First Edition - Washington County Rural Heritage Museum

THE
2014– First Edition
HERITAGE HERALD
Washington County Rural Heritage Museum
Located at the Agricultural Education Center
7313 Sharpsburg Pike, Boonsboro, MD 21713
Phone: 240-420-1714
Fax: 240-420-1713
Thank You
People You Should Know
Annual Report
Accomplishments &
Goals
www.ruralheritagemuseum.org
email: eoverdorff@washco-md.net
Thank You
The Rural Heritage Museum would like to take this opportunity to thank all of the
loyal volunteers and contributors that give their time and donations to the museum.
Without the efforts of the supporting individuals, organizations and businesses, the
RHM would not be the strong organization and attraction that it is today. Thank
you to everyone that supports this great resource of the region’s rural heritage.
Spring Open House
Docent Training
Membership Update
Membership Luncheon
Four-Square Garden
Medicinal Garden
Artisan Bread Baking
Accessions and Exhibits
Museum Tours
Village Update
Gift Shop
In Memoriam
Transportation Building
Spring Open House
Garden Tour
Spudfest
Living History Day
Cookie Baking
Country Breakfast
Park at Dark
Candlelight Tour
Holiday Open House
Special Events Calendar
Candy Egg Sale
2014 Board of Directors
People You Should Know
A new series of articles featuring people that support the Rural Heritage Museum
Meet Jamie Kenton
Jamie Kenton is the Faculty Extension Educator for 4-H Youth Development with
the University of Maryland Extension (UME), Washington County. Jamie joined the
UME team in January of 2012 with a heightened level of energy and excitement.
There are certain advantages with the RHM being located at the Agricultural
Education Center; in this case, being at the same facility as the UME has enabled a
new, strong relationship to be built with the 4-H Youth Development team.
Jamie has welcomed and accepted every opportunity that the
RHM has offered for her to participate. Since 2012, Jamie and
the 4-H Team including staff of Amy Simmons and Shannon
Uzelac, 4-H members and volunteers have participated in the
following events: 2012 Heritage Fun Day with kids activities and
demonstrations, 2012 Spudfest with potato science activities,
2012 Living History Day with period kids activities and
demonstrations, 2012 Holiday Open House with holiday kids
crafts and activities, 2013 Spring Open House with engineering
kids activities, 2013 Heritage Fun Day with kids activities and
demonstrations, 2013 Spudfest with potato science activities and
Emcee for event, 2013 Living History Day with period kids
activities and demonstrations and 2013 Holiday Open House with
holiday kids crafts and activities. The RHM also partnered with
4-H on two day camps in 2013 with volunteers offering children’s
heritage activities and education.
The 4-H Youth Development team will be seen at all of the
RHM’s large events in 2014 that are offering children’s activities.
We are incredibly grateful and fortunate for all of the time and effort that Jamie puts
into helping with events at the RHM. The RHM extends a sincere thank you to
Jamie and her 4-H team for all of their support.
If you see Jamie around the RHM events or the Ag Ed Center facility, be sure to say hello
and thank you!
Friends of the Washington County Rural Heritage Museum, Inc.- Annual Report- 2013
The Friends was incorporated for the purpose of supporting the Rural Heritage Museum. This support includes,
but is not limited to, the recruitment and training of volunteers to work in the Museum and to supervise the
activities of the volunteers under the ultimate supervision of the Museum Committee. The Friends plan, coordinate
and present special events and programs at the Agricultural Education Center. The Friends also operate and
manage a gift shop located in the Museum Building for the benefit of the public. In order to accomplish these tasks
the following four committees have been designated: Finance, Membership, Gift Shop and Special Events
Finance: The finance chairman, Tory VanReenen, began volunteering her time in January, 2013. She has
done a fabulous job working with the accountant and the Friends to streamline the process of recording and
sharing accurate financial information about the Friends many activities. The process of learning the complexities
of all that we do can be time consuming. In the absence of an assistant treasurer, the Friends have stepped up
their record keeping abilities.
Membership: Millie Hendrickson is our wonderful membership chairperson. Under her direction we have
358 paid members. Our membership has remained over 250 for several years. Our membership luncheon was
made possible by the long hours Millie has dedicated to this day. A volunteer (docent) training will be held on
March 25th. Thank you to Terry Wunderlich for organizing the day.
Gift Shop: Marge Peters has been the manager of the Gift Shop since the museum opened in 2001. Not
only has Marge kept the gift shop in order for 13 years she also has kept all the necessary records for the IRS, filing
all the necessary reports for a nonprofit. In 2014, we will have a new manager, Toni Valentine. The gift shop will
still feature local artisan’s handiwork as well as selected collectables. Think of the gift shop when shopping for
that special gift.
Special Events: The Special Events committee is responsible for the raising funds for the Rural Heritage
Museum. Our goal this year was to raise $9,500.00. We exceeded our goal by over $6,000.00. As a result, we are
tasked with raising $15,000.00 in 2014. A BIG thank you goes to everyone who helped with the many special
events that took place in 2013. Bring your friends to help with all the events in 2014.
I. Candy Making: The candy factory opened February 6th in 2013 making peanut butter eggs and a few
coconut eggs. We sold each for $1.00. When the chocolate was put away the end of March we had made
approximately $5,000.00 in profit. This is also a fantastic marketing tool because we are able to distribute our
calendar of events for the coming year. We are always looking for new markets for our eggs. If you would like to
take orders or if you know of a business that will allow us to sell our eggs, see Mary Poffenberger.
II. Spring Open House and Grand Opening of Transportation Museum: This year was the first year we
extended our hours on Saturday to 11:00-4:00. Because of the early hours, we decided to sell lunch to all. Hot dogs
and Steamers were the main faire. The fresh ice tea was a hit too.
III. Garden Tour: This year the Garden Tour was held Saturday, June 8th. Gardens were featured in
south county as well as west in the Clear Spring area and north in the Maugansville area. Twenty-three
volunteers manned the seven garden stations to make the garden tour a success.
IV. Bread Program: Bill Theriault has been the chairman for the Bread Program since bread baking came
to the RHM. He has several loyal bread bakers, which we call the Bread Guild. Bill and the guild make bread
most every warm month, the second Saturday of the month in the bread oven at the Farmstead. Bill also has
written the Wheat to Bread presentation that takes place almost every time he makes bread.
With the help of a grant from Hagerstown Rotary, the bread pavilion is complete over the bread oven thanks of the
hard working volunteers. We still need to complete the brick work under the pavilion. We have procured the
bricks to complete the job.
Bill has stepped down as chairman of the bread guild. Mike Braid is the new chairman, anxious to start kneading.
The guild is always interested in teaching folks interested in learning their methods. Once there is enough interest
a class will be scheduled.
V. Spudfest: The fourth Saturday in the month of August has long been the time known for the Spudfest.
Our goal has been to educate the public about our agricultural heritage - farming and growing food. We have
opened the kitchen to make this a fundraiser by selling a lunch consisting mostly of potatoes or potato products.
The candy makers opened the factory to make potato candy for sale at the Spudfest. The Bread Guild was making
and selling bread. The Master Gardeners feature their delicious harvest with the Taste of the Garden. The Village
and Farmstead were open for the public as well. Antique tractors were in operation and demonstrations of stone
crushing kept everyone interested. Phil Muritz saved the day by convincing the team of horses (and their owner) to
plow up the potatoes. At least 500 children raced to find the largest and smallest potato in the patch. Jamie
Kenton, the 4-H youth development extension educator, had an array of games relating to potatoes for all to play.
The Farm of the Year was also announced during the Spudfest.
VI. Apple Dumplings: The Friends of the Rural Heritage Museum are blessed with really good cooks. The
group got together three Wednesdays in a row to make, bake and sell apple dumplings. This coming fall be on the
look out for the apple dumpling stand. The plan is to sell dumplings during our regular hours on Saturday or
Sunday.
VII. Living History Day: October 19th was Living History Day. One of the goals of the Rural Heritage Museum is
to depict life in early Washington County - 1800’s. Multiple hand crafts were demonstrated throughout the village
and farmstead. The fundraiser was the lunch in the kitchen. This event features food that would have been eaten
in early Washington County. In 2014, food will be located in the Village for better success.
VIII. Park at Dark: Friday, October 25th was our first experience with the Park at Dark with the W. C.
Recreation Dept. This event out-grew the space at Doub’s Woods and came to the Ag Ed Center. Our contribution
to the evening was volunteers dressed in costumes stationed in the Village. We also opened the refreshment stand,
selling hot and cold cider, coffee, apple dumplings and treats. A great profit was made in a two hour period.
IX. Country Breakfast Buffet: The Ag Board and the Friends work together to conduct the Country
Breakfast Buffet held this year on November 9th. Our goal was to sell 500 tickets. Sale of tickets before the event
was slim and as a result we ran out of biscuits early. Three young ladies from the University of Maryland
Hagerstown leadership program kept the finances in order during the event. Of course, our favorite gal Erin was
there to oversee the happenings. The profit from this event is over $3,000.00.
X. Candlelight Tour: The last fundraising event for the year is the Candlelight Tour. This year we learned
we must have a scheduled rain date or be prepared to cancel an event. The Candlelight Tour was very wet this
year. At the conclusion of the event there was a lake behind building number two. We had few visitors, yet those
who did attend talked of how they enjoyed seeing the museum by candlelight.
XI. In addition to the scheduled activities we hosted three tours in which we served lunch for a fee. These
tours also gave the museum a donation. The Truck Farm committee is headed by Howard Thomas. They were
able to grow and sell potatoes. We still have popcorn for sale from last year.
I would like to thank all the Friends volunteers because none of these events could happen with out you.
To Erin Overdorff a huge Thank You for being our publicity person and go to gal. And a Thank You to Jim Sterling
for all he does for the facility.
The Special Events Committee meets the first Wednesday of the month at 9:00am in the conference room.
Everyone is invited. We are happy to see you every month or for one event.
Remember it only takes 3 1/2 hours a month to be a regular volunteer docent in the museum on Saturday or
Sunday from 1-4 pm to keep our museum open.
Patsy Ardinger, President, Friends of the Washington County Rural Heritage Museum Board of Directors
Rural Heritage Museum Committee 2013 Accomplishments and 2014 Goals
2013 was another great year at the Rural Heritage Museum. The Spring Open House along with Spudfest and
Christmas Open House were a huge success. Living History Day was well attended, but unfortunately Village by
Candlelight was low attended due to the heavy rains that evening.
This past year construction was completed on the Rural Repair Garage in the transportation building and it was
filled with artifacts and displays from the Hammond Garage and private collections. The transportation building was
filled with buggies, sleighs, carriages, Conestoga wagon, trucks, cars, very rare Hagerstown built cars and bicycles,
Whizer motor bike, as well as many rare signs and photographs.
The main focus of the Museum Committee this year since the grand opening of the transportation building has
been rehabilitating the Spickler Store. The village committee has been working very hard and completion is anticipated
for April with a building dedication during the Spring Open House.
The cover over the outdoor bread oven was completed as an Eagle Scout project. Landscaping and brick
walkways will be added as the weather improves. Another Eagle Scout project that was completed in 2013 was replacing
all of the wood on the hay loader that sits out along the road at the facility. The old wood was removed and new primed
and painted wood was installed by Boy Scouts. They also painted many of the window sashes in the Village and
Farmstead buildings.
Some of the other accomplishments for 2013 was the complete rearrangement of museum building 2. There is
still much work to be completed in that building with the orchard, dairy, and wagon shed display, along with new
signage. The video security system for museum building 1 was installed and is functioning as well.
Rural Heritage Museum Committee Goals for 2014:
-Recruit and train additional docents
-Search all avenues to secure additional funding for the Museum, the Village and the Farmstead
- Search for additional ideas and structures for the Village and Farmstead- including, but not limited to a log
stable, school, machine shop and log homes
- Acquire additional items- including, but not limited to antique telegraph and phone equipment, iron wheeled
wagon with steel frame (no bed), wooden wagon wheels, pump for under windmill, wooden cucumber pump.
- Begin construction of the Carpenter’s Shop
I want to thank all of the many dedicated volunteers, docents and helpers at the Rural Heritage Museum. Without their
hard work and dedication the museum would not be the wonderful place it is today and what it will be in the days to
come.
Phil Muritz, Chairman, Rural Heritage Museum Committee
Washington County Rural Heritage Museum
14th Annual
Spring Open House Celebration
April 5 and April 6, 2014– 10:00a.m.-4:00p.m.
Rain date– April 12– 10:00a.m.-4:00p.m.
The RHM is kicking off another great season!
Attend this free event and learn the history of the RHM and see the new exhibits.
Special spotlight on the Transportation Museum and the transportation heritage of the area.
1st Annual Antique Truck Show
April 5– 9:00a.m.-4:00p.m. and April 6, 10:00a.m.-4:00p.m.
Hosted by Old National Pike Chapter of the
Antique Truck Club of America, Inc.
Special Transportation Exhibits:
Rare Automobiles and Bicycles built in Washington County on display:
Crawford Bicycles, Pope-Tribune, Dagmar, Astor Taxi, Regal Taxi, Mack Truck
Last remaining Norwalk, manufactured in Martinsburg, WV to be on display
Event Details:
Saturday, April 5
10:00a.m.-4:00p.m.– Buildings Open including Village and Farmstead
9:00a.m.-4:00p.m.– Antique Truck Show– Old National Pike Chapter
11:00a.m.– 3:00p.m.– Food stand open to purchase lunch items
1:00p.m.-4:00p.m.– 4-H Youth Development Children’s activities
1:00p.m.-4:00p.m.– Garden tours with the Master Gardeners
1:00p.m.– Dedication of Country Store in the Rural Heritage Village
Throughout day– Blacksmith demonstration and Village Tours
Throughout day– High-wheel bike riding demonstration
Throughout day– Cars on display from Blue and Grey Antique Car Club
Throughout day– Cars on display from Mason Dixon Antique Car Club
Sunday, April 6
10:00a.m.-4:00p.m.– Buildings Open including Village and Farmstead
10:00a.m.-4:00p.m.– Antique Truck Show– Old National Pike Chapter
11:00a.m.– 3:00p.m.– Food stand open to purchase lunch items
Throughout day– Blacksmith demonstration and Village Tours
240-420-1714 ~ www.ruralheritagemuseum.org
Docent Training!
Attention all RHM Members!
A docent training and workshop is scheduled for
Tuesday, March 25 at 1:00p.m.
How many times have you heard or seen this word from the Rural Heritage
Museum? What is a docent and what does it mean to be a docent? If I am a
docent, how much time do I have to give?
Mark your calendars for Tuesday, March 25 and plan on attending this workshop
for all of the answers.
This workshop is designed for all- those who are already active docents, those who would like to become a
docent and those that want to just find out more about what docents do.
All members are invited to attend this event.
RSVP is requested by calling Terry Wunderlich at 301-739-6872 or the museum office at 240-420-1714 and
leaving a message.
Extensive valuable information will be offered including a walk-through of the museum buildings.
Become educated on the duties of docent, how scheduling works and familiarization with the collection.
Become a part of friendship and fellowship!
Membership Update
Membership is the backbone of any organization including the Rural Heritage Museum. Through renewals and
new members, the Friends of the Museum organization continues to gain momentum making the RHM one of the
highlights of visitation to Washington County. Visitors continue to be amazed with what the RHM offers.
Visitors in 2014 came from across the country and world as the RHM had visitors from England and China.
New members have been gained through the opening of the transportation building. The new building has been
touted as being as good as Smithsonian exhibits, thanks to the caring transportation mentors that develop the
displays.
The Friends membership consists of members from states outside of Maryland including Ohio, Florida, New
York, North Carolina, Pennsylvania, West Virginia, South Carolina and Idaho. The RHM thanks the many local
members who continue to strengthen the organization with support. Currently, there are 358 individuals and
businesses in the Friends of the museum membership.
All of the above produce the workforce that keeps the RHM alive and well.
Communication, volunteering and sharing information are important factors in the
development of the RHM.
Membership renewal requests for 2014 have been mailed to the membership. Please
return requests as early as possible. Additional monetary donations are always
appreciated. Also please identify potential areas to volunteer at the RHM on the
membership renewal request.
Thank you to all of the Friends of the RHM members for your support. The RHM
extends wishes for a happy and healthy New Year.
Membership Luncheon
The Membership Luncheon has been rescheduled for Sunday, March 23, 2014 at 1pm.
at the Academy Theatre, 58 E. Washington St, Hagerstown, MD 21740
$18.00 per person - R.S.V.P. required by March 14, 2014
Meal is buffet style with two meats, sides, beverages, salad, rolls and dessert– served at 1:15p.m.
Brief reporting of museum business and an auction of various desserts and goods following the meal.
Friends of the Rural Heritage Museum Annual Meeting Notice:
The 2013 Annual Meeting will be held during the membership luncheon on
Sunday, March 23, 2014 from 1:00p.m.-4:00p.m. at the Academy Theatre.
Please contact the office at 240-420-1714 if you are interested in attending.
We look forward to seeing you there!
Four-Square Garden Update
The Master Gardener team started the 2013 garden season at the German Four-Square Garden with new, sturdier
supports for tomatoes, and vining plants- like Lazy Wife pole beans, Amish snap peas and cucumbers. These were
built on site by Craig Camp, Neil Wilson and Justin McAllister, and will last for several years.
Prior to planting, soil samples were taken from the interior garden beds built in 2005 and border beds installed in
2007. The results were different given the soils were not from the same source, but all results were good. The
crops this year were productive and healthy and there were not many stink bugs! The success of the garden was
because of the dedicated weekly teams of Master Gardeners working in all types of weather conditions.
Taste of the Garden was once again a huge success. It is a great opportunity to partner with Spudfest and the
bread bakers. At Living History in October, about 60 children had a great time decorating small pumpkins with
leaves, buttons, ribbons and markers. This was a much less messier option compared to paint!
The planning meeting for 2014 included twelve Master Gardeners with lots of great ideas for the new year. These
ideas included using a cold frame, planting by the “signs of the moon,” growing grapes and researching how we can
revitalize the field bed for future use.
Times for monthly garden activities in 2014 will be from 11am to 2pm. This will allow more coordination with the
Bread Baking Guild and Medicinal Garden. There is a full calendar of events starting outside on March 29, which
includes our new “Kids in the Garden” educational hands on segment that ties into the monthly garden topic.
Watch for the 4 square and Kids in the Garden calendar of events to be published soon.
There will be new weather proof signage for the plants inside the fence, with information about each plant and
how it was used. The signs can easily be changed when new plantings are done.
Thanks to the Master Gardeners and everyone who helps to make the Four-Square Garden an asset to the RHM!
Join the Master Gardeners in the Four-Square Garden in 2014 during these dates from 11am-2pm*:
March 29- Garden Education Topic- garden tasks for early Spring; Children’s Learning– Where ‘taters come from
April 5- Garden Education and Four-Square Garden Tours
April 12- Garden Education Topic- Late frost protection; Children’s Learning- It’s all about the seeds!
May 10- Garden Education Topic- Companion planting with your vegetables; Children’s Learning- Mother’s Day Tea
June 14- Garden Education Topic- Container gardening and problem solving; Children’s Learning- Scavenger Hunt
July 12- Garden Education Topic- Succession vegetable planting and bugs; Children’s Learning- Don’t bug me
August 9- Garden Education Topic- Watering effectively, rain barrels, drought; Children’s Learning– 1850’s watering
August 23- Four Square Activity- Taste of the Garden; Children’s Learning- Edible plants and flowers
September 13- Garden Education Topic- Using cold frames, cover crops; Children’s Learning- Sunflowers; bulbs; herbs
October 18- Garden Education- Soil testing, amending; composting; Children’s Learning-Harvest happenings and crafts
*All Garden activities are weather permitting and subject to change
Fahrney Medicinal Garden Update
Late last year, the Master Gardeners at the Dr. Fahrney Medicinal Garden met to plan this year’s agenda. Deep
into January, Master Gardeners are hard at work deciding what to plant and are ordering seeds. It will be an
exciting year in the Medicinal Garden, but this story is getting ahead of itself.
Last year the Master Gardeners finished all of the planting on the
approved plan. Mulch was added under two picnic tables and the strip
garden was planted to the left of the Dr. Fahrney Office. The front yard
was finished with a raised culinary herb garden as most culinary herbs
also have medicinal qualities. Though there is no direct indication that
Dr. Fahrney used these plants, many 19th century herbalists did and
the goal of the garden is to expand the knowledge of medicinal herbs
and their uses.
There is a guidebook in the mailbox located at the garden. The Master
Gardeners were pleased the guidebook was used by the visitors at the
garden and returned it after each use. Visitors have always been open to understanding and respecting the
garden. However, “Mr. Groundhog” who took up residence under the porch was not so respectful. He ate almost
everything planted in the yard. Hopefully he will not return to the garden and no other groundhog will take up
new residence under the porch.
Looking forward to the 2014 season, the Master Gardeners are very excited. They have developed monthly
programming for the garden. Dr. Fahrney’s Office will be open during garden hours to fully showcase who he
was and his importance to Washington County. The Garden will also have signage throughout so visitors may
take a self-guided tour.
Thank you to all of the dedicated Master Gardeners and volunteers for making the Medicinal Garden a very
important part of the education and beauty at the RHM.
Join the Master Gardeners in the Medicinal Garden in 2014 during these dates from 11am-2pm*:
March 29- Garden Education Topic- Are your herbs overwhelming you? How to divide and pot them for giving
April 5- Garden Education and Garden Tours
April 12- Garden Education Topic- Are you Spring cleaning? Housecleaning and disinfecting with herbs
May 10- Garden Education Topic- How to Recognize Native Medicinal Herb Plants, Shrubs and Trees
June 14- Garden Education Topic- Weeds - Really? Weeds that grow around us that herbalists use
July 12- Garden Education Topic- Tussie Mussie’s- bouquets that have meanings
August 9- Garden Education Topic- Herbal recipes that are good for you
August 23– Garden Education Topic- Herbal recipes that are good for you
September 13- Garden Education Topic- Specialty Herb Gardens- Discover different themed herb gardens
October 18- Garden Education- Medical diagnosis through Herbs- A reenactment of a patient in the 19th Century
*All Garden activities are weather permitting and subject to change
Artisan Bread Baking Calendar- 2014
Do you enjoy eating the fresh Artisan Bread baked by our bread guild in the outdoor wood fired oven? If so, mark
these bread baking dates on your calendar:
May 10, June 14, August 9, August 23, September 13, October 18
Loaves are sold for $5.00 each. Bread loaf reservations can be sent to mbraid@myactv.net no later than the
Thursday before the bread baking date. Bread times vary with loaves being ready 12pm-2pm.
A very special Thank You to Bill Theriault for all of his hard work and dedication with getting the bread guild at
the RHM underway. We greatly appreciate all of your efforts as chairman of the bread activities and education.
Accessions and Exhibits Activity
The Displays and Exhibits committee was very busy in 2013. Many new acquisitions were taken in by the
accessions committee as well.
In museum building 1, the blacksmith display items
were moved to the Blacksmith shop in the Village and
the veterinarian tools were put into the empty space.
The Dairy Display now has a milking cow added to it,
but is planned to be relocated to museum building 2 in
2014. The cow will be for display and demonstrations,
allowing children to experience what milking a cow is
like without having to house and feed a live animal.
Some transportation implements were moved out of
museum building 1 and into museum building 3. A
hand built model of a farmstead, including a house,
barn, wagon shed and other items were put on display
in one of the empty spaces. Howard Thomas built this
display as a replica of the farm on which he was raised.
Also acquired in 2013 was a
horse to hitch to the John Deere
buggy and a plow for a potato
cultivating display in museum
building 2. Museum building 2
has seen a lot of changes over the
past year. The Geiser Thresher
has been replaced by a larger,
nicer and more complete Geiser
Thresher that is on loan from the Smithsburg Historical Society. A hay ladder wagon and stationary baler has
been added to the display in museum building 2 as well.
Thanks to the exhibits and accessions committee members who have great ideas and help to make the changes
that are continuing to improve the RHM.
Museum Tours
Tours are scheduled regularly through the office at the RHM. Annually, the RHM hosts an average of 40
scheduled tours. This does not include the groups that drop by during the RHM regular open hours on Saturday
and Sunday from 1:00-4:00p.m.
Tour groups consist of Washington County Public Schools, Home
Schools, Private Schools, Senior Groups, Summer Camp
Programs and various other groups from out of County, State and
Country.
There are many tours already scheduled for 2014. Anyone who is
interested in helping with scheduled tours, please contact the
office.
Currently, the RHM is looking for additional volunteers on the
following dates:
Thursday, April 10- 9am-3pm- Sharpsburg Elementary 3rd Grade
Thursday, April 23- 9am-3pm- Eastern Elementary 3rd Grade
Thursday, April 24- 9am-3pm- Eastern Elementary 3rd Grade
People interested in volunteering should be relatively familiar
with the layout of the facility and will serve as group assistants
to lead the students from building to building with a provided
map. Volunteers must be able to stand for long periods of time
and walk long distances. Please call the office at 240-420-1714
to participate.
Village Update
The current project of the Village Committee is the Country Store rehabilitation.
The country store was placed on its foundation at the RHM in December of 2012. A great deal of work had to be
performed concerning the joists before any work could be started inside. After that task was completed, the work
was halted until Spring.
Since Spring of 2013, the committee has been working on the interior of the building. The walls and ceiling have
been repaired and the original windows have been installed with only minor repair having to be made to the
framing.
The back wall, visible when entering the building, has been washed
down and the original wood is in good condition. After the walls and
ceiling were finished, windows washing and additional cleaning was
completed. A day was set to bring in the original counter tops, roll
top desk that was used as the post office and cast iron stove.
The original shelving and drawers have been installed with the
original color being maintained. The original front doors have been
preserved and will be hung in the very near future. When entering
the village, one can see on the front of the store the original sign
reading “Shank & Spickler.” This project has been a challenging one,
but has been lessened with the valuable assistance of Don and Mary
Jane Spickler, whom have provided the funding. We offer the
sincerest thank you to Don and Mary Jane for their interest in the
RHM and preserving this historic building.
Once warmer weather arrives, there are plans for the original doors
to be installed and the Country Store items to be placed on the
shelves. A building dedication is planned at the Spring Open House
on April 5.
The next addition to the Village will be a carpentry shop with
starting time tentatively scheduled for the later part of 2014.
There is always a need for additional handy workers to assist with Village projects. Please call the office to
contact the Village Committee to volunteer time and talents for Village projects.
Rural Heritage Museum Gift Shop
STOP BY AND SEE WHAT IS NEW - The Gift Shop Committee has strived to add additional locally made
artisan pieces to the inventory, but this past year has not located new items. Currently in the gift shop is hand
made pottery, iron kitchen items, soaps, beeswax candles, hooked pillows, hand woven table runners, repurposed
tote bags, hand painted lovely scenes of the area, and hand made brooms.
This year the committee has added throw blankets that show various historic places in Washington County, cards
used for recipes, aromatic coasters and many items that have been donated to the inventory.
Stop by and see our great items. If you are aware of
a local artisan who would enjoy having us sell their
items please call the office with the information.
In Memoriam
Sadly, in 2013, the RHM lost several long-time volunteers, contributors, docents and supporters- Virginia Martin,
Paul Shank, Ed Itnyre, John Herbst, David Fahrney, Wilbur Miner and Bill Poffenberger.
Virginia Martin and Paul Shank were loyal members to the Friends of the Museum. Their families continue to
hold active memberships in the organization.
Ed Itnyre and John Herbst were long time members of the organization. Ed served as a tour guide and docent for
the RHM. John’s family directed memorial contributions to the RHM and the RHM thanks them for the
continued support.
David Fahrney is a descendant of Dr. Fahrney of the Dr. Fahrney Office located at the RHM. David and his wife
graciously made a generous contribution to the museum exhibit collection.
Wilber Miner was a faithful board of director’s member and avid village enthusiast and restorer. He made
appearances practically every Wednesday and used his woodworking skills to help with the Poffenberger Cabin
and Village construction. Wilbur was one of the designated “Senior Engineers”- a nickname used for the group of
Village volunteers.
Bill Poffenberger was one of the most enthusiastic supporters of the RHM. Bill was well known for his
involvement with most anything at the RHM. Whether the concern was a scouting trip for items to add to the
museum collection with the accessions committee of which he was the chairperson, gathering supplies and selling
tickets in order to make a special events activity memorable, signing up to be a docent many Saturdays and
Sundays and enlisting donations of time and money, Bill’s commitment to the organization was strong, working for
its success. Bill’s family directed memorial contributions to the RHM and the RHM thanks them for their
continued support.
Thanks and condolences are offered to the families of those who passed for sharing these members with the RHM.
Transportation Museum Building Update
The Rural Heritage Transportation Museum Grand Opening was during the annual Spring Open House on April 6th
2013. Over 500 visitors attended the event to see the highly impressive one-of-a-kind display. For the first time, four
Hagerstown built cars and a number of Hagerstown built bicycles were under the same roof.
Since the open house, the Transportation Museum has been the home of several exquisite items. Some of those items
are: A 1903 Pope Tribune, 1925 Baby Dagmar Sedan, 1904 Pope Tribune, 1922 Dagmar Petite Sedan and late 1800’s
Crawford bicycles. The 1903 Pope is the very first automobile that came off an assembly line in Hagerstown. The
Dagmar’s are the only two surviving Dagmar’s that are known to exist.
Also several model “A” and “T” Fords, a Star, Chrysler Aero Flow, Page, Continental Mark IV, Chevrolet Corvette, 1959
Ford Retractable Hardtop along with a 1920 White flatbed truck. Also exhibited are buggies, sleighs, Astor Taxi Cab,
Mack AB Truck, two Dahlgren carriages and a Conestoga Wagon from the early 19th century.
Long-term and short term exhibits are also on display by local car clubs, private collections such as a Chrysler toy
display and Esso memorabilia, as well as items from the Maryland National Road Association and Washington County
Library.
The RHM graciously thanks the owners of those items for sharing them with us. Some of those items can still be seen in
the museum. We greatly appreciate the owners of these items allowing the community to see their prized possessions.
Permanently on display is the Rural Repair Garage. This exhibit is compiled with items collected from Hammond’s
Garage including the restored original sign, tool wall and lights. Additional shelving and items came from other private
collections as well.
Special thank you to Stanley Thomas and the Transportation committee for their vision, planning and hard work to
continue to make the Transportation Museum a must-see attraction. Also, thank you to the RHM Village committee for
their carpentry skills and construction abilities that has helped to make this one of the outstanding museums in
Washington County.
Changes and updates continue to be made to the Transportation Museum. Mark your calendars for April 5 and April 6,
2014 to attend our Spring Open House and view all of the updates.
A look back at all of the great RHM events and highlights in 2013...
Grand Opening of the Transportation Museum and Spring Open House 2013
The culmination of many volunteer hours was made visible to the public on Saturday, April 6, 2013 with the unveiling
of the Transportation Museum. Wow! What a sight! Over 500 visitors were pleased to see the fruits of our faithful
volunteer’s labor. Hagerstown manufactured automobiles were in the spotlight along with Hagerstown made bicycles.
There are so many to thank for helping the RHM to get this project to fruition:
The Washington County Commissioners, Jim Sterling, Don Bowman, Tim Fraker, Stanley Thomas, Phil Muritz, Jerry
Poffenberger, Frank Spielman, Howard Myers, Bob Stoner, Bob Courtemanche, Sean Guy, Patsy Ardinger, Rosemarie
and Carl Gearhart, the Artz family, Tiffany Ahalt, and many others.
With the extended hours on Saturday of 11am-4pm, the Special Events committee provided food for sale under white
tents in front of the second museum building. Thank you to all of the volunteers that helped with the food tent. Thank
you to John Staub for his contribution that allowed us to have a live broadcast from WJEJ/Lou Scally.
All of the museum buildings were open for all to see. Buildings 1 and 2 were staffed by loyal volunteers.
The Village was active with interpretations in the Fahrney Office and the Blacksmith Shop, along with broom making
information in the broom shop and wool spinning at the Glass Family House.
Also to be seen was a high-wheel bike demonstration and cruise-in where local car enthusiasts brought their vehicles
out to showcase during our event. Barrel train rides were provided for children courtesy of the Antique Tractor Club
and thanks to Derek Artz and his helpers, potatoes were planted for our annual Spudfest.
Jamie Kenton, 4-H Youth Development Coordinator and 4-H volunteers provided fabulous activities for the visiting
youth. The bread guild and Master Gardeners were also a part of our festivities celebrating the start of a new season
at the RHM.
A big Thank You to all the volunteers that made this weekend such a success.
2013 Garden Tour
The RHM’s Fourth Annual Garden Tour went off without a hitch on June 8, 2013, leading the visitors to
Sharpsburg, Keedysville, Hagerstown and Clear Spring. One stop was again at the RHM Four Square Garden
where the Master Gardeners were offering tips on how to be productive gardeners. The bread guild was busy at
the outdoor artisan bread oven as well that day. The Dr. Fahrney Medicinal Garden offered a representation of
the herbs that were used by Dr. Fahrney to treat the many ailments of early settlers.
Other stops included:
In South County, Kathy’s Garden in Sharpsburg, which offered before and after photos of her efforts and
transformation and the Root Garden in Keedysville, which keeps the owner busy enjoying over sixty-five different
flowers and bushes.
Two Hagerstown gardens with a perennial showcase that bloomed from spring to fall with six walking paths on
Lindsey Lane and Wellspring Garden, which showed garden antiques and garden art interspersed with annuals
and evergreens.
Two gardens located in Clear Spring. The Montpelier Farm which showcased a stone house dating back to the
1750’s. This site included an herb, formal boxwood and a special hummingbird garden. The highlight is a one
acre pond complete with an island and beach. The Branch Garden sits among oaks and pines making use of the
shade producing hostas, azaleas, japonica and astilbes.
All of the garden hosts are given an honorary membership for 2014 for opening
their gardens and sharing their love of the outdoors. Thank you to everyone
who helped to make the Garden Tour a success.
Spud Fest 2013- Hurrah for the Potato
Potato cakes, potato candy, potatoes baked, potato chips, potato fries - all were consumed on Saturday, August
24, 2013 at the 11th annual Spudfest.
Every year the museum embraces its mission to educate the public about our agricultural heritage with the ever
versatile potato. This year was no exception.
The festival was threatened by a down pour of rain the night before, but the horses pulling the plow were able to
unearth its bounty with no problems. Jamie Kenton, 4-H Youth Development Coordinator, was able to keep the
waiting children engaged until their turn to find the largest potato. Prizes, donated by Velma and Jerry
Poffenberger were given to the children with the largest and the smallest potato.
In addition to the fabulous potato rich menu offered by the Special Events Committee, potato activities were
offered to the children by the 4-H Youth Development program. There was potato painting, potato clocks and
potato poppers. Potato Chips were made over an open fire in a large black kettle by the RHM. Over 300 sample
bags were given to visitors. Approximately 150 lbs of the freshly picked potatoes were sold.
The Master Gardeners offered a taste of the garden to all who visited the 4-square garden. The lavender cookies
were a favorite. The aroma of baking bread made by the Bread Guild filled the air. Bread was sold for $5.00 a
loaf. The Bread Guild usually makes bread the second Saturday during the warm months.
The village was alive during Spudfest too. The blacksmith, Joe Scheerer, was kept busy explaining the process of
making nails. Master Gardeners were available to share information at the Medicinal Garden at Dr. Fahrney’s
Office. Thank you to Scott Poffenberger for the truck load of stone. The side of the hill was the perfect place to
watch the steam driven engine and stone crusher work. Thank you also to all of our dedicated volunteers that
help to make Spudfest a success. Mark your calendar for Spudfest, August 23, 2014.
Scenes from Spudfest 2013
Living History Day- 2013
October 19th was a glorious day to be outside enjoying coming together with friends and family and seeing how life was
lived in “early days.” There were plenty of displays and demonstrators for all to see at the Fourth Annual Living
History Day. Some were very interactive, like washing clothes on a wash board and hanging clothes on a line to dry.
Children flocked to this demonstration to give the wringer washer a try. The children enjoyed washing clothes as well
as the old fashioned games and activities put together by the 4-H Youth Development team led by Jamie Kenton.
The work done by the chair caner was exceptional as well as the basket weaver. The hearth at the Poffenberger Cabin
was manned by Jeff Semler with aromas of seasonal fare filling the Farmstead. Those aromas could easily be confused
with the smell of artisan bread baking in the bread oven, thanks to the RHM bread guild. Children decorated pumpkins
with the Master Gardeners at the Four-Square Garden while others were educated there on gardening tips. Our
resident Blacksmith Joe Scheerer enjoyed showing his trade in the Blacksmith Shop. The Flea Circus was back for
another year and bluegrass music was played by a band in the village.
Lunch time was especially delightful with a sausage sandwich and homemade soup. The menu consisted of foods
typically eaten in the “early days”- no hot dogs or French fries could be found. Apple dumplings are always the “hit” in
the kitchen at this event!
Thank you to all the volunteers who worked many hours behind the scenes to make this day simply fabulous.
Another Cookie Baking Marathon
The cookie baking marathon, which happens every year, occurred on November 19, 2013. The Agricultural Education Center multi-purpose building was filled with wonderful smells. There were also some quality control volunteers that unreluctantly stepped up for that task- that job requires little arm twisting. The large group of
faithful volunteers joined together and produced 71 dozen varieties, ranging from delicious peanut butter to white
chocolate cranberry cookies (See recipe that follows). There were additional cookies donated after the baking,
which took the total to well over 85 dozen. All of the men who helped to prepare and bake must be given a special
thank you, especially to Carl Gearhart who seems to always take the job of “Chief Cookie Sheet
Washer,” ensuring the kitchen is supplied with clean bowls, clean cookie sheets and utensils.
White Chocolate Chip Cranberry Cookies
1 cup of butter softened
1 cup of brown sugar
1/2 cup regular sugar
2 eggs
2 1/2 cups all purpose flour
1 tsp. baking soda
1 tsp. vanilla
1 tsp. salt
2 cups of white baking chips
1 cup of sweetened dry cranberries
Heat oven to 350 degrees and line sheets with parchment paper. Combine butter, brown sugar, white sugar, eggs and
vanilla in large bowl. Beat by hand or medium mixer speed until well mixed. Reduce mixer speed to low adding flour,
baking soda and salt. Add cranberries and white chips. Drop by rounded tablespoons - 2 inches apart. Bake 10 to 12
minutes until lightly brown. Enjoy this tasty cookie.
Country Breakfast Buffet– November 9, 2013
Are you hungry? The pancakes, biscuits, eggs, sausage, sausage gravy, puddin, bacon, coffee, tea, and juice were ready
at 7:00 a.m. on November 9, 2013. This was the third year that the Ag Ed Center Board and the Friends of the Rural
Heritage Museum joined forces for the Country Breakfast Buffet fundraiser. The key to the success of our most
profitable fundraiser is the sale of breakfast tickets in advance. Thank you to all who sold tickets prior to this event!
This event as well as all of our other events could not take place without our loyal volunteers lending a hand. Thank
you to all of the museum volunteers who participated. Thank you to Sandy Hammond and classmates from University
of Maryland Hagerstown Leadership class for volunteering. A special thank you to Chuck and Mary Ellen Waltemire
for their hard work and leadership to ensure the fundraiser was a success. Also thank you to Benevola United
Methodist Church, Ivy Hill, and Lanco Pennland Quality milk for your donations.
This event gave the RHM the opportunity to introduce its newest exhibit/member– the milking cow statue. The cow was
stationed at the entrance of the breakfast, greeting visitors as they arrived. Visitors were given the opportunity to write
their ideas down for the name of the cow. The name was announced at the Holiday Open House.
Mark your calendars for November 8, 2014 for the next Breakfast Buffet.
Park at Dark
Thank you to the volunteers who participated in the October 25 Park at Dark event hosted by the Washington County
Recreation Department at the Ag Ed Center. This Halloween themed event offers children the opportunity to have a
great evening of fun activities in a safe environment. The RHM was asked to help at this event by having friendly
period dressed people waving at the child filled hay wagons as they passed through the Village. Terry Wunderlich also
offered children not so scary ghost stories under the pole barn. The RHM sold hot drinks and snacks at the event. A
great profit was made by selling food at this quick 2 hour event and was a great fundraising opportunity.
2013 Candlelight Tour
In December 2013, the RHM was prepared for another successful evening tour of the
museum grounds. Cabins were cleaned and museum building 1 and the cabins were
decorated with swags of greenery and trees. Homemade ornaments dangled from the cedar
tree ready for sale, a large variety of cookies had been baked and hot chocolate and coffee
were steaming. The church organ that was recently tuned was being played by Tammy
Manthos and the activities for the “Children’s Frolic” were in place. Our “Belsnickle”
played by Michael Braid, was ready to scare the “bad” children. He had coal on his face,
carried a cane and adorned himself with chains.
The only roadblock in the RHM’s way was the rainy weather. The heavy rains started
early on that Friday and relentlessly continued all day and throughout the evening. This
became a definite deterrent for the expected visitors. There were a few brave souls, not to
overlook the many volunteers who came out for the Village by Candlelight. The RHM
thanks each and everyone for their participation. Especially thank you to those volunteers
that had outdoor “posts” and stuck it out through the rain.
During the rainy, cold evening, there was a wonderful highlight in museum building 1. The visitors were
pleasantly surprised by the Hand Bell Choir from Zion Lutheran Church in Williamsport. The music was a great
addition to an otherwise dismal weather evening. The RHM anticipates all of the 2014 activities to occur under
better conditions, hopefully.
2013 Holiday Open House
The Annual Holiday Open House was held on Saturday, December 7, 2013.
Many activities were enjoyed by the young and the young at heart.
Children enjoyed visiting with Santa and telling him what they wanted for Christmas while parents were busy
taking photos.
Some of the guests purchased Christmas gifts from the Museum Gift Shop and others strolled around the
museum admiring the Christmas decorations, cedar tree with homemade ornaments and miniature farm exhibit.
We would like to thank Rooster Vane for donating a beautiful arrangement for our refreshment table. Small
chairs and dolls were added to the arrangement to represent the Village by Candlelight theme “Children Frolic”.
A big thank you to Jamie Kenton and the 4-H Youth Development team for all the planning and hard work that
made craft and activities special for the children.
The RHM bread guild provided a small sampling of wonderful warm artisan breads. Samples included a five
pepper Cajun loaf, fig anise loaf, raisin spice loaf, cranberry walnut celebration loaf, multi grain Santa face loaf
and ever popular chocolate cranberry loaf. Cheese, butter and jelly’s were available as toppings for the bread
samples. All visitors and volunteers that partook of the bread seemed to enjoy. To the bread baking guild, a
heartfelt thank you from Michael and the RHM for all that was accomplished during the 2013 season.
The newest RHM display piece; the milking cow; was named– she is now officially “Daisy.”
Congratulations to John Barr for winning the beautiful afghan donated by Jerry and Velma Poffenberger.
2014 Special Event Calendar
March 29- Garden Activity with the Master Gardeners- 11:00a.m.-2:00p.m.*
Join the Washington County Master Gardeners at the RHM Gardens for gardening information and activities.
(*all garden events weather permitting)- Four Square Garden Education Topic- “garden tasks for early Spring”; Four
Square Garden Children’s Learning- “Where ‘taters come from”; Medicinal Garden Topic- “Are your herbs overwhelming you?
How to divide and pot them for giving”
April 5 and 6- Spring Open House
During the 15th Annual Spring Open House, the RHM will be showcased to kick-off the start of a new season.
Special spotlight on the Rural Heritage Transportation Museum and transportation heritage of the area.
Special features each day. Rare one-of-a-kind locally manufactured automobile exhibits.
A must-see for transportation enthusiasts and all audiences.
1st Annual Antique Truck Show hosted by Old National Pike Chapter of the .Antique Truck Club of America.
Food for sale. Blacksmith Demonstration and Village Tours. Saturday only 4-H Youth Development crafts and
activities, Special local Car Club displays, Garden Tours and much more!
April 12- Garden Activity with the Master Gardeners- 11:00a.m.-2:00p.m.*
Join the Washington County Master Gardeners at the RHM Gardens for gardening information and activities.
Four Square Garden Education Topic- “Late frost protection for early vegetables”; Four Square Garden Children’s Learning“It’s all about the seeds!”; Medicinal Garden Topic- “Are you Spring cleaning? Housecleaning and disinfecting with herbs”
May 10- Garden Activity with the Master Gardeners and Artisan Bread Baking- 11:00a.m.-2:00p.m.*
Join the Washington County Master Gardeners at the RHM Gardens for gardening information and activities.
Four Square Garden Education Topic- “Companion planting with your vegetables”; Four Square Garden Children’s Learning“Mother’s Day Garden Tea”; Medicinal Garden Topic- “How to Recognize Native Medicinal Herb Plants, Shrubs and Trees”
Outdoor artisan bread baking in our wood fired oven by the RHM bread guild. Stop by and watch the bread guild
at work and learn some techniques. Visit our website for details on reserving your loaf.
June 14- Garden Activity with the Master Gardeners and Artisan Bread Baking- 11:00a.m.-2:00p.m.*
Join the Washington County Master Gardeners at the RHM Gardens for gardening information and activities.
Four Square Garden Education Topic- “Container vegetable gardening and tomato problem solving”; Four Square Children’s
Learning- “Scavenger Hunt”; Medicinal Garden Topic- “Weeds - Really? Weeds that grow around us that herbalists use”
Outdoor artisan bread baking in our wood fired oven by the RHM bread guild. Stop by and watch the bread guild
at work and learn some techniques. Visit our website for details on reserving your loaf.
July 12- Garden Activity with the Master Gardeners- 11:00a.m.-2:00p.m.*
Join the Washington County Master Gardeners at the RHM Gardens for gardening information and activities.
Four Square Garden Education Topic- “Succession vegetable planting and what’s bugging you in the garden”; Four Square
Garden Children’s Learning- “Don’t bug me”; Medicinal Garden Topic- “Tussie Mussie’s- bouquets that have meanings”
August 9- Garden Activity with the Master Gardeners and Artisan Bread Baking- 11:00a.m.-2:00p.m.*
Join the Washington County Master Gardeners at the RHM Gardens for gardening information and activities.
Four Square Garden Education Topic- “Watering effectively; rain barrels; dealing with drought”; Four Square Children’s
Learning- “Watering the garden in 1850- thumb pot”; Medicinal Garden Topic- “Herbal recipes that are good for you”
Outdoor artisan bread baking in our wood fired oven by the RHM bread guild. Stop by and watch the bread guild
at work and learn some techniques. Visit our website for details on reserving your loaf.
August 23- Heritage Spudfest- 12th Annual
Saturday, August 23- During the 12th Annual Spudfest, families will have the opportunity to experience our Rural
Heritage first-hand. A festival celebrating the potato is a one-of-a-kind event for our region. Potatoes planted in
the Spring are harvested and picked.
10:00a.m.-3:00p.m.- Buildings open including Village and Farmstead
10:00a.m.-10:45a.m.- “Potato pickin” registration- children must register to participate and qualify for a prize
10:30a.m.-2:30p.m.- Kitchen open with a special potato menu for sale
11:00a.m.- “Potato Pickin”- Children can “get dirty” in the potato patch by picking up our potato crop after
watching a horse-drawn plow uncover them. Prizes are awarded to the children for finding certain potatoes.
12:00p.m.-2:30p.m.- Children’s Activities with 4-H Youth Development
11:00a.m.-2:00p.m.- Join the Washington County Master Gardeners at the RHM Gardens for gardening
information and activities.* Four Square Activity- ”Taste of the Garden”; Four Square Garden Children’s
Learning- “Edible plants and flowers”; Medicinal Garden Topic- “Herbal recipes that are good for you”
11:00a.m.-2:00p.m.- Outdoor artisan bread baking in our wood fired oven by the RHM bread guild. Stop by and
watch the bread guild at work and learn some techniques. Visit our website for details on reserving your loaf.
September 13- Garden Activity with the Master Gardeners and Artisan Bread Baking11:00a.m.-2:00p.m.*
Join the Washington County Master Gardeners at the RHM Gardens for gardening information and activities.
Four Square Garden Education Topic- “Using a cold frame and winter cover crops”; Four Square Garden
Children’s Learning- “Sunflowers; bulbs; herbs”; Medicinal Garden Topic- “Specialty Herb Gardens- Discover
different themed herb gardens for everyone”
Outdoor artisan bread baking in our wood fired oven by the RHM bread guild. Stop by and watch the bread guild
at work and learn some techniques. Visit our website for details on reserving your loaf.
October 18- Heritage Fest and Children’s Day- 5th Annual Living History Day- 11:00a.m.-3:00p.m.
During Heritage Fest and Children’s Day, families will have the opportunity to experience what rural life was like
in the mid 1800’s with demonstrators and activities in our Village and Buildings.
11:00a.m.-3:00p.m.- Buildings open including Village and Farmstead with demonstrators and activities;
Children’s Activities with 4-H Youth Development
11:00a.m.-2:00p.m.- Join the Washington County Master Gardeners at the RHM Gardens for gardening
information and activities. (*weather permitting)
Four Square Education- ” Soil testing and amending garden soil; using a compost”; Four Square Garden
Children’s Learning- “Harvest happenings and crafts”; Medicinal Garden Topic- “Medical diagnosis through
Herbs- A reenactment of a patient in the 19th Century”
11:00a.m.-2:00p.m.- Outdoor artisan bread baking in our wood fired oven by the RHM bread guild. Stop by and
watch the bread guild at work and learn some techniques. Visit our website for details on reserving your loaf.
November 8- Breakfast Buffet Fundraiser with the Washington County Agricultural Education Center- more
information and tickets available after 10/1/14
December 5– Rural Heritage Village by Candlelight- Children’s Frolic- 6:00pm-9:00pm.
Cost $10 per family, $5 single. Enjoy an evening by candlelight, visiting each of our Village buildings, listening to
storytellers, learning holiday customs, singing along with caroling, and warming by the hearth in the cabin as you
celebrate the season.
December 6- Holiday Open House- 11th Annual- 1:00p.m.-4:00p.m.
Visit Santa Claus in an authentic sleigh for picture taking opportunities; Children’s workshop and craft area with
4-H Youth Development; Special Holiday decorations; Punch and cookies served; Artisan bread tasting
Peanut Butter Egg Sale
The Special Events Committee will be making and selling Peanut Butter Eggs and
Coconut Eggs this year. They will be sold for $1.00 each.
The Special Events committee would love to have your help making the candy. If you
would like to help, you can call the office for times.
2014 Board of Directors and Committee Chairs
Rural Heritage Museum
Derek Artz
Doug Bast
Bob Courtemanche
Dick Helfrich
John Himes
Roy May
Phil Muritz– Chairman
Howard Myers
Marge Peters– Vice Chairman
Clair Martin
Gerald Poffenberger
Howard Thomas
Stanley Thomas
Doug Valentine
Friends of the Museum
RHM Committee Chairpersons
Patsy Ardinger– President
Janson Ardinger
Karen Greeley
Marguerite Kline
Charlotte Muritz
Robert Stoner
Don Talbert– Secretary
Toni Valentine
Terry Wunderlich
Tory VanReenen– Treasurer
Accessions– Doug Valentine
Exhibits– Phil Muritz
Finance– Tory VanReenen
Four Square Garden– Karen Greeley
Gift Shop– Toni Valentine
Landscape– Janson Ardinger
Membership– Millie Hendrickson
Special Events– Patsy Ardinger
Transportation– Stanley Thomas
Village– Marge Peters
Volunteers– Terry Wunderlich
Washington County
Rural Heritage Museum
7313 Sharpsburg Pike
Boonsboro, MD 21713
Phone: 240-420-1714
Fax: 240-420-1713
Website:
www.ruralheritagemuseum.org
Email: eoverdorff@washco-md.net
To preserve the past,
educate and stimulate
public awareness of
rural life in Washington
County prior to 1940.