First they de-modernize by giving up all their electronic devices (phones, i-pods, and more) then they don pinafores and aprons and overalls for the class picture.  That's how the first Prairie Adventure Campers started their day at Chestnut Square Historic Village on Tuesday. 

"This camp is fun for everyone...not just the kids.  The adults who help out have just as much fun as the campers," said Heather Boykin, school marm. 

Watching Tom and JoAnn Gerron play jaxx and marbles with the campers proved Heather's point.  Missy Quist and Sydney Fordsham worked on the marbles in the chalk circle they had drawn on the sidewalk while Tom Gerron urged them on. 

"Where's your shooter?  You need to find your shooter!", he exclaimed as they changed places. 

Brenda Lloyd, another volunteer helping out with the camp, worked with five campers on weaving using small individual looms. 

"It's neat, but it's hard," explained Maven Maloney as she showed off her handiwork. 

"The kids are so excited when their yarn turns to cloth and their cream turns to butter,' said Boykin.  "They're proud of their accomplishments."

Across the courtyard, five more girls take turns at the butter churn moving the paddle up and down to an old-fashioned butter churning song.  Every once in a while one would lift the lid of the churn and peek inside to see if the butter had set.  After only a few turns at the churn, they had butter which they spread on saltines to tast. 

"Yum...it's really good!" Exclaimed Sally Shaw. 

Priaire Adventure Camps continue through June and July with some openings available in future classes.  The camp is geared toward both boys and girls  7-12.

"The great thing about this camp is that it's hands-on.  Kids this age get hands-on reading and math in school, but not hands-on history." Explains Cindy Johnson, Executive Director of Chestnut Square.  "The camp lets them experience daily life in the late 1800's.  These experiences will stay with them a lifetime!"

For more information about Priairie Adventure Camp, visit http://chestnutsquare.org or call 972-562-8790.