Historic Hanna's Town plans summer programs

The opening of the Westmoreland History Education Center at Historic Hanna’s Town is leading to new and expanded programs this year for children and families.

Summer camps for children ages 6-12 will introduce them to the history of their backyards and beyond through educational hands-on activities, living history demonstrations, crafts and games, integrating history, archaeology, art and natural science, the site’s officials say.

The Hempfield property includes historic buildings, gardens and trails young historians can explore.

This year’s summer camps take children back in time to the late 18th century, when Hanna’s Town served as the seat of Westmoreland County government, an important stop along the Forbes Road and a military recruitment center during the Revolutionary War.

Camp will held from 9 a.m.-3 p.m. Monday through Friday, with sessions for those ages 6-8 from July 8-12 and those ages 9-12 from July 22-26.

Registration and details: westmorelandhistory.org/summer-camps

The Westmoreland Historical Society also is launching a new free program, “Pages of History Storytime,” for children ages 3-9, accompanied by an adult.

Monthly sessions, set for May 26, June 22-23 (Frontier Court Days), July 21, Aug. 18, Sept. 15, Oct. 26 (Fall Family Day), Nov. 17 and Dec. 28 (Holiday Family Day), will include a picture book read-aloud session followed by a hands-on activity.

At 1 p.m. on May 26, the first program will feature “Imogene’s Last Stand” by Candace Fleming, a story of a young girl trying to save her town’s historical society.

Registration is requested by calling 724-532-1935 or 724-836-1800.