Learning to play 9 Man Morris, a colonial-era game.
When our friends from the Accokeek Library called to ask if we’d like to participate in a Colonial Day youth program, we agreed enthusiastically as it gave the National Colonial Farm staff the opportunity to take the show on the road, reaching out to youngsters who might not have otherwise discovered the hidden treasure at Piscataway Park.
Today, the farm’s interpretive and education staff embarked on the 3-mile journey from the farm to the library for a fun and interactive program offering kids the chance to play like a child in the 18th century–without a Nintendo DS or Angry Birds. While the older kids tried their hands at board games such as Goose or 9 Man Morris (which will be featured games during this weekend’s annual Summer Colonial Event held at the farm), the younger tots played Cup and Ball, Corn Toss, Marbles, and made felted balls of wool to take home.
Historic Interpreter leads a match of marbles.
The National Colonial Farm educational programming ranges from curriculum-based K-12 school tours, offered each fall and spring, to the special events that are open to the general public and invites families to enjoy learning about the region’s history and culture in an outdoor space featuring historic buildings, gardens, domestic livestock, and plenty of fresh air! Admission to the colonial farm is free and it is open to the public for self-guided tours, Tuesday through Sundays during the season (March – December). Special group tours may be made in advance by contacting the education manager.
