8th Annual Pioneer Day - Wednesday, May 13

The 8th annual Pioneer Day is taking place at the Ellis County Historical Society Museum in Downtown Hays.  This outdoor, educational and fun event is being held on May 13, 2009. This event is known to attract over 700 children, so come join in the fun and learn about our Pioneer past. 

The Ellis County Historical Society Museum, 100 W 7th Street, is sponsoring the one day event for elementary age students from 9:30 a.m. to 2:30 p.m.  Pioneer Day will have hands-on booths and demonstrations.  Kids will see how Pioneer men used crossbow saws, learn how to shell corn, churn butter and watch Alpaca wool spinning.  They will also learn how Pioneer women washed clothes in a washtub using homemade soap and a washboard.  In addition to educational demonstrations and booths, children will take part in 3-legged races, sack races and relay races.  They will also play with old-time games and toys that Pioneer children would have played with on a regular basis.  Sharon Behrman, co-director at the museum, states, “This is a free, public event, everyone is welcome to attend.”

Small animals will be on hand to pet as well as a goat for children to milk and a horse to groom.  Other activities include a fire engine to explore and a general store to spend your nickels and dimes.  There will be tours of the Volga German Haus and the Harness Shop all located on the museum grounds.  “This is a fun day for the kids and the volunteers.  We could not have our events without our volunteers, we appreciate them so much!” Behrman states.

Pioneer Day is made possible not only by the museum but also by the volunteers who donate their time in order to help educate our youth.  If you would like to volunteer or want more information on the event please call (785) 628-2624 or visit www.elliscountyhistoricalmuseum.org.