A piece of local history comes to life at Genesee Country Village & Museum with 1812 Weekend, June 22 and 23, featuring American and British troops from the only war fought locally in Western New York. Guests will get a chance to see military as well as social events of the period, as the museum will be highlighting everything from battalions to ball gowns, music to military brass. This weekend will also allow guests to visit with the era’s premiere party hostess, Dolley Madison. Known for her heroism during the burning of Washington, Dolley was also regarded as having set the standard for all First Ladies to come, being renowned for her social and diplomatic acuity. Visitors will learn about Jane Austen, an English novelist who later became famous in the 20th century for her works such as Emma and Pride and Prejudice. There will even be a performance of some of Austen’s earliest work, the Juvenilia – short writings that will be dramatized onstage, featuring some of the museum’s favorite actors. In addition, guests can walk in Jane Austen’s footsteps on the nature trails while reading her writings, picnic on the meadow, join one of Dolly’s “squeezes,” take in a ball game, and watch live military demonstrations during this action-packed weekend.
Various activities occurring throughout the weekend will include flag raising and lowering in the Town Hall yard, target shooting in South Field, military demonstrations by the U.S. Forces in the Great Meadow, a Jane Austen Fashion Show, and children’s militia, and a Jane Austen dance demonstration in the Village Square. On Sunday only, additional activities will include men’s baseball at the Silver Base Ball Park, and activities all day long at the Nature Center. Special event pricing of $22 for adults, $19 for seniors and college students, $14 for youth, and free for children three and under. Free admission for all GCV&M members.
Visit www.gcv.org for more information.
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