Smoke lazily drifts from red brick chimneys. A fresh blanket of fluffy, white snow covers the worn rooftops. Sleighs glide through the streets, accompanied by hoof steps and jangling bells. Dim light from gas lanterns cuts through the darkness. The air is crisp and cold. The hearths, glowing red, provide much- needed warmth to weary travelers at the Compass Inn. The year is 1830. Robert and Rachel Armor, the proprietors of the establishment, gather their visitors in the main room, ready to celebrate another Christmas Eve. In the candlelight, amongst the holiday cheer, Rachel recites a new story. She begins, "'Twas the night before Christmas..."

Enjoy a special holiday treat in a charming, rustic setting. While touring the historic Compass Inn Museum, let the glow of candles and warm flickering fires transport you back to Robert and Rachel's time. A simpler time. The spirit of the Christmas season is reflected in the simple, yet charming decor, traditions and hospitality of days gone by. Upon conclusion of your tour, take a respite from all the hustle and bustle. Relax with us by the crackling fires. Sip a cup of hot mulled cider. Nibble on a tasty treat. All while that very famous story is recited.

November 30; December 1, 7, 8,1 4, & 15, from 3-7 pm.

$10 per adults (18-61) $9 per adults (62+) $6 for Children (6-17), Free for children 5 and under and active military. Walk-ins are welcome. Reservations are required for groups of 10 or more. The last tour begins at 6:30 pm.

Ligonier Valley Historical Society's Compass Inn Museum Hosts Harvest Candlelight Tours of the early 1800s stagecoach Inn Saturdays November 2, 9, 16, and 23 from 3-7 pm.

This November, celebrate another bountiful harvest with us at the historic Compass Inn Museum. Feel the warmth of the inn's rustic charm, while adorned with natural autumn accents, cheery glowing wood fires, and the flickering of candles in every room.

Throughout the cozy, candlelit tour, you will experience the difficult, but fulfilling life of the Armors. Along the way, you'll be guided through the 1820's cookhouse. Step back in time with Compass Inn Museum's masters of open hearth and beehive oven cookery. There, experience the sights and smells of scrumptious food being prepared, using recipes and ingredients inspired by the cuisine of the 18th and 19th-century. At the end of your tour, relax by the warm crackling fire glowing in the 1862 Room's Rumford fireplace.

Even before President Abraham Lincoln declared the 4th Thursday of November Thanksgiving in 1863, American celebrations of the holiday stretch back to the 17th century. A combination of giving thanks for a bountiful harvest and the Puritan religious traditions, Thanksgiving eventually developed into the family and community holiday that we know today.

Make your tour reservations today! Contact Amanda Seim at 724.238.4983 or email her at aseim@compassinn.org.

Standard tour prices apply, Ages 18-61 - $10; Ages 62+- $9; Ages 6-17 - $8; Ages 5 and younger and Active Military - Free. Free for Historical Society Members.

We have worked to develop an engaging field trip for students that is not only aligned to the Pennsylvania State Standards, but also provides an opportunity for students to practice their critical thinking skills in a fun and welcoming environment.

Our field trips engage students with history through interaction with primary sources such as artifacts and buildings while providing real life connections to the past. Costumed docents lead age-appropriate guided tours of our 19th century Inn, blacksmith forge, cookhouse, and barn including a restored stagecoach and Contestoga Wagon. Through tours, students strengthen their visual literacy and critical thinking skills by careful observation of the historic environment. Students' experiences are enriched through multi sensory activities: cooking over an open fire, dipping candles creating a tin punch lantern, or smelling burning coal from our 19th century blacksmith forge. Several activity options include crafts students may take home with them.

For more information or to schedule your field trip today, contact Amanda Seim at 724-238-4983 or aseim@compassinn.org.

Do you love history and like talking to people? Do you enjoy working with kids? Become a volunteer at Ligonier Valley Historical Society's Compass Inn Museum. Compass Inn Museum is currently recruiting volunteers to help out with the 2019 season. Volunteer opportunities for the 2019 season include school tours, regular tours, and working in the gift shop.

For more information, contact Amanda Seim at 724-238-4983 or aseim@compassinn.org.