The Doak House Museum’s most popular school program, Storytelling and Gingerbread, is returning in November.
The program, which features storytelling, traditional crafts, cookie decorating and 19th century Christmas customs, will begin on Nov. 12 and run through Dec. 18. The program will be offered for homeschooled students at 1 p.m. on Friday, Nov. 16.
The annual program teaches children about how people in the 19th century observed Christmas. Students attending Storytelling and Gingerbread will engage in some of the crafts and activities that 19th century children enjoyed.
“Our ancestors celebrated the season much differently than we do,” said Dollie Boyd, director of museum programs. “Decorations would have been minimal and homemade. The focus would have been more on a good meal and time with family. When students come to this event, they get a glimpse of history through engaging activities.”
This program is a participating member of the Tennessee Arts Commission’s Ticket Subsidy Program. Teachers may apply for mini-grants to help defray the cost of the trip by visiting http://www.tn.gov/arts.
The fee for the program is $4 per child. Teachers, bus drivers and teacher aides are admitted free. Reservations are required as space is limited. For more information or reservations, call 423-636-8554 or email dboyd@tusculum.edu.
The Doak House Museum and the President Andrew Johnson Museum and Library are operated by the Department of Museum Program and Studies of Tusculum College. In addition to the museums, the department is responsible for the College Archives and offers one of the few undergraduate Museum Studies degree programs in the country. The two museums are also part of the National Historic District on the Tusculum College campus. Follow the museums on Facebook and Twitter to learn the latest news and upcoming events or visit its website at www.tusculum.edu to learn more about the variety of programs offered at the museums.