Thematic School Tours

The following thematic tours are the most requested by our York County Public School Teachers. They are tailored toward specific Social Studies requirements for grades four through eight. These programs are offered free of charge for our educational members and schools. Admission is $4.00 per child for non-member schools and children's groups.

Life on the Pennsylvania Frontier
The Golden Plough Tavern, General Gates House, Bobb Log House, Colonial Court House, and Agricultural and Industrial Museum combine to provide students with a complete experience of the early settlement years in York County. Students learn about daily life of the settlers, both in Yorktown and on the farm. Activities consist of 18th century crafts demonstrations and colonial games. Location: Golden Plough Tavern, General Gates House, Bobb Log House, Colonial Court House, and Agricultural and Industrial Museum
Time: 3 hours

You Say You Want a Revolution?
Students are introduced to a time when York was the capital of the United States. In the Colonial Court House, students will re-enact the trial of Daniel Batwell, accused of treason in 1778. A tour of the General Gates House will include a discussion of the Marquis de Lafayette and the Conway Cabal.
Location: General Gates House, Colonial Court House
Time: 1 hour
Bonus: Add a walking tour of Colonial York for no extra charge! (30 minutes)

York County During the Civil War
Students learn about one of our nation's most tragic times through the experience of costumed Civil War interpreters. They will meet Cassandra Small and a Civil War soldier, both of whom will share their personal experiences about the occupation of York County by Confederate forces in 1863. Many hands-on activities including learning how to march, trying on nursing and soldier uniforms and completing domestic chores are featured.
Location: Historical Society Museum and Bonham House
Time: 2 hours
Bonus: Add a walking tour of Civil War York for no extra charge! (30 minutes)

It Starts With a Seed
In a program relating to Native or Early American Life, students discover where fruits and vegetables come from by learning about the tools farmers use for planting and harvesting. While touring the museums students find some of the six simple machines. Activities include an experiment in planting which children will actually plant a seed and then take the seed with them to watch it grow in their classroom.
Location: Agricultural and Industrial Museum
Time: 1 hour