Long before the mighty, steam-powered behemoths chugged coast-to-coast, another form of transportation was transforming the United States, one stage at a time. These horse-drawn carriages, racing from point-to-point, paved the way for the "iron horses" of the United States Industrial Revolution. The duties of a stagecoach driver were perilous, often driving in inclement weather, on treacherous roads, and subjected to bandits and robbers. A filling meal, strong drink, and a warm bed were all comforts that could improve a long journey on the newly formed Philadelphia Pittsburgh Turnpike. Compass Inn provided many comforts of home, as well as necessary repairs and maintenance for battered stagecoaches. Take the reins, and step back in time to experience life at a bustling stagecoach stop!

Valley Historical Society and Compass Inn Museum offers Stagecoach Adventurers Summer Camps . . . travel adventures unlike any other.

This action-packed, weeklong adventures set in 19th century America, Junior Stagecoach Adventurers brings the excitement and merriment of our stagecoach inn to life. Junior Stagecoach Adventurers (rising 1-3 graders) runs from June 24- 28, 9:00am-2:30pm. The excitement of history is brought to life for young adventurers through engaging in 19th century, age appropriate, hands-on activities, crafts, and more! Exploring interesting historic inventions and foods that were part of the day-to-day life of an 1800's stagecoach stop makes history real.

The cost is $125 for non-members and $110 for members. Limited camperships are also available. Contact Theresa Gay Rohall at tgrohall@compassinn.org for an application.

To register for either program or for more information, contact Amanda Seim at aseim@compassinn.org or call 724.238.4983.

It's never too early to start thinking about the perfect Father's Day gift. Why not give dad an experience he will be sure to never forget? The Ligonier Valley Historical Society has the perfect event for the entire family. We are proud to present our annual Hammer In blacksmith event, on June 15th, 2019, from 9:30 am to 3:00 pm, at the Compass Inn Museum, in conjunction with Children's Living History Weekend.

Hammer In gives Compass Inn Museum's blacksmiths, as well as the Pittsburgh Area Artists Blacksmith Association, the opportunity to get their hands dirty, and put their craft on display. Get a first-hand look at the skill and precision of our 25 blacksmiths, as you delve into this ancient practice. Feel the heat, and watch sparks fly as our aproned craftsman give metal form. Each metal piece will be for sale in the museum shop, and the lucky fathers will be entered into a drawing to win a piece made in our very own blacksmith shop!

While enjoying Hammer In be sure to take the guided family friendly tour of the restored stagecoach stop, and participate in early 19th century games, demonstrations, activities and everyday life. This year's focus is on early 19th century science! Did you know the term "scientist" and "dinosaur" came out of the early 19th century? The automobile, dynamite, and locomotives are some of the countless world-changing inventions to come out of this time period!

Let dad know your love is as strong as steel, and join us June 15th and 16th!

Admission for both Hammer In and Children's Living History is as follows:

Adults - $10 Adults 62 and over - $9 Youth (Ages 6-17) - $6 Children 5 and under, Active Military, and Ligonier Valley Historical Society members - Free

Call 724-238-4983 for more information.

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.