This summer, embark on an exciting, hands-on journey through history at our museum’s Crafting the Past Summer Camp! Designed for young learners ages 9 - 12, this week-long half-day immersive program offers the chance to explore traditional crafts, learn valuable skills, and discover the fascinating world of historic trades. 

Throughout the camp, participants will dive into a wide variety of activities, all while learning about the tools, techniques, and hard work that shaped our world. Campers will not only enjoy learning about the history of these crafts, but they will also gain practical experience and develop skills that will serve them for years to come.

Camp Activities Include:

Blacksmithing and Metalworking: Campers will be introduced to the basics metalworking, using safe, age-appropriate tools to create simple objects. They'll learn the ancient craft of blacksmithing and design their own small projects that showcase their creativity and problem-solving skills.

Woodworking: Using tools like saws, hammers, and sanders, campers will build a birdhouse inspired by traditional carpentry. They'll gain an understanding of basic woodworking techniques while creating something unique and functional to take home.

Textiles: Dive into the world of fabric and fibers! Campers will learn about textiles and will be crafting their own small textile items.

Printing Press: Step into the shoes of early printers as campers try their hand at using a historic printing press. They'll print their own designs and learn how printing transformed communication and the workforce in centuries past.

Bee Keeping: Back to nature! Campers will learn about bees and bee keeping. Something the Harmony Society did when they lived in the town of Economy. 

​Whether they’re building with wood, working with metal, or learning about bees, your child will leave this camp with new skills, a deeper appreciation for history, and a sense of accomplishment.

Camp Details:

Ages: 9-12 years old

Dates:  July 20th -24th and July 27th- 31st, 2026  

Times: 9:00 am – 12:00 pm

Location: Old Economy Village

1401 Church Street Ambridge, PA 15003

Cost Nonmembers: $125, $105 multi-youth from same household (enrolled same week)

Cost Members: $100, $80 multi-youth from same household (enrolled same week)

Questions contact Heather Hicks at heathicks@pa.gov or call 724-266-4500 ext. 103

Spaces are limited! Sign up today for a summer full of hands-on fun, learning, and crafting the future—just like those who came before us!

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https://Register for July 20-24

https://Register for July 27-31