East Huntingdon sites partner for 'historic fun' weekend

Neighboring historical sites West Overton Museums and Fort Allen Antique Farm Equipment Association are partnering for a weekend of historic fun.

The organizations plan to offer historic activities, music, demonstrations, crafts and food July 20-21.

West Overton Museums will host its popular summer DIY History, inviting visitors to touch, smell and taste parts of the past, from 10 a.m.-3 p.m. both days.

Fort Allen Antique Farm Equipment Association will host a Homemade Ice Cream Summer Fun Festival and Christmas in July Craft Show from 9 a.m.-5 p.m. each day.

Visitors can ride wagons between the two sites along Route 819 in East Huntingdon Township.

Step into the past

Do It Yourself activities at West Overton will include butter churning, washing laundry, cooking over an open hearth, playing 19th century games and casting a lead bullet.

Participants will learn about the science of food preservation and turning cream into butter, as well as changes to technology during the 19th century.

Visitors checking in at the Overholt Homestead will receive an activity passport. Those who complete each activity and attend the Fort Allen demonstrations can trade in their stamped passports for homemade ice cream at Fort Allen.

In addition, a West Overton Village-wide scavenger hunt game, “Clued-In,” will allow visitors to test their sleuthing skills.

Tickets for the family-friendly activities at West Overton are $5 each, $15 for families, and will be available online and at the door.

Fort Allen Antique Farm Equipment Association will offer visitors live music, an antique tractor parade, blacksmith demonstrations and a Christmas craft and vendor show.

Admission to Fort Allen is free.

Details and a complete schedule of events are listed at westovertonvillage.org.