Calendar of Events
Exhibit: #HandsOnHistory - Living Off the Land
August 19 – November 5, 2023 · 11 a.m. to 4 p.m.
#HandsOnHistory is one of KTM&HC’s signature programs: a series of rotating, interactive exhibits that showcase objects from the museum’s extensive tool collection and explore intersections of history, science, and technology.
This year, #HandsOnHistory’s theme is Living Off the Land, exploring the agricultural heritage of Ridgefield through the tools farmers used in the 18th and 19th centuries to produce food for their families and community. The exhibit follows the farming cycle, from preparing soil to planting seeds to harvesting and processing crops. And importantly, this exhibition considers the impact that dramatic climate and weather fluctuations had locally – making connections between historic and present-day conditions and concerns about living in a changing climate.
#HandsOnHistory: Living Off the Land encourages visitors of all ages to test out tools labeled with “TRY ME” signs, from corn shellers to oat cleaners. It also features self-directed activities stationed throughout the exhibit – more great opportunities for hands-on exploration of how science and history overlap. Test soil for acidity and nutrients; figure out the best time to plant potatoes with a moon calendar; and dive deeper into how farmers are affected by the weather with our Game of Life.
And be sure to mark Sundays in October on your calendar, when site admission - including access to the exhibit and family demonstrations - is FREE! School and youth groups can also book educator-led tours of the exhibit free of charge: email education@keelertavernmuseum.org for more information.
Thank you to our generous sponsors!
- Jean and Mike Jaykus
- Joel Third
- Nick and Anita Donofrio
- Sara Champion
- Dan and Annette O'Brien
- Rhonda Hill
- Richard Keeler and Cynthia Salter
- Jenn Hansen
- Paula Curry
- Leslie Lindenauer
» View the full calendar of events