Hale Farm and Village: America during the Civil War comes to life
Looking for a destination that is educational yet fun for your entire family? Look no further than the Western Reserve Historical Society’s Hale Farm and Village in nearby Bath, Ohio. This working museum is home to the fictional city of Wheatfield Village — a small colonial town whose residents work hard to prosper during the Civil War.
Visitors get a firsthand look at what it was like living in America in the early 1800s through crafts such as basket weaving and quilting and artisans who display glassblowing, metalworking, blacksmithing, and candle-making skills.
The staff at Hale Farm take on the roles of village characters whose every detail is reminiscent of this important period in American history. From the clothing, hairstyles, accents and stories, they provide a real-life history lesson for children and adults alike.
A schoolhouse with headmaster teaches children what it was like to be a schoolchild in pioneer times. The village is completely open to all visitors, with characters performing their trades and answering questions for visitors.
The re-enactors are found throughout the village and can be approached by all — each has a story to tell. From a mother whose son has recently enlisted in the army to the clerk at the general store whose family lives in the town, each character’s story is unique, intriguing and educational.
A working farm with cows, sheep, horses, pigs and chickens is also on site.
Hale Farm and Village hosts an annual fall event called The Drums of August — a civil war reenactment and colonial fair. Thousands of visitors flock to the village to witness this event that is a favorite among locals.
At the museum store, visitors can purchase gifts and trinkets that have been made on site. From antique toy replicas to hand-blown glass and baskets weaved on the premises, there is something that will please every member of the family.
Admission to the village is $10 per adult and $5 for children aged 3-12. Kids Under 3 are admitted free. Groups of 15 or more receive a $1 per adult admission discount. Special rates for the disabled are $4.50 per person. Major credit cards are accepted.
Days/hours of operation are posted here.
- by LeeAnn Mullen, Cleveland Reporter for HelloMetro
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