Twenty-first Century kids will get a chance to step back in time and experience 18th Century life in a French and Indian war-era fort this summer. Tuesday, May 30, the Fort William Henry Museum in Lake George is launching a weekly Family Night program that will include interactive exhibits, conversations with interpreters and activities designed for budding historians.
According to Museum Director Melodie Viele, children will be able to make bonnets and tricorn hats and play 18th Century games, which will include a try at working the original fidget spinner, a whirligig, Children will have the opportunity to try on regimental uniforms and drill to the fife and drum with the King’s Army.
In Colonial times, Lake George, positioned in the wilderness between the British and French Empires, was the site of several battles. The area, says archeologist David Starbuck, “has some of the greatest military ruins in this country.” The fort and surrounding grounds have been the site of several digs in recent years, which have unearthed a wealth of artifacts. Kids and their families will get an introduction to archaeology as part of the fort’s new program.
Family Night will be held Tuesdays 5 – 7 p.m. For the program’s launch on May 30, admission is free. On subsequent Tuesdays, the cost is $10 for adults, $5 for children ages 5 – 15. Children ages 5 and younger will be admitted free of charge.
The Fort William Henry Museum is a replica of the actual fort built in 1755 by Major William Johnson. It stood at the head of Lake George until August of 1757, when it fell under an attack led by French commander the Marquis de Montcalm. The Fort will be observing the 260th anniversary of the siege and surrender this August with battle reenactments and 18th Century encampment.