When farmers arrived on the frontier, they made a significant impact on the local ecosystem. In addition to taking a social studies-focused tour of the Museum, students will explore the grounds of the former farmstead through STEM-based activities focused on native and invasive plants and the watershed. A unique merging of social studies and science, this field trip is a multi-disciplinary experience showing the interconnections of people and their environment.

Ideal for classrooms that are looking for a more general glimpse into the past, this field trip explores the lives of the Wornall or Majors family and how they interacted with their home spaces and the objects inside. All participants will take a museum tour, participate in a hands-on activity, and interact with artifacts.

Maximum group sizes: 60 at Wornall House and 100 at Majors House

Take a one-hour tour of either the John Wornall or Alexander Majors House.

Take a one-hour tour of either the John Wornall or Alexander Majors House, plus add on one “life on the frontier” activity: butter making, corn husk dolls, or scavenger hunt. A second activity can be added for $1/student.

The John Wornall House was used as a field hospital by both Union and Confederate soldiers. Students will learn about the Wornall family and how their lives were shaped by the Civil War, hear about the daily life of a Civil War soldier, and examine artifacts to make inferences and draw conclusions. Whenever possible, costumed interpreters will be present (subject to availability).

Alexander Majors ran a shipping empire. Through Majors’ story, learn about how people traveled and communicated across the “wild” West. Students receive a house tour, a hands-on activity, and put themselves in the mindset of travelers exploring new frontiers through the use of primary sources.