Sauder Village, Ohio’s largest living-history destination, will open on Tuesday, April 29 with the unveiling of a new Grain Exhibit as well as the annual Quilt Show. The new exhibit will introduce guests to the importance of grain in Northwest Ohio with a focus on planting, harvesting and processing grains both historically and on today’s modern farms. The 38th Annual Quilt Show promises to be a spectacular celebration of the art of quilting and a great way to kick-off the 2014 season.
“After the long winter our costumed guides and working craftsmen are eager to help families from across the country explore, discover and have fun in the past at Sauder Village,” shared Jeanette Smith, Director of Sales & Marketing. “With the “Grain: From Field to Flour” Exhibit in our Museum Building, our renovated Grist Mill – set to open early in the season, new farm animals to meet and special events planned most weekends this season – we are excited about the memorable experiences we can offer guests for our 39th season.”
New this year, Sauder Village is pleased to be unveiling many projects in conjunction with the Grist Mill renovation. While the grand opening of the Grist Mill has been a bit delayed due to the snowy winter, guests are sure to appreciate the updates to the exterior of the building as well as the rearrangement of interior furnishings and new displays to help share the important stories associated with the mill. Located in the lobby of the Museum Building, the “Grain: From Field to Flour” Exhibit will present a more in-depth look at grains while offering some hands-on learning as well. With support from the Ohio Humanities Council, an agriculture-themed lecture series has also been planned for the 2014 season. Richard P. Anderson, Chairman of The Andersons, Inc., will present the first lecture on May 19, with a program showcasing the history of the Andersons company impact on agriculture in Northwest Ohio. Additional lectures will be held on June 9 and October 6. More information about the lecture series can be found online at www.saudervillage.org
“With new exhibits, many special events, more than 40 historic homes and community buildings for guests to explore, and unique hands-on opportunities – Sauder Village is an ideal place for guests to spend time together,” Smith shared. “Whether it’s a couple looking for a relaxing day away, a fun day with grandchildren, a reunion, a special outing with friends or a family vacation – Sauder Village offers unique experiences for all ages to enjoy!”
A variety of special events are planned early in the 2014 season. From April 29-May 4 more than 400 quilts will be on display in Founder’s Hall for the annual Quilt Show. This extraordinary event celebrates the rich tradition of quilting while showcasing the fine craftsmanship of quilters from throughout the region. The event also includes unique quilting demonstrations, shopping, special exhibits, workshops and more! Other upcoming events include the always-popular Spring on the Farm event on Saturday, May 10 and the Antique Car Gathering on Saturday, May 17.
The award-winning destination offers plenty for guests to see and do while visiting historic homes, farms, gardens and community shops. Families can take a walk through time while exploring wigwams and a trading post at Natives & Newcomers and then continue to the Pioneer Settlement Area to experience life in Ohio from the 1830-1870 at the log school, church, barn, homes, gardens and more!
Throughout the Village guests can also marvel at craftsmen blending skill and creativity in glass, metals, fabric wood and clay. Celebrating fine craftsmanship has been a cornerstone of the Sauder Village experience since the Village opened in 1976. Every day traditional and contemporary craftsmen not only demonstrate their trade but also offer hand-crafted items available for sale in places like the Spinning Shop, Pottery Shop, Weaving Shop, Glass Shop and Tiffin River Woodworks.
For guests with young children a visit to Sauder Village would not be complete without spending time in the log cabin, barn and garden at Little Pioneers Homestead or meeting the new baby animals in the barnyard. A ride on the horse-drawn carriage and a trip around the Village on the Erie Express Train are also popular activities. Other favorite stops include a visit to the Ice-Cream Parlor, the Sweet Shoppe and Lauber’s General Store. The Barn Restaurant offers a unique place to enjoy a home-style meal and guests can always find delicious treats to take home from the Doughbox Bakery. For those looking to extend their stay, overnight accommodations are available at the Sauder Heritage Inn or Sauder Village Campground.
Historic Sauder Village is open this spring Tuesday through Friday from 10:00 a.m. – 3:30 p.m. , Saturday from 10:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m. and Sunday from noon-4:00 p.m. The Village is closed on Mondays, except holidays and summer hours will begin after Memorial Day. Admission is $16.00/adults, $14.00/seniors, $10.00/students (6-16) and free for members and children 5 and under. Again this year, children 16 and under are free every Sunday this season!
For more details about planning a memorable Sauder Village get-away call 800.590.9755, visit www.saudervillage.org, like us on Facebook or follow us on Twitter
@SauderVillage.