Living History

 Come explore the sights and sounds, smells and flavors of 19th-century French Prairie life, and experience the history and spirit of Champoeg with the help of our volunteer costumed interpreters at many of our public programs. $5 day-use parking fee applies.

2012 Events

Living History Saturdays 2012

 Textile Day — July 7, 1:30 PM – 3:30 PM

Blacksmith and Woodcraft Day — July 14, 1:30 PM – 3:30 PM

1860s Games Day— July 21, 1:30 PM – 3:30 PM

  Barn Dances — July 28, Aug. 25, Sept. 8, 6 PM – 9 PM

The 19th-century Donald Manson threshing barn is the perfect backdrop for these old-fashioned barn dances. Learn some dance steps from the old days. Accompany the band on a pitchfork, washboard or rattle.

1860s Children’s Jobs day — Aug 4, 1:30 PM – 3:30 PM

Home Skills Day — Aug. 11, 1:30 PM – 3:30 PM

Grain Harvest Day — Aug. 18, 1:30 PM – 3:30 PM

 Farmstead Day — Sept. 1, 1 PM – 4 PM

Learn how to hand-churn butter, thresh and winnow wheat and see spinning and wool carding at this annual celebration of Oregon’s rugged pioneer roots. The day offers music, living history demonstrations and a chance to take home some of the fresh produce from the 1860s kitchen garden.

Apple Harvest Festival — Oct. 6, 1 PM – 4 PM

Enjoy one of the most popular harvest rituals of the season. Watch apple pressing and Dutch oven baking demonstrations while tasting fresh-pressed cider, desserts and apple butter. Apple ornaments and music, too.

Holiday Gathering — Dec. 1, 1 PM - 4 PM

Warm yourself with good cheer of the season in this hands-on event where you can make cedar swags, pomanders, garland and ornaments. Listen to holiday storytelling and music while you decorate cookies.