Frontier history to come alive
An assortment of canvas tarps and tents are being erected at Fort Griffin today in preparation for this weekend’s Living History Days, but heavy rain tomorrow could cause student participation numbers to be lower than normal, according to program specialist Eric Abercrombie.
“We have had additional school districts contact us this week to confirm they are planning to attend,” he said. “But if it is raining hard on Friday, some schools may decided not to come after all.”
Abercrombie added that typically 500 to 600 students, along with 100 volunteer reenactors portraying day-to-day life in the real Old West, attend the annual event at the State Historical Site.
“But right now the weather is kind of ‘iffy,’ so I don’t know how many will show up,” he said.
Nancy Smith Elementary first, second, fifth, and sixth grade classes are planning to head to the fort after tomorrow morning’s pep rally.
Students are also expected from Abilene Christian, Jackson Elementary, Seymour, Graford, Munday, Merkel, Betty Hardwick, and Woodson.
Teachers, home school parents, and school administrators wishing to have their students attend the 2018 program are asked to contact Eric Abercrombie at 325-762-3592.
“This year’s Fort Griffin Living History Days are free for everyone, not just students,” said site manager Mitch Baird. “We are waiving the usual park admission fee this Friday and Saturday.”
Event Info
The past will come to life this weekend as living historians gather to portray everyday life at Fort Griffin and the nearby Wild West town as it was in the 1870s.
“You’re invited to join us from 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. on Friday, Oct. 12 and Saturday, Oct. 13 for exciting demonstrations, education, and authentic frontier history,” said Baird.
Activities and portrayals are expected to include military interpretations, blacksmithing, Buffalo Soldiers, Drummer Boy ice cream, 1800s children’s games, period music by Time Was, Native American culture and dancing, Texas Longhorns, the Texas Camel Corps, and frontier living.
“Our goal with all of our living history events is for visitors to leave with a greater understanding and passion for history,” said Baird.
The state historic site is located at 1701 N. U.S. Hwy. 283, just over 14 miles north of Albany.
