Over 300 visitors enjoyed the fun at Heritage Day on 

Saturday, October 15, 2011!

Take a trip back in time to celebrate Heritage Day at the Johnson County Museum! Visitors experienced the rich history of our area through pioneer and Civil War-era  living historians, demonstrations of traditional handicrafts, and plenty of family-friendly activities and craft projects for all ages.

Many enjoyed the hospitality of a frontier family with tours of Hendricks Cabin, a part of Johnson County history since the early 1800s. There was a Civil War encampment, and see collections of the weapons used by Union and Confederate soldiers, and demonstrations by an old-time blacksmith, and traditional spinners and weavers. Professor Augustus J. Bigelow (portrayed by Eddie Grogan) performed traditional fiddle music. 

(above photo courtesy of John Wolfarth)

There were hands-on activities and crafts for kids of all ages.

• Freetown Village presentation: "Samuel P. Strong" at 11AM. Just before the Civil War, Samuel P. Strong was an African-American carpenter living in New York state and active in the Abolitionist Movement. In this one-character show, visitors heard of Strong's abduction into slavery, his escape, and tales of his service in the Civil War.  Click here for more information about Freetown Village. 
  

(photo courtesy of Ivan Lancaster)

• Swing Dance lessons
  

• Legal history of our area: “Historic Johnson County Courthouse” presentation at 4pm

• Genealogy library events

          Live Performances

          10:00 AM - Dulcimer group

          12:00 PM - banjo

           1:00 and 3:00 PM - Traditional fiddle tunes by Eddie Grogan  

   Painting demonstration by local artist Ryan Petrow, noon-3PM

(photo courtesy of Ivan Lancaster)



 It was a fun-filled day of live music, food, and activities for all ages! Made possible by a grant from the Lois Fitzpatrick Memorial Fund. 

Past images from Heritage Day

Johnson County comes together one day a year to celebrate its past with a day of activities and family fun. Here are a few images from Heritage Day 2010 and 2011.  

Volunteer Opportunities

Would you like to help make Heritage Day a success? We are always looking for volunteers!