June 2015
Free Family Fridays at the Old Courthouse
6/12/2015 -

May 22 through September 4, the National Park Service presents Free Family Fridays at the Old Courthouse, an hour-long, theme-based program that offers participants of all ages hands-on opportunities to learn about St. Louis and westward expansion during the 1800s. Children will also create a craft project that relates to the day’s topic.

 

Weekly themes include:

 

  • Colonial St. Louis (May 22, June 26, July 31 and September 4): Participants will discover what it was like in French colonial St. Louis and learn about St. Louis’ founding as a trade post. Craft project: Children will make either a felt French voyageur hat or create an Osage ribbonwork decoration.
  • Lewis and Clark (May 29, July 3 and August 7): Through negotiations with Napoleon, the United States purchased the Louisiana Territory from France. Soon after, President Jefferson sent Lewis and Clark to explore this new land. Participants will learn about the purchase and the explorers’ interactions with Native Americans on their journey. Craft project: Children will make a French tri-corn hat or an Indian Peace Medal.
  • Mountain Men (June 5, July 10 and August 14):Participants will learn about the mountain men of the Rocky Mountain fur trade era, who are characterized as rugged, individualistic and resourceful. Craft project: Children will make their own felt “possibles” bag or felt moccasins.
  • Pioneers (June 12, July 17 and August 21): Pioneers who traveled overland on the Oregon Trail were seeking a better life and new opportunities in the American West. Participants will explore life on the trail and the many challenges pioneers faced. Craft project: Children will participate in doll making or basket weaving.
  • Plains Indians (June 19, July 24 and August 28): Participants will explore the traditional way of life for many Plains Indians in the 1800s, as both agricultural and nomadic hunter-gatherers. Craft project: Children will make felt moccasins or create jewelry from “trade beads.”

 

WHERE: Old Courthouse, 11 North Fourth Street, St. Louis, MO 63102

 

COST: Free and open to all ages.

 

RESERVATIONS: Reservations can be made by calling 877-982-1410.