Hands-On History: Engaging the Next Generation in Clarke County

Clarke County, Virginia, comes alive each fall with vibrant colors, bustling events, and a deep sense of community. In this episode of The Valley Today, host Janet Michael welcomes Nathan Stalvey, Executive Director of the Clarke County Historical Association, for an engaging conversation that highlights the county's rich heritage and the many ways residents and visitors can connect with its past. Inspiring Young Historians To begin, Nathan shares the excitement of hosting field trips for local fourth graders. These immersive experiences at the Burwell-Morgan Mill, Claremont Farm, and the Josephine School Community Museum allow students to see history come alive beyond textbooks. As Nathan notes, witnessing the curiosity and enthusiasm of children as they interact with historical artifacts and demonstrations is both rewarding and essential for fostering a lifelong appreciation of history. Art at the Mill: A Creative Tradition Transitioning from education to the arts, Janet and Nathan discuss the recent success of the annual Art at the Mill event. This juried art show not only showcases the incredible talent of regional artists but also supports CCHA's mission. With strong sales and community participation, the event continues to be a highlight of the fall season, reinforcing the importance of creativity in preserving and celebrating local culture. Heritage Day: Living History for All Ages Looking ahead, Nathan enthusiastically promotes the upcoming Heritage Day, CCHA's largest history program of the year. Scheduled at the Burwell-Morgan Mill, this free event features reenactors, blacksmith demonstrations, colonial cooking, and hands-on activities for children. Heritage Day offers families a unique opportunity to experience living history, interact with experts from various historical periods, and gain a deeper understanding of the county's diverse past. A New Exhibit: The Spanish Flu in Clarke County Moreover, the conversation turns to CCHA's latest exhibit, which examines the impact of the Spanish Flu pandemic on Clarke County. Curated by Dana Getka, the exhibit takes a personal and artistic approach, highlighting the stories of those who lost their lives and providing a human face to a significant but often overlooked chapter in local history. Complementing the exhibit, a book read-along event invites the community to further explore this poignant topic. Supporting Local History: The Power of Community Giving As the year draws to a close, Nathan emphasizes the critical role of community support and annual giving. Donations, whether large or small, help sustain CCHA's programs, maintain archives, and ensure that Clarke County's history remains accessible for generations to come. The conversation also touches on the many ways individuals can contribute, from volunteering and financial gifts to donating relevant historical artifacts. A Lasting Invitation In conclusion, Janet and Nathan encourage listeners to visit the Clarke County History Center & Archives, participate in upcoming events, and discover the stories that make the county unique. With a calendar full of engaging programs and a passionate team at the helm, Clarke County continues to celebrate its heritage while inviting everyone to be a part of its living history. For more information on events, exhibits, and ways to support, visit clarkehistory.org.