Doak House Museum to host popular “Storytelling and Gingerbread” education program in December

The Doak House Museum’s most popular program for school children, “Storytelling and Gingerbread,” is returning in December.

The program will begin Tuesday, November 24. Students from local schools visit the Museum on the Tusculum College for a taste of a traditional Christmas from the 19th century. Home schooled students are invited to enjoy the program at 1 p.m. on Monday, Dec. 7.

The annual program teaches children about how people in the 19th century observed the Christmas holidays and features storytelling, traditional crafts, cookie decorating and traditional celebrations.

“Our ancestors celebrated the season much differently than we do,” said Dollie Boyd, director of museum program and studies. “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.”       Volunteers are also needed for “Storytelling and Gingerbread.” Volunteering requires a three-hour commitment plus training.

Volunteers are need in the following areas: reading a story book to school children, mostly in grades K-3rd; interpreting a 19th century kitchen. Serving cookies to children, helping them decorate the cookies; craft station leader, making a paper craft that incorporates a short architecture lesson; prep work before and after programs; assisting storyteller with shadow puppet show; storyteller, needs to be willing to do extra training and prep.

Reservations are required as space is limited. For more information, to volunteer or to make reservations, call 423-636-8554 or email dboyd@tusculum.edu.