The Old Bethpage Village Restoration
Old Bethpage Village is a living history museum located in Huntington, New York. It offers visitors an experience of what life was like in a rural Long Island village during the mid-19th century. The village consists of twenty-six historic buildings which have been carefully restored and furnished with period artifacts.
The centerpiece of the village is the Old Bethpage Village Restoration House, which was built in 1857 as the home of a prominent Long Island family. The two-story house has been restored to its original condition, complete with period furnishings and décor. Visitors can take a tour of the house and learn about the lifestyle and customs of an affluent family during that era.
The village also includes several other historic structures, such as the Benjamin House, built in 1820, which was home to a farmer and his family. This house is now a museum and visitors can see how a typical Long Island farming family lived during the mid-19th century. The Village also includes a grist mill, a replica schoolhouse, a blacksmith shop and several other buildings that show what life was like in a rural village during that era.
Visitors to Old Bethpage Village can also experience the daily activities of the village as they were in the mid-19th century. The village has costumed villagers who demonstrate how everyday tasks were accomplished during that time period. These demonstrations include farming, cooking, spinning and weaving, candle making, and many other activities. Visitors can also participate in hands-on activities like playing period games, participating in chores, and experiencing traditional crafts.
One of the unique features of Old Bethpage Village is the Civil War reenactments. Every year, in October, the village holds a Civil War reenactment, where visitors can experience what it was like to live during the Civil War era. There are full-scale battles between Union and Confederate soldiers, as well as demonstrations of daily life during the time period. Visitors can also interact with costumed reenactors and learn about the history of the Civil War and its impact on Long Island.
Old Bethpage Village also offers educational programs for school groups. The village’s educators work with teachers to create programs that are tailored to specific grade levels and subject areas. The programs are hands-on and offer students the opportunity to experience what life was like during the mid-19th century. The programs cover topics such as farming, textiles, crafts, and history, and are designed to support the New York State Education Department’s Common Core standards.
Old Bethpage Village has much to offer history enthusiasts, as well as families looking for a unique and educational outing. The village’s restored historic buildings, costumed villagers, and hands-on activities offer a glimpse into what life was like in a rural Long Island village during the mid-19th century. Whether you are participating in daily activities, attending a special event, or taking a tour of one of the restored buildings, Old Bethpage Village is sure to be a memorable experience for visitors of all ages.