Season Opening – Historic Collinsville

Historic Collinsville Pioneer Settlement in rural Montgomery County will open its annual season on Saturday, April 1, featuring hands-on activities for all ages from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.

Visitors on April 1 can experience an array of interactive demonstrations – such as butter making and blacksmithing – led by docents dressed in 1800s garb, along with tours of the many buildings and homes that dot the historic site. April Fools will be the theme for kids’ educational activities, including “Pioneer Prankster’s Trail of Tricks and Journey of Jokes,” and all activities are included with special event admission.

Special activities on April 1 (subject to change):

• Butter making and storytelling in the Visitor Center
• Blacksmith demonstrations, forging metal to make items such as horseshoes, hinges, farm tools, etc.
• Spinning and weaving expert demonstrating how homespun cloth was made on a loom.
• Trail of Tricks photo scavenger hunt with prizes and Pioneer Prankster’s Journey of Jokes.
• 19th-century-themed children’s activities, such as the Game of Graces, sack races and crafts.
• Late 19th-century stationary internal combustion engine (hit-and-miss engine) demonstrations.
• Civil War history, including a live uniformed soldier with military items and a physician showcasing medical equipment and practices from the period.
• Tobacco Talks in the Chestnut Tobacco Barn with special guest Carolyn Ferrell (1-2 p.m.)

Historic Collinsville Pioneer Settlement’s 2023 season runs April 1 through Nov. 19, except for holidays. The site is open Thursday – Saturday, 10 a.m. – 4 p.m.; and Sundays, 1-4 p.m. Regular admission is $8 for ages 13 and up; $4 for ages 6-12 and free to children under age 6. Military receives a 10% discount with a valid ID. Special event admission varies. The property is open on other days and times for groups of six or more guided tours, camps, rentals, weddings, or special events.