norlands living history center

We went to the Norland's during the summer strawberry pancake breakfast event. We enjoyed experiencing the staff of volunteers dressed in the "old garb" speaking in the "old language" of the era. It is a great display of a variety of buildings preserved to the exact details. Being wheelchair bound however I was restricted and not able to enter most of the buildings. It was still a fun experience and one I would suggest as a must do once.

My family went for a Civil War re-enactors weekend. We had a wonderful time. It was a perfect place for the event. We learned so much. It's a wonderful place. I would like to return. They have a super gift shop and it has great prices and nice gifts.

If you want to learn to live the old way and the less expensive way of life you can learn a lot here. From gardening, to quilting, farming etc. Wonderful place

This is a gem hidden in rural Maine. The website states: Norlands is the family home of the Washburns, one of the great political and industrial dynasties of the 19th century. Of the ten children born to Israel and Martha Washburn, seven sons rose to serve as governors, congressmen, a United States senator, Secretary of State, foreign ministers, a Civil War general, and a Navy captain. The Norlands today offers in-depth experiences in 18th and 19th century rural life. Here the visitor is an active participant in daily and seasonal farming and housework and becomes involved in the social, political and educational activities of the time. As an elementary school teacher for over 30 years, I brought my classes to experience the farm as well as the schoolhouse. The docents are well-trained and "become" actual people who lived in that time period. These programs take place during the school year but there are many opportunities for adults and families to enjoy throughout the year, including festivals such as the Civil War re-enactment weekend. It is definitely not your typical museum experience. The website is http://www.norlands.org/

Predictable "dress your kids up like the old days and listen to a bored docent". Kids did not enjoy this one.

For a step back into time, this is a must see. Our guides were very funny, entertaining and interesting. "Aunt Clare" was fantastic. This is a great family experience. The guides were dressed in the period and very realistic. We also had a very enjoyable lunch there.

This home from the 18th century is a Living Museum. Many schools from all over Maine take their kids on field trips there. Kids can spin wool into thread on the old spinning wheel, churn milk into butter, do chores on the farm, etc. There is an old schoolhouse on the property. Complete with an out house! The kids can write on parchment paper w/a quill and ink. There is a church there as well. EXCELLENT place to check out!! http://www.norlands.org/

Great recovery from the fire. This is best living history center in the country. Please support their efforts to keep the past alive. This place is still true to Billie's founding philosophy!!

The Washburn-Norlands Living History Center, has a variety programs that allow you to experience life as it truly was in 18th and 19th century Maine. It is really a fascinating experience. Great for the whole family. You can feed the animals, cook in the kitchen of the 18th century and experience all the workings of the entire farm. They are having a Civil War Reenactment this June 6 & 7, 2009. Two days of full scale battle, period bean supper at 5PM & 19th century Contra-Dance at 7pm on June 6th. There will be activities for everyone including blacksmithing and a 19th century fashion show - there will be something for everyone.You can find all the details on their web site.Gen. Info from their site:Norlands is the family home of the Washburns, one of the great political and industrial dynasties of the 19th century. Of the ten children born to Israel and Martha Washburn, seven sons rose to serve as governors, congressmen, a United States senator, Secretary of State, foreign ministers, a Civil War general, and a Navy captain.