Heritage Village

 You will be swept off your feet as you witness the many historical hands on displays and activities found in HERITAGE VILLAGE. 
Laurel Dabbs will demonstrate the art of decoy carving, using traditional materials, hand tools and methods. All the different stages of making a gunning decoy, from pattern making to finish sanding, will be available as a hands-on display, along with a traditional cedar hunting boat and antique and working decoys. Educational displays from museum exhibitions will highlight the decoy’s rich history, and painting tutorials will be offered each day as weather permits.  Make and take projects and activities for children of all ages will be provided. Come and learn more about this most American of folk arts.
                Blacksmith, Lewis Riggleman, will set up his blacksmith shop and provide a traditional demonstration producing various forged items in appropriate dress and along with his wife, Dianne, who will set up circa 1900 rope winding station and provide hands on demonstrations resulting in a 6’ length, 6 or 12 strand 3 lay rope.
                Paper marbler, John C. Bielik, is an itinerant artisan, instructor, and historic trade’s preservationist. You will be amazed as he magically transforms plain paper with colorful and creative designs.  Each one is a one of a kind.  Come learn about the historic trades of papermaking, book binding, and paper marbling.
                Be sure to take a stroll back in time!

Daily Demonstrations