This year's workshops are over. Please check back next year for a new schedule of 2012 programs.
In the summer, at George Washington's Ferry Farm and Historic Kenmore, children (ages 4-12) can connect with history through hands-on participation in fun and engaging activities that will help them better understand colonial lifestyles, archaeology, the Civil War, and today’s natural world.
Advance registration and payment required
- 1-hour programs: $5.00 per child.
- 1½-hour programs: $8.00 per child.
- 2-hour programs: $10.00 per child.
- 3-hour programs: $15.00 per child.
- Multi-day camps: $125 per child
To register or obtain additional information, contact Vickie Hayes by phone at (540) 371-3363 x24
Dates in red strike-through indicate workshops that are full and unavailable.
You can also download the registration form and the Medical Release and Parental Consent Form (PDF format)
These programs are designed for individuals. We also offer programs for school groups.
Ferry Farm Workshops
The Colonial Farmer—Step back in time and experience what life was like on a colonial farm. Children will explore and experience some of the many jobs that a colonial farmer, such as George Washington, would have done in order to keep the farm maintained and productive.
- Ages 8-12
I Dig George—Become an amateur archaeologist! In this workshop, children have
an opportunity to dig, wash, and mend “artifacts” they find in educational
mock digs at Ferry Farm.
- Ages 6 & 7
- Ages 8-10
Historic Kenmore Workshops
Music through Time—Experience the sounds of music throughout history with folk songs and tall tales. Children will play traditional songs using traditional ‘instruments’ as they learn about the influence and significance of music through time. Feet will be tapping and hands will be clapping as the music starts to flow.
- Ages 10-12
Playing at the Plantation—Pre-school children can visit Historic Kenmore for an exciting and fun morning of colonial games, activities, and crafts.
- Ages 4 & 5
Plantation Jobs—Spend the morning on the Lewis Plantation! Learn about and
experience some of the different trades that were needed to keep the plantation
operational. Enjoy a tour of the Kenmore mansion and exciting, hands-on activities.
- Ages 8-12
Special Multi-Day Extended Camps
History Camp
June 25-June 29
Come explore history and follow in the footsteps of George Washington, his family, and his friends. Have fun with hands-on activities, projects, and games at the Rising Sun Tavern, George Washington’s Ferry Farm, the Mary Washington House, Historic Kenmore, and the Hugh Mercer Apothecary. Learn about Colonial food, medicine, and daily life. Explore the places that George Washington knew well. Ages 8-12
Archaeology Camp
July 9-July 13
Become an amateur archaeologist! During this five-day camp, children have an opportunity to dig, wash, and mend “artifacts” they find in educational mock digs at Ferry Farm, visit the archaeology lab, and learn about interpretation and conservation of artifacts. Ages 9-12.
Civil War Camp
July 23-July 27
With the Civil War Sesquicentennial right around the corner, this is a great opportunity for children to discover more about the life of a Civil War soldier. Ages 9-12
Earthmates Camp
August 6-August 10
Join in for five days of exploring the great outdoors! Children will learn about the different habitats at Ferry Farm through games and interactive activities. Topics will include birds, bugs and insects, animals, and vegetation. Spend your mornings outside on the farm. Ages 8-12
Multi-day extended camps are 5 days, from 9 a.m. to Noon each day (Monday through Friday). Cost is $125 per child. Advance registration is required.
For additional details or to register for any of these programs, contact Vickie Hayes by email at hayes@gwffoundation.org or by phone at (540) 371-3363, ext. 24.