[OC] Living History: the incorporation of tools, clothing, and activities into an interactive exhibition that gives onlookers a sense of going back in time.
I encountered this up in Pennsylvania for the first time over the past weekend at Quiet Valley Farm. It was a truly inspiring and informative experience! I recommend visiting when you're in the area.
The farm itself is nestled deep, deep down in a wooded valley. The adventure started while we were caught up in sharp, winding roads that looped around beautifully historic homes. We soon stumbled upon the dusty entrance to the property but the farm was down a winding forest pathway that had many picturesque moments:
Then we spotted a unique barn-side that signified the beginning of our backdated tour. I wonder what year the chicken was painted up there...
Another few steps and we found ourselves stepping on soft grass covered in light mist which gave the day a sense of solemn antiquity, and overlooking the farm gardens. The vegetables and herbs were some of the biggest I've ever seen!
You could feel the hard work and ambition from the original family who owned the property. Much of the farm remained in its original condition.
Everything on the farm has a purpose.
And here is the main cash crop of the farm: APPLES. Having an orchard is no easy task but this was just one out of hundreds more that dotted the almost 200-acre farm. That's a lot of apples! The family traded them for other important things they needed to survive like leather, metal, and dyes for yarn.
And they had super cute animals hanging around in their pens...
...and around the grounds (mostly causing trouble).
The huge, red barn (shown in these two pictures) is good example of their magnificent workmanship...
The best part of it all was feeling like you're part of the family. The actors immerse you through careful and knowledgeable dialogue.
It feels as though your great-aunt Gertrude is teaching you how to grind corn or weave an artisan chair.
I would love to return to Quiet Valley Farm during Christmas time to experience a traditional horse-drawn sleigh ride with homemade wassail in the snow!
How long until winter again?
Thanks for reading my post! Please let me know what you thought in the comments. I'd love to hear your feedback!
Cheers!
All photos were taken with my Nikon D5000 (55-200mm) and LG smart phone