Fun at the park

Today was the day we volunteered at Watkins Woolen Mill State Park. We were there from 10-4, and dressed in period costume. Several from our church and our homeschool coop where there as well, as both volunteers and as visitors. The day started out in rain, but by 12:30 it cleared off and the sun came out. It was perfect, neither too hot or too cold (well, not too cold after we dried out!).

The assignment my girls and I were given was to man the chicken & turkey coop. I was surprised how much some people knew about chickens and little others knew (speaking as a chicken farmer for real at home on our farm). First, all hens lay eggs after they reach maturity, which depending on their breed is anywhere from 4-6 months, provided they are fed plenty of protein. Numerous people came through asking if a hen has to have a rooster to lay an egg. No--the rooster is only if you want the eggs fertile to add to your flock. Second-yes, chickens can fly. Several petted some pullets and said that was the first time they had ever touched a chicken.

Events included rope making, gardening in the heirloom garden, chickens, cooking in the summer kitchen (and for the volunteers eating it!! It was good), sheep shearing, toy and game making, visiting a shorthorn cow and a pig, and 4 bottle lambs, and washing laundry in the yard with a washboard. There were other events as well, but those where the only ones I got around to.

My girls also played a game of hoops with some friends on the lawn after our volunteering was over.