46th Territorial Fair opens up the past to visitors

Throughout the week, the Historic Arkansas Museum teaches visitors all about life in early Arkansas with art and artifacts exhibits and its collection of 19th-century buildings. But, once a year, it hosts a special celebration that really brings the past to life.

This Saturday marks the 46th annual Territorial Fair -- as well as a big birthday for Arkansas itself.

The museum's public information officer, Andrew Vogler, says, "The Territorial Fair is an opportunity for people to experience what life was like in Arkansas territory. That's part of the Historic Arkansas Museum mission, to interpret the history of early Arkansas. This is just a fun and educational way to do so."

Some of the activities will be things the museum offers throughout the week, such as a chance to look inside the historic houses and buildings such as the Hinterliter Grog Shop and the Woodruff Print Shop.

All those shops and houses will be bustling with activity thanks to a lineup of demonstrators showing skills including blacksmithing, weaving and pottery.

Costumed re-enactors will roam the grounds and populate the historic structures, sharing stories of the old days. This year, they'll focus primarily on the fair's theme: the bicentennial of Arkansas Territory, founded March 2, 1819.

There will be many hands-on activities for people who want to step in and take part. Pioneer games are always a big part of Historic Arkansas Museum celebrations so everyone is welcome to test their stilt-walking skills. The Arkansas Country Dance Society will lead everyone in some maypole dancing.

Meanwhile, young visitors are welcome to make crafts, including making a Mother's Day card.

Groups such as Mockingbird Band, Lark in the Morning and Sugar on the Floor will supply old-fashioned tunes.

Vogler says they're expecting to have a food truck, along with Loblolly Ice Cream, and there will also be free homemade snacks.

Vogler also stresses that the whole event is very much family-focused, a full day of entertainment and activities for all ages to share.

"It's something that's unique," he says. "It's something you can come do for an hour or two for the whole family."

Weekend on 05/09/2019