If you’ve ever wondered what life after dark was like for 19th-century settler families, you’ll want to visit Lang Pioneer Village Museum in Keene for “Village by Lantern Light” from 7 to 10 p.m. on Saturday (August 12).
Reflecting an era before electricity, the historic village will be illuminated with the soft glow of lanterns and candles — providing visitors with a twilight-to-nightfall perspective of life for pioneer settlers.
This family-friendly event will explore how settler families spent their time after sunset, including the sleep arrangements for families in differently sized homes as well as their typical bedtime routine.
You’ll also learn about the types of accommodation that were available if you were travelling overnight in the 19th century, and how the village tinsmith assisted with nighttime preparations and how their role affected other skilled trades workers.
You can also view an antique clock and timepiece collection at the General Store and participate in a community meeting at the Town Hall.
Take a horse-drawn wagon ride through the village under the evening sky, be entertained by traditional music performed by Rob Cory, listen to the melodic strains of the harp being played on the Village Green outside the Fitzpatrick House, or sit a while by the campfire and enjoy songs performed by Glen Caradus.
Did you know popcorn — which European settlers discovered from Indigenous peoples — was a beloved late-night snack of 19th-century families? You can enjoy popcorn popped over the open fire at the Fife Cabin, with sweet treats and refreshments available at the Keene Hotel for an additional fee.
Guests are encouraged to bring a flashlight for added visibility in the dark and to dress for the weather, as the event takes place mostly outdoors.
Admission costs $15 for adults, $10 for students and seniors 60 and older, and $7 for children and youth ages five to 14, with free admission for children under five. Family admission is also available for $40 and includes two adults and up to four children and youth.
Visitors may purchase admission at the gates or in advance online. To purchase advance admission or for more information, visit langpioneervillage.ca.
Other special events at Lang Pioneer Village Museum this summer include a Corn Roast on Sunday, August 27th.
Outside of special events, the museum’s summer hours of operation are from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Wednesdays to Sundays until September 3.
