Tricia Hardin, as Mrs. Bolton, asks the children, “What kinds of things do you eat?”

Historical Interpretation is a challenging career path. However, it can be rewarding and fun if you don’t mind low pay (or in many cases, no pay) and extreme weather conditions. I often portray Mrs. Bolton during our school programs at the National Colonial Farm. My appearance dressed as a Colonial character will quiet the rowdiest of school groups. I have had many enjoyable years talking to children about the 18th Century farmhouse, farm chores, tobacco fields, cooking, gardening, spinning and the idea of independence from England. The children want to know if I am real and do I really live here. In my mind, at that moment, I really am Mrs. Bolton of 1770. I can easily conjure up stories of what is happening at that particular moment on my family’s small tobacco plantation in southern Prince George’s County in the Colony of Maryland before the Revolutionary War.

One of my biggest mental challenges is word useage. Many colonial words or phrases are lost completely with elementary age children. So, I try to stay understandable and relatable. Once, a very bright child wanted to know why I did not have an English accent. I simply stated that I had never been to England. At a colonial conference several years ago, I learned it is better not to try and have a colonial accent. (Of course, no audio of 18th Century voices are available.) One should articulate each word clearly if you are portraying an educated, gentry character. And, the words of a middlin’ sort farm character should not ring as clear. So, my slight southern drawl works nicely for my Mrs. Bolton.

Tricia shows museum theater intern how to spin wool.

The biggest physical challenge is the extreme outdoor temperatures. Visitors always want to know how one can stand all the clothing in the heat of summer. I’ve found the right material is the answer. A light linen shift will actually help you stay cool. Once wet with sweat, a breeze will instantly cool you. As for the cold, anything wool will keep you warm and dry.

What is most rewarding, is to see the bright eyes of a child light up when Mrs. Bolton steps out from behind the door and the child experiences history come alive when I say,”Good day.”

–Tricia Hardin, National Colonial Farm Interpreter

You can visit Mrs. Bolton and the National Colonial Farm, and learn about Summer Days on the Farm June 25 – 27; July 16 – 18; July 30 and 31; Aug 1. 

I, for one, am extremely excited to be able to drop my kayak in the river at the new launch. Having grown up on the shore of Southern New Jersey, water sports are somewhat of a summer staple. Kayaking, canoeing, sailing, and stand-up paddle boarding are my must have summer activities. There is nothing like a peaceful paddle down the river, watching for birds, and taking in some beautiful scenery – plus, there is usually a breeze on the water to give you a break from the harsh summer humidity. With a packed lunch and plenty of water and sunscreen, it’s the perfect way to spend a summer day.

Let’s face it: the news of the past nine months in our country and all over the world have been particularly hard to stomach. Devastating weather, global conflicts, acts of terrorism – the list is huge. We all need a little break from the harsh realities of the state of our world sometimes. For me, this break often takes shape in a quick jaunt in the woods or a paddle around the river. The healing power of nature and the outdoors is something I often forget about when I become stressed or worried about the state of the world. I believe that it is about time we all took advantage of the outdoor space available in our communities. When you do, don’t forget to give a smile and a “howdy!” to the fellow hikers and boaters. A friendly smile and wave can go a long way these days.

The new kayak/canoe launches at Piscataway Park is one of the few free public water access points on this side of the Potomac River, and that offers facilities like indoor restrooms, picnic grounds, and plenty of parking. Everyone deserves the opportunity to view this unique landscape from the water while relaxing as they take in a little outdoors.

And since June is National Great Outdoors Month there is no better time than now to enjoy the great outdoors to kick off the summer. There is a plethora of affordable outdoor activities that you can do with your family and friends that will help you make the most of this summer. The dock, pier, and kayak launches at Piscataway Park are one of many (free!) ways to make the most of this summer and all that nature has to offer!

Spending most of my days in the office around here, I’m thinking that a kayak on the Potomac is the perfect way to spend my lunch hour. See you on the river.

Celebrating the Potomac: A Detailed Event Description

Pre-event Fishing Contest | 9 am to 11 am | Saylor Grove Fishing Pier | No Cost

Come to the park early and enjoy a friendly fishing and casting contest on the Saylor Grove Fishing Pier. Bait will be provided and prizes awarded to participating fisher folk between 10 and 11 am . Please Note: Fishing on the Saylor Grove Pier will not be permitting between 11 am and 4 pm on Saturday, June 22. 

Program and Ribbon Cutting | 11:30 am | Main Stage

A short program to thank the generous support the Foundation has received from the National Park Service (NPS) Chesapeake Bay Office, the State of Maryland, and many individual donors. Among the guests attending the ribbon cutting will be Maryland State Senate President, Thomas V. “Mike” Miller, Prince George’s County Councilman Obie Patterson, and the Director of National Park Service-National Capital Region, Steve Whitesell.

Public Boat Cruise | 1:45 pm and 3 pm | Saylor Grove Fishing Pier | $35

Capital Yacht Charter’s Finished Business will be taking out two groups of guests to cruise on the scenic Potomac River. Soak up the beautiful views of Mount Vernon, Fort Washington, and the various wildlife on this 85 – foot, classic motor yacht. Each cruise can accommodate 45 guests and space is filling up fast so reserve your space today!

Kayak Tours | 12:30 pm, 2 pm, and 3 pm | Boat Dock | $30

Atlantic Kayak Company will be leading three guided kayak tours along the Maryland shores of the Potomac.  Paddlers will learn about the river’s rich history and culture, while enjoying that natural beauty of the protected shoreline. These tours are the best way to see wildlife. Known to be seen in this area are Bald Eagles and Osprey, beavers, turtles, and the Great Blue Heron. Space is limited (max. capacity per tour is 6 people) so reserve your space now!

Music Performances | All Day | Main Stage | FREE

Enjoy the musical stylings of DC Metro Area’s best musicians! Starting at 12:30 pm Southern Maryland’s own Little Paul and Company will be playing some original tunes as well as some old favorites. Then at 1:45 pm the Foundation welcomes Angie Head, a soulful singer/songwriter from Takoma Park. Angie will grace us with her guitar and strong, sweet voice. Closing out the day is Alexandria’s own Kingstreet Bluegrass starting at 3 pm. The band boasts that their main interests are “charity, the environment, and bluegrass fun!”

Guided walks | 1 pm, 2 pm, and 3 pm | Meet at Visitor Center | FREE

At 1 pm join MaryAlice, Education Manager as she leads a walk down the Pumpkin Ash Trail and talk about the environment, agriculture, and the rich human culture and history of the Chesapeake Bay region. Then at 2 pm explore the complex world of environmentally conscious livestock pasture management (and see some adorable animals!) with Livestock Manager, Polly. Lastly, at 3 pm follow Fort Washington Park Ranger Trey as he leads you down the scenic Potomac Riverview Trail and explains the unique roll the viewshed played during the War of 1812.

Piscataway Connections to the Land | 2 pm | Education Building | FREE

A lively panel discussion will take place among some local members of the Piscataway community. The panel will address the questions: How do tribal people understand the land, water, animals, and plants at Piscataway Park?  Why is this place still sacred and so critical to Piscataway identity? In what ways can all people come in closer communion to the land through living, shared knowledge? Join us for an exciting and informative discussion!

Additional Activities:

Foodways demonstrations | Event Kitchen

Colonial Interpretors | National Colonial Farm

Games | National Colonial Farm

Catered Lunch by Bailey’s Catering | Food Tent

River Expo | Cedar Lane

Accokeek, MD—The Accokeek Foundation, an educational non-profit that stewards 200 acres of Piscataway Park, is proud to announce a ribbon cutting and grand opening ceremony for the newly reconstructed public boat dock and kayak launch on Saturday, June 22, at 11:30 am. Among the guests attending the ribbon cutting will be Maryland State Senate President, Thomas V. “Mike” Miller, Prince George’s County Councilman Obie Patterson, and the Director of National Park Service-National Capital Region, Steve Whitesell.

The event schedule includes performances by local musicians, Little Paul and Company, Angie Head, Kingstreet Bluegrass and Bedlam; guided river walks featuring the Potomac River story of the War of 1812; kayak tours presented by Atlantic Kayak Company; river boat cruises by Capital Yacht Charters; a panel discussion on the “Piscataway Connections to the Land” oral history project, and 18th century games and foodways demonstrations.

The boat dock, which was destroyed by Hurricane Isabel in 2003, has been rebuilt to allow visitors to access the park facilities by water. Through this project, the Accokeek Foundation will significantly increase and improve public access to the Potomac River at Piscataway Park for views, kayaking, and other recreational uses. “I am thrilled that we are now able to offer visitors a way to get out on the Potomac River,” shares Lisa Hayes, President and CEO of the Accokeek Foundation. “From the vantage point of the river, they can enjoy a view much admired by George Washington and a landscape that has been such an important part of the history and culture of Maryland’s Piscataway Indians.”

Kayak docks for launching and landing have been placed adjacent to both the fishing pier and the boat dock. “The Foundation is delighted about the possibilities that the improved facilities will present for the community,” states Site Manager, Brandon Burton, who also notes that “public interest has been strong, especially for the new access points for kayakers and other river enthusiasts.” Additional improvements include retrofitting the current fishing pier to accommodate larger tour boats that serve passengers on the Potomac River, installation of a floating dock and gangplank, and a fixed ramp designed to accommodate visitors with mobility issues.

Funding for the project was received through a federal grant from the National Park Service (NPS) Chesapeake Bay Office and a bond bill from the State of Maryland. Corporate and organizational support for the event has come from various partners, including Maryland Milestones and Anacostia Trails Heritage Area, Capital Yacht Charters, SMECO, Charlie’s Family Restaurant, Associated Insurance Management, Inc., Alice Ferguson Foundation, Chesapeake Conservancy, and Maryland National Capital Parks and Planning. in addition to individual donors. Sponsorships for the June 22nd event are available by contacting the development office at development@accokeek.org.

Calendar Listing:

Saturday, June 22, 2013, 11 am – 4 pm. Join the Accokeek Foundation in Celebrating the Potomac, a family-oriented event featuring river and culturally themed festivities, musical performances, catered picnic lunch, guided kayak tours, and river boat cruises at the National Colonial Farm at Piscataway Park, 3400 Bryan Point Road, Accokeek, MD 20607. General admission is free. Tickets for food and water activities should be purchased in advance at www.accokeek.org/leadershipsalute. Call 301-283-2113 for more information.

Download and view the AF Community Farm Managing Director position description here.

To Apply: Email cover letter and resume to: info@accokeek.org, with “Community Farm Managing Director” in the subject line.  For best consideration, please apply by June 17, 2013

About the Accokeek Foundation: By blending history, ecology, economics and conservation, the Accokeek Foundation strives to teach land stewardship and sustainable use of natural resources, as well as interpret the natural and cultural heritage of the Tidewater Potomac. The National Colonial Farm, the Ecosystem Farm, and other Foundation activities exemplify the agricultural, preservation and conservation goals that are at the core of the Foundation’s mission and serve as an outdoor classroom to further the educational programs that are key to its success. In partnership with the National Park Service, the Accokeek Foundation stewards a 200-acre portion of Piscataway Park and both organizations seek to preserve the view directly across the Potomac River from Mount Vernon.

The Accokeek Foundation conducts background checks in order to insure the safety and well-being of the organization’s staff and visitors. This position is open until filled. The Accokeek Foundation is an Equal Opportunity Employer.

Tour Times:

Recommended for audiences aged 8 and older. Please arrive at least 15 minutes before the begin of the selected tour time. This program will take place in the evening, in an outdoor park setting. Please dress appropriately for a cool fall evening and wear comfortable shoes for walking (or running!).

Special GROUP pricing of $5 per person is available. For large groups (10 or more), contact us at 301-283-2113 or email accofound@accokeek.org to reserve your space.

Tour Times:

Recommended for audiences aged 8 and older. Please arrive at least 15 minutes before the begin of the selected tour time. This program will take place in the evening, in an outdoor park setting. Please dress appropriately for a cool fall evening and wear comfortable shoes for walking (or running!).

Special GROUP pricing of $5 per person is available. For large groups (10 or more), contact us at 301-283-2113 or email accofound@accokeek.org to reserve your space.

This program is an open-house style activity for home school grades K-8.

This event takes place rain or shine. Please be prepared in the event of rain or cold.

Please email MaryAlice Bonomo for more information.

Godiva, one of our spring Hog Island Sheep lambs.

If you love animals and would like to spend a few hours each week working on the farm, join the Livestock Farmhands volunteer team on Saturday mornings from 9 am to 12 pm to assist with the successful management of our Heritage Livestock Program. Volunteers will work closely with staff members to help feed, clean the barn, repair livestock fencing, clear brush, maintain pasture and barnyard areas, and more.

Livestock Farmhands also assist the livestock team during lambing and calving season, help with spring sheep shearing, and assist in the fall at the Charles County Fair. The animals we manage as part of our program are: American Milking Devon Cattle, Black Turkeys, Hog Island Sheep, Ossabaw Hogs, and various heritage chickens including Buckeyes. No previous experience is necessary to join, but volunteers must be comfortable around large animals and animals with horns.

If you are interested in becoming a part of the Livestock Farmhands team, please e-mail the Volunteer Coordinator, Casey, at volunteers@accokeek.org.

For more information on this volunteer program, check out the Position Description.

When we first started meeting with Ian, we presented him with several things on site in desperate need of attention–broken and rotting bird blinds, certain sections of trail, the pavilion, and our Event Kitchen. Luckily for us, he decided to go with the biggest project, and the one that we needed the most help with–the renovation of our Event Kitchen. It would be a huge undertaking and require a lot of manpower, but Ian entered the planning phase of his project with the goal of a late spring completion date.

Over the next couple months, Ian spent 25 hours planning and preparing for the project. He completed an incredibly detailed project proposal, calculated the amount of material that would need to be ordered, planned for tools and other supplies, and recruited a group of volunteers that would help with the renovation on the two days he designated for the project–April 27 and May 4.

A total of 24 volunteers showed up over two days and put in about 185 hours to completely re-side and stain the entire building. It was not all smooth sailing, and Ian and Matt worked together to figure out what to do about rotted posts, bent door hinges, and a variety of other surprise challenges, but we made it through under Ian’s guidance and somehow managed to finish in those two days. I cannot speak highly enough about the amount of time and the quality of the work that Ian put in to his project with us, and we will forever be grateful that he chose us for his project.

Check out the photos below to see the Event Kitchen’s amazing transformation over two weekends:

A “before” shot of the siding

The demolition phase begins!

Pulling off the old siding was fairly quick work…Now on to the hard part!

First side is on and ready to be stained

Beginning of Day 2–Starting off with a safety briefing

Almost finished with the siding

Ian overseeing one of our biggest challenges–the doors

The Survivors celebrating the end of Day 2

The finished Event Kitchen–isn’t she beautiful?

Thank you again to Ian and all of the volunteers who came out on April 27 and May 4 to make this transformation possible. I had so much fun being a part of this project and the time and skill you dedicated to it is truly remarkable.