Events and Programs
Calendar of Events
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3 events,
Pure Imagination!
Pure Imagination!
Celebrate the birthday month of Sr. Forrest E. Mars, who helped to create Snickers, 3 Musketeers, and Mars bars, as well as M&Ms! In this hands-on instructional program, participants will learn about the origins of cacao, how it’s processed into chocolate, and then – like Forrest! – create two chocolate bars of their own, wrapped up in a self-designed label, to take home. Explore your creativity in the most delicious way! Purchase Tickets ALLERGY WARNING: Tree and ground nuts, dairy.…
Pure Imagination!
Pure Imagination!
Celebrate the birthday month of Sr. Forrest E. Mars, who helped to create Snickers, 3 Musketeers, and Mars bars, as well as M&Ms! In this hands-on instructional program, participants will learn about the origins of cacao, how it’s processed into chocolate, and then – like Forrest! – create two chocolate bars of their own, wrapped up in a self-designed label, to take home. Explore your creativity in the most delicious way! Purchase Tickets ALLERGY WARNING: Tree and ground nuts, dairy.…
Pure Imagination!
Pure Imagination!
Celebrate the birthday month of Sr. Forrest E. Mars, who helped to create Snickers, 3 Musketeers, and Mars bars, as well as M&Ms! In this hands-on instructional program, participants will learn about the origins of cacao, how it’s processed into chocolate, and then – like Forrest! – create two chocolate bars of their own, wrapped up in a self-designed label, to take home. Explore your creativity in the most delicious way! Purchase Tickets ALLERGY WARNING: Tree and ground nuts, dairy.…
0 events,
2 events,
Wheel Thrown Pottery
Wheel Thrown Pottery
Discover the basics of wheel thrown pottery. This four-session workshop gives you the time and space to practice all aspects of throwing and shaping pottery. Whether you are a beginner or intermediate student, you will be able to develop skills at your own pace. Learn more about our historic classes. All materials and supplies are provided. We ask that you provide your own towel for your personal use. Please note, the date for which you register is the first meeting…
Wheel Thrown Pottery
Wheel Thrown Pottery
Discover the basics of wheel thrown pottery. This four-session workshop gives you the time and space to practice all aspects of throwing and shaping pottery. Whether you are a beginner or intermediate student, you will be able to develop skills at your own pace. Learn more about our historic classes. All materials and supplies are provided. We ask that you provide your own towel for your personal use. Please note, the date for which you register is the first meeting…
1 event,
Weekday Wanders
Weekday Wanders
During Weekday Wanders, find a deeper connection with nature as you explore the Trails at Conner Prairie on a guided stroll. Each stroll will focus on a different theme to build knowledge of, connection with, and a deeper appreciation for the natural world. Unless otherwise mentioned, these strolls will be led by members of the Conner Prairie Education team. These wanders are free with admission and begin at the main entrance gate. Purchase General Admission Tickets Dates: April 2:…
0 events,
1 event,
Homeschool Series: Nature + Art
Homeschool Series: Nature + Art
Tap into the creativity that is inside all of us and let your imagination run free! Join us each week as we allow children (and grown-ups, too!) the time, space and freedom to create in their own style and stage of development, design what their minds can dream up and think outside the box as we engage with and celebrate the creative process over the final product. We’ll spend time exploring a variety of art mediums while taking in the…
3 events,
Make & Take: Bird Feeders
Make & Take: Bird Feeders
Join us at Lenape for a fun, hands-on experience making your own bird feeder for just $5! This Make and Take lets you craft a simple feeder using natural materials perfect for attracting local wildlife to your backyard. Location: Lenape Indian Camp (Next to #24 on the Guest Map) Please note: All Make and Takes are subject to change and dependent on weather. Learn more about our hours and purchase General Admission tickets.
Spring Cleaning in Prairietown
Spring Cleaning in Prairietown
Stop by Prairietown and help the residents begin their annual spring clean-up. Some of the Prairietown chores include airing linens, re-stuffing mattresses, thorough building cleanings, and general preparation for spring. This program is free with general admission. Please note: All springtime activities are subject to change and dependent on weather.
Make & Take: Soap Making
Make & Take: Soap Making
Come to Prairietown for a $5 Make and Take soap-making workshop, where you'll learn to create your own soap using traditional methods. It's a perfect way to discover the art of soap-making while connecting with the past! Location: Prairietown Kiln Shed (Next to #14 on the Guest Map) or Prairietown Carpenter Shed (Next to #13 on the Guest Map) Please note: All Make and Takes are subject to change and dependent on weather. Learn more about our hours and purchase…
3 events,
Make & Take: Bird Feeders
Make & Take: Bird Feeders
Join us at Lenape for a fun, hands-on experience making your own bird feeder for just $5! This Make and Take lets you craft a simple feeder using natural materials perfect for attracting local wildlife to your backyard. Location: Lenape Indian Camp (Next to #24 on the Guest Map) Please note: All Make and Takes are subject to change and dependent on weather. Learn more about our hours and purchase General Admission tickets.
Spring Cleaning in Prairietown
Spring Cleaning in Prairietown
Stop by Prairietown and help the residents begin their annual spring clean-up. Some of the Prairietown chores include airing linens, re-stuffing mattresses, thorough building cleanings, and general preparation for spring. This program is free with general admission. Please note: All springtime activities are subject to change and dependent on weather.
Make & Take: Soap Making
Make & Take: Soap Making
Come to Prairietown for a $5 Make and Take soap-making workshop, where you'll learn to create your own soap using traditional methods. It's a perfect way to discover the art of soap-making while connecting with the past! Location: Prairietown Kiln Shed (Next to #14 on the Guest Map) or Prairietown Carpenter Shed (Next to #13 on the Guest Map) Please note: All Make and Takes are subject to change and dependent on weather. Learn more about our hours and purchase…
0 events,
2 events,
Wheel Thrown Pottery
Wheel Thrown Pottery
Discover the basics of wheel thrown pottery. This four-session workshop gives you the time and space to practice all aspects of throwing and shaping pottery. Whether you are a beginner or intermediate student, you will be able to develop skills at your own pace. Learn more about our historic classes. All materials and supplies are provided. We ask that you provide your own towel for your personal use. Please note, the date for which you register is the first meeting…
Wheel Thrown Pottery
Wheel Thrown Pottery
Discover the basics of wheel thrown pottery. This four-session workshop gives you the time and space to practice all aspects of throwing and shaping pottery. Whether you are a beginner or intermediate student, you will be able to develop skills at your own pace. Learn more about our historic classes. All materials and supplies are provided. We ask that you provide your own towel for your personal use. Please note, the date for which you register is the first meeting…
0 events,
0 events,
1 event,
Homeschool Series: Nature + Art
Homeschool Series: Nature + Art
Tap into the creativity that is inside all of us and let your imagination run free! Join us each week as we allow children (and grown-ups, too!) the time, space and freedom to create in their own style and stage of development, design what their minds can dream up and think outside the box as we engage with and celebrate the creative process over the final product. We’ll spend time exploring a variety of art mediums while taking in the…
7 events,
Garden Planning and Planting
Garden Planning and Planting
Join us as we plan and plant the gardens in Lenape and Prairietown! Learn about the importance of each plant and how to see the difference between native and invasive species in Indiana. This program is free with general admission. Please note: All springtime activities are subject to change and dependent on weather.
2-minute Poetry
2-minute Poetry
Celebrate National Poetry Month with us, every Saturday in April. Stop by the Treetop Outpost Crossroads and visit our poet and their typewriter. Supply them with a single word, and in two minutes, they’ll write you a personalized poem to take home, based on your prompt! While there, check out some biographies of famous Indiana poets. Free With General Admission
Make & Take: Bird Feeders
Make & Take: Bird Feeders
Join us at Lenape for a fun, hands-on experience making your own bird feeder for just $5! This Make and Take lets you craft a simple feeder using natural materials perfect for attracting local wildlife to your backyard. Location: Lenape Indian Camp (Next to #24 on the Guest Map) Please note: All Make and Takes are subject to change and dependent on weather. Learn more about our hours and purchase General Admission tickets.
Trail Walks with Teddy and Lady Bird
Trail Walks with Teddy and Lady Bird
Celebrate nature with a free guided trail walk exploring the history of American conservation! Learn how Theodore Roosevelt and Lady Bird Johnson helped shape the country’s natural beauty through their dedication to protecting landscapes and wildlife. Each walk will last about 45 minutes. Saturday. April 12, 10:30 a.m. and 12:30 p.m. This program is free with general admission.
Trail Walks with Teddy and Lady Bird
Trail Walks with Teddy and Lady Bird
Celebrate nature with a free guided trail walk exploring the history of American conservation! Learn how Theodore Roosevelt and Lady Bird Johnson helped shape the country’s natural beauty through their dedication to protecting landscapes and wildlife. Each walk will last about 45 minutes. Saturday. April 12, 10:30 a.m. and 12:30 p.m. This program is free with general admission.
3 events,
Make & Take: Bird Feeders
Make & Take: Bird Feeders
Join us at Lenape for a fun, hands-on experience making your own bird feeder for just $5! This Make and Take lets you craft a simple feeder using natural materials perfect for attracting local wildlife to your backyard. Location: Lenape Indian Camp (Next to #24 on the Guest Map) Please note: All Make and Takes are subject to change and dependent on weather. Learn more about our hours and purchase General Admission tickets.
Garden Planning and Planting
Garden Planning and Planting
Join us as we plan and plant the gardens in Lenape and Prairietown! Learn about the importance of each plant and how to see the difference between native and invasive species in Indiana. This program is free with general admission. Please note: All springtime activities are subject to change and dependent on weather.
Make & Take: Soap Making
Make & Take: Soap Making
Come to Prairietown for a $5 Make and Take soap-making workshop, where you'll learn to create your own soap using traditional methods. It's a perfect way to discover the art of soap-making while connecting with the past! Location: Prairietown Kiln Shed (Next to #14 on the Guest Map) or Prairietown Carpenter Shed (Next to #13 on the Guest Map) Please note: All Make and Takes are subject to change and dependent on weather. Learn more about our hours and purchase…
1 event,
Curious By Nature
Curious By Nature
Join us for our Homeschool nature program, Curious by Nature, designed to enhance your current home studies by offering your children the time, space and freedom to let their innate curiosity for the natural world around them thrive! Research has proven (and we are listening!) that spending time outdoors in nature has a multitude of benefits, especially for children as they are continuing to grow. We are excited to invite you and your homeschool community to join us as we…
0 events,
1 event,
Weekday Wanders
Weekday Wanders
During Weekday Wanders, find a deeper connection with nature as you explore the Trails at Conner Prairie on a guided stroll. Each stroll will focus on a different theme to build knowledge of, connection with, and a deeper appreciation for the natural world. Unless otherwise mentioned, these strolls will be led by members of the Conner Prairie Education team. These wanders are free with admission and begin at the main entrance gate. Purchase General Admission Tickets Dates: April 2:…
1 event,
History on Tap Dollar Giveback Night
History on Tap Dollar Giveback Night
Fishers Sun King Brewery is hosting the Horizon Council for a special Dollar Giveback Night Supporting the Conner Prairie Mission Impact Fund! Stop by for a drink and get early access to festival tickets before our online sale begins on April 24. You must be in attendance to purchase tickets in advance. For every pint purchased at this event, Sun King Brewery will donate $1 back to Conner Prairie's Mission Impact Fund. Learn more about History on Tap
1 event,
Homeschool Series: Nature + Art
Homeschool Series: Nature + Art
Tap into the creativity that is inside all of us and let your imagination run free! Join us each week as we allow children (and grown-ups, too!) the time, space and freedom to create in their own style and stage of development, design what their minds can dream up and think outside the box as we engage with and celebrate the creative process over the final product. We’ll spend time exploring a variety of art mediums while taking in the…
5 events,
Breakfast with the Bunny
Breakfast with the Bunny
CELEBRATE EASTER WITH A HEARTY BREAKFAST BUFFET AND MEET THE EASTER BUNNY! Enjoy a delicious Easter breakfast buffet and visit with the Easter Bunny for a photo op. Don't forget to bring your own camera to capture the memory! Assigned seating will be arranged in advance for registered guests. Learn more. First seating 9:00 a.m. (to 10:30 a.m.) Second Seating in Bayt Pavilion 11:30 a.m. (to 1 p.m.)
Springtime on the Prairie
Springtime on the Prairie
Celebrate the joys of spring with a day full of adventure, featuring an exciting Easter egg hunt organized by age. Explore fun springtime activities in Prairietown that immerse yourself in the beauty of the season as our grounds bloom with new discoveries. Springtime on the Prairie is included in General Admission. Members enjoy free admission. Learn more about Springtime on the Prairie
Basketry
Basketry
Baskets have been used everywhere in the world for thousands of years. See how different cultures used the raw materials available to them to make baskets for a variety of uses (including holding eggs!). Location: Lenape Indian Camp, Prairietown and Promised Land as Proving Ground This program is free with general admission. Please note: All springtime activities are subject to change and dependent on weather. Make and Take baskets will be available for purchase. Join us at Lenape for a $5…
Make & Take: Baskets
Make & Take: Baskets
Join us at Lenape for a $5 Make and Take basket-weaving workshop, where you'll learn the art of crafting a small, handmade basket using traditional techniques. This activity offers a hands-on way to connect with Lenape culture while honing a timeless skill! Location: Lenape Indian Camp (Next to #24 on the Guest Map) Please note: All Make and Takes are subject to change and dependent on weather. Learn more about our hours and purchase General Admission tickets.
Make & Take: Baskets
Make & Take: Baskets
Join us at Lenape for a $5 Make and Take basket-weaving workshop, where you'll learn the art of crafting a small, handmade basket using traditional techniques. This activity offers a hands-on way to connect with Lenape culture while honing a timeless skill! Location: Lenape Indian Camp (Next to #24 on the Guest Map) Please note: All Make and Takes are subject to change and dependent on weather. Learn more about our hours and purchase General Admission tickets.
1 event,
All experiences closed
All experiences closed
The museum is closed today. Our museum hours are Tuesday - Sunday 10 a.m. - 5 p.m. Plan your future visit today!
0 events,
0 events,
6 events,
Planting the Seed
Planting the Seed
Learn about different types of food that originated in Africa and take home seeds to transplant in your own garden. Time: All day Location: Origins Cabin Give your students a unique and personal experience to connect with history and nature. At Conner Prairie we invite guests to “Step into the Story,” and we also strive to step into theirs. Through observation, deep listening, and thoughtful questioning, we create meaningful connections, offering guests an opportunity to go beyond “doing” and experience…
Boxx the Artist Community Canvas
Boxx the Artist Community Canvas
Join Boxx the Artist to add your own part to a community canvas! Time: 10 a.m.–4 p.m. Location: Shelter next to Animal Encounters Give your students a unique and personal experience to connect with history and nature. At Conner Prairie we invite guests to “Step into the Story,” and we also strive to step into theirs. Through observation, deep listening, and thoughtful questioning, we create meaningful connections, offering guests an opportunity to go beyond “doing” and experience “being.” learn more about Homeschool days
Homeschool Days
Homeschool Days
Join us at Conner Prairie for homeschool day! Any homeschool family can visit Conner Prairie for our current school group rates without the usual requirement of having a group of 15 students or more. These rates are per student with one primary educator free per family and additional adults at the chaperone rate. Give your students a unique and personal experience to connect with history and nature. At Conner Prairie we invite guests to “Step into the Story,” and we…
Lunch on the Lawn
Lunch on the Lawn
Stop by and join us for a lovely picnic on the lawn of the William Conner House. Citizens from Prairietown will be gathering on the lawn and bringing foods that represent their heritage. Learn about the seasonality, recipes and styles of food. This program is free with general admission. Please note: All springtime activities are subject to change and dependent on weather.
Water Quality Testing
Water Quality Testing
Join us as we partner with Hoosier Riverwatch to learn strategies for testing water quality in a community science project. Learn how to collect water samples and perform chemical tests to assess the quality of water. Explore macroinvertebrates, the small aquatic animals who live in the White River, and how they provide clues into the health of our water. The data we collect will be added to a statewide database tracking the health of Indiana waterways. Be a part of this important community science program…
1 event,
Corn to Cocktail
Corn to Cocktail
In this hands-on class, guests learn about the versatility of Indiana’s top crop–corn! Attendees learn about corn’s influence on history and also on the spirits that we consume. We will practice some basic bar skills, mix up two historical cocktails and hear the often-colorful stories behind each one, while sipping socially. Each session in the series features a different liquor, and guests take home a specially chosen cocktail glass from the evening. Don't forget to show off your creations on…
1 event,
Homeschool Series: Nature + Art
Homeschool Series: Nature + Art
Tap into the creativity that is inside all of us and let your imagination run free! Join us each week as we allow children (and grown-ups, too!) the time, space and freedom to create in their own style and stage of development, design what their minds can dream up and think outside the box as we engage with and celebrate the creative process over the final product. We’ll spend time exploring a variety of art mediums while taking in the…
12 events,
We Can Camp!
Love the idea of camping as a family but don't know where to start? Join us as you learn basic camping skills, enjoy fun outdoor experiences and spend the night on our grounds in a tent! This program is perfect for first-time campers or anyone looking for a refresher. We provide all the camping gear you'll need, along with modern restrooms and overnight security. Learn More about We Can Camp! Check-in Saturday at 1 p.m. / Check out Sunday at…
Woodworking Unplugged: Spoon Carving
Woodworking Unplugged: Spoon Carving
Learn how to carve a simple spoon in this one-day, beginner friendly class. Lessons will cover safe carving techniques, tools, differences in carving greenwood* and “dry” wood, and the use of finishes. Finally, students will be given ample time to carve a simple spoon design as part of a group session. This process will further develop the skills and passion to continue carving on your own. All tools and materials are provided. Learn more about our historic classes. This class…
Lifecycle of Wool
Lifecycle of Wool
Enjoy the step-by-step process of wool! From sheering sheep to knitting gloves, wool goes through quite the process before it becomes the clothes we wear. Stop by the loom house, Animal Encounters or Prairietown and enjoy demonstrations that show each step along the way! This program is free with general admission. Please note: All springtime activities are subject to change and dependent on weather.
2-minute Poetry
2-minute Poetry
Celebrate National Poetry Month with us, every Saturday in April. Stop by the Treetop Outpost Crossroads and visit our poet and their typewriter. Supply them with a single word, and in two minutes, they’ll write you a personalized poem to take home, based on your prompt! While there, check out some biographies of famous Indiana poets. Free With General Admission
Make & Take: Bird Feeders
Make & Take: Bird Feeders
Join us at Lenape for a fun, hands-on experience making your own bird feeder for just $5! This Make and Take lets you craft a simple feeder using natural materials perfect for attracting local wildlife to your backyard. Location: Lenape Indian Camp (Next to #24 on the Guest Map) Please note: All Make and Takes are subject to change and dependent on weather. Learn more about our hours and purchase General Admission tickets.
Weekend Wanders
Weekend Wanders
Find a deeper connection with nature as you explore the Trails at Conner Prairie on a guided stroll. Each stroll will focus on a different theme to build knowledge of, connection with, and a deeper appreciation for the natural world. Unless otherwise mentioned, these strolls will be led by members of the Conner Prairie Education team. Learn more about this program These wanders are free with admission and begin at the main entrance gate. Purchase General Admission Tickets
6 events,
Lifecycle of Wool
Lifecycle of Wool
Enjoy the step-by-step process of wool! From sheering sheep to knitting gloves, wool goes through quite the process before it becomes the clothes we wear. Stop by the loom house, Animal Encounters or Prairietown and enjoy demonstrations that show each step along the way! This program is free with general admission. Please note: All springtime activities are subject to change and dependent on weather.
Make & Take: Bird Feeders
Make & Take: Bird Feeders
Join us at Lenape for a fun, hands-on experience making your own bird feeder for just $5! This Make and Take lets you craft a simple feeder using natural materials perfect for attracting local wildlife to your backyard. Location: Lenape Indian Camp (Next to #24 on the Guest Map) Please note: All Make and Takes are subject to change and dependent on weather. Learn more about our hours and purchase General Admission tickets.
Free Forest Therapy Experience
Free Forest Therapy Experience
This weekend, discover the restorative power of nature with a free introductory Forest Therapy experience at Conner Prairie! Guided by a certified forest therapy guide, this mini-session invites you to slow down, engage your senses, and reconnect with the natural world—all on Indiana’s first and only certified Forest Therapy trail. Experience a peaceful escape and get a glimpse of the full Forest Therapy program, designed to promote mindfulness and well-being. Please note: A general admission ticket is required to participate.…
Free Forest Therapy Experience
Free Forest Therapy Experience
This weekend, discover the restorative power of nature with a free introductory Forest Therapy experience at Conner Prairie! Guided by a certified forest therapy guide, this mini-session invites you to slow down, engage your senses, and reconnect with the natural world—all on Indiana’s first and only certified Forest Therapy trail. Experience a peaceful escape and get a glimpse of the full Forest Therapy program, designed to promote mindfulness and well-being. Please note: A general admission ticket is required to participate.…
Make & Take: Soap Making
Make & Take: Soap Making
Come to Prairietown for a $5 Make and Take soap-making workshop, where you'll learn to create your own soap using traditional methods. It's a perfect way to discover the art of soap-making while connecting with the past! Location: Prairietown Kiln Shed (Next to #14 on the Guest Map) or Prairietown Carpenter Shed (Next to #13 on the Guest Map) Please note: All Make and Takes are subject to change and dependent on weather. Learn more about our hours and purchase…
1 event,
Curious By Nature
Curious By Nature
Join us for our Homeschool nature program, Curious by Nature, designed to enhance your current home studies by offering your children the time, space and freedom to let their innate curiosity for the natural world around them thrive! Research has proven (and we are listening!) that spending time outdoors in nature has a multitude of benefits, especially for children as they are continuing to grow. We are excited to invite you and your homeschool community to join us as we…
1 event,
Annual Meeting
Annual Meeting
Building Bridges: Honoring Journeys, Embracing Voices Join us for the 2025 Conner Prairie Annual Meeting, where we reflect on the past year’s accomplishments and look ahead to the future of storytelling, inclusivity, and community engagement. This year’s theme, Building Bridges: Honoring Journeys, Embracing Voices, highlights the impact of Promised Land as Proving Ground, celebrates diverse programming and partnerships, and introduces the next steps in Lenape storytelling initiatives. RSVP Today
1 event,
Weekday Wanders
Weekday Wanders
During Weekday Wanders, find a deeper connection with nature as you explore the Trails at Conner Prairie on a guided stroll. Each stroll will focus on a different theme to build knowledge of, connection with, and a deeper appreciation for the natural world. Unless otherwise mentioned, these strolls will be led by members of the Conner Prairie Education team. These wanders are free with admission and begin at the main entrance gate. Purchase General Admission Tickets Dates: April 2:…
1 event,
Playtime Meet Up
Playtime Meet Up
Join us for an exclusive time of play and discovery especially for our youngest guests ages 6 years and younger an hour before Conner Prairie opens to the public. Your little ones will have special access to their favorite spots before the big kids arrive for the day! Gather your friends, check in at the main gate entrance and follow an education staff member to a special play spot. Then enjoy the quiet morning and beauty of nature visiting with…
5 events,
We Can Camp!
Love the idea of camping as a family but don't know where to start? Join us as you learn basic camping skills, enjoy fun outdoor experiences and spend the night on our grounds in a tent! This program is perfect for first-time campers or anyone looking for a refresher. We provide all the camping gear you'll need, along with modern restrooms and overnight security. Learn More about We Can Camp! Check-in Saturday at 1 p.m. / Check out Sunday at…
Woodturning for Beginners
Woodturning for Beginners
In the nineteenth century, the lathe was an indispensable tool for chair makers, furniture makers, and other skilled woodworkers. This tool provides essential opportunities that continue to develop throughout the twentieth century and today, where woodturning provides endless potential for useful and decorative purposes. In this class, learn the basics of woodturning while making simple and elegant projects including a candleholder, a rolling pin, and a honey dipper. This two-session class celebrates all the possibilities created from a single machine…
Make & Take: Beaded Bracelets
Make & Take: Beaded Bracelets
Visit Lenape for a $5 Make and Take beaded bracelet workshop, where you can create your own unique accessory using traditional beadwork techniques. Learn about the cultural significance of different types of beads as you craft a beautiful bracelet to take home. This hands-on activity is a fun way to connect with Native American artistry and add a personal touch to your style! Location: Lenape Indian Camp (Next to #24 on the Guest Map) Please note: All Make and Takes…
Wedding of Convenience
Wedding of Convenience
Mr. Hawkins' wife Lydia passed away earlier in the spring, leaving Solomon to raise 7 children, including a newborn. The widowed Mr. Hawkins knows he is in need of a new wife, and someone to help take care of the children and home. Ruth Curtis, having given up hope that she’ll find a love match to marry, says yes. Come witness the nuptials of Solomon Hawkins and Ruth Curtis and see how a Methodist wedding of convenience differs from a…
Make & Take: Soap Making
Make & Take: Soap Making
Come to Prairietown for a $5 Make and Take soap-making workshop, where you'll learn to create your own soap using traditional methods. It's a perfect way to discover the art of soap-making while connecting with the past! Location: Prairietown Kiln Shed (Next to #14 on the Guest Map) or Prairietown Carpenter Shed (Next to #13 on the Guest Map) Please note: All Make and Takes are subject to change and dependent on weather. Learn more about our hours and purchase…
Blacksmithing: Once Piece Knife
March 21 @ 9:00 am - 12:00 pm
Get an understanding of the art form of bladesmithing by creating your own decorated simple knife, a style of blade forging that has been carried down throughout history.
In this class, you will learn how to use our traditional coal forge, gain hammer and anvil techniques, and perfect the use of files and grinders. After you have crafted your knife, you will heat treat the metal for a hardened finish. Upon completion, you not only get to leave with an enhanced understanding of history, but you also get to take home your creation. All tools and materials are provided. Learn more about our historic classes.
This class is for individuals 13+. Anyone under the age of 16 must register with an adult.
Fridays, February 7 and 14: 9 a.m.–Noon
Fridays, March 14 and 21: 9 a.m.–Noon
Location: Modern Blacksmith Shop, location #37 on map
Members: $90 | Nonmembers: $100 (Each session consists of two classes)
About the Instructor
Nathan Allen was born and raised in Neosho, Missouri, in the Ozark Mountains. From a young age, I had an interest in history and working with my hands. From the time I was in grade school, I had developed a fascination with hand tools and making things in a traditional manner. By junior high, I rigged up a forge, made my own charcoal and began a lifelong interest in blacksmithing that led to an interest in teaching the craft. By High School Shop, I led a group of students in building a coal forge, hammering out, and finishing blades.
Nathan earned a degree in historic preservation, with an emphasis in historic site administration from Southeast Missouri State University. Nathan’s professional career began as an intern in the Blacksmith Shop at Conner Prairie the summer of 1995. After graduating, he began working full time at Conner Prairie as the manager of the Historic Trades program. Along with blacksmithing, I am also a woodworker and have spent years teaching classes at Conner Prairie.
Nathan has had the privilege of working directly with some great blacksmiths, including Melvin Lytton, Hershel House, Peter Ross, Tom Latane, Jim Slining, Steve Miller, Tom Clark and Clifton Ralph. His goal in historic trades is to pursue an uncomplicated approach to forging, stressing good ergonomics, proper hammer control and technique and foundational skills. Through his instruction, he has led many classes at Conner Prairie with the purpose that they can be enjoyed by those with just a passing curiosity for the craft or for those who are more serious in pursuing refinement of their skills.