Note: Please call guest services at (317) 776-6000 for more information about registration.
Register Now for 2021 Classes!
Prairie Pursuits offers how-to classes and workshops geared to adults and teens in a variety of topics from historic trades, to culinary skills, to the arts. View the series schedule for details of subject matter, dates, times, and prices. See something you want to learn more about? Get registered!
Ages 10+ (varies per class)
Autumn Classes
Hearth Cooking: Pretzels & Mustard
Saturday, October 2, 2021
Please note, this is a single-day class.
Guests will make pretzels using a water-bath over the heart fire and bake them in the cob oven and/or in Dutch ovens. While the pretzels are baking, the mustards (sweet and hot) will be made. Ages 12+, Children under 16 must register with an adult.
Pottery: Session V
This is a 4-week class, beginning Wednesday, October 6th.
This class will cover all aspects of wheel thrown pottery and glazing techniques. Each student will have access to their own wheel and equipment, while receiving individual instruction from our Conner Prairie potters. This class is adaptable for the beginner to the more advanced student. All clay and materials are included in the class fee. Please bring your own towel for clean up and an optional apron to wear if you like. Ages 14+.
Basic Blacksmithing
This is a 4-week class beginning Monday, November 1, 2021
This class will cover the basics of hand blacksmithing and bench-work techniques. Through a series of simple projects, such as hooks, chain links, cooking utensils and blacksmith tongs, students will learn basic techniques such as tending a fire, drawing out, upsetting, welding, filework and finishing work. All tools/materials provided. Ages 16+
Pottery: Session VI
This is a 4-week class, beginning Wednesday, November 3rd.
This class will cover all aspects of wheel thrown pottery and glazing techniques. Each student will have access to their own wheel and equipment, while receiving individual instruction from our Conner Prairie potters. This class is adaptable for the beginner to the more advanced student. All clay and materials are included in the class fee. Please bring your own towel for clean up and an optional apron to wear if you like. Ages 14+.
Dovetailing: Sliding Lid Box
Saturday, November 13, 2021
Please note, this is a single-day class.
Hand cut dovetails are not only beautiful, but a mark of craftsmanship. Through the construction of a small sliding lid “candle box” students will learn proper layout and fitting of dovetails using traditional tools. All tools and materials provided. Ages 16+
Blacksmithing: Fun at the Forge
Saturday, November 13, 2021
Please note, this is a single-day class.
Be a blacksmith for a day. Learn to heat metal in a coal forge and shape it on an anvil. You will have the opportunity to complete several simple projects such as barbeque skewers, a flint and steel firestarter (with instructions on how to use it) and a dinner bell. All tools and materials will be provided. Ages 14+