Explore how Christmas was observed during the 18th century at Smithfield with decorations, traditions, and activities that early Virginians practiced to observe the Holiday at the time. Free to the public.

Free Activities will Include

• Early American Living History

• Early 19th Century Cooking Demonstration

• Help us make candles hand dipped and with a mold

• Eighteenth-century games

• Twelfth Night Cake and other historic treats

• Eighteenth-century dance lessons

• Make your own tin punched Christmas Ornament

• Wreath making

• 18th Century textile activity

• A vendor fair with a variety of handmade goods for sale

Join us a we learn about Col. William Preston’s spy who exposed the Tory underground in western Virginia!

Immerse yourself in the grace of the American colonists through a traditional dance experience. No prior dance knowledge is required, as all dances will be taught. Dancers are encouraged to dress in historical or modern formal wear and comfortable shoes. Learn more at: https://www.inspiredscholar.com/english--scottishdance.html

Email: awordfitlyspoken@gmail.com

Come to Smithfield to explore Halloween as it was in the mid 19th century when it first became a major holiday in America. We’ll have period decorations, period crafts you can participate in, music from the time and stories about the Celtic traditions from 19th century Irish migrations developed the holiday into what it is in America today. No charge.

Learn the art of punching tin to make panels like those used in the Smithfield hutch and pie safe during the 18th century. Materials and tools will be provided. Offered free to the public between 10am-3:00pm at the museum.

Learn to how make 18th century men’s clothing, including trousers, breeches, coats, shirts and waistcoats. Sewing techniques, patterns, and examples of garments will be shown and demonstrated. Your questions are welcome. Free to the public.

Come to Smithfield to be treated for an 18th century diagnosis with 18th century medicine and instruments (within reason). Learn the theories of 18th century medicine and the realities of what it achieved. No one will be harmed. Your questions are welcome! Free to the public.

Learn how to press Apple Cider and make an 1805 Preston recipe for small beer using just four simple ingredients and equipment you may already have. The program will include a discussion on brewing and cider making in the 18th century with your questions. The program will be offered at the Smithfield giftshop from 10am-3pm at no charge.

Learn to how make 18th century men’s clothing, including trousers, breeches, coats, shirts and waistcoats. Sewing techniques, patterns, and examples of garments will be shown and demonstrated. Your questions are welcome. Free to the public.

Learn how to press Apple Cider and make an 1805 Preston recipe for small beer using just four simple ingredients and equipment you may already have. The program will include a discussion on brewing and cider making in the 18th century with your questions. The program will be offered at the Smithfield giftshop from 10am-3pm at no charge.

Took a look at a variety of weapon types used in the Revolutionary War in Virginia. We will answer your questions about the weapons and tactics of the war and hold periodic loading and flintlock arms firing demonstrations throughout the day. Free to the public.

Come to Smithfield to be treated for an 18th century diagnosis with 18th century medicine and instruments (within reason). Learn the theories of 18th century medicine and the realities of what it achieved. No one will be harmed. Your questions are welcome! Free to the public.

Took a look at a variety of weapon types used in the Revolutionary War in Virginia. We will answer your questions about the weapons and tactics of the war and hold periodic loading and flintlock arms firing demonstrations throughout the day. Free to the public.

Join us for this free program offered at the Smithfield giftshop and learn how weapons of the American Revolution worked. We'll have a representative assembly of muskets, long rifles, a fowling gun, bayonet, sword, and accoutrements for you to examine and answer all of your questions about the weapons and tactics of the war. Free to the public.

Become an 18th century patient and be treated as you would've been at the time in this free, hands-on learning program offered at the Smithfield gift shop from 10am-3pm. You'll learn what's wrong with you, receive the prescribed treatment (within reason:) and examine the surgeon's instruments. Your questions are welcome!