Old Sturbridge Village
Do you ever wish you could step back in history to see what life was like in New England? At Old Sturbridge Village you can do just that. Prepare to transport back in time as you wander through this enchanting re-creation of a 19th-century rural village. From historic buildings to costumed interpreters, explore the sights, sounds, and stories of yesteryear in this captivating destination.
Explore 200+ acres and 40 historical buildings, chat with costumed historians as they work the tasks of the past, and be inspired by the stories of early 19th-century rural New England life.
Come with us as we explore this fun spot. Because we were on a tight schedule, we weren’t able to go into all the buildings. I can’t wait to return with the rest of my family and explore the whole village. Here are some fun stops we did get to see:
Center Meetinghouse
This was the gathering place for town meetings, elections, and Congregational worship services.
Fenno House
We loved looking at the adorable sheep in the yard at this home that was known for spinning, weaving, and dyeing woolens.
Cabinetmaking Shop
These cabinetmakers made a variety of objects from fancy furniture to basic wooden tools used around the home and farms. Today they were making legs that can be used for tables and chairs.
Asa Knight Store
This country store brought in goods from all over the world through seaports like Boston and Providence.
It was a critical building in the town.
Richardson House
These lovely ladies gave us the history of the house and the Congregational minister and his family.
Tin Shop
Colanders, dippers, dish kettles, funnels, measures, and pans were in greatest demand. Other common items included lanterns, foot stoves, teapots, coffeepots, “tin kitchens”, skimmers, and sconces.
Vermont Covered Bridge
The covered bridge at Old Sturbridge Village is one of only 12 left in Massachusetts.
Blacksmith Shop
This town blacksmith made and repaired tools and hardware for the community.
That building was one of my favorites.
Freeman Farm
Crops are planted and harvested, food is cooked at the kitchen hearth, animals are tended in the barnyards, and meat, butter, cheese, and produce are prepared for household use.
Look at these adorable guys.
Pottery Building
A farmer who had a source of clay on his property might work as a potter on a part-time basis.
Outside is a brick “updraft bottle” kiln for firing pots.
District School
Most New England neighborhoods had a tax-supported district school where children could learn to read, write, and do arithmetic. The main room of the District School features the school’s original desks, which display carved graffiti from generations of schoolchildren.
Tips for a Great Day
Hours vary by season. Chick HERE for their schedule.
Click HERE to purchase tickets.
Dog Days: Bring your furry friend along with you on select dates. Click HERE to find out when they can join you.
Click HERE to see the daily schedule.
Make sure you check their Calendar to see if any events are happening that interest you.
Are there food options?
The Bullard Tavern Café, located inside the Village and open for lunch, features family-favorites like paninis, salads, chicken tenders, mac and cheese, pot pies, beverages, and desserts.
Ox & Yoke Café, located next to Ox & Yoke Mercantile and across from the Visitor Center entrance, features freshly baked sweet and savory baked goods, freshly roasted coffee, beer, wine, and more.
Give Them a Follow
1 Old Sturbridge Village Road
Sturbridge, MA 01566
(800) 733-1830
A warm thank you to Sturbridge Village for having us as your guests. It is the perfect place to step back in history to learn about New England. This is a wonderful place that every generation can enjoy. As always, all opinions are of MyTravelingKids.com.