As President and Mrs. Harrison greet visitors, they talk about life in the White House and in Indianapolis. The household staff shares secrets of running the large Victorian house on Delaware Street. This special program is scheduled by appointment only. Students view festive Victorian trimmings, including a replica of President Harrison s 1889 Christmas tree. Harrison was the first President to place a decorated tree in the White House.
Students make and take home period ornaments.
Students learn about the Shawnee culture and alphabet, and make headbands. Students explore life as pioneer settlers through role playing. Through hands-on experiences, children are oriented to President Harrison's Victorian lifestyle. They identify typical objects and sounds of the 1880's. Students take a leap backwards to 1776, become colonists and, using quill pens, sign the Declaration of Independence.