Old Sturbridge Village Review

About Old Sturbridge Village

Old Sturbridge Village is a living history museum located in Sturbridge, Massachusetts. The museum is dedicated to preserving and showcasing the way of life in New England during the 1830s. It is a unique destination that offers visitors an immersive experience into the past.

The village covers over 200 acres and features more than 40 original buildings from the early 19th century. These buildings include homes, barns, shops, and public buildings such as a schoolhouse and meetinghouse. Each building has been carefully restored to its original condition and furnished with period-appropriate furniture, tools, and artifacts.

Visitors can explore the village on foot or by horse-drawn carriage. They can interact with costumed interpreters who bring history to life by demonstrating traditional crafts such as blacksmithing, weaving, pottery making, and cooking over an open hearth. The interpreters also share stories about daily life in the 1830s and answer questions about their roles in the village.

One of the highlights of Old Sturbridge Village is its working farm. The Freeman Farm is a fully operational farm that showcases traditional farming methods from planting crops to harvesting hay using oxen instead of tractors. Visitors can watch demonstrations or even participate in some activities like milking cows or feeding animals.

Another popular attraction at Old Sturbridge Village is its collection of antique carriages and wagons on display at the Carriage House exhibit hall. This exhibit showcases how transportation evolved during this time period from horse-drawn carriages to steam-powered locomotives.

In addition to these attractions, Old Sturbridge Village hosts special events throughout the year such as Christmas by Candlelight where visitors can experience holiday traditions from long ago including caroling around a bonfire while sipping hot cider.

Old Sturbridge Village also offers educational programs for schools ranging from pre-K through college level students which are designed to meet state curriculum standards for social studies education.

Overall Old Sturbridge Village provides an authentic glimpse into what life was like during early America's industrial revolution era through interactive exhibits that engage visitors with hands-on experiences they won't forget anytime soon!