroquois was destroyed along with vast quantities of food-supplies.
Today, this Site, known as GANONDAGAN, is a New York State Native American Historic Site located near Victor. It consists of a bark-covered Longhouse and an Interpretive Center as well as Hiking Trails complete with Markers bearing textual explanations of Iroquois-culture.
All in all, the principal virtue of this Site is the opportunity it affords to view Nature as it appeared prior to the advent of Europeans to this bucolic retreat. It is an ideal location to "exist" and contemplate "the verities of Existence" which for Modern-man translates as a chance to experience Natural Living-History!
Ganondagan State Historic Site -- Preserving a Past. Providing a Future
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SITE #10
Among the salient characteristics of OLD BEDFORD VILLAGE in South- western Pennsylvania, "accessibility" stands out as the most notable. The Community of 18th- and early 19th- Century structures is laid out like a movie-set. The turf is flat and even while the circuit is reminiscent of a quarter-mile race-course. The buildings themselves are huddled in the fashion of a housing development. At any given time, a few of the buildings are staffed by Interpreters while others are there for "self-reliant seekers". There is a quaint Tavern where meals can be had per fee should a wayfarer choose to dine on soup and finger-food in a cellar-like setting. Of special interest is a small theater nestled to the rear of the complex where a Community-theater group holds court on sundry occasions. The Site itself is a hop-step-and-jump from the Trans-PA. Toll-road #76 Exit where a plethora of motels and Eateries await the intrepid history-buff .
Welcome To Old Bedford Village
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SITE #11
HANFORD MILLS MUSEUM is a Tribute to "Yankee Ingenuity". The entire operation depicts the pioneering spirit which gave birth to 21st Century America. From its rural location to its "down-home folks" Interpreters, this particular Site seems to be a slice of Americana left over from its 19th Century heyday.
"The Experience" commences with touring a 1910 Feed Mill and 1948 Box Car. Exhibited therein are photos of "Out-Houses" i.e. structures representative of Farming operations throughout Central New York State. A Video then adequately delineates the evolution of this location from its operation as a Grist/Lumber Mill to a provider of Goods and Services - including electrical power - for a community called "East Meredith". Of special note is the explanation of how this "evolution" coordinated with Technological advancement including Roads, Motorized Vehicles and Railroads.
Central to "the Experience" are the personnel who serve as "Guides". Each seems as authentic as the machines they demonstrate. Unlike hired-Docents, these folks meld with their Environment as though the MILLS would not exist without them. An important clue to this identity arises from their use of present- versus past- tense when describing activities representing operations from yesteryear.
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SITE #12
The FARMERS MUSEUM at Cooperstown, N.Y. is a truly "educational experience". Of no surprise then is the fact that this SITE is part of a complex which includes a RESEARCH LIBRARY and ART MUSEUM under the aegis of the NEW YORK STATE HISTORICAL ASSOCIATION.
THE VILLAGE is designed to represent a typical rural community of 1840 America. The INTERPRETERS are knowledgeable and personable. Each visit is practically "a new experience" as there are too many tidbits of Information to collect in a single tour. Audiovisual "moments" scattered throughout the Site are easily overlooked when not allowing time to explore nooks and crannies.
Entrance to THE VILLAGE is through a Gallery which features exhibits of sectional culture throughout New York State. This Introduction flows through to a CAROUSAL featuring wood-carved memorials to People & Places from around the State.
Of particular note regarding this SITE is a cabin displayed as THE SENECA LOG HOUSE. In the days when NYS was divided into five sections each supervised by constituent tribes of THE IROQUOIS CONFEDERACY, this LEATHERSTOCKING country was the demesne of Mohawks. The Senecas were Keepers of the Western Door of the Longhouse. For enlightenment pertaining to this irony, see "LITTLE BEARD" at TONAWANDA VALLEY PEOPLE & PLACES.
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SITE #13
The centerpiece of SHELBURNE MUSEUMis a landlocked Side-wheel Steamboat named TICONDEROGA. Dressed to appear as it was when carrying passengers from end to end of Lake Champlain the exhibit includes Oral Histories as well as testimonials from celebrity passengers such as CHARLES DICKENS. Of special interest is a video presentation recounting the engineering feats which brought this 220-foot vessel from the Lake to its permanent home.
The rest of the SITE includes a variety of Historical Structures and Artwork representing Americana from three Centuries. There is such a plethora of experiences to be had here that the standard 2-day admission charge is well justified.
Charles Dickens - Timeline of Events in the Life of Charles Dickens
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SITE #14
SAUDER VILLAGE is unique primarily for its lay-out. The SITE itself betrays the appearance of having been designed by an Architect. Entrance is through a building housing Gift Shop/Bookstore and Museum displaying aspects of Local-culture as well as testimonials to creation of this SITE and background of the Founder and his Furniture Business.
Passage into the Village ushers Patrons into a roundabout featuring Shops and Historic Buildings connected by a continuous sidewalk. Branching off from this initial series of structures are passageways which introduce a second layer of cabins, barns, shops and a large indoor museum. Beyond this configuration is a path leading to a Railroad Depot beyond which are located additional displays of Native American- and Pioneer- Culture.
All-in-all, SAUDER VILLAGE is a neat, compact and accessible Site-To-See. Its uniqueness when compared to other Living History Museums arises from its"all-weather" nature. The close proximity of buildings coupled with paved access routes eliminates concerns with Inclement Weather. This constitutes a bit of irony insofar as the Site itself is a tribute to the efforts of Amish-Mennonite pioneers who rescued this part of Ohio from what was originally known as "the Great Black Swamp". Additionally, the Docents here are far more than just "Guides". The Staff includes Entertainer-Educators as well as Professional Craftspeople
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SITE #15
For devotees of American History with a particular interest in New York State, ROME, N.Y. is a rewarding place to spend time. The Erie Canal Outdoor Living History Museum highlights growth and development of a 19th Century phenomenon which accelerated westward expansion of the United States. An added bonus here is The New York State Cheese Museum which amplifies the significance of Central N.Y. and the Mohawk Valley as "a bread-basket" for N.Y.S..
A prominent feature of Rome itself is Fort Stanwyx. This National Historic Monument provides an excellent picture of 18th Century frontier life as experienced by "military-men" of that era. Whereas a patron of this type of establishment might embark upon the tour with expectations of insight into warfare, quite the contrary is true. Entrance to the Site does introduce one to a bit of military history which occurred in the surrounding region but such is minor in comparison with displays and demonstrations inside the Fort. Perusal of Walter Edmonds novel DRUMS ALONG THE MOHAWK is a recommended primer for this experience.
An additional Site-To-See awaits visitors at nearby Oneida. Here the Utopian Community of the same name erected their Mansion House which still functions as a dwelling place for local residents as well as a B&B and Museum for History Buffs.
The Utopia of Sharing in Oneida, N.Y. - New York Times
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SITE #16
For the devotee of LIVING HISTORY as well as OUTDOOR DRAMA, the Lancaster, Pa. area is an excellent place to "hang-out".
Not only is this one of the best-known Sites for immersion into AMISH & MENNONITE HERITAGE, what is commonly referred to as PENNSYLVANIA DUTCH COUNTRY is a show-case for Regional, State and National History. The city of Lancaster itself was for a brief time the Nation's Capitol.
THE LANDIS VALLEY MUSEUM is a reflection of 19th & 20th Century culture. Though there is the customary focus on rural life, its exploration of commercial enterprises is outstanding. The Artisans are gifted and for patrons who "came of age" during the decades of mid-20th Century, their General Store is "a journey along Memory Lane".
EPHRATA CLOISTERS is testimony to WILLIAM PENN'S success in founding a New World haven for Religious "splinter-groups". The immigrants who established this community and ensured its prosperity preserved a life-style unique from even the neighboring Anabaptist factions. Especially noteworthy here is evidence of their contributions to American Culture through production and preservation of Manuscripts.
SIGHT & SOUND THEATRE renders a "nouveau" aspect to OUTDOOR DRAMA. Instead of moving their stage out under the stars, the designers of this phenomenon managed to bring "the stars" inside a palatial, Taj Mahal-type edifice. Their BIBLE-based Productions are as naturalistic as though events were actually occurring in authentic environments. Especially memorable is the Show entitled NOAH which currently runs at their Branson, Missouri affiliate. Soon after action commences on stage, spectators find themselves ensconced in an Ark surrounded by multitudes of animals organic as well as mechanical. Similarly, most Productions do incorporate livestock which don't usually appear within structures other than Barns and Circus Tents.
Landis Valley Museum - Pennsylvania German Heritage - Lancaster County Tourism, PA
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SITE #17
The unique feature of OLD STURBRIDGE VILLAGE is its separation of Rural and Urban.
Following the path per Guidebook brings a Visitor into what might easily be "the SITE" as found at other locations. This is a Country Community complete with operating farmstead and associated services including Blacksmith, Cooper and Weaver. The Artisans manning these Establishments along with a Schoolhouse and Printer's Shop provide enough narrative to make this appear to be O.S.V..
Passing this section however provides opportunity to glimpse amenities afforded Travelers in Nineteenth Century New England. This combination Tavern/Inn invites a body to "take a little refreshment" ere concluding the adventure.
Yet there is more! Up the road and around a corner or two there awaits a magnificently landscaped New England urban-setting complete with spacious Town Square. The contrast here with the rustic section might cause an AARP Affiliate to think about Mr. Rod Serling and his TWILIGHT ZONE TV Series. The commercial establishments arrayed here are so nice, neat and numerous that a Patron has to wonder why he spent as much time "in the country" when there is so much left to explore ere day's end. At the very least, there is little doubt as to why one paid the price of what amounts to a two-day Passport for enjoying O.S.V..
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SITE #18
SHAKER HERITAGE is preserved and interpreted at several locations throughout the U.S.. Though found primarily in Northeastern States where this Utopian Society flourished for several decades one of the most outstanding VILLAGES is PLEASANT HILL in Kentucky.
For the most part these SHAKER VILLAGES are Educational Sites where costumed Interpreters describe characteristic Lifestyles while Artisans recreate typical Crafts associated with "the Shaker Experience". SABBATHDAY LAKE in Maine is ironically a genuine "LIVING HISTORY" Site similar to the Amish Communities discussed previously. There are in residence at this particular location three 20th Century converts to the SOCIETY. In general however the Visitor here as elsewhere is introduced to former residents through Narrative and Exhibition.
Shaker Village of Pleasant Hill | Kentucky Hotels Lodging & Inn At ...
Sabbathday Lake Shaker Village
The Enfield Shaker Museum: Site founded by Enfield Shakers in 1793
http://www.shakermuseumandlibrary.org/index.html
Shaker Workshops Museum Directory | Mount Lebanon Shaker Village Information
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SITE #19
For the devotee of outstanding LIVING HISTORY Programs there is probably no better destination than THE STATE OF OHIO.
My latest excursion included a return to New Philadelphia for a viewing of THE WHITE SAVAGE. This is the story - factual or otherwise - of a fellow known as Simon Girty who as a young boy was captured by the Seneca Indians and became a nemesis of White Settlers in the Northwest Territory. The Story is well-written and understandable. The Cast did an extraordinary job of creating an enjoyable and fast-moving Production!
Not far away at Sugarcreek is the ALPINE HILLS MUSEUM.
This Community is known as the "Litte Switzerland of Ohio". Yearly it hosts the Ohio Swiss Festival. The Museum is a single building which houses collections exemplifying local Culture primarily of Swiss derivation though there is large Amish presence in the Area. Many of the Exhibits contained herein include Audiovisual Narration which makes it seem like Living History.
The "Crown Jewel" of this excursion was an afternoon at HALE FARM & VILLAGE near Bath in Northeast Ohio. This is without doubt one of the finest Outdoor Living History Museum I have ever experienced! My "mistake" was to begin with the FARM Artisans who as well befits them are Instructors dwelling in "the Here-and-Now". Little did I expect upon entering the VILLAGE to find myself actually visiting a slice of 19th Century Americana. The Greeters were Actors who managed to "remain in character" despite a barrage of 21st Century questions and references. I was able to fathom this "Twilight Zone" experience by reflecting on many visitations to Ohio Chautauquas where Enactors were wont to switch Time-frames during Question-Answer sessions! Moreover, the Dialogues seemed scripted - in some cases - to create a sort of "Outdoor Drama" in and of itself. I intend to get myself back to Ohio as soon as possible to learn "the rest of the Story" at HALE VILLAGE!
CENTURY VILLAGE at Burton is indeed a most unique Site. Burton itself appears to have been transported from somewhere in New England with its Village Green surrounded by a Rotary reminiscent of the Connecticut landscape from whence the original settlers came. The Historical Site is adjacent to "THE GREEN" and presents itself as a Village Park. The Grounds are apparently always available to Pedestrians though the collection of Buildings is open for inspection on weekends only with Guides. Onsite is a facility for Community use thus lending CENTURY VILLAGE the distinction of representing four Generations of History, 1798 through "the Here-and-Now"!
Willkommen! (Welcome!) | Village of Sugarcreek, Ohio
Western Reserve Historical Society
Century Village Museum - Discover Ohio
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SITE #20
LILY DALE, N.Y. is a Living History Site with a twist. While resembling CHAUTAUQUA INSTITUTE in terms of Programming Format i.e. Speakers and Presenters as well as Workshops, droves of Patrons flock to this Lakeside-community not to experience and explore Culture but rather to reestablish contact with Forebears and sundry other significant-others through the intercession of Mediums and Healers. Such are the "Docents" of this community which since its origins in 1879, has come to be recognized universally as a meetinng-place for Devotees of Spiritualism. The American Poet, Robert Frost, spoke of "home" as the place where "when you go there they have to take you in". Critics are wont to point out that in terms of LILY DALE, being "taken in" has a different connotation than Frost was citing. For these observers, the aphorism "a Fool and his money are soon parted" is the dominant Credo at this Gated-community located just outside Cassadaga, N.Y.. Despite these "alerts" however from June through August each year visitors are ready and willing to take a chance on contacting their departed loved-ones as a personal form of "Living History".
The Lily Dale Assembly Board of Director's protects the integrity of its Community by scrutinizing all applications for Membership and Homeownership. Candidates for Membership are required to submit Proof of prior membership "in good standing' of a recognized Spiritualist Church for at least one full year. Ownership of houses is restricted to Members. A single homeowner is not permitted to hold in excess of two dwellings at any given time. Mortgages are likewise not permitted.
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SITE#21
The SODUS BAY LIGHTHOUSE & MUSEUM at Sodus Point, New York State is an excellent place to explore facets of Maritime History as pertains to commerce on The Great Lakes as well as exploring the two Sites attesting to Shaker presence in Western NY during the 19th Century.
Coincidentally the year 1824 has special significance for both phenomena. It was in that Year that the U.S. Congress approved financing for construction of the Lighthouse. It was also in that Year that a practicing Shaker-brother from New Lebanon, NY who had been residing at an Ohio Shaker-site proposed to his brother at Lyons, NY, the development of a celibate community in WNY.
Two paramount considerations were operable in this Proposal. Rich farmland was readily available at Sodus Point and water-transportation would greatly facilitate commerce between Eastern Shakers and their fellow-converts south and west of New York . The LIGHTHOUSE was to play a significant role in ensuring the safety of such "commerce".
The location selected for this original WNY Community is now occupied by a privately-owned Farm though a few of the original buildings are still standing.
Eventually the Sodus Bay Shakers were compelled to relocate to a second Site located at GROVELAND approximalely 50 miles distant from Sodus Point. Visible there on the Grounds of what is presently a NYS Penal Institution are the remaining vestiges of Shaker presence in Western NY. Some years ago the Groveland Adminstration Building was reconstructed on the Grounds of GENESEE COUNTRY VILLAGE & MUSEUM at Mumford, NY.
Sodus Bay Lighthouse Museum - Lake Ontario Light House & MaritiSodus Bay and Groveland:
Shaker Life In Western New York by John H. Martin me History
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SITE#22
FULTON'S STEAMBOAT INN is a Spiritual Experience for anyone who is not in an "almighty hurry to "get somewhere"!
Though advertised primarily as "a unique place to stay while touring the ubiquitous Pennsylvania Dutch Country, I discovered the INN to be an unsung Oasis for relaxation.
Rather than considering this as a launching-pad for other Sites - of which there is a superfluity in close proximity - I imagined myself as a passenger on a landlocked cruise-ship.
Stationing myself in a pondside Gazebo midnight of a salubrious springtime day I was soon treated to what during pre-dusk hours is a cacophony of sounds comprising roaring-motors and down-shifting Gears indicative of ever-flowing machinery. Fortunately this "flowing stream" of Traffic, post-midnight transforms to "a trickle" marked by the rhythmic clip-clop of horse-drawn buggies; the splashing of Ducks diving for Snacks and calliope-music punctuated by clanging-bells announcing hours from an edifice magically transformed to a Showboat cruising to no specific destination.
The "SHOW" at that hour consists of flickering lights denoting passage of Amish travelers homebound from social-calls and twinkling bulbs delineating the triple decks of this monument to the memory of ROBERT FULTON, a local boy who "made his mark" in 19th Century America as an Inventor. Rabbits stop to visit while protesting Ducks fly reconnaissance to survey whatever latter-day Thoreau has deigned to invade their demesne seeking brief respite from "Real Life".
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SITE #23
OLD MILL VILLAGE MUSEUM, near New Milford,Pennsylvania, is actually a HERITAGE SITE rather than a LIVING HISTORY VILLAGE as the name might imply. Weekends during their regular season a corps of dedicated Local History Afficianadoes gather at this site of what once was a Lumber Mill to demonstrate the crafts which were representative of this Northeastern-corner of Penn's Woods known as "the Endless Mountains". The Tour includes an assemblage of buildings from various parts of the area as well as several collections of Artifacts. Special Programs including a Civil War Reenactment are available throughout the Spring and Summer. The MUSEUM shuts down in late-October with candlelight tours featuring tales of unexplained happenings here as well as elsewhere in Pa. similar in scope to the stories documented by Washigton Irving from New York's CATSKILL MOUNTAINS..
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SITE #24
SCHOENBRUNN VILLAGE outside New Philadelphia, Ohio, is "the Gem of Tuscarawas", Here it was that in 1782 Moravian Clergyman, David Zeisberger, established the Flagship-site of his many Christian-communities throughout Pennsylvania and Ohio. Though the original vestiges of this village dedicated to God are long gone, Scholars have faithfully restored the look and feel of what was to be the core of a Native-American Utopia. This is undoubtedly the LIVING MONUMENT to a true American-visionary who dedicated his Life to stemming the tide of Manifest Destiny which became in later years a form of "ethnic cleansing" as well as the foundation of our Nation. The VILLAGE includes a well-designed Museum to highlight background and raison d'etre of SCHOENBRUNN HISTORICAL SITE. Not too distant is Zeiberger's "final resting place" as well as a Museum marking a sister-site known as "GNADENHUTTEN".
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