Old Bethpage Village Presents a Bridge to the Past in "History Alive!" Children's Program in April & May

While their children fiddle with video game controllers and cell phones and enjoy all the other trappings of the computer age, many parents wonder how they can provide their kids with an appreciation for what life was like in an earlier and simpler time in America. Nassau County Executive Ed Mangano announces that through the “History Alive!” program, Old Bethpage Village Restoration will provide that opportunity over seven Sundays during April and May.

As part of the program, children and parents will be able to try their hand at the everyday chores of 19th-century life, including churning fresh cream into butter at the Powell Farmhouse, carding wool at the Benjamin House, assisting in making a hat, and sweeping the porch at the General Store with a handmade corn broom.

Other aspects of children’s lives will also be covered, including play, involving rolling wooden hoops beside the Noon Inn; and education, with participants having the opportunity to see the School House, where they can write on a slate board.

The History Alive! program takes place from noon to 4 p.m. on April 15, 22 and 29 and May 6, 13, 20 and 27.

Old Bethpage Village provides visitors with the opportunity to step back in time and experience life in a recreated mid-19th-century American village set on more than 200 acres and boasting some 50 historic buildings. Hours are 10 a.m. - 4 p.m. Wednesday - Saturday and 11 a.m. - 5 p.m. Sunday. Entrance fees are $7 for children 5 - 12 (those under 5 are free), seniors and volunteer firefighters; and $10 for adults. OBVR is located on Round Swamp Road in Old Bethpage (exit 48 on the LIE); for more information, call 516-572-8400.