Nevada County Picayune and Gurdon Times Newspaper Archive

Jaunt To Old Washington Is A Trip Back In Time

Visit Old Washington Historic State Park for a unique family experience! Step back into the mid-1800s and watch glass blowers as they demonstrate their craft as it has been done for centuries. Master glass artisans, Hugh Erwin and Dave Marrs, both form Dallas, Texas, will be demonstrating glass blowing.

The Blacksmith Shop will be operating with Julius Legrand, an architectural and artistic blacksmith from Texarkana, Texas, powering the forge. Just a few of the demonstrations to watch this weekend are: tin toy soldiers being cast from 19th century molds, quilting demonsrtate their craft as it has been done for centuries, weaving, churning butter, making hominy, hearth and outdoor cooking, and several artists at work!

Try your hand at dipping a candle to take home with you, and enjoy learning about the medicinal use of herbs. Civil War and pioneer reeanactors will have encampments set up. A fee of $2 for adults and $1 for children under 12 is good for both days. Hamburgers will be available for purchase both days, and Williams' Tavern Restaurant will be serving country cuisine from 11:00 a.m. until 3:00 p.m.

Experience pioneer living while enjoying the demonstrations and atmosphere of this historic museum village. The action will take place in the "Old Town" section of Old Washington Historic State Park, north of State Highway 4. From Texarkana or Little Rock, take exit 30 from Interstate 30. For more information, please call 983-2684.