George Washington's Fredericksburg Foundation

“The guides were wonderful. They were able to work with the Special Education students and maintain the interest of the entire young class. I even learned a few things! Thank you.” - 2nd grade teacher, Bowling Green Primary School, Caroline Co., VA

History In Your Own Back Yard!

These programs, provided by the Education Staff at Historic Kenmore and George Washington’s Ferry Farm, give students the opportunity to walk in the footsteps of some of history’s most significant individuals. The 80 acres of trees and meadows at Ferry Farm are home to birds, insects, and mammals, and the Discovery Garden there contains many herbs, vegetables, and fruits, which were grown in the 18th century.

One of the strengths of these programs is the use of primary source material for research. The lessons incorporate letters, estate inventories, wills, and diaries, as well as artifacts found in the course of the archaeology digs. Strategies to create “crosswalks” from today’s world to yesterday are also employed.

As partners with schools and parents in educating young people, the Education Department of the Foundation strives to accommodate the needs and requests of school groups. This spring, in response to requests, field trips for entire grade levels at Ferry Farm are being offered.

In-School Programs are also available.

SCHOOL PROGRAMS REQUIRE ADVANCE RESERVATION
Please see below

Historic Kenmore Programs

Kenmore Plantation is composed of the museum gallery, newly refurbished kitchen, and mansion. The programs are designed to assist classroom teachers to develop their students' historical literacy. Interactive, hands-on activities allow students to understand history in a fun, learning environment.

Kenmore: Past and Present

George Washington slept here! Students will explore Kenmore’s house, kitchen dependency, and gallery as they compare everyday life in the present with that of the 18th century and learn about the historical contributions of patriots such as George Washington. Hands-on activities include learning about colonial clothing, music, cooking, manners, and paintings. Grades K-2.

History and Social Science SOLs: K.1, K.2, K.7, 1.1, 1.2, 2.3, 2.11
Fine Arts SOLs: 1.12, 2.22

Plantation Life at Kenmore

Walk in the footsteps of history! Students use primary sources to answer such questions as how did colonials live and how did their lives compare with our lives today? They grind corn in the kitchen dependency and learn about colonial clothing, lighting, and entertainment in this 18th-century house. They also learn how European immigrants, African slaves, and patriots such as George Washington influenced the cultural landscape of our emerging nation and affected life on a Virginia plantation. Grades 2-5.

History and Social Science SOLs: 2.3, 2.8, 2.12, VS.1, VS.2, VS.4, VS.5, USI.1, USI.5
Fine Arts SOLs: 4.15

Cannonballs at Kenmore

The Battle of Fredericksburg and the Civil War are examined using primary documents and activities that bring to life the war-time experiences of women, soldiers, and slaves in Virginia. This program also includes a tour of the near-by Civil War Cemetery. Grades 4-8.

History and Social Science SOLs: VS.1, VS.7, USI.1, VUS.1, CE.1

George Washington's Ferry Farm Programs

“Excellent program for our 2nd graders: hands-on, interesting, varied, with lots to see and try. An excellent educational and fun experience.” – 2nd grade teacher, Wakefield Country Day School, Flint Hill, VA Ferry Farm lies along the Rappahannock River; almost 100 acres offer homes for many plants and animals. This is where George Washington lived from age six until he was a young man. An archaeological dig has uncovered artifacts of Indians who lived here thousands of years ago, as well as remains of early 18th-century buildings, and many Civil War artifacts. The staff at Ferry Farm offers a variety of programs that support the Social Studies and Science Virginia Standards of Learning.

George Washington: Father of our Country

The life of George Washington and the diverse cultural landscape of Ferry Farm are explored through hands-on archaeology, the study of primary documents, and stories, activities, and games. Students also learn how Washington’s principles and actions shaped American Democracy. Grades K-2, 3-5. (Programs held outside in Sept., Oct., April, May, June.)

History and Social Science SOLs: K.1, K.3, K.4, K.7, K.8, K.9, 1.2, 1.3, 1.4, 1.10, 1.11, 2.10, 2.11, 3.11, VS.1, VS.5, VS.6, USI.5, USI.6
Science SOLs: 2.2, 2.6, 4.6
Math SOLs: K.10, 1.12
Fine Arts SOLs: 1.14

Habitat Hunt

The habitats of Ferry Farm’s natural world are explored in this program where students learn about the migration, hibernation, and camouflage of various birds and animals as well as the local eco-system. They hike in the woods, look for plants and animals along the river, and participate in activities that explain the interdependence of man, plants, and animals. Grades 1-4. (Programs held outside in Sept, Oct., April, May, June.)

Science SOLs: 1.1, 1.4, 1.5, 1.7, 1.8, 2.1, 2.2, 2.5, 2.7, 3.1, 3.4, 3.6, 3.8, 3.10, 4.1, 4.5, 4.8
Math SOLs: 1.19, 1.20, 2.23

Powhatan Indians

Students learn about Virginia’s Powhatan Indians through artifacts, primary documents, fun activities, and games. Students explore how they lived, what foods they ate, how they clothed themselves, and how they interacted with European settlers, plus how they influenced the language and culture of Virginia. Grades K-2, 3-5. (Programs held outside in Sept., Oct., April, May, June.)

History and Social Science SOLs: K.1, K.4, 2.2, 2.4, VS.1, VS.2, VS.3, USI.1, USI.3, USI.4

Guidelines for Scheduling a School Program

Cost is $2.00 per child, local schools (City of Fredericksburg, counties of Stafford, Spotsylvania, King George, and Caroline); teachers/chaperones free. $2.50 per child, non-local; teachers/chaperones free.

Up to one entire grade level can be accommodated for programs held outside at Ferry Farm. Programs held inside at Ferry Farm and Kenmore can accommodate a maximum of 50 students (minimum of 15 students).

Checks must be made payable to George Washington's Fredericksburg Foundation.

Plan ahead - reserve early!

To schedule a program, contact Vickie Hayes by phone at (540) 370-0732 or by email at hayes@gwffoundation.org. Please be prepared to provide the following information:

Number of students in your group and information about students with special needs
Grade level of your students
The program you would like for your students
Name and telephone number(s) of contact person
Name and address of school

Lunch or Snacks

There are no food services available at either Washington's Ferry Farm or Historic Kenmore. For lunches or snacks brought by the students, Ferry Farm offers plenty of shaded, grassy areas for picnics, and chairs inside in the event of inclement weather. Please let us know at the time you make the reservation if you plan to have lunch at Ferry Farm.

Confirmation of Your Visit

You will receive a written confirmation of your reservation. Please review it immediately to be sure your plans are recorded accurately. Also, please bring the confirmation letter with you at the time of your visit.