Historic Fourth

Last year, Marina and I spent the Fourth of July at the local historic park. We had such a good time that we decided to go back this year. Since we'd already been there, she knew what to expect. As we walked in, she recognized Uncle Sam and Abraham Lincoln.

Many of the attractions were the same. Marina was happy to sign the Abolition of Slavery petition with an old fashioned pen that she had to dip into an ink well. She also spent some time chatting with Abraham Lincoln as well.

Our next stop was s station where Marina was able to churn butter, grind coffee, clean laundry on a wash board and pare and peel an apple. She learned that those methods took a lot longer than what we have now.

We checked out the Civil War camp next. Marina was wearing her Union Army cap, so she was welcomed there. But the reception wasn't so warm in the Confederate army tent. Then we took a ride on a stagecoach before having lunch.

After we ate, Marina panned for gold and found five pieces. She even took the time to show other kids how to do it. We also tried some snickerdoodles from a wood burning stove. Our next goal was to complete the scavenger hunt the organizers had created. It took some perseverance, but we were able to complete it.

By this time, Marina was practically melting in the heat. So we decided it was time to call it a day. We stopped for cold drinks before heading home.