Ring the Schoolhouse bell and drop in to experience historic school lessons and games in the one-room schoolhouse. Visitors of all ages also will have a chance to step back in time and leisurely explore the Heritage Center’s two beautifully preserved 19th century homes along with the one-room pioneer-era schoolhouse. The 1866 James Monroe House, the 1836 Little Red Schoolhouse and the 1884 Jewett House will host free “open houses” and invite visitors to learn more about the history of Oberlin and its early residents through “at your own pace” mini tours.
Those with more time and interest can join a docent-guided tour that will be offered at 10:30 a.m. and again at 1:30 p.m. Guided tours also will be free today because of the Fun Fair (a savings of $6 per person!); space is limited, however, and is available on a first-come, first-served basis.
New this year, two neighboring Lorain County historical societies will add to the festive atmosphere on the Heritage Center’s grounds. Representing the Brownhelm Historical Association, Bill Cutcher will play tunes-that-will-make-you-smile on his hand-built busker’s organ. Street entertainers, or buskers, were common sights in days gone by. Enjoy the music while finding out more about how the instrument is played. Meanwhile, kids and grown-ups alike will have great fun playing “telephone” with the Pittsfield Historical Society’s string can activity. Visitors also will have a chance to learn more about the Pittsfield group’s Schoolhouse Restoration Project.
The Oberlin Heritage Center also will host its regular Saturday morning Freedom’s Friends History Walk at 11:00 a.m. This 75-minute walking tour winds through and around downtown Oberlin and showcases the community’s important role in the history of abolition and the Underground Railroad. Tickets must be purchased through the Heritage Center’s website (www.oberlinheritage.org) or at the Monroe House’s Museum Store (73˝ South Professor Street, Oberlin) for $6 per adult ($1 discount for Oberlin Heritage Center members) and children tour free. The tour is most likely enjoyed by children 9 years of age and up.
For more information about the Oberlin Heritage Center and its Family Fun Fair activities visit www.oberlinheritage.org . For general information about Family Fun Fair events throughout Oberlin, visit www.oberlin.org or contact Main Street Oberlin at 440-774-6262 or email contact@oberlin.org .
