The 5th Grade Program is where 5th graders from all over the Springfield, MO area schools get to come out during the week to see what is was like in the 1860's.

When they come out, they start the day by going through orientation with that days coordinator; and they give a brief history of the farm and the rules.  Then they go to our 1860's flag (which has only 34 stars) and say the pledge of allegiance.  They then spilt in their four groups and go to their first of four building, and then after 30mins they go to their next building. 

The first group starts out by touring the House, they learn about the history and construction of the house and then look at artifacts from the original site.  They then learn about rope beds and how to tighten them.

They then tour the Kitchen and there they get to make cookies, and wash their hands in a dry sink with lye soap, and learn more about prairie living.   Next they head to the Granary, where they learn about washing clothes and sawing wood.   After they get wet washing Uncle Johns work clothes, they then, next, head to the barn.  Here they learn all about tools, and how they sharpened them back in the mid - late 1800's,  next they learn about the daily chore of making cornmeal, and how to take the corn off the cob.  

After they have finished all four buildings they meet in the middle and share the cornbread the 3rd group in the Kitchen made. The kids then go eat lunch for about 30mins, then they come back for a tour of the cemetery then music and storytelling.

These are just a few of the thing we do for the 5th graders that come out; it's alot of fun!

 I you are not a 5th grade class and would like information on how you can sign up to have you group come out to the Farmstead you can contact us at the email below.

If you would like more information on the 5th Grade Program, you can email Michelle Atkinson at atkinsonplace@sbcglobal.net